Winter at Ellms Family Farm is a chance to slow down and enjoy a few seasonal rituals. This family-run farm in Ballston Spa offers cut-your-own trees, small-batch treats, trolley rides, and weekend visits from Santa. If you’re planning a cold-weather outing in Saratoga, here are a few ways to make the most of a holiday visit to Ellms.

1. Cut Down the Perfect Christmas Tree 

The signature holiday experience at Ellms Family Farm is choosing and cutting your own Christmas tree. Guests can wander through acres of fields filled with thousands of trees, ranging from small, compact pines to ones that reach nearly 10 feet tall! Their varieties include Fraser firs, Balsam firs, and Concolor firs.  And with two new fields added in 2025, visitors now have even more room to explore as they search for the right tree. And if cutting isn’t your style, the farm offers plenty of fresh-cut selections as well. 

Pro Tip: All tools are provided, so the process stays simple and stress-free!

2. Enjoy Free Hot Cocoa 

After selecting your tree, warm up with complimentary hot chocolate! Ellms does not charge admission, and the price of your tree includes a cup of this classic festive treat. Visitors who are a bit hungrier can stop by Calla’s Cafe for a snack or a light lunch. You’ll also find other drinks to help you warm up, including homemade apple cider. 

3. Hop Aboard the Farm Trolley 

The Ellms trolley carries guests from the main farm area through the woods and out to the tree fields. Once you’ve chosen your tree, staff load it onto a cart behind the trolley for the ride back, so you don’t have to carry anything along the way. It’s an easy way to move around the property and adds a quiet, seasonal moment to the visit.

4. Hang out with Loveable Newfoundlands  

One of the most memorable parts of visiting Ellms is watching their gentle Newfoundland dogs (think Nanna from Peter Pan) help transport each tree to the car. After your tree is shaken and baled, the staff loads it onto a small sled or wagon, and one of these friendly giants takes the lead. It’s a charming, unusual experience—and something you won’t see at most tree farms! The dogs have already visited this year but will be back in 2026!

Getting to the Farm and Hours of Operation

Ellms Family Farm is located at 468 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa, NY, and is open Friday through Monday, now until December 15, 2025.

  • Friday: 11:00am – 4:30pm 
  • Saturday: 10:00am – 4:30pm 
  • Sunday: 10:00am – 4:30pm