Posts

10K

Followers

Localish

Website

Good food. Good people. Good living. Localish is all about bringing out the good in America’s cities.

abc.com

Manvel

Traditions taking root at Holiday Acres Christmas Tree Farm

2025-12-11

Rocky and Leigh Ann Smith say they are in the business of making memories that last a lifetime. Together, they run Holiday Acres Christmas Tree Farm, where families can hop on a hayride, pick out the perfect Christmas tree, and chop it down if they choose to.

The Smiths began planting their first trees in 1999, and today they maintain nearly 10,000 Virginia Pine trees year-round.

"You wonder if it's worth it, and then we open, and then the families come, and they'll say, 'Thank you for doing this, thank you for having this place, it's such great memories for us.' And so, that really is so encouraging for us," Leigh Ann said.

In the video above, meet the Smith family and explore the farm where memories grow.

Holiday Acres Christmas Tree Farm is located at 8919 Mustang Bayou Rd in Manvel, Texas.

Comments

Community Policy

Creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, juicy mandarin oranges, sweet pineapple, and crunchy cookies come together in the kind of Midwestern classic that somehow lands between side dish and dessert. Every spoonful is cool, creamy, fruity, and packed with crisp cookie pieces that soften just enough without disappearing completely. The citrus keeps the mixture bright, the pudding makes it velvety, and those chocolate-striped cookies turn an ordinary bowl of fruit into the one dish everyone recognizes from church suppers and family reunions. It is playful, nostalgic, and exactly the kind of recipe that makes people smile before they even take the first bite.

14d

Eat Like No One Else

user · 11.3K followers

The One Thing I Always Check Before Buying Cantaloupe

If you ever had trouble picking out a cantaloupe, here is the one thing you should always look for to know you've picked one ready to eat. Melons can be tricky to pick out in the grocery store. While there are all sorts of tricks for watermelon (yellow spot, tapping on it, etc), with cantaloupe you need to take a different approach. Let me share the one thing I always look for when picking out a cantaloupe that I can buy and take home and enjoy right away.

18d

intentionalhospitality

user · 12.2K followers

I Stopped Boiling Corn on the Cob and Did This Instead

For years, boiling corn on the cob meant watching a pot, timing it just right, and still ending up with kernels that were sometimes tough and sometimes mushy. Switching to a slow cooker milk bath solved that problem completely. The corn comes out tender and sweet every time, and the stove stays free for everything else on the menu.

Edmond Thorne

user · 25.3K followers

Leprosy's Rising Spread in Florida: Armadillos & Soil Exposure Raise Concerns

Central Florida’s rising infections point to local transmission, armadillos, and soil exposure, pushing residents to rethink how they work and play outdoors. *This article was created, researched, and developed entirely without any use of AI.

Florida · 4d

Eat Like No One Else

user · 11.3K followers

5 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Watermelon

Learn some things about one of summer's favorite fruits that you may not have realized. When you buy a watermelon that is labeled as being seedless techically it still actually has seeds. They are just immature seeds that never developed into full-blown seeds. The white pieces you see in the flesh of your watermelon are the would-be seeds.

14d

CJ Coombs

user · 42.1K followers

Missing since 1961 from Newport Beach, California: John Arthur Butler was only 15 when he vanished

John Arthur Butler disappeared from Newport Beach, California (Orange County), on August 21, 1961, according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). John's composite image above was created to show how he might have looked at 65, though he would now be 80 if alive.

Newport Beach, CA · 2d

Edmond Thorne

user · 25.3K followers

Miami's Trump Tower 3 Is Sinking — Owners Pay While Everyone Else Skips Away Free

A new study says the luxury tower is among dozens of coastal buildings settling into South Florida soil, raising hard questions about what buyers were told, what engineers knew, and who pays when the ground keeps moving.

Miami, FL · 24d

Eat Like No One Else

user · 11.3K followers

Before You Buy Cucumbers, Here Are 5 Things You Should Know

Before you head to the store to purchase some cucumbers, here are 5 things that you should know. 1. What Types of Cucumbers Can You Find at the Store?. There are 3 main types of cucumbers that you can find in grocery stores these days. The classic cucumber is long, green, mostly straight, but slightly curved. It is what most of us think of first when we think of cucumbers. They have small seeds on the inside that aren't fully developed. If the cucumber had been allowed to continue to grow on the vine, the seeds would be further developed and ready to be the next cucumber.

David Heitz

user · 31.2K followers

How smoking marijuana keeps your house clean

The author used artificial intelligence in the crafting of this report. You may have heard about people using stimulants to motivate them to clean the house. But many people find that smoking marijuana also can lead to spotless floors, shiny mirrors and clean end tables.

Eat Like No One Else

user · 11.3K followers

I Stopped Boiling Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes During Summer - Here's What I Do Instead

Want to make some mashed potatoes for dinner but don't want to have a big pot of boiling water in your kitchen on a hot summer day? Here are some different methods you can try instead.

