On a Tank of Gas: December

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Holiday Excursions

Blend Tree Cutting With Small-Town Fun

By Janis Dice

Looping through the foothills can tie tree cutting and seasonal events into a package of fun for singles and family alike. With choose-and-cut tree farms and small-town celebrations, Placer and El Dorado counties form a circuitous route for holiday reveling.
    Known for its scenic path past expansive fruit stands, the Apple Hill Trail, east of Placerville, off Highway 50, holds six tree farms that open the day after Thanksgiving. O’Halloran’s Apple Trail Ranch offers hot cider, picnic tables and places for meandering through the orchards. Many snack stops dot the area, including Able’s Apple Acres, where donuts, pies and candy apples are freshly made.
    Heading north out of Placerville, off Highway 193, the 90-acre North Star Tree Farm proffers horse-drawn wagon rides and a children’s carousel on weekends, with ticket discounts for tree purchasers. There is a bake shop where treats may be purchased, as well as picnic sites and nature trails.
    Tree seekers can plan their expeditions to coincide with one of several events going on in Placerville. On Saturday, Dec. 3, Madrona Vineyards will be hosting Christmas in the Cellar, with wine tasting, music and local wares for sale. On Sunday, Dec. 4, Placerville’s annual rain-or-shine Christmas Parade will roll through downtown, beginning at 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10. Town Hall on Main Street will be the locale of the Fifth Annual Tea in Toyland, where children accompanied by adults can enjoy tea and cookies served by storybook characters. Admission is $4 for children, $7 for adults. On Saturday, Dec. 17, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., a self-guided art walk features locally produced works, refreshments, demonstrations and entertainment.
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