What are the event hours?

The fundraiser runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Is the event wheelchair accessible?

Yes—stroller and wheelchair access is listed; pathways and the barn are accessible.

Can I pet the reindeer?

No—guests should not enter pens or touch animals unless staff explicitly invites interaction for supervised activities.

Pets are generally discouraged near livestock; check with event staff ahead of arrival.

Is parking available?

Yes—on-site parking is typically available with volunteers directing cars; arrive early for closest spots.

How does the fundraiser benefit the library?

Registration fees and proceeds from merchandise sales go directly to the Friends of the RJ Community Library to support programs and materials.

Christmas in July with Reindeer and Santa - Shortsville Library Fundraiser | Events | Carriage

Shortsville's July barnyard celebration - Christmas in July Library Fundraiser - transforms a rural barn into a seasonal scene where reindeer, a summer-clad Santa, wagon rides, games and a pre-loved holiday bazaar come together to support the Friends of the RJ Community Library. Set in Shortsville, New York, the event runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and has the easy, open-air feel of a county fair with a focused charitable goal.

The obvious showpiece is the reindeer. At this time of year their antlers are still in soft velvet, a tactile sign of growth that offers an up-close biology lesson for kids and adults. The animals are housed in a well-managed pen beside a shaded pasture; keep your camera ready for close-up portraits when the herd moves in the morning light. Santa arrives in lightweight summer gear - short-sleeved red with a sunscreen-ready smile - and poses for photos that trade a snowbank for hay bales.

Activities pivot around the barn: wagon rides loop through fields, low-key games occupy a family lawn, and a barn sale inside features pre-enjoyed Christmas merchandise priced to move. That barn, with its hand-hewn beams and open floor, becomes the heart of the fundraiser - one part pop-up market, one part community swap meet. Food and cold drinks are available for purchase, which keeps the crowd comfortable on warm July days and supports the library through every sale.

This isn't just a photo op; it's a practical community-engineered fundraiser. Registration fees and proceeds from the merchandise sale flow directly to the Friends of the RJ Community Library, a local nonprofit that sustains programs and materials for area readers. The event is stroller- and wheelchair-accessible, making it a good choice for multi-generational families who want low-effort outdoor time together.

Plan for a spirited, daylight-centric visit: sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and closed-toe shoes make the day more pleasant. Bring cash or card for purchases and be ready for lines during prime photo hours. Respect animal boundaries and follow staff guidance near the pens.

If you're in town, pair the morning at the barn with a quiet afternoon at the RJ Community Library to see where proceeds are used. Christmas in July trades winter trimmings for summer warmth, but the result is the same - a small community rallying to fund something that matters.

Volunteers staff every station, answering questions about the animals and the library's programs. Kids can learn basic animal care etiquette, and staff often schedule brief talks about antler growth and seasonal care. The sale is also an opportunity to find unique ornaments and small decorations at bargain prices—perfect for people who like secondhand shopping with a purpose. Parking is usually on-site with volunteers directing cars; arrive early for best spots and cooler shade today.

About Shortsville Reindeer Farm

Shortsville Reindeer Farm is a seasonal attraction located in Shortsville, New York that offers Holiday Visits with the Reindeer. The farm's Holiday Visits provide an interactive presentation, opportunities to meet and feed the reindeer, and festive decorations and Christmas music that create a memorable holiday atmosphere. Visitors can capture festive moments with photo opportunities and explore an on-site gift shop that features unique local products.

The experience at Shortsville Reindeer Farm is designed for all ages, welcoming families, children, and adults who want a hands-on holiday activity. The interactive presentation introduces guests to the reindeer, and supervised meet-and-feed sessions allow close-up encounters while maintaining a calm setting for the animals. Seasonal decorations and curated music enhance the visit and provide a backdrop for family photos.

Shortsville Reindeer Farm's gift shop complements the visit with locally sourced items, offering visitors a way to bring home distinctive holiday gifts and souvenirs. The attraction emphasizes a festive experience with an accessible location in Shortsville, New York, making it a convenient option for nearby communities.

Information about dates, times, and ticketing for Holiday Visits is provided by Shortsville Reindeer Farm directly; prospective visitors should consult the farm's official listings or contact the farm for the latest schedules, safety guidelines, and visitor requirements. Shortsville Reindeer Farm focuses on creating a joyful, memorable holiday outing centered on reindeer interactions, seasonal atmosphere, and local shopping. Advance planning and checking availability is recommended for guests visiting during peak holiday periods to secure preferred time slots well in advance.