BOWLING GREEN KY (WVDN) – To talk to Jessica Anderson is to hear and actually feel the enthusiasm she carries for The Reindeer Farm. It instantly becomes obvious it’s more than a business but also a passion from the heart.
According to Anderson, her favorite part by far is the guests because she loves meeting new people. She absolutely loves getting to be part of their holiday traditions. Anderson went on to explain that there’s something magical about stepping back and seeing the families smile and hearing the kids’ laughter. Jessica said that knowing she and her husband, Russell, created a place where people can make those kinds of memories is a dream come true. “It truly doesn’t get any better than this,“ Jessica said.
Anderson went on to explain that while the Reindeer farm hosts a few spring events, they’re primarily a holiday attraction. According to Jessica, they started in 2020 with 19 operating days between mid-November and Christmas. They’ve kept a similar schedule ever since. This year, the Andersons are introducing a new feature at the farm: Farm After Dark. It’s an evening experience under the glow of Christmas lights. Anderson said guests can now enjoy everything they love about the farm- just in a magical nighttime setting. “We plan on opening every weekend and evening to give families more opportunities to make memories,“ Jessica said.
The Reindeer Farm is the South’s only immersive Reindeer experience and one of only a few on the East Coast, according to Jessica. Guests have the opportunity to actually step inside the enclosure to meet the Reindeer up close and personal and at the same time learn more about them. It also provides the perfect opportunity for, as Jessica puts it, unforgettable photos.
Anderson said they love to fill the weekend with special events at no extra cost to their guests. According to Jessica, a fan favorite is ice sculpting by Dan Kissel, who is a two-time champion from Food Network’s Outrageous Pumpkins. They host live chainsaw carving, appearances by Elsa, Anna, the Grinch, Santa and Mrs. Claus and more. They have everyday attractions available such as a kids train ride, pedal cars, snowball (dodgeball) arena, and mini zips. The Andersons work hard to provide a festive, family-friendly experience that is, according to Jessica, unlike anything else in the region.
The farm is also home to other animals, including miniature highland cows, mini donkeys, alpacas, kunekune pigs, bunnies and pigs. This allows for many different animal interactions during a visit to the Reindeer Farm.
Jessica explained that meeting guests face to face after they’ve followed them on social media is among her favorite memories at the farm. She went on to say that seeing their guests’ faces light up when they see the Reindeer for the first time is an experience she will never get tired of. Also high on the list of Jessica’s favorite things was watching her and Russell’s three children, Aniston (13), Ashton (11) and Russell Jr (9), play a huge role in the operations of the farm when they’re not in school. “Watching them grow up surrounded by these animals and sharing the magic with others has been one of the greatest blessings of this journey, “Jessica said.
The Andersons want first-time visitors to take the time to slow down and feel the magic of the Reindeer Farm. To get out there and take pictures, laugh together, and enjoy the simple pleasures while creating lasting traditions. Jessica explained that everything is designed to be immersive, personal and full of holiday spirit. Simply put, it’s the best Christmas ever as The Andersons so aptly describe it.
Jessica assures that all guests are greeted with a warm smile on top of the excitement of seeing the Reindeer up close and personal.
The Andersons said if there’s one thing they want people to know about the Reindeer Farm, it’s that it was built by their family with their hands and that everything comes from a place of heart. Jessica explained it’s not a big commercial attraction but a family farm and a labor of love.
“Every fence, every barn, every light strung across the property represents years of hard work, big dreams and love,” said Jessica. “When guests visit, they’re not just buying a ticket; they’re becoming part of our story. That’s what makes it so special.“
