ST. LOUIS – People kicked off their Christmas traditions with frozen custard and Christmas trees Friday.

Families on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree on Black Friday started their day at Ted Drewes. 

“Look at how full it is. It’ll take up the whole window,” one shopper said, looking over the Balsam Firs. 

Dan Shipp has been coming to Ted Drewes for his tree for 25 years. 

“We live way out in Foristell, so we always come here and get a tree and get an ice cream,” he said. 

It is a decades-long tradition for families, including for owner Travis Dillon. 

“It’s something that’s a tradition for St. Louis. It’s something I’ve been doing since 1976, so it’s a long time for me as well. I’m so used to doing this. This is a passion for me too,” he said. 

There is something new this year, though.

Ted Drewes has teamed up with Cardinals broadcaster Bengie Molina for a toy drive. So those who get a tree or ice cream can donate an unwrapped toy at the same time. The toys will then be distributed to various organizations around the area. 

The tree lot started out as a way for Ted Drewes to make a little extra money during a time of year it would normally be closed down. But even in the cold on Friday, it was clear that getting a frozen custard has become part of the tradition. 

While families questioned if they should get a fir or a pine, others had a different debate. 

“It’s never too cold for ice cream,” a young girl said. 

“I think it’s always cold for ice cream,” her brother replied. 

Shipp says it does not matter that wind chills were in the 20s. 

“Who cares? It’s a tradition. It’s what you do,” he said. 

Toy donations are accepted through Dec. 8 at the Ted Drewes gift shop from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.