Christmas trees are a decorating staple in many homes during the holiday season–as is the annual debate about whether to use a real or fake tree. Fortunately, the options on the South Shore are abundant. 

Many inevitable holiday stresses resurface due to the chaos of decorating, gift buying, etc. Fake trees are an ideal option to add convenience and decrease stress. Real trees take maintenance—you must care for the tree every day and dedicate time to keeping the tree healthy. With fake trees, you have no worries about the health of your tree. Fake trees can be stored away, and when December rolls around the next year, they can be assembled with ease. These picturesque trees have no imperfections and mimic the perfect tree you may find in your favorite holiday movie or holiday catalog. 

At Aubuchon Hardward, located on 3A in Cohasset, fake trees of various sizes and styles are available. These trees range from $169.99 to $349.99. Although a more costly option, imitations trees last for years. 

Another option to consider for this Christmas season is buying a tree from the Boys Scouts Troop #7. The Boy Scouts sell their trees right here in Scituate at the Knights of Columbus on 3A for a low price of $60. Not only is this a cheaper option, but the money from the tree sales supports the troops. Additionally, the group is offering a ten-dollar service of picking up your tree after the holidays are over if you call. Consider supporting the Boy Scouts Troop # 7 for your Christmas tree purchase!

When talking to students and staff about their Christmas tree preference, four out of the six students said their families purchase a real tree. Junior Clara Jodka stated her family has “always gotten one.” However, SHS librarian Tracey Newman and SHS history teacher Richard Kermond both stated they prefer fake trees. According to Newman, her family has maintained the same Christmas tree for years, and she received the tree from her mother. Kermond, on the other hand, explained that his family didn’t want “to keep cutting a Christmas tree down every year.” SHS senior Elle Pokorny, president of the SHS Environmental Club, believes fake trees are more environmentally friendly. Recognizing why some families prefer a real treee, Pokorny commented, “I understand why people get real trees, as it’s a tradition for most families to get the tree together.”