Philly Goat Project turns your Christmas trees into goat snacks

It’s that time of the year again—the holidays are over and it’s time to clean up the wrapping paper, pack away the ornaments and get rid of your tree. And with the latter, the Philly Goat Project has a very fun way of doing just that.

The Project’s annual Christmas Tree-Cycle is returning for a sixth year with three dates in 2024. The first two (Jan. 6 and 13, rain dates on Jan. 7 and 14) will take place at The Farm at Awbury Arboretum from noon to 3 p.m., and the third will take place on Saturday, Jan. 20 (rain date Jan. 21) at Laurel Hill West Cemetery from noon to 2 p.m.

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.

There is a $20 donation requested per Christmas tree, which goes to support Philly Goat Project’s free year-round programming that spans community goat walks, children’s literacy events in libraries and schools, environmental education events in city parks, a youth job training program, the monthly All Abilities RAMble (the inclusive animal-assisted therapy program for the special needs community), and new this year, a bereavement garden and grief garden coming soon.

Beyond the Christmas tree drop, activities during the farm festival will include a large fire pit with free s’mores, free hot cocoa, farm Olympics games for kids (only at Awbury’s festivals), and a petting area with the goats. So, you don’t need a tree to come out and enjoy your time with your whole family.

In total, there are three options for the Tree-Cycle events: 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).

As always, this kooky and cute event will have some swag including Philly Goat Project’s signature 2024 calendar shot by Miguel Martinez, which features the goats at landmarks around Philadelphia, including Subaru Park where the Philadelphia Union play, Franklin Square, Miracle on 13th Street, the heart at The Franklin Institute, and more. Calendars are $15 each and proceeds support Philly Goat Project.

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