It’s the undisputed icon of the season: the Christmas tree.
Whether you’re looking for a sparkling giant to reach the rafters or something smaller to bring holiday flair to a cozy space, here’s everything you need to know. From where to get your Christmas tree in Jackson Hole, where to find the perfect decor and more, consider this your ultimate guide.
Purchasing a Christmas Tree
Every year, the Jackson Hole Shrine Club hosts a Christmas tree sale. Proceeds from all trees are donated to the nonprofit’s efforts to cultivate leadership and connection, as well as the lasting impact of Shriners Hospitals for Children. Swing into the Virginian Lodge parking lot and check out their lineup of beautiful trees — a lovely way to acquire your holiday decor and make an impact!
Similarly, Graze Garden and Home offers lovely tree options, as well as plenty of decor to add. It’s a great spot to get some professional inspiration on styling your tree exactly how you’d like. Plus look to Graze for other holiday decor and happenings like wreath-making classes and more.
Experts confirm: when you get your tree home, it’s best to put it into plain water. No need for any additives to keep it fresh longer.
Cutting a Christmas Tree
For those who prefer the tradition of finding and cutting a wild Christmas tree, Jackson Hole is the perfect spot! It’s a delightful and memorable family outing. While the trees you discover may be less perfect shape-wise (or not!), harvesting a tree adds an extra layer of magic to holiday preparations.
The first step is to acquire a Christmas tree permit from the Bridger-Teton National Forest. It’s easy to do online, and just $15. Be sure to read the guidelines thoroughly and adhere strictly to the map of cutting locations. They’ve got some helpful videos with tips and tricks, too.
Permits are available beginning in mid-October through December.
If you’re wondering about any harm that this causes to the forests surrounding Jackson Hole? Rest easy — the Forest Service actually relies on the harvest of Christmas trees as part of their forest management strategy. Especially if you choose to remove a tree that is in an aspen stand, you’re contributing to the health of the forest.
Pro tip: Make your excursion extra special by packing a picnic and some hot drinks, too. Collect everything you need at Pearl Street Market or Aspens Market to assemble the perfect sips and nibbles to cap off your tree-hunting adventure.
Deciding on Decor
Once you’ve got your tree set up, it’s time to bring the holiday magic to life. Maybe you’ve got a vision for your perfect tree — or perhaps you need some inspiration on how to make it extra special this year? Fear not, there are plenty of spots to discover just the right ornaments and more.
Even if you didn’t get your tree from Graze Garden and Home, be sure to explore their collection of tree trimmings. With so many beautiful choices, the helpful and friendly staff will make sure you’re set up to create a holiday to remember. It is perfect if you need an all-in-one spot to shop.
Belle Shops offers a stunning array of ornaments and other home decor for the holidays. Peruse the downtown store on the Town Square to get a taste of the beautiful collection and you’re destined to get inspired. From classic reds and greens to sophisticated, understated motifs, your holiday will absolutely sparkle.
While you’re there, be sure to keep your holiday shopping list with you. Belle Shops offer a diverse array of truly unique gifts that promise to bring a smile on Christmas morning.
Raise a Glass to the Holiday Spirit
By the time Christmas and New Years arrive, our calendars have a way of getting rather packed. This year, invite friends and family to a tree-trimming party earlier in December. Not only does it extend the festive season by a few weeks, but it’s a lovely time to connect before the full-on hectic nature of the holidays.
Assemble some festive bites, mix up some holiday-themed cocktails and invite folks to help add ornaments to your Christmas tree. Even after the party’s over, your tree will not only be a festive icon of the season, but a reminder of all those who you hold dear. It’s a tradition that you’ll find yourself revisiting year after year.
Christmas Tree Safety
While we’re all about inviting guests to celebrate the holiday with us, the folks we’d rather not see are the fire department. There are a few easy ways to make sure that your Christmas tree is as safe as it is spectacular.
According to the FDNY, defective lighting, cords or electrical plugs cause over half of tree fires; make sure yours are in good shape before using them, or grab a set of new ones while you’re out getting ornaments.
- Place your tree at least three feet away from heaters, fireplaces or other heat sources.
- Ensure that the tree is well-stabilized to prevent it from tipping over — especially if you have pets or children.
- Don’t use real candles or other open flame on or near the tree.
- Ensure that the tree has plenty of water, keeping it fresh as possible.
- Unplug your tree lights when you’re headed to bed or leaving the house.
And though we love to savor the season as long as possible, experts say it’s best to say goodbye to your tree in the first week of the New Year. As the tree gets drier, it can become more of a fire hazard. The Town of Jackson offers free Christmas tree recycling to all residents — just drop your tree at the Teton County Fairgrounds. That way, it’ll stay out of the landfill!
