A holiday tradition three decades in the making is back at Braefoot Park, as Santa’s Forest celebrates its 30th year of helping families pick out the perfect Christmas tree in Victoria.
The locally-owned tree spot has become a seasonal ritual for many—a place where parents return year after year with children who once toddled through the aisles, and are now bringing families of their own.
Owner Kim Frocklage says that generational connection is exactly how Santa’s Forest grew into what it is today.
“I wanted to have all families and couples enjoy a beautiful tree for the holidays like I had growing up,” she said. “The business has grown because of generational families, traditions and people wanting to experience a real fresh tree.”
Instead of feeling like a quick stop on the holiday checklist, Santa’s Forest is known for well-grown, freshly harvested trees and that’s what Frocklage says makes them stand out.
“The quality of the trees, how they are grown,” she said when asked what sets her operation apart.
This year’s harvest is especially strong thanks to ideal growing conditions. A wet spring and warm summer resulted in rich colour, dense branches and strong needle retention across varieties.
“The weather is a big factor,” Frocklage explained. “Having ideal growing conditions to grow the trees.”
Santa’s Forest offers a wide range of fir species including Fraser, Nordmann, Noble, Balsam, Douglas, and naturally shaped “Charlie Brown” trees, as well as handmade fresh wreaths.
Customers can reserve a tree in advance, request curbside pickup or even arrange delivery.
After helping families choose trees for 30 years, Frocklage says some of her favourite moments happen when the decision is left to the youngest in the group.
“It often comes down to the kids’ pick,” she said. “They have the best taste.”
As Santa’s Forest enters its fourth decade, Frocklage says the plan is simple in keep serving families the way they always have.
“I hope to serve the community and surrounding areas and deliver the best trees in Victoria for families to enjoy for the holidays.”
Santa’s Forest is partnering with The Salvation Army this holiday season to help bring gifts and essentials to children in need through the Angel Tree program.
The Salvation Army Victoria Citadel is preparing laminated tags for display on the tree at Braefoot Park, along with smaller tags for donors who want to select a gift based on a child’s age and gender.
A brochure outlining the program and how it supports families will also be provided on site.
Those who pick up an Angel Tree tag can drop off donations at The Salvation Army Victoria Citadel (4030 Douglas Street).
Santa’s Forest says they are grateful to help spread hope in the community this Christmas, and The Salvation Army expresses they’re looking forward to “working together to bring smiles and hope to our community.”
Santa’s Forest
- Where: Braefoot Park (Lacrosse Box), 1359 McKenzie Avenue
- When: Open daily, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. until trees are sold out!
