Are you getting in the Christmas spirit?

This weekend marks the start of Advent which means it’s officially time to put up your Christmas Tree - hooray!

If you’re choosing to get a real tree this year but aren’t sure where to get one or even if you can this year, we’ve got all of the answers:

When did the tradition of putting up a Christmas tree start?

Decorating your home with an evergreen fir tree has been a tradition for much longer than you may think.

Christians and Pagans have used the tree to celebrate winter festivals for thousands of years.

Pagans used branches of the fir tree to decorate their homes during the winter soltice as it made them think of the spring to come. Christians use it as a sign of everlasting life with God. 

When should you put it up?

Advent officially behins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, this year falling on Sunday, November 29.

However, there’s no right or wrong and if you want to put your tree up before or after Advent then so be it, we think you’re allowed to this year especially. 

How long do they last? 

With proper care, most real Christmas trees should last at least five weeks or more. That means, if you decorate for Christmas in late November, your tree should survive beyond the holiday festivities. 

Where can I get a real Christmas tree in Swindon? 

Swindon Advertiser:

(Image - Unsplash)

Dobbies Garden Centre

Hyde Road, Stratton St Margaret, Wiltshire, SN2 7SE

The Christmassy mecca of Swindon, Dobbies has literally everything you need to make your dreams a reality.

From gorgeous trees and decorations to festive table accessories, Christmas lights and gifts. 

Stocking the Nordmann fir which is well known for being non-drop, the real trees start at £44.99 online. 

All of the real trees at Dobbies are on the pricier end of the scale and they also stock a wide range of high-end artificial trees. 

To ensure the safety of customers Dobbies will be limiting the number of people allowed in the store at any time and you are encouraged to pay by card where possible. 

Opening times: 

9am - 5pm Monday to Saturday

10.30am - 4.30pm Sunday

Southleaze Xmas Trees

Southleaze Xmas Trees, Common Farm, Wharf Road, Wroughton, SN4 9QJ

The family run Christmas tree shop, Southleaze Xmas Trees re-opens this year on November 28. 

They sell a variety of freshly cut trees, including the Nordmann Fir and Spruce Cut trees starting at £15. 

They also sell wreaths from £7 and Christmas tree stands from £20. 

If you would prefer something more environmentally friendly then you can buy a potted tree which once decorated can be planted or moved to a larger pot ready for next year.

Opening times:

10am - 6pm daily from November 28.

Keep up to date with the last information on their website.

Lotmead Farm

Lotmead Farm, Wanborough, Swindon, SN4 0SN

Pick your own freshly cut Christmas tree at Lotmead Farm - ideal for fuss-free shoppers.

Offering both premium and cheaper alternatives there are fresh trees to suit everyone's budgets. 

Prices start at £15 for a Norway Spruce and £25 for non-drop trees.

No pre-booking is needed, visitors can just drive in however during busy periods you may be asked to wait in your car. 

Opening times:

9.30am - 5pm daily

John Toomer

Stone Lane, Lydiard Millicent, SN5 3LD

John Toomer is a family run business that has been operating since 1850, the garden and pet centre also has a small holding making a visit here the ideal Christmassy day out. 

Specialising in high quality Christmas trees, prices start at £20.99 and the sizes range from 4ft to 10ft. 

Varieties including the Norway Spruce, Nordmann Fir and Fraser Fir. 

Opening times:

8.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Saturday

10.30am - 4.30pm Sunday

How do I dispose of my tree after Christmas?

Swindon Borough Council are offering a  free recycling service again this year for anybody looking to dispose of a real tree after Christmas.  

In order to have a tree picked up, it must be left outside your property by 6.30am on the day of your normal collection.

What sort of tree do you normally get at Christmas? Let us know in the comments.