Christmas is over, which means, it’s time for a visit with the Philly Goat Project.
Every year, the organization turns Philadelphian’s Christmas trees into goat snacks and sustainable additions to local parks, and in 2025, the tree-cycling dates include Saturday, Jan. 4, Saturday, Jan. 11 and Saturday, Jan. 18. The first two will take place at The Farm at Awbury Arboretum while the third will take place at Laurel Hill West Cemetery.
From noon to 3 p.m. on those dates, the family-friendly farm festivals will feature an afternoon packed with activities, all of which benefit the nonprofit. A $20 donation helps support Philly Goat Project’s free year-round programming, including community goat walks, children’s literacy events in libraries, schools, environmental education events throughout city parks, youth job training programs, animal-assisted therapy events, and bereavement programming.
And what exactly happens while here? According to a release, donated Christmas trees will become snacks for the goats and/or turned into wood chips used to cover trails in city parks and community gardens throughout Philadelphia, thanks to a partnership with the Philadelphia Streets Department.
This year’s Christmas Tree-Cycle festivals will also feature farm exploration, firepits with s’mores and hot cocoa, a goat petting zoo and games at both locations (Awbury’s dates will have games titled the “Awbury Olympics.”)
The fests will also feature quiet visiting areas as a calm space for guests with special needs and the Philly Goat Project Swag Tables. The latter will feature Philly Goat Project’s 2025 calendar showcasing the goats at Philadelphia landmarks. This year’s calendar features the goats on Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Philadelphia Eagles, and on stage at the Kimmel Center alongside the Philadelphia Orchestra. Calendars are $17, with proceeds benefiting the nonprofit.
In total, there are three options for the Tree-Cycle drop-offs: Express curbside drop-off-and-donate (6336 Ardleigh Street entrance), the “G.O.A.T. Safari” where you drive through the farm to drop off (6336 Ardleigh Street entrance), or you can park on Washington Lane and bring your tree in yourself (look for the ambassadors to guide you) for the first two dates. For Laurel Hill West, Philadelphians can head to the venue (215 Belmont Avenue, Bala Cynwyd) and follow signs to the Conservatory.
Interested Philadelphians should note: decorations should be removed from trees before donating them, and Christmas trees should be pesticide free. Wreaths are also not accepted. The $20 donation can be paid in cash, Venmo, CashApp, or PayPal. Philly Goat Project can provide tax receipts for those who need them.
For more information on this year’s Philly Goat Project Christmas Tree-Cycle, visit phillygoatproject.org