15d

Kateable

user · 7.7K followers

Why I Started Saving Coffee Grounds

For years, making coffee was just part of my morning routine. I'd brew a fresh pot, pour myself a cup, and dump the used coffee grounds straight into the trash without giving them a second thought.

19d

intentionalhospitality

user · 12.2K followers

I Never Could Get Tender Pork Chops, Until I Learned To Cook Them Like This

These boneless pork chops are seasoned with a simple spice blend, seared in a hot skillet, and finished with a butter and thyme baste. From start to finish, they're ready in 20 minutes, making them an easy option for a weeknight dinner.

16d

Margaret Minnicks

user · 49.2K followers

Fruits and vegetables that may be linked to the growing parasite outbreak in Virginia

This is an update on Cyclosporiasis, a foodborne parasitic illness that is across 18 states, including Virginia, according to Patch. In Virginia, between one and 10 cases of Cyclosporiasis have been reported, according to Patch’s earlier report on the multistate investigation.

Virginia · 22d

Jim O’Rear

user · 20.1K followers

Contractor Took $40,000 for Home Repairs... Then Allegedly Built a Baseball Card Collection Instead!

You know, when you hire a contractor, you have certain expectations. Maybe they’ll show up a little late. Maybe they’ll disappear for three days because they’re "waiting on materials." Maybe they'll spend half the day leaning against a truck discussing the weather with another guy who's also apparently on an extended coffee break.

Palm Coast, FL · 27d

nickscookingclub

user · 9.7K followers

Farmer’s Casserole: My Favorite Make-Ahead Brunch Bake

Some recipes have that instant save-it-for-later feeling, and farmer’s casserole: my favorite make-ahead brunch bake is exactly that kind of comfort-food meal. It has the kind of name that makes you picture real flavor before you even start cooking: hearty, satisfying, and weeknight-friendly, with enough personality to stand out in a busy feed. This is the sort of dish that fits the moments people actually cook for, whether that is a relaxed weekend bite, something easy to bring to the table, or a recipe you want nearby when you need an idea that feels a little more special than the usual routine.

Greg Wilson, CFA

user · 23.1K followers

Avoid Autopay on These 22 Common Bills

This article was originally published on ChaChingQueen.com, a site my wife and I own. AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.

Dianna Carney

user · 42.7K followers

She’s Only 9 Months Old & Already Waiting for a Family to Choose Her

Small Dog Rescue of New England has recently introduced Glandis, a young mixed-breed pup now in Rhode Island, and the nonprofit says the “sweet and silly” dog is ready to meet potential adopters after spending time outdoors in the warm weather.

Rhode Island · 6d

Dianna Carney

user · 42.7K followers

Bella's Heartwarming Story of Hope & Healing

Bella, a sweet rescue dog available for adoption through Rhode Island-based Rhode Home Rescue, is the perfect companion for anyone seeking a devoted cuddle buddy who believes personal space is nothing more than a myth. According to the organization, "This sweet girl wants nothing more than to be as close to her people as possible. She'll happily drape herself across your lap and gaze lovingly into your eyes for as long as you'll let her."

Rhode Island · 7d

The Powell House Press

user · 1.3K followers

Mitch McConnell's Daughter Claire: the Apple that didn't Fall Far From The Twisted Tree

McConnell, the turtled octogenarian, if actually alive and has a future it might be the right time to look at his past. Not just the horrifying damage he did to the United States and the Supreme Court, but closer to home.

intentionalhospitality

user · 12.2K followers

I Put One Extra Thing In My Ice Tea To Make it Clear and Smooth

If a cookout table needs one drink that disappears fast, it's a classic Southern sweet tea. This version uses just five ingredients and comes together in under 15 minutes, making it an easy pick when you're already juggling a full weekend menu.

Dianna Carney

user · 42.7K followers

Surrendered at 6 Weeks Old: Now These Sweet Puppies Are Ready to Be Someone’s Whole World

Animal Rescue of New England, a foster-based rescue in Rhode Island with foster homes across New England, is introducing two puppy brothers, Picasso and Da Vinci, who are now looking for loving homes, the rescue shared in a recent announcement. The adoptable pair, both male puppies, were born May 5, 2026, and the organization says they’re ready to start fresh with families prepared to commit to training, structure, and lifelong care.

Rhode Island · 8d

Dianna Carney

user · 42.7K followers

“No One Ever Came Forward”: Sweet Dog is Looking for Her Forever Family

Forever Paws Animal Shelter in Fall River is searching for a home for Calamity Jane, a sweet dog who has now been waiting “for nearly two months” with “minimal interest” despite being, as the shelter puts it, “the biggest, sweetest smush that just wants to roll around with a toy and soak up all of the attention she can get her paws on.”

