With the economy as it is, retailers are expecting an absolutely dreadful holiday shopping season, but that may not be the case for Christmas tree growers. According to the Pacific Northwest Christmas Tree Association, sales of real Christmas trees usually go up when the economy is in a downturn. Sales went up in 2002, which is the last time the Dow touched the 7,500 mark (prior to today). Bryan Ostlund, PNCTA executive director, explains why:

“People just aren’t traveling as much. In times like these, it’s natural to fall back on events that are comfortable, like traditional holiday celebrations.”

Here’s to holiday traditions!