Pet a Reindeer this Holiday Season

Make Christmas extra magical for your children with a special experience of meeting and petting real live reindeer. Visit a reindeer farm and add this fun tradition to your holiday schedule. There are also many one day Holiday events occurring throughout Michigan where you can visit with Santa and pet live reindeer for a one-of-kind experience. Although they might not be Rudolph, Dancer or Prancer, these reindeer are real. Check out the map of reindeer farms and Christmas events in Michigan to find one close to you. Start planning your Michigan day trip to these family-friendly locations and start your own annual Christmas tradition.

Reindeer Ranch | Kalamazoo

Address: 2921 N 6th St, Kalamazoo

When: Times & Days Vary, Nov 22, 2024- Jan 3, 2026

Cost: $15

Not only does Reindeer Ranch, have a herd of real live reindeer, but during your visit you can stroll though a festive lit trail through the woods. Pet the reindeer, feel real antlers and pose for a holiday picture. On select days Santa even comes to greet visitors. Additionally, you can warm up at the fire with some hot chocolate as you explore this family owned reindeer farm. Sign up ahead of time for your tour here.

Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm | Clare

Address: 2706 E. Stevenson Lake Rd, Clare, MI

When: Hours Vary

Cost: $11.00

It’s easy to get into the holiday spirit at this family owned reindeer farm. The Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm in Clare Michigan specifically has been breeding and raising reindeer for the last 20 years. With a herd of 20 reindeer, they train these magnificent creatures and bring them to holiday events, gatherings and even for movies. With kid’s train rides, a cafe and a holiday playground, this farm is definitely worth the drive. Check out the schedule of all the fun happenings occurring from Frozen Day to Santa parachuting out of an airplane - it promises to be a magical time at Rooftop Landing. They even have a sensory friendly day so that every child can participate in the activities.

Massive Antler at Michigan Reindeer Farm

Visit Santa’s Reindeer Farm at Grandpa Tiny’s Farm | Frankenmuth

Address: 7775 Weiss Rd Frankenmuth, MI

Cost: $17.25, Children 4 years and under are free with adult ticket

When: Weekends, Friday, Saturday & Sunday, November 22- Dec /21 2025

Bring your family to Grandpa’s Tiny’s Farm to encounter Santa, his elves and reindeer as they prepare for the Christmas season. During the holiday this historic farm transforms into a Christmas Wonderland. Bring your Christmas wish list for Santa, make an ornament and chat with the elves during your stay. Tickets tend to sell out quickly, so purchase online. Check out this Holiday trip guide with additional Christmas activities occurring in Frankenmuth this season.

Peacock Road Family Farm | Laingsburg

Address: 11854 Peacock Road Laingsburg, MI 48848

Cost: The Express Train seats 7 people per train car | $115 per car

The Wagon Seats 16 | $195

When: Weekends by appointment only Nov 22- Dec 24, 2025

Take a magical train to a cozy lit cabin in the woods to meet Santa and his reindeer. Start your annual tradition today at Peacock Farms. Make sure to book your Santa Experience prior to arriving. There will be (no walk-ins available) so be sure to grab your spot early for a visit filled with Christmas magic, cookies, and cheer. Additionally you can cut your Christmas tree starting Nov 22nd, pet the farm animals, savor some delicious hot chocolate and cookies while making memories together.

Antler Ridge Farms | Williamsburg

Address: 6259 M 72 E Williamsburg, MI

When: Dec- Feb ( Snow Dependent)

The season at Antler Ridge Farms typically begins in late December, or whenever the snow is deep enough for horse-drawn sleigh rides. Guests can book private rides for up to 12 people—just don’t forget a warm blanket as the Percheron draft horses glide through the snowy landscape. Not only can you see reindeer, but also visit with alpacas and horses.

Weekend Special Reindeer Events in Michigan

There are tons of popup Michigan Reindeer Events for 2025 during the holiday season besides reindeer farms. These are occurring (mostly November–December) throughout the state happening at larger venues as well as small towns, libraries, and parades — perfect for family visits or local holiday fun:

Christmas Walk at Dow Gardens | Midland

Stroll along the lit pathway to meet Santa’s reindeer. Open Tuesday - Sunday from 10 AM until 4 PM.

When: (December 4-6 ONLY) 5-8pm

Cost: Adult daily: $15.00, Student (4-17): $5.00

Small Town Events

Frankenmuth — Zehnder’s Snowfest & Holiday Celebration

When: Late November–early December
Where: Downtown Frankenmuth
Details: Live reindeer meet-and-greet, Santa’s arrival, carriage rides, and holiday lights throughout town.

Petoskey Holiday Open House

When: December 6, 2025
Where: Downtown Petoskey
Details: Reindeer visits, Christmas carolers, and Santa’s sleigh photos.

Holland’s Kerstmarkt (Dutch Christmas Market)

When: Weekends, Nov. 22–Dec. 14, 2025
Where: Holland Civic Center
Details: Live reindeer appearances some Saturdays, traditional market booths, and festive food.

Gaylord “Santa Parade & Tree Lighting”

When: Nov. 29, 2025
Where: Downtown Gaylord
Details: Santa and real reindeer parade, downtown shops open late, and family photo opportunities.

Library & Community Events

Brighton District Library — Reindeer Visit

When: Early December 2025
Details: Free family event with live reindeer, storytime, and crafts. Typically hosted by Reindeer Ranch (Blissfield, MI).

Salem-South Lyon District Library

When: December 7, 2025 (check calendar)
Details: Annual live reindeer display, hot cocoa, and holiday reading time for kids.

Orion Township Public Library (Lake Orion)

When: December 2025
Details: “Santa’s Reindeer Stop” with photos, crafts, and treats.

Ready for Reindeer | Multiple Grand Rapids Library Locations

When: Days Vary

Where: Meet Santa’s reindeer at the library this Christmas season. This outdoor program will be fun for all. Check out additional details here for this special reindeer event occurring in December.

Holiday Parades & Tree Lightings

Chelsea Hometown Holiday

When: Dec. 6–8, 2025
Where: Downtown Chelsea
Details: Parade with live reindeer, Santa’s Workshop, and luminary walk.

Midland “Santa Holiday Parade”

When: November 22, 2025
Details: Parade floats, marching bands, and reindeer photo zone afterward.

Howell Fantasy of Lights

Michigan Raised Reindeer- Holiday Events

When: November 28, 2025
Where: Downtown Howell
Details: Parade with reindeer-drawn sleigh, light displays, and small-town holiday market.

Other Holiday Events

Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village | Dearborn

When: Weekends in December

Holiday Extravaganza | Pontiac

When: Dec 6, 2025 in Downtown Pontiac

Closing Thoughts

Make memories together as a family this holiday season when you explore the best reindeer farms and Santa encounters this winter season. Check out the map and dates so you don’t miss out on these fun holiday events occurring in 2025. Plan a fun Michigan Day Trip with your kids during Christmas to make it truly magical.