The Optimist Club of Mechanicsville has been holding an annual Christmas tree sale since 1983. Starting with less than 100 trees

placed modestly in the parking lot of Earl’s Barbecue in Charlotte Hall (now Rita’s of Charlotte Hall).  In the years following, the tree

sales slowly grew and the sites grew as well. The Club moved itsChristmas tree sales to Club Sunrise in Charlotte Hall (now Burger

King) and later was held for many years at DJ’s One Stop in Mechanicsville. 

While at DJ’s One Stop, the Christmas Tree Event grew to a 600 tree event, and the Club grew accordingly to support the event. In

the late 80’s McKay’s Food generously allowed the club to set a Northern Stand up in its parking lot. Since that time, the club has continued to grow and has managed to maintain two lots.

In 2010, the Mechanicsville Volunteer Fire Department (MVFD /MVRS) generously donated its Carnival Lot as a new stand and staging area. The Optimist Club always looks for opportunities to work with other community service organizations and we have been fortunate that the MVFD / MVRS has always been a large part of the Club’s annual operations and membership! 

With about 60 Club events a year, the Christmas Tree Event requires the full Optimist Club’s membership participation to cover the week night and full day weekend shifts. In addition, we also receive support from local community service workers provided by the St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney’s office. 

Through the hope and positive vision of our Optimist members, our club is able to give back to our kids and our community.

If you are interested in helping with any of our 60 club events, please consider joining our Mechanicsville Optimist Club , new members are always welcome!

November :Christmas Tree Lot Setup at McKay’s and Mechanicsville Carnival Lot staring at 9am.

November : Christmas tree unloading at Mechanicsville Carnival lot. 5pm. 

November : Tree sales begin Weekday’s 5- 9pm. Weekends 9am- 9pm.