CT Mommy Blog

215 Barber Hill Road, South Windsor, CT  860-648-2233

Earlier this week I mentioned that I took the kids to visit Santa’s Workshop at Wickham Park. Since we were a little early to visit with Santa I thought it would be a special treat to visit the reindeer at Dzen Tree Farm in South Windsor, CT. The tree farm was only 15 minutes away from Santa’s Workshop and the perfect activity to do during the holiday season.

I’ve heard great things about Dzen Tree Farm including their abundant selection of cut-your-own and freshly cut Christmas trees. Since we live more than 45-minutes away from South Windsor, and because I’m a bit nervous about driving down I-84 with a giant tree strapped to my car roof, we decided to skip the tree cutting and head straight for the free viewing of live reindeer. I must say that even though we didn’t end up getting our Christmas tree from Dzen Farm their selection looks wonderful and the people were very friendly and willing to help. If you live in the area (or aren’t afraid of traveling with a tree) I’d recommend it for your next Christmas tree. They are open every day from November 27 – December 24, 2015 from 9 am – 4 pm.

TIP: Bring cash! They only accept cash or check. All trees are $45 (including tax)

As I pulled up to the farm I couldn’t miss the giant sign for reindeer and address displayed (215 Barber Hill Rd). There is another farm across the street that has their tractor decorated as a reindeer, but this is not the correct farm.

TIP: There are 4 Christmas tree farms on Barber Hill Road but only 1 Dzen Tree Farm with reindeer. They other farms might use different techniques to attract you to their lots. Make sure to pull into the lot with the giant red “reindeer” sign and arrow pointing into farm. See pictures below.

Dzen Tree Farm started renting reindeer for the holiday season in 2000. In 2012 they went on to help change the Connecticut state law that allowed them to own reindeer.

There was someone at the gate who greeted us (with a saw to borrow – in case we were there to cut down a tree) and directed us to see the reindeer. They have a total of 4 reindeer in two pens. The first pair of reindeer we saw were Mistletoe and Belle, a mother and her baby. They were located at the top of the hill (you can drive up) next to the Nativity scene. The reindeer were sitting in their fenced-off area. We were able to walk around and get a look at them from different sides, but they didn’t pay us much attention.

Our next stop was to visit the male reindeer at the bottom of the hill. We needed to park our car and take a short walk to visit the 2 male reindeer, Jack and Max. The area would be fairly easy to navigate with a stroller as long as you gave it a little push, but we decided to walk and get a good look at them. The reindeer were located next to a chicken coop and small pond.

At first the male reindeer were both laying down paying us no attention, but then then both got up and started grazing on the grass. Once they they became a little more curious they made their way over to the fence. We were able to get a good look at them as they walked along the fence following us. They seem so big and strong. I can see why Santa uses them to pull his sleigh.

They followed us all the way back to their little barn. They seemed very friendly, though I would caution against little ones reaching in their hands!

My family was so excited to visit with the reindeer, especially once they decided to get up and greet us. I hope that you’ll be able to enjoy this great holiday activity too. Merry Christmas!