Visiting Strawberry and Pine in the winter is so special - if you have been here this time of year, you know exactly why! It's no secret that the Phoenix Valley barely experiences winter at all, so a quick drive up to the cold, crisp weather where pine "Christmas" trees surround you is surely a treat for all!
While we are still keeping our fingers crossed for some snow SOON, there are still plenty of fun activities to partake in this month around town! Read below for a rundown on some of our favorite yearly Christmas activities.
Santa Clause is coming to Pine!
One of our favorite local spots, The Rusty Pinecone, hosts a "Santa's Workshop" event every Saturday & Sunday (through December 19th) where you can meet Santa and Mrs. Clause & snap a photo. Santa's helpers will even help little kids search the store & pick out the perfect gift for their parents - isn't that the cutest idea? They even stick within your allotted budget. There's free hot cocoa, miniature horse petting and pony rides, and on specific dates you can catch a performance by the Singing Sisters. You'll want to include this in your plans especially if you have little ones to get them into the Christmas spirit!
Christmas shopping extravaganza
Sick of giving out the same old gift certificates and candles to your loved ones and friends this holiday season? Head to Downtown Pine for your Christmas shopping! So many of our local stores are offering Christmas specials and unique gifts.
The Honey Stand: Give the gift of local honey this year. Offering adorable gift boxes and sample boxes filled with unique and delicious honey, this will wow anyone! They also have a wonderful collection of jams, salsas, and more. (I know some of my personal favorite gifts are from small, local businesses)
The Pine-Strawberry Farmer's Market: Loaded with more local Christmas goodies and gifting options, your Strawberry-loving friend or family member will be so thrilled!
Pine Provisions: Stock up on Christmas treats and sweets galore! Our friends over at Pine Provisions have created a whole section dedicated to exciting holiday goodies. Yum.
Cut your very own Christmas tree in Pine!
Thanks to one of our team members, Sara, who does this every year - we've got the scoop on how you can adventure on your own to find your Christmas tree this year. Real trees don't last long in this dry climate, so if you are holding off to get your tree closer to Christmas - plan for a quick drive to Rim Country to create memories with your loved ones to last a lifetime.
You'll need a permit with either the Tonto Natural Forest or the Coconino National Forest in order to do this... so visit the links to grab one! Permits are limited, as the forests want to protect their resources as much as possible!
Make a stay of it... stay with us at the Inn, find your perfect tree, and head home with memories that will last for seasons to come.
We can't wait to hear about the fun you have this season in Rim Country. Be sure to tag us in your adventures so we can share - @thestrawberryinn!
Have a very merry holiday,
-Carson & Amber