Sunset Hill Tree Farm
Happy Friday! I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving with family, friends, and food. This is the first year in a long time that I didn’t have to work, so among other things, I am so thankful I got to spend the whole day with my family.
Speaking of my family, we like to keep a lot of traditions. One of which being… no Black Friday Shopping! Rather than get up early, stand in lines, and spend money at big corporations — we sleep in, have a relaxing morning, and then go spend the day… you guessed it… outside. For this weeks post I decided not to highlight a park, but one of our favorite places to just get outdoors and have a fun day full of holiday spirit.
Just South of Fort Worth in Alvarado, TX is the Sunset Hill Tree Farm, where owner Duane grew up with a passion for the land. The whole idea was inspired by his dad making jokes about settling down to grow Christmas trees in Texas after serving in the Airforce during WWII.
This joke turned reality now hosts several holiday events such as pumpkin patches, Christmas festivals, and Easter egg hunts - as well as private gatherings, summer camps, and self sufficient living classes.
Although I haven’t been to the other holiday events, I can say there’s no better place to experience a good old fashioned Christmas than here. Every weekend from Thanksgiving to Christmas (or until sold out) they sell a variety of Christmas trees, precut or cut your own - as well as fresh wreaths, either plain or custom decorated. There’s also a gift shop, concession stand, children’s play ground and game areas, and petting zoo all spread out over several acres of gorgeous Texas land.
The first Saturday of the season also hosts the annual Old Tyme Christmas festival. With hayrides, live music, fire pits, and even more kid friendly activities, there is something to be enjoyed by every member of the family.
And while everyone is having a great time, you’ve got the perfect opportunity to snag some family photos for those last minute Christmas cards. Or am I the only procrastinator here…? Anyway, consider this place your one stop shop for all of your holiday needs, all wrapped up in a package of fresh air and fallen leaves. A day outdoors and taking care of my Christmas list? It’s no wonder I’m obsessed.
Duane and his family have worked so hard to create a beautiful space for everyone to enjoy, and I’ve truly loved watching them grow with each passing year. This is a place where southern hospitality runs rampant, the air smells like a childhood memory, and all feels right in the world. Each and every person that comes for a visit here is treated like family more than a customer, and more than anything, that’s what keeps me coming back year after year.
What are your favorite ways to get outside during the holidays?
Or a favorite tradition of your own?
Let me know in the comments!
How to get there:
Coming from Fort Worth you’ll take I-35 W Southbound to 67, and from Dallas you can catch 67 westbound off of I-45 and take that all the way there. From 67 you’ll take a few county roads South to your destination, GPS will have no problem getting you there. I do recommend calling ahead to make sure they've still got trees available if you wait more than the first weekend or two, they’re getting busier every year and will sell out fast!
(817) 944-3177
This was also my first year at the farm without my sweet boy Duke. I knew the holidays were going to be rough, but I don’t think it even hit me until we left - and then it hit hard. It’s not just a part of the family that’s missing, but a part of myself. Like I’m just a shadow of myself trying to enjoy the things we used to do together. Does that make sense? Anyone else feel this way at times?
Anyway, if anyone has any tips on dealing with grief during the holidays— I’m all ears. If nothing else, I’d love to hear your favorite holiday memories of your sweet babies. Thanks in advance!
