Here's an interesting effect of a global pandemic that has forced Americans to stay home for nearly 10 months: with less vacation and dine-out options, folks have more money saved up then usual and, given the virtually endless amount of time spent staring at their own four walls, they seem to be more willing than usual to shell out some extra cash to spruce up their abodes.
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According to Bloomberg, the trend takes an added significance during the holiday season, as "U.S. consumers say they're more interested in holiday decorations and seasonal items than usual this year because of the pandemic." As a result, Christmas trees are all the rave these days—a fact that has driven up their cost pretty significantly.
Specifically, Bloomberg reports that "the median price for real trees sold in 2020 is expected to be about $81, up 7% from last year and 23% from 2018." Interestingly enough, just last year, tree growers reported a "reasonable profit," according to the National Christmas Tree Association. In fact, in 2019, Americans spent about $2 billion purchasing around 26.2 million live trees (we're not counting artificial ones, which are actually pretty popular as well).
Needless to say, securing a decadent tree isn't the only spur the action here: the experience involved in the purchase is what folks seem to be craving as well. Heading to a tree farm, walking around the property, smelling and touching all options are aspects of the affair that are just as exciting as landing on the ideal buy. After all, what is there really to do outdoors these days? That desire to actually do something is likely also= motivating people to indulge in the holiday custom earlier than usual.
If you have yet to find your own Christmas tree, may we suggest you make this year extra special and consider heading to a national park near you to chop down your own piece of greenery, perhaps? Yes, it's legal (just follow guidelines).
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