Tis the season for jingle bells and holiday cheer. First order of business? Head out to a Christmas tree farm to find the prettiest pine-scented tree to serve as the centerpiece for your seasonal decor. These Christmas tree farms grow splendid specimens of spruce and fir, guaranteed to fill your home with the spirit of the season. While they’re not far from NYC, you can easily turn tree-hunting into a fun day trip with the kids as many of the farms offer Christmas activities, pictures with Santa, train rides, hot chocolate and more. Some even offer chop-your-own trees, for the woodsier types among us. Most Christmas tree farms open for business around Thanksgiving, but be sure to check hours before you start planning your outing. Once you’ve found your perfect tree, then you can explore all the amazing holiday light displays and holiday markets around the city, or lace up for some ice skating.