Yes, we know the holidays are busy: gifts, invitations from family and friends, deciding who-cooks-what, festive outings… There’s a lot going on. But don’t forget your Christmas tree!
In recent years, the traditional holiday fir has taken on many personalities. From the classic green tree dressed in red and gold ornaments to versions made of wood, metal, wool, recycled materials, plastic, paper, and so much more. Truly, there are as many Christmas trees as there are homes.
Depending on the country you lived in before becoming a Genevois·e, you might be used to having a natural one. If you’re wondering whether that’s still possible here, the answer is YES: you can absolutely buy a natural Christmas tree in Geneva.
In fact, several local farmers have been caring for young firs for months. You can find them either at specialized markets organized by the Ville de Genève or by visiting nearby farms. If you’re looking to get a real Christmas tree, we’ve got the locations listed below.
- What types of Christmas trees are available?
- Where to find real, local Christmas trees
- January Cleanup: How to properly dispose of your tree after Christmas
What types of Christmas trees are available?
Did you know that there are many varieties of Christmas trees out there? Different species offer different features – from needle retention and scent to color and shape! Here’s a look at the most common types available in this region.
The Nordmann fir is the most popular and widely sought-after species—and it’s grown locally, meaning you can have one right in your living room. Its needles are flexible and not sharp, it’s full and evenly shaped, and it stays fresh for a long time.
Looking for a different shape or tone?
- The Silver fir (sapin blanc) has soft, flat needles that don’t prick and carry a gentle forest scent. Its branches are elegant and slightly upward-curving.
- The Blue spruce (Épicéa bleu) is known for its striking blue-silver needles, giving it a decorative, icy appearance. The needles are stiff and prickly but hold reasonably well.
- The Norway spruce (sold as sapin rouge or Épicéa) has sharper needles, a strong classic Christmas scent, and a characteristic triangular silhouette. It’s usually the most affordable option, though it does have lower needle retention indoors.
In Switzerland, buying natural trees is a firmly rooted tradition: around 1.5 million natural Christmas trees are sold each year, according to ForêtSuisse.
It’s good to remember that there’s no “right” or “wrong” tree – it all comes down to personal preference! The best thing to do is to go in person and see which tree speaks to you. Some people prefer the classic, strong scent of the Norway spruce, while others rather not deal with tons of falling needles in the house.
Where to Find Fresh, Local Christmas Trees
Marchés aux sapins by Ville de Genève
Local producers will be present at these highly specialized seasonal markets organized by the Ville de Genève across the city. They will be open from November 29 to December 24, from 8:00 to 20:00, every day:
- Marché aux sapins du quai du Mont-Blanc — Quai du Mont-Blanc 14 (around rue Barton)
- Marché aux sapins du quai Gustave-Ador — Quai Gustave-Ador 1
- Marché aux sapins du rond-point de Plainpalais — Plainpalais roundabout 2A, near avenue Henri-Dunant and in front of Le Pain Quotidien
- Marché aux sapins avenue d’Aïre et place des Charmilles — Place des Charmilles (around avenue d’Aïre).
- Marché aux sapins de Champel — Place Claraparède 1.
Direct sales at local farms
If you’re ready to choose and reserve your tree, head to Ferme Jaquet in Meinier. Reservations open in November, while official sales (and tree pick-ups) start on November 27. Thanks to a collaboration with Ferme du Budé, trees are available for purchase online via their e-commerce site.
For over 30 years, the Rosset family has been growing Christmas trees in Veyrier. You can visit the farm, select your tree, tag it with your name, and return a few weeks later to pick it up—or have it delivered. Call in advance (022 784 12 54) to schedule a visit.
If you’ve admired the massive, beautiful Christmas tree on Place du Molard, chances are it came from Ferme Gonin in Puplinge. They offer mostly Swiss-grown trees (with some French and German ones as well), and you can check their prices online.
You’ve probably seen one of their trees without realizing it—in corporate offices, shopping centers, or medical waiting rooms. You can order your Nordmann fir online and choose to pick it up in Athenaz or have it delivered to your home.
Planning to receive your 2025 tree straight at home? Visit EcoSapin’s website, where you can order anything from small and medium potted trees to large freshly cut Nordmann firs. They are based in Vaud and Zurich (pickup available), and they deliver within the canton of Geneva.
Based in Fribourg, where they cultivate around 500,000 Christmas trees per year, this supplier delivers directly to Geneva—another convenient option. Order online and sip a spiced tea while waiting for your delivery!
🎁 If you already have your Christmas tree, it’s time to think about gifts! Visit one of Geneva’s 30 Hidden Christmas Markets You May Not Have Known or 15 Christmas Markets Within Easy Reach of Geneva to find original, local, handcrafted surprises.
January Cleanup: How to say goodbye to your tree (a.k.a. how to properly dispose of it!)
You’re thinking about Christmas decorations and holiday baking but it never hurts to think ahead! It might be early but you want to keep in mind when and how to dispose of your Christmas tree after the holidays, to avoid headaches. Proper disposal of Christmas trees are essential for supporting a sustainable cycle and facilitating recycling.
Throughout January, the Ville de Genève will collect Christmas trees—without decorations—at the container collection points, at the same locations as household waste. Visit the official site for detailed information. If you miss the January time frame, you’ll have to haul the Christmas tree yourself to the one of the déchetteries (recycling centers) 💀.
You can also ask your tree provider directly while at the market, during your farm visit, or at the time of home delivery, if they offer takeback services
Which Christmas tree will you choose this year? Share your comments below!
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