Fall River, MA · 6d

Thomas Smith

user · 59.1K followers

7 Weird Facts About Hot Fudge Sundaes You Probably Didn't Know

Nothing hits the sweet spot quite like a classic hot fudge sundae. The contrast between freezing vanilla ice cream and warm, gooey, molten chocolate is pure perfection. But while you’ve probably eaten dozens of them in your lifetime, how much do you actually know about the history and quirky science behind America's favorite ice cream treat?

SouthernPlate

user · 9.8K followers

One Slice of This Lemon Earthquake Cake Is Never Enough

Dive into the zesty delight of Lemon Earthquake Cake! It’s a perfect blend of tangy lemon, creamy sweetness, and crunchy toppings—a dessert you’ll crave! For the full recipe on my website click HERE.

19d

Greg Wilson, CFA

user · 23.1K followers

Stock Up Before It’s Too Late: 23 Critical Items You Can’t Afford to Run Out Of

This article was originally published on ChaChingQueen.com, a site my wife and I own. AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.

Butter and Baggage

user · 16.5K followers

I stopped boiling green beans after making them this way

For years I boiled green beans until they went soft and a little sad. Then I tried them the Southern way, cooked down with bacon and onions, and I have not gone back since. This is the green bean recipe that turns a plain side dish into something people actually ask about at dinner. The bacon grease does all the work, giving the beans a smoky richness that boiling water never could.

19d

Butter and Baggage

user · 16.5K followers

Old fashioned macaroni pie that only needs 5 ingredients

Some of the best recipes in the South never needed a fancy name or a long ingredient list to earn a permanent spot on the dinner table. This baked macaroni pie skips the flour and roux altogether. Butter, milk, and eggs come together with sharp cheddar to create a rich, custardy texture that sets as it bakes, so every bite holds its shape but still tastes creamy.

Localish

Website

abc.com

Good food. Good people. Good living. Localish is all about bringing out the good in America’s cities.

4.0K

Posts

9.9K

Followers

NEARBY LOCATION

See all locations

Traditions taking root at Holiday Acres Christmas Tree Farm

Comments

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Margaret Minnicks

List of the 27 states where Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce has been recalled, including Virginia

Greg Wilson, CFA

20 Foods (Most) People Believe Are Healthy, But They Are Wrong

CJ Coombs

Missing since 2009 from a home of chaos: 5-year-old Haleigh Ann-Marie Cummings in Satsuma, Florida

ChefManiac

I Brought Cookie Salad To One Potluck—Now Nobody Lets Me Bring Anything Else

Eat Like No One Else

The One Thing I Always Check Before Buying Cantaloupe

intentionalhospitality

I Stopped Boiling Corn on the Cob and Did This Instead

Edmond Thorne

Leprosy's Rising Spread in Florida: Armadillos & Soil Exposure Raise Concerns

Eat Like No One Else

5 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Watermelon

CJ Coombs

Missing since 1961 from Newport Beach, California: John Arthur Butler was only 15 when he vanished

Edmond Thorne

Miami's Trump Tower 3 Is Sinking — Owners Pay While Everyone Else Skips Away Free

Eat Like No One Else

Before You Buy Cucumbers, Here Are 5 Things You Should Know

David Heitz

How smoking marijuana keeps your house clean

Eat Like No One Else

I Stopped Boiling Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes During Summer - Here's What I Do Instead

Kateable

Why I Started Saving Coffee Grounds

intentionalhospitality

I Never Could Get Tender Pork Chops, Until I Learned To Cook Them Like This

Margaret Minnicks

Fruits and vegetables that may be linked to the growing parasite outbreak in Virginia

Jim O’Rear

Contractor Took $40,000 for Home Repairs... Then Allegedly Built a Baseball Card Collection Instead!

nickscookingclub

Farmer’s Casserole: My Favorite Make-Ahead Brunch Bake

Greg Wilson, CFA

Avoid Autopay on These 22 Common Bills

Dianna Carney

She’s Only 9 Months Old & Already Waiting for a Family to Choose Her

Dianna Carney

Bella's Heartwarming Story of Hope & Healing

The Powell House Press

Mitch McConnell's Daughter Claire: the Apple that didn't Fall Far From The Twisted Tree

intentionalhospitality

I Put One Extra Thing In My Ice Tea To Make it Clear and Smooth

Dianna Carney

Surrendered at 6 Weeks Old: Now These Sweet Puppies Are Ready to Be Someone’s Whole World

Dianna Carney

“No One Ever Came Forward”: Sweet Dog is Looking for Her Forever Family

Thomas Smith

7 Weird Facts About Hot Fudge Sundaes You Probably Didn't Know

SouthernPlate

One Slice of This Lemon Earthquake Cake Is Never Enough

Greg Wilson, CFA

Stock Up Before It’s Too Late: 23 Critical Items You Can’t Afford to Run Out Of

Butter and Baggage

I stopped boiling green beans after making them this way

Butter and Baggage

Old fashioned macaroni pie that only needs 5 ingredients

NEARBY LOCATION