Where to get a Free Christmas Tree

The holiday season is one of my favorite times of year.

But let’s be honest, a Christmas tree can stretch the budget when you’re trying to keep costs down.

The good news is there are lots of ways to get a tree for free or nearly free, and you can make your holiday feel special without overspending.

I remember one Christmas when our kids were little, and we just didn’t have the extra money to buy a tree that year.

We found ourselves at Home Depot on Christmas Eve and they were giving away the trees they had left. It was such a blessing, and we all enjoyed our tree so much more that year.

So, be sure to check out all of the ideas, programs and organizations below for an option to fit your needs this year.

One wonderful organization is The Christmas Tree Project.

Their mission is simple but touching: they give away fully decorated Christmas trees to families who cannot afford one. It all began in 2010 when someone gave away one tree on Craigslist and soon volunteers jumped in to help many more families.

Now they operate nationally, gathering donated trees, decorations, and funds to bring joy during the season.

To request a tree, you fill out their form (they don’t take calls) and wait for notification. They do not guarantee a tree for everyone who applies, but they help as many as they can.

If you’re in need, this is absolutely worth checking out. Even if you don’t receive one, applying gives you a backup option so you can plan your tree budget accordingly.

How You Can Qualify & What to Do

Fill out the request form for The Christmas Tree Project, be honest about your need, and wait for confirmation. If you don’t qualify or you’re not sure about availability in your region, look into local programs (see the list below). If you’re able, consider donating or volunteering, helping others means more trees for more families. Start early: the number of trees is limited, so apply or register as soon as you can. Check your local forest service or community tree farms for low-cost or free tree permits or distributions (especially helpful in Michigan).

More Ways to get a Tree FREE!!

1. Watch for Local Tree Lot Giveaways

A lot of tree lots and hardware stores (like Lowe’s, Home Depot, or local garden centers) give away unsold trees right before Christmas.

Tip: Call or stop by a few days before Christmas Eve and ask if they donate leftover trees. Many do because they’d rather bless a family than toss them out.

2. Check Facebook Marketplace or Buy Nothing Groups

People often post free trees in local groups, both real and artificial.

Sometimes it’s someone upgrading their decor or decluttering after years of storing extra trees.
Search “free Christmas tree” or “tree giveaway” in Marketplace or join a Buy Nothing group in your area.

3. Ask Your Local Church or Community Center

Churches, food pantries, and community outreach programs sometimes offer Christmas assistance, which can include trees, decorations, or even gifts.

If your church doesn’t have a program, they often know which local ministries do.

4. Visit a Tree Farm Right Before They Close

Most tree farms close a few days before Christmas and still have trees left.

Ask politely if they’re giving any away, some are happy to let families take them for free to avoid extra cleanup work.

5. Contact the Local Fire Department or City Office

This one surprises people!

Some fire departments collect trees from lots or donations to distribute to families in need.

You can also ask your city or township offices if they’re aware of any community programs because they usually keep a list of holiday resources.

6. Cut Your Own (Legally!)

In many national forests, you can get a permit to cut your own Christmas tree for free or for a very small fee, sometimes free for fourth graders through the Every Kid Outdoors program.

It’s an adventure and a fun memory-maker if you like being outdoors.

7. Ask at Local Schools or Scouts Programs

Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and school fundraisers sometimes sell trees. When the season winds down, they often donate leftovers to families in need, you just have to ask.

8. Think Outside the Box

If you can’t find a tree this year, don’t be afraid to get creative!
You can:

Make a “book tree” by stacking books and wrapping them in string lights. Use a potted houseplant or a large branch in a vase decorated with lights and ornaments. Build a DIY tree shape on your wall with garland, ribbon, or lights. It’s free if you already have decorations on hand.

If you’re hoping to save money this season, starting with one of these ideas can really help.

A Christmas tree doesn’t have to mean stress on your budget. Use the free or low-cost options as your first stop.