SHIPPING OUT — Workers at Sides Tree Farm in Sparta load up Christmas trees for shipment to Arkansas and Texas. Alleghany County is one of the top tree growing counties in the state. A number of local tree farms, listed in the story at left, will be open this weekend for special Choose and Cut events.

Annual Choose and Cut events slated for this weekend

Local tree growers are gearing up for the annual Choose and Cut Day event, which is scheduled for Dec. 4.

Featured activities include the Christmas Crafts Fair, an annual arts and crafts show that will be held at the Emerson Black Exhibition Building from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

“The crafts fair has filled up (with vendors) a lot sooner this year than in years past,” said Bob Bamberg, director of the Alleghany County Chamber of Commerce. “I’ve had several people call to get a spot and I’ve had to tell them, ‘Sorry, we’re filled up.’”

He also noted that he has already seen numerous vehicles bearing trees on their way down the mountain. “It certainly looks like we're off to a good start. I’ve had many people calling the chamber to inquire about tree wholesalers.”

The craft fair will feature numerous craft vendors, with items such as baskets, woodworking, Christmas decorations, baked goods, jewelry, dolls and many other items.

“This event usually draws a large crowd every year,” commented Bamberg.

“If it’s clear and cool this weekend, as forecast, we should have a very strong turnout.”

He added,“It’s a great opportunity for folks to do some Christmas shopping and also to support local artisans.”

Some local tree farms also are planning special happenings on Saturday for the Choose and Cut Day event.

“Several of the tree farms will have special events, such as crafts fairs, visits by Santa Claus and hay rides,” Bamberg said. Brochures on the event are available at the chamber of commerce.

Get the rest of this article in this week's issue of the Alleghany News! Back