Experience the Magic of the Holidays at Cupkie Christmas Village
Nestled in beautiful northwest Minnesota, near Perham and New York Mills, lies Cupkie Christmas Village. The farm, now in its 26th year, is a beloved tradition for families, offering not just a Christmas tree farm but a seasonal experience that brings joy to thousands each year.
The story of Cupkie Christmas Village begins in 1998 when Todd Cupkie, fresh out of college, joined his father and stepmother, Lynn and Peggy Cupkie, at the family business, Cupkie Accounting and Tax Service, and to help establish a Christmas tree farm on their 42 acres. “The weeds were taller than the trees when we started,” Todd recalls, chuckling. But despite the challenges, the Cupkies persevered, and what started with just 30 trees has grown into a thriving operation with 2,500 trees expected to be harvested this season.
A Year-Round Commitment to Christmas
The path to Christmas tree perfection is a labor of love. Growing a Christmas tree is no simple task – it takes patience, dedication, and meticulous care. For the Cupkies, the work begins when the tax season wraps up in the spring and the ground begins to thaw. That’s when they start planting new trees – approximately 6,000 each year, with the hope that just over half of them will grow into beautiful sellable trees after a decade or more of nurturing.
The process doesn’t end with planting, though. Throughout the summer months, the trees require consistent attention, including fertilization, careful trimming, and “mowing, mowing, and more mowing” says Todd. Nothing goes to waste – boughs and branches are repurposed into wreaths and holiday containers, adding to the farm’s diverse offerings. When Christmas season arrives, it’s a whirlwind of activity, first preparing trees for wholesale, then getting ready for the eager visitors.
A Memorable Holiday Experience
Every Christmas tree farm has slightly different offerings, but the experience isn’t just about picking out a tree—it’s about creating lasting memories with family and friends. At Cupkie Christmas Village visitors can stroll through rows of freshly cut trees to select their favorite, and then take part in the festive atmosphere that includes a wide variety of seasonal activities. Be sure to savor the incredible scent of fresh cut trees – and don’t forget the camera!
Highlights of a visit to Cupkie Christmas Village include:
- Trolley Rides: Enjoy a scenic ride through the farm in the candy apple red trolley. Maybe sing a carol or two while taking in the beautiful winter landscape.
- Petting Zoo: children can get up close with friendly farm animals like goats and rabbits, and take a ride on the gentle ponies. Animal feed is available so watch those little fingers closely so they don’t get nipped.
- Visit with a “Social Santa": Rather than sitting kids on his lap, this Santa moves around the farm and shop so kids (and adults!) can meet and take photos with the jolly old elf.
- Sledding Hill: If the snow cooperates, the farm’s sledding hill is a favorite winter activity. BYO sled!
- Gift Shop: In addition to trees, visitors can shop for handmade wreaths, garland, ornaments, and other holiday decorations.
The Cupkies’ commitment to making every visit memorable is clear, and their farm has become a cherished stop for families. “We’re seeing more and more multi-generational visitors,” Todd says. “Kids who came here with their parents are now bringing their own kids and grandkids.”
What to Expect on Your Visit
When planning a trip to a Christmas tree farm, here are a few tips to ensure you have the best experience possible:
- Dress for the Weather: After all, it’s winter in Minnesota! The farm is beautiful, but it can be chilly, so bundle up in layers, and be prepared for the elements. If you plan to handle a tree, choose clothes that you don’t mind getting a little sap on, as trees can sometimes leave a sticky residue! Red flannel encouraged for amateur lumberjacks!
- Bring a Saw or Borrow One: If you’re cutting down your own tree, you’re welcome to bring your own saw, or you can borrow one from the farm (just be sure to return it afterward).
- Next Stop - Tree Preparation: Once you've cut down your tree, bring it to the station where the staff will use a shaker to shake out any loose needles and a baler to wrap it up for more convenient transport.
- Think About Your Vehicle: It’s easiest to transport your tree in a vehicle with plenty of space – trucks, SUVs, and minivans are ideal! Otherwise prepare to strap the tree to the top of your car.
- Pay and Shop: After selecting your tree, make your way to the gift shop with your tree tag to pay and browse a selection of festive goodies, from ornaments to handcrafted wreaths.
Farms are busiest during the weekend after Thanksgiving. Cupkie Christmas Village anticipates over 4,000 visitors in just one weekend! While the team is small – just six employees – they work hard to make every guest feel welcome. You want to be on Santa’s Nice list, right? So remember to be patient and maybe sing another carol while waiting to be helped.
Whether you're a longtime visitor or making your first trip to a tree farm, come for the trees, stay for the memories, and experience the magic of Christmas at a Minnesota Grown tree farm near you!
