Being Jewish we don't do a tree, but my mom does (I converted).

For years we had a fresh tree. When my father was alive we would cut it, after he passed we would buy one. Things change, my mom now has a very nice pre-lit artificial tree. At 70+ with a fixed income the fresh tree became too expensive (even in VT) and a royal pain, especially when it came time to dispose of it. She does not miss the mess, but we do miss the scent of pine.

Fresh. No question.

Besides, cutting a tree every year makes baby environmentalists cry.

Fresh, of course, unless you have a wife that has become allergic to them. I do not miss cleaning up the needles and the stabbing the soles of bare feet in the summer from stray ones.

The real tree is the way to go. And IMHO, you should take the time to cut it down yourself. Enjoy the fresh air, exercise, some hot chocolate, etc.

I set up a poll myself on this issue, and have another post on our experience this past weekend going to Vermont to get one. Had a great time!