Nestled between Rt. 80 on the north and Rt. 78 on the south are some of the state's most nostalgic farmsteads just yearning to share some Christmas cheer with you. Take a winsome journey along Rt. 519 this holiday season – here’s a sampling of what you can savor while traveling southward.
Tantalize your taste buds at Four Sisters Winery in Belvidere. There's nothing like a holiday toast with one of the many fruit wines made from grapes and apples grown right here on the farm. So plan a trip back to sample these special wines and join us for one of our grape-stomping parties. Pick up a schedule of events while there and ask about the Christmas in the Country promotion. You could receive a gift during your travels!
Continuing on the Christmas in the Country Trail, be sure to hit Flowerland Growers. Their garden center and greenhouse will help you deck your halls, and their seasonal events will bring the holiday cheer.
Just down the road, a piece is Mackey's Orchard; look for the big red apple. Have a bite to eat and refuel. After some homemade soup and fresh-pressed cider, you won't be able to choose just one dessert. You will be tempted by apple turnovers, dumplings, cake and apple crisp. Undoubtedly, you will need to take one or more of the fresh-baked pies home. You'll have to decide between apple, cherry, blueberry, peach, blackberry, pumpkin and very berry. As you think about who to invite over for some pie later, pick up another gift for them – and yourself as well.
Make your way just a bit further to the Wyckoff's Christmas Tree Farm. For more than 60 years, this eight-generation farm has created lifelong memories for many families as they make their annual trek to the hilltop to find and cut their fresh tree among the thousands available on this sprawling farm. Care to start a new tradition? Try one of their famous brightly-hued trees!
Another option for your own O Tannenbaum is Perfect Christmas Tree Farm on Rt. 22 in Phillipsburg. To make the experience simple the farm provides tree wagons and sharp handsaws. They even shake and wrap your tree before helping bring it straight to your vehicle. You could also go truly (ever)green and purchase a potted Christmas tree that you can plant in your own yard when the holiday season ends.
If you're not ready to end your Christmas in the country just yet, continue further south to Villa Milagro Vineyards. Your journey began with one winery; it can end with another. If the weather outside is frightful, you can come inside to sample some of their superb varietals. Consider making this an annual tradition for you and your family. As you head home, your senses will thank you all the way.
As always, we recommend checking the official websites or social media pages of each attraction for the latest hours of operation and other important details before you plan to visit. Want to transform your day trip into a wonderful winter getaway? Download our free travel guide and sign up for our e-newsletter for even more inspiration.
