Reindeer Games

For some, it's more about making memories than buying gifts in the holiday season.  If you are looking for a whole family experience, I found one.  Sitting on a knoll in the tiny hamlet called Vanzant is the only reindeer farm in the state. Welcome to the Prescott Family Reindeer farm where Michael and Sara have created a Christmas venue like no other. Upon arrival, the kid in me was delighted to see a Hollywood-worthy Christmas village. I was greeted by Sara, the stylist who created this festive venue along with Michael, the man with the will to educate others. With their children in tow, I got the grand tour. Each stop was done with care and a true commitment to making this experience as magical as it can be. 

For this family of five, Christmas begins in July when they start to build the venue for the holiday season. This’ll be their second. The Prescott family is fairly new to Missouri, transplanted from Illinois just three years ago. No strangers to raising livestock, beef cattle have always been their brand. But, once settled they knew they wanted to bring something unique to the area. 

With only two reindeer to start, a mess of chickens, mini and full-size horses, alpaca, llamas and donkeys, they have made a good start for the full-on-the-farm experience. Their second season, which kicked off Nov. 25, includes three more reindeer straight from the North Pole. 

It was my first time meeting a reindeer and learning a bit about them.  They are very friendly, and they love raisins, their favorite snack, which you get to hand-feed as part of the visit. But, the fun doesn't stop with the animals. There are several photo booths scattered around, 100 Christmas trees all decked out, and a gift shop full of local goods. Santa has his workshop where kids can do crafts with him, plus story time. Mrs. Claus isn't left out; she has her little bakery where you can get a warm cup of cocoa, or hot soup, cookies, and other sweet confections. Friday nights are extra special on the farm as the whole venue is lit up for the season. It is truly magical. I know where I'll be bringing my grandkids. 

The Prescotts, along with their 15 employees, work hard to make your visit memorable. The Christmas farm is more than a petting zoo. It's entertaining, educational, and hopefully, a new tradition for families. I expect the venue will only get bigger and better with each season.

It is a one-stop must-see for anyone who loves Christmas as the Prescotts do. They are already thinking about some exciting new additions for next season. It always amazes me how people go out of their way to bring something special to our communities. We are blessed like that.

And the Prescotts have gone over the top to make your holiday extra special.  So, pack up the kids, and bring the family soon. Their season is short. The farm also welcomes large groups, and church outings and does its part to support local small businesses near and far.  No time to be a Scrooge here. This place will take you back to your childhood when Christmas was simple, which may be the best gift of all.  Let the reindeer games begin! 

For more information visit their website: www.prescottfamilyreindeerfarm.com