For the last 15 years, the Gately family of Renton has chopped down their Christmas tree at Wilson Hill Tree Farm in Maple Valley.
Simply being at the farm is giving them a sense of normalcy during the pandemic.
“We mask up, but we still get to make a day of getting outside, walking around and being out with the family,” Tim Gately said.
In the time of COVID, the family run farm - which has been around for more than 100 years - is busier than ever.
“It’s crazy the amount of people that are staying at home this year, I think, has increased our business,” said farm co-owner Liz Gingrich-Smith.
But there are some pandemic changes. Before you even drive on to the lot - you need to make a reservation online. People have also pre-bought their wreaths and trees.
“It’s not a mad rush, and we’re able to limit the number of people that we have in, on our farm at any one given time,” said farm co-owner Marianne Eveland.
The shop is still open for business, although Santa’s seat is empty this year. There’s face masks, social distancing and all the other regular COVID safety protocols. Changes families like the Gatelys say are worth it to keep their traditions and the farm alive.
“We’re happy to adjust because we like it here, we love this family. They have been helping pick our tree for so many years now. We wouldn’t miss it,” said Alana Gately.
Not all tree farms require reservations. You’ll want to check with each farm ahead of time. Click here for a list of tree farms in the area.
Cox Media Group
