In the heart of Avery County, North Carolina, where the lush landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains stretch across the horizon, Cartner's Christmas Tree Farm has become synonymous with the festive spirit of Christmas. This year, the farm has achieved an honor that resonates far beyond its rolling fields – it has been selected to provide the Fraser Fir that will grace the Blue Room of the White House, a testament to not just the quality of their trees but also to the resilience of the community in the face of adversity.

A Tradition of Excellence

Since its founding in 1959 by Sam and Margaret Cartner, the farm has grown into a sprawling 500-acre testament to dedication and love for the Christmas tree industry. Sam Cartner Jr., along with his brothers Jim and David, have carried forward this legacy, making Cartner's one of the leading suppliers of Fraser Firs, known for their vibrant color, needle retention, and durability.

This year's selection as the provider of the White House Christmas tree marks a significant milestone for the Cartner family. Having been crowned the 2024 Grand Champion at the National Christmas Tree Association's contest, the farm's journey to this honor was not without its trials.

Overcoming the Odds: Hurricane Helene

The path to this prestigious moment was darkened by the shadow of Hurricane Helene, which swept through western North Carolina with devastating force. Avery County was among the hardest hit, with Cartner's farm losing thousands of trees to mudslides. Yet, among the devastation, stood tall a 20-foot Fraser Fir, destined for greatness. This selection symbolizes more than just festive decor; it's a beacon of hope and recovery for the region.

The Selection Process

The process of choosing the White House Christmas tree is meticulous. White House staff, including the grounds superintendent, visited the farm in late October to select the perfect specimen. This year's choice was a tree of about 25 years old, adorned with a red, white, and blue ribbon larger than a basketball, signaling its selection. Its vibrant color and robust structure were key factors, ensuring it could bear the weight of the holiday decorations and the spotlight.

Supplying Joy Beyond the White House

Cartner's Christmas Tree Farm's influence this holiday season extends beyond the national stage. They are also supplying trees to Bob's Market and Greenhouses, Inc., ensuring that the beauty and quality of their Fraser Firs enhance the festive spirit in homes across our region. This partnership highlights the farm's commitment to making Christmas special for everyone, from the highest office in the land to local families looking to celebrate the season here in the Mid-Ohio Valley.

Eddie Shamblin, one of Bob’s truckers, was in Newland, NC yesterday to pick up a load of trees for Bob’s Market. While the truck was being loaded, he had the opportunity to witness the tree cutting ceremony for the White House Christmas Tree! Here are some photos and video Eddie shared:

Check out our Facebook Page and TikTok for more videos to come!

Community and Celebration

The tree's journey to Washington, D.C., isn't just a logistical endeavor but a community event. The farm plans a "harvest" send-off on November 20, which doubles as a fundraiser for families in western North Carolina affected by recent natural calamities. This event underscores the farm's commitment to community support, turning a moment of national pride into an opportunity for local upliftment.

Looking Forward

While the excitement of this selection brings joy, it also brings relief. Sam Cartner Jr. expressed the sentiment shared by many in the farming community, "We're glad to have all this behind us." The aftermath of Helene has left many farmers with the daunting task of rebuilding, and while Cartner's looks forward to a relatively normal harvest, the challenges for others remain.

The White House Christmas tree from Cartner's Christmas Tree Farm will not only adorn the Blue Room but will carry with it the spirit of resilience, community, and the hope for a bright future. As it stands adorned in December, it will serve as a symbol of how beauty and tradition can emerge from hardship, lighting up not just the White House, but the hearts of many across the nation, and this year, through their partnership with Bob's Market, the joy of Christmas will be felt in even more homes.

This selection isn't just about a tree; it's about celebrating the enduring spirit of North Carolina's farmers and the festive magic that Christmas brings, even in the wake of nature's fury.