Harvesting Holiday Spirit: 70 Seasons of Traditions at Krueger’s Christmas Tree Farm

⁠Krueger’s Christmas Tree Farm⁠ has been more than just a place to pick your own perfect tree—it’s been at the heart of holiday traditions for families and the community in the Lake Elmo and Twin Cities Minnesota area for 70 years and counting.

Krueger's Christmas Tree Farm and night with twinkling lights and snow

Spanning four generations, the Krueger family has cultivated not just evergreens but cherished memories, as they continue to welcome visitors with the warmth and magic of the Christmas season.

From the fresh scent of pine, the warmth of a crackling fire and hot cider, to the timeless ritual of cutting the perfect tree and pulling it on a sled through the snow, Krueger’s has become a beloved part of holiday celebrations.

Krueger's Christmas Tree Farm and night all lit up with customers

Funeral Potatoes & Wool Mittens Episode

So, get cozy as Neil, Deb and John Krueger takes us from the accidental start to selling Christmas trees in 1954, to the traditions, Tootsie Rolls, and the stories behind this family-run farm that’s been keeping the spirit of Christmas alive and families returning for seven decades.

Listen to Funeral Potatoes & Wool Mittens Season 3 Episode 3 in your favorite podcast app or in the Spotify player below. For even more enjoyment while you’re listening, cozy up with a Hot Apple Pie Cocktail.

Neil, Deb and John Krueger of Krueger's Christmas Tree Farm — Neil, Deb and John Krueger of Krueger’s Christmas Tree Farm

In this episode, Neil talks about the varieties of trees and which ones are most popular for their needles and which ones people like best for that fresh pine scent. And they share tips for how to keep your evergreen looking its best all Christmas season with water and spritzing.

Who knew the sap would seal the bottom and not absorb water anymore if we let the water run out?

evergreen trees with snow at Krueger's Christmas Tree Farm

For the 2024 season, Krueger’s has Fir—Balsam, Canaan, Fraser, Korean and Siberian—and White Pine and Norway Pine trees. Plus, you’ll find gorgeous, handmade wreaths, swags, spruce tops, garland, roping and tree stands. Reservations (⁠⁠on their website⁠⁠) are required for pre-cut and cut-your-own.

evergreen trees and snow at Krueger's Christmas Tree Farm

Krueger’s is a full-service experience. If you want to cut your own tree, they’ll provide you with a saw and a sled to move it. Make holiday memories sipping free hot cider and getting cozy around the blazing bonfire. Before you head home, Krueger’s staff will shake the tree to remove dust, old needles, grass, etc., wrap it with a tree baler and secure it to your car.

You’ll also receive a gift—Krueger’s custom annualized tree ornament.