Bidders Flock to Pennsylvania Auction for Christmas Trees and Wreaths
The annual Christmas Tree and Wreath auction in Pennsylvania has drawn significant attention this week, showcasing the growing interest in holiday decorations. Hosted at the Buffalo Valley Produce Auction in Mifflinburg, the event featured around 50,000 Christmas trees alongside a variety of wreaths and seasonal items.
Bidders Flock to Pennsylvania Auction for Christmas Trees and Wreaths
Participants from the Northeast and mid-Atlantic regions gathered to stock up on holiday supplies. Retailers are preparing for the influx of customers eager to purchase Christmas trees, particularly the popular Fraser fir, and to enhance their homes with festive greenery.
A Robust Selection and Enthusiastic Buyers
In chilly weather, buyers eagerly engaged with auctioneers, bidding on items such as:
- Ornaments
- Winterberry
- Cotton branches
- Icicle lights
- Grave blankets
- Red bows
- Tree stands
These items encompass almost everything needed for a complete Christmas celebration, excluding food and gifts.
Changing Trends in Christmas Tree Purchases
Traditionally, American households have displayed Christmas trees, but recent trends indicate fewer homes have live trees. Those that do often choose artificial options instead. Marsha Gray, of the Real Christmas Tree Board, emphasizes that the appeal of a real tree largely hinges on its fresh scent and often correlates with having children in the home.
According to an August survey by the Board, 84% of Christmas tree growers anticipated stable wholesale prices for the 2023 season. This aligns with auction manager Neil Courtney’s observations that prices for farm-grown trees have stabilized, offering optimism for a return to traditional trees over artificial ones.
Success Stories from the Auction
Participants in the auction reported successful shopping experiences. Cory Stephens, returning for a second year, spent approximately $5,000 for his store in Pasadena, Maryland. He highlighted the quality of the items available.
Another buyer, Ryan Marshall, invested about $8,000 for his business in Sharon, Massachusetts. His purchases included three skids of wreaths priced at $29 each, with expectations to profit significantly from resale.
Market Insights
In 2023, over 21 million farm-grown Christmas trees were sold in the United States, with a median price of $75 per tree. The sources of these trees varied:
- 25% from “choose-and-cut” farms
- 20% from chain stores
- Remaining from nurseries, retail lots, nonprofit sales, and online
As the holiday season approaches, this auction serves as a crucial platform for connecting growers, suppliers, and retailers. It reflects both enduring traditions and evolving preferences in the realm of holiday decor.
