MATTOON — Cody and Sophie Overton grow corn, soybeans and alfalfa, but when the fall harvest is finished, they turn their attention to a different crop: Christmas trees at Overton Tree Farm.
Cody Overton said his wife loves Christmas, and this is a way for her to celebrate that. Getting started took five to six years of planning before they opened for business in Mattoon three years ago.
They offer pre-cut Fraser fir, white pine and Douglas fir trees, as well as other types of greenery including wreaths, swags and crosses. The Overtons also have a gift shop that sells local items including honeys and lotions.
The Christmas business runs one month out of the year, but they also open the space as a venue for events such as baby and wedding showers, and graduation and retirement parties.
Tree buyers can warm up with drinks and snacks. They have a “loaded hot chocolate” that includes doughnuts, candy canes and whipped cream. Overton said one of the couple’s favorite compliments from visitors is “it feels like a Hallmark movie.” They also try to do activities for children.
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Overton said he enjoys visiting with people and seeing return customers. He also enjoys seeing how far people drive to visit the tree farm.
“We want to be something a family can come and do together,” he said.
The Overtons also give back to the community. The last two years the farm held a children’s business fair. Children are invited to create a business and sell products. Community members come in to judge. The first year in 2023, they had 13 children’s businesses, and this fall, they had 23 participate.
Overton Tree Farm is at 9700 E. County Road 550 N, Mattoon. Hours are Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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