Local Christmas tree lots open in Menlo Park
For many families, the day after Thanksgiving means not only leftovers but the purchase of the family’s Christmas tree – and Menlo Park’s two tree lots were ready, both opening for business yesterday.
The Nativity School Christmas Tree Sale is the relative newcomer to Menlo’s lots, first appearing 13 years ago, according to organizers. 100% of the proceeds are donated to Nativity School.
Ready for purchase are Douglas, Grand, Fraser and Noble varieties ranging in price from $20 (for a small Grand Fir) to $510 (for a huge – 13-14 foot – Noble Fir). One particularly perfect-looking Noble sported a small, hand-written “I’m special” sign. According to Kathy Coulbourn, a couple of limbs were damaged on delivery but ably repaired by her husband Adam. The couple is taking their turn this year as chairs of the fundraising event.
Nativity’s lot, located at Oak Grove and Laurel, is open Tuesday to Thursday from 4:00 to 8:00 pm, Fridays from 4:00 to 9:00 pm, Saturdays from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm and Sundays from 9:00 am to 5:00 through Sunday, Dec. 12. For a small fee, the lot delivers to homes in Menlo Park, Atherton, Palo Alto and Redwood City.
On the other side of Menlo is Webb Ranch’s Santa’s Village (pictured below), where trees have been sold since 1962. On opening day, the lot was still waiting its shipment of Douglas and Grand Fir but was well-stocked with Noble Firs and Silver Tips. One early buyer, for the moment alone of the lot, was inspecting a group of tall Nobles, before selecting “the perfect tree.”
Webb Ranch is located at Alpine Rd. near 280. The lot is open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm through December 24. Prices for its trees, which are grown in Washington and Oregon, are somewhat higher than at the Nativity lot. There are also wreaths, garlands, poinsettias and mistletoe for sale.
