Sioux Falls Celebrates 70 Years of Baumgartner Christmas Trees

The Baumgartner family has been a cornerstone of holiday tradition in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for seventy years, selling Christmas trees from their family-run business. As of the Saturday before Thanksgiving in 2025, the operation marks its milestone anniversary, a testament to enduring community spirit and family ties.

Strongly rooted in the North End, the Baumgartner Family Christmas Trees began in the backyard of Jerry and Luella Baumgartner’s home on North Walts Avenue. Jerry, inspired by his brother-in-law in Minnesota, embarked on a journey back in 1956, bringing 99 trees to sell. “I was scared to put the hundredth one on because I would have lost it,” Jerry recalls, emphasizing the humble beginnings of what would become a beloved local tradition.

From Humble Beginnings to Seasonal Staple

The first year, the Baumgartners sold those trees for $3 each, quickly selling out in three days. With each passing year, the business grew, prompting a move in 1990 to their current location at 1701 W. Madison St.. In that inaugural year at their new site, the Baumgartners sold nearly 8,000 trees, sourced from Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Carolina. Today, Jerry, now 93, still plays an active role, working alongside his children and grandchildren.

The family business thrives due to its commitment to quality and customer experience. “We go out and we buy the best of the best to start with,” Jerry explains. This dedication to quality has fostered a sense of loyalty among customers, many of whom return each year, bringing their children and grandchildren along. The warm, welcoming atmosphere encourages families to create lasting memories.

Creating Memories in the Community

At the Baumgartner lot, every customer is treated like a friend. The staff takes the time to learn preferences, ensuring that each tree matches the customer’s needs. “Every tree is shaken out, so there ain’t no needles left to drop,” Jerry notes, explaining the care taken to enhance the customer experience. The family prides itself on providing thorough service, from assisting with tree selection to securing it on the customer’s vehicle.

The operation has also become a community affair, employing around 30 part-time helpers, many of whom have been with the Baumgartners for years. Kerwin Nieman, the lead salesman, has been part of the team since he was a teenager, demonstrating the deep-rooted connections within the community.

As the holiday season approaches, the Baumgartner family reflects on the legacy they have built. Jerry’s son Kevin, along with his wife Suzanne and son Brandon, manages daily operations, while other family members contribute in various capacities, from sales to food preparation. This collaborative effort ensures the tradition continues smoothly, even as Jerry hands over more responsibilities.

Jerry acknowledges the importance of community engagement, stating, “They know that when they come here, we help them to the end.” This customer-centric approach has helped the Baumgartner family withstand the challenges of changing consumer habits over the years.

The significance of this family business extends beyond just selling trees. It embodies a cherished tradition for many families in Sioux Falls. Each visit to the lot sparks nostalgia, reminding customers of their own childhood experiences and the joy of selecting the perfect tree.

As the holiday season approaches, the Baumgartner family remains dedicated to their craft. Their commitment to quality, community, and family bonds ensures that Baumgartner Family Christmas Trees will continue to be a staple in Sioux Falls for years to come.