ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Christmas is approaching, and shoppers may face higher prices for artificial trees due to tariffs – estimated to cost an additional 10% to 20%. News10NBC explored local options to find good deals on Christmas trees this year.
At the Troop 31 Christmas Tree sale on East Avenue and Meigs Street, prices ranged from $15 for small trees to $120 for larger ones. While shoppers noticed a price increase from previous years, many say the cost still seemed reasonable.
“Seems awfully expensive for a Christmas tree,” chuckled Brad Valentine, a shopper. “Compared to just going out in the woods and cutting one down.”
Matthew Galligan, another shopper, said, “I think just having a real tree makes it worth it regardless. The fake trees don’t really tend to hold up anyway.”
Artificial trees at local big box stores like Home Depot can cost up to $450 for a larger 9-foot model with lights. However, Home Depot offers basic, artifical trees starting at $45 and real trees ranging from $45 to $75.
Walmart provides more affordable options, with small artificial trees for $35 and larger ones, up to 7.5 feet, for $270.
Steven Chaba, a leader in Troop 31, said, “We have been doing this for over 60 years. I would say the overwhelming majority [of attendees] are repeat customers.”
John Lafrance, another shopper, shared, “This was actually my Boy Scout troop growing up. So I transport them every year.”
The Troop 31 tree location is open daily until 8 p.m., except Saturdays when they remain open until 9 p.m., through Christmas Eve. More information can be found here.
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