**Christmas Trees Hit the Market in Tijuana**
As the holiday season approaches, Tijuana residents are welcoming the arrival of Christmas tree sales across the city. The popular “Douglas” firs have become a family favorite due to their distinct pine scent, says Natalia Angulo, who manages a tree lot in Zona Río.
These traditional Douglas trees are sought after not just for their pleasant aroma, but also for their classic appearance. According to Angulo, most families opt for trees ranging from six to seven feet tall, with options for both slender and fuller varieties.
The price for these festive greens varies significantly, ranging from approximately 1,300 to 12,000 pesos, depending on the tree’s size and any additional customizations, like sprays of pink, blue, yellow, or white.
This year, there’s been a noticeable 5% increase in sales compared to last year, attributed to families embracing holiday traditions once again. The tree lot has responded to this resurgence by adding family-friendly areas, including a small petting zoo and a designated space for taking holiday photos, which has drawn more visitors seeking to create memories.
To meet the growing demand, around 3,000 Christmas trees were shipped from Oregon to Tijuana. The lot owners are poised to restock should the sales momentum continue towards the end of the month.
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**Trending Holiday Preparations and Local News in Tijuana**
As residents of Tijuana start planning their holiday festivities, the city anticipates closing the year with over 11 million international visitors. This influx is expected to boost local businesses and tourism.
Among other local updates, debate continues around relocating the Tijuana-Tecate toll booth due to persistent traffic congestion, with drivers facing wait times of up to 40 minutes. Meanwhile, weather forecasts predict the return of the Santa Ana winds, which could bring increased wave activity and frost in mountainous regions.
In political developments, changes are occurring within the PAN party leadership, just as budget discussions for 2025 hint at potential cuts in security and education funding for Baja California. Additionally, a new office for the Human Rights Commission is set to open in east Tijuana to better serve indigenous communities.
Lastly, concerns about infrastructure are rising as reports indicate that approximately 70 kilometers of water pipes in various neighborhoods, including Playas de Tijuana and Otay, require urgent replacement. The state is considering solutions to address these aging pipelines promptly.