Santa and Mrs. Claus have been visiting the Amherstburg area already and one of their first stops was at the Malden Centre of Sarah Parks Horsemanship Farm this past weekend.
In partnership with the Windsor Parade Corporation, there was certainly lots to do beginning Friday night and running until Sunday afternoon at the farm that dates back to 1850.
“It brings me so much joy to show this homestead and have experiences on the farm,” said Parks, who is the sixth generation to live at the County Road 20 location.
Those who came to see the more than 20 horses and ponies at the popular destination also experienced a Vendor Market, entertainment by Alysia Therrien on Friday and Saturday followed up by music from By Looking Back Band on Sunday.
Parks was the host on the weekend showing everyone around the farm, answering questions and noting that the weekend was about horses, heritage and the homestead. She said not very often do people get to experience it.
“These are far and few between. That is the important part of this.”
Up in the hay mow of the barn, Mrs. Claus delighted listeners to a story and of course Santa leaned in with great attention hearing requests for Christmas.
“This is the first time having a Christmas on the Farm event. Having the opportunity to partner with the Parade Corporation enables me to bring a unique Christmas experience to the farm,” said Parks.
A somewhat similar event was held last year at the Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village but this year, with the support of a $20,000 grant from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, it came directly to a local farm.
“It’s a hands-on experience. They get to pet the horses and ride the ponies.”
One of the activities to participate in is the Elf School in the Club House. Busy keeping an eye on everyone was the head elf herself, Holly with her assistant Jolly. Holly was also doing her duties as one of Santa’s helpers last year.
When asked just what is learned in Elf School, Holly replied, “we learn to be kind and caring. We make ornaments and get new elf names and write letters to Santa.”
Christmas on the Farm runs Nov. 22, 24, 29 and 30 as well as Dec. 6,8,13, 15. Parking is at Malden Centre Park with a shuttle to the farm.
For more information, contact Sara Parks Horsemanship at 519-984-4247.
By Fred Groves
“Christmas on the Farm” comes to Amherstburg
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