After a year off due to the pandemic, Horse Drawn Okanagan is bringing its sleighs and draft horses back to the North Okanagan offering rides throughout the Christmas holidays.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/Horse Drawn Okanagan/Coralie Nairn
December 07, 2021 - 6:30 AM
After a year off due to the pandemic, Horse Drawn Okanagan is bringing its sleighs and draft horses back to the North Okanagan offering rides throughout the Christmas holidays.
Starting Dec. 21, and running for eight days, horse-drawn sleigh rides will be taking place at a picturesque Armstrong-area farm.
"This event is the highlight of the year for everyone at Horse Drawn Okanagan. We look forward to it as much as our guests, and after these past two years, there is nothing better than to come together again at Christmas. Our sleigh rides are truly a unique experience, where you can leave the stress of the world behind and reconnect with loved ones," Horse Drawn Okanagan teamster and event organizer said in a media release.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/Horse Drawn Okanagan/Coralie Nairn
"Our horses have a special way of making everything feel alright."
Guests will experience the magic of an old-fashioned horse-drawn sleigh ride complete with sleigh bells, hot cocoa and carolling around the fire.
Organizers say it’s a perfect holiday activity for the whole family with games for kids, plenty of photo opportunities and "friendly goats" to visit with.
"We have reduced the number of seats available per sleigh to 12 people this year due to COVID but we’ve added an additional ride time every day to make up for the difference so there are still plenty of options available. Covid protocols will be in place to keep everyone safe and enjoy their time together," the release says.
The fourth annual event at Ottercrest Farms, 4387 MacDonald Rd. in Spallumcheen, runs from Dec. 21 to Dec. 29, but is closed on Christmas Day. Sleigh rides run every half an hour.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/Horse Drawn Okanagan/Coralie Nairn
Partial proceeds from the event will go towards the Canadian Red Cross – British Columbia Fires, with the B.C. government matching funds donated up to Dec. 31.
"A few of our teamsters were evacuated this summer due to the White Rock Lake wildfire, and we were so fortunate to move our horses to temporary locations, and then return home. The devastation we witnessed was unforgettable. The least we can do is give back to those affected by fires in our community," the release says.
Tickets have to be purchased in advance and cost $22.50 for adults, $15 for children 4 to 12 years, children three and under are free.
For more information and to purchase tickets go here.
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