Patchen Christmas Tree Farm, Old Town

Since 1969. Along Summit Road, Highland Way and Old Santa Cruz Highway, near Highway 17.

The Patchen family has run this farm since 1969, on the site of a former mountain town along Old Santa Cruz Highway. The land was bought piece by piece and planted with trees to keep it from being developed. It’s the larger and busier of Patchen’s two farms, and the one to visit if you want the full outing.

Expect Santa visits, a gift shop with wreaths and mistletoe, and bonfires on cold days. Patchen grows trees up to about 25 feet tall and also sells pre-cut trees brought in from farther north. In October the same farm runs a pumpkin patch.

2026 season

Opening day: Saturday, November 21

Friday, November 27
9am–5pm
Weekends
9am–5pm

Gates close 15 minutes before closing time. Santa visits on select days; see Patchen’s event calendar.

From the farm’s website, checked October 30. Hours can change with weather and supply, so call if you’re unsure.

Trees grown here

How the varieties compare

At the farm

  • Santa visits
  • Gift shop
  • Bonfires, weather permitting
  • Dogs on leash welcome
  • Wreaths, holly and mistletoe

Before you go

Mountain roads up here are narrow and winding, and cell service can drop out. Leave extra time, wear shoes that can handle mud, and bring gloves plus rope or straps in case you need to tie the tree down yourself. See the best time to visit and the planning guide.

Other farms nearby

Hours and prices change every season, and smaller farms can sell out early. Call or check the farm’s website before you drive up.

Something here out of date?