Snuggled in the heart of Gilbert just off of Baseline Road is Mother Nature’s Farm.

The “Farm” originated in the 1980’s with a goal of selling Christmas trees amid a farm complete with animals and in a natural setting where people could cut their own trees. 

The farm ended up becoming the only “choose and dig lot in the country” and it grew into much more. The full origin of their story (beginning in the 60’s) can be found on their website.

Northeast Valley News visited Mother Nature’s farm and found the Christmas “spirit” all around. 

Mother Nature’s Farm is founded by Wade Kelsall and Caroline Kelsall.

In October of 1991, they decided to branch out and began by setting up a tent and selling pumpkins in early October before the Christmas holidays. 

The pumpkin patch has been rated “Arizona’s Best in the New Times” according to their website.

The Pumpkin Patch is open from September 27th-November 2nd. 

The farm also contains a market shop, “Maneau’s Munchies” for fresh food, Christmas decorations, specialty items, toys and more. 

It’s become a Valley favorite and is a one of kind for the younger generation with big fields, mini hay mazes, farm animals and more. 

“We really center our audience around the younger generation, like the little kids, anywhere from the age of one to about ten,” said Alexander Kelsall, the Kelsall’s son. 

The Christmas holiday set up and Christmas tree sales begin each November 26th-December 24th.

Although Christmas trees are no longer a “pick and dig” option, they still care for the trees as if they are freshly off the ground.

Mother Nature’s Farm is open every day of the season even if they face a few curveballs from Mother Nature herself. 

“When it does get bad, we just power through it and keep going, rain or shine, muddy or not, we’re still here,” said Kelsall.

Mother Nature’s Farm is all about reliving the old-fashioned Christmas experience. 

Getting to pick the Christmas tree, even if it comes with minor disagreements—usually ends with joy and families have made Mother Nature’s Farm part of their Christmas holiday tradition. 

“My dad has seen people come back with their kids, kids, kids, kids. I’m now starting to see people come back with their kids, kids, you know, the grandparents bringing their grandbabies, and people my age are bringing their kids, so it’s pretty cool,” Kelsall said.                   

From its humble beginnings on the farm field to becoming one of Arizona’s favorite pumpkin patches—Mother Nature’s Farm continues to be a holiday ritual for many in the Valley.