Christmas Cheer is Back in Aiken!
As the holidays approach, Aiken is buzzing with excitement as Christmas trees make their grand arrival! This year, local businesses are busy getting ready for the most wonderful time of the year. You can almost smell the pine in the air and feel that festive spirit as residents prepare to deck their halls.
Mother Nature Sets the Scene
Before we dive into the holiday festivities, let’s talk about the weather! This morning, the skies were a bit cloudy, but don’t fret! It’s expected to clear up this afternoon with a high of around 55°F. A gentle breeze from the NNW at 5 to 10 mph will accompany the sunshine, making it perfect for a stroll through the tree lots. Just don’t forget your jacket, as the temperature will drop to a chilly 27°F tonight, bringing a chance of widespread frost. Time to bundle up!
Fraser Firs from West Jefferson
Now, back to the trees! A load of gorgeous Fraser fir Christmas trees arrived recently from West Jefferson, North Carolina, and you can find them at Rick’s Produce in Aiken. Owner Rick Catts works hard each year to estimate how many trees he’ll need, and he’s feeling hopeful for better sales compared to last year’s significant 20% drop. “We’ve stocked up, and I’m eager to see how the demand shapes up after Thanksgiving weekend,” said Catts.
A Bounty of Choices at Local Lots
At Rick’s Produce, as well as Good Earth in Augusta, customers can browse trees lined up and ready to bring joy into homes. Catts shared that every tree is meticulously taken care of from the moment it’s cut; they’re kept moist to ensure they stay fresh for those holiday celebrations. “Every three days, I head back to the farms,” Rick explained, detailing the logistics of getting trees safely from the mountains to the lots.
Fresh Finds and Festive Crafts
For those wanting more than just a tree, local vendors like Southern Carolina Palms & More and Cold Creek Nursery offer a magical mix of holiday cheer, from fresh wreaths and garlands to beautiful poinsettias in full bloom. Lot manager, Sharon Stillwell, shared, “We’ve got evergreens in pots that people can plant after the holidays, which has been super popular this year—especially after Hurricane Helene.” Sounds like the perfect way to enjoy a tree and give it a second life!
Wreath-Making and Family Traditions
Dee Clark has also been hard at work making beautiful wreaths at Cold Creek Nursery. It’s these charming little touches that remind us of the traditions that make the holidays so special! Catts reflected on how families return each year, not just for a tree, but for the cherished memories they’ve built over generations. “It’s a tradition that stays in families,” he said. “The kiddos who came to choose trees with their parents are now bringing their kids!”
Tips for a Fresh Tree
Once you’ve picked your perfect tree, it’s crucial to take good care of it. Aaron Lupton from Southern Carolina Palms & More says, “Get it in water as soon as possible, because once it starts sealing itself up, it’s harder to hydrate.” If you find yourself in a tough spot with a drying tree, Rick has a quick tip! Use a cordless drill to create holes at the base of the trunk to help with water uptake. And always keep your tree away from heat sources.
A Holiday to Remember
This Christmas season in Aiken is shaping up to be filled with joy, laughter, and, of course, those iconic fresh-cut trees filling our homes with warmth and cheer. As we embrace this wonderful season, let’s support our local vendors who work tirelessly to spread the holiday spirit. From choosing trees to hanging ornaments and opening gifts, let’s make this Christmas one we’ll cherish!
