The Magical Tradition of Leaving Out Reindeer Feed on Christmas Eve

The History of Reindeer Feed Bags

Leaving treats out for Santa's reindeer on Christmas Eve has become a beloved family tradition for many households. The origins of this tradition can be traced back to the classic poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas," better known by its opening line "'Twas the Night Before Christmas." In this 1823 poem, Santa Claus is described as driving a sleigh pulled by eight reindeer - Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Dunder and Blixem (the last two later became Donner and Blitzen).

The poem clearly establishes that the reindeer enable Santa to travel the world and deliver presents. As such, many families wanted to also thank the reindeer for their efforts by leaving some food out for them while Santa is busy indulging in the milk and cookies left for him. The concept of reindeer food was born - treats set out on Christmas Eve specifically for the hardworking reindeer.

Traditional Reindeer Feed Ingredients

In the early days, common ingredients used in reindeer food included:

• Carrots
• Apples
• Sugar cubes
• Clover
• Oats
• Hay

These types of ingredients made logical sense as foods reindeer would be likely to enjoy. As time went on, however, the tradition evolved to become more magical and whimsical.

The Magical Evolution of Reindeer Feed

The modern era of reindeer feed is far more enchanting. While some families still opt for simple organic ingredients, it became popular to create sparkly, bright feeds designed to really capture children's imaginations. Some of these magical ingredients include:

• Sprinkles
• Glitter
• Crushed candy canes
• Gold and silver sugar crystals
• Crushed cookies
• Red and green sugar

For many households, preparing the reindeer food became even more fun than leaving out cookies and milk! Kids of all ages relish helping to mix up batches of magical feed often containing cinnamon, oats, oranges and plenty of edible glitter.

Types of Reindeer Feed Containers

Placing out the reindeer feed quickly became an integral piece of the Christmas Eve tradition. At first, families would simply scatter mix onto the front lawn or arrange piles on flat surfaces for the reindeer to easily access. But clever product designers soon realized that children would absolutely delight in cute, festive reindeer feed bags that became part of the holiday décor.

Reindeer Feed Bags

Reusable fabric sacks with drawstring tops started appearing in gift shops, hallmark stores and other retailers. Children could fill up the tiny bags themselves then carefully hang them outside for the reindeer. The bright red, green and white patterns synonymous with Christmas make these bags impossible to resist!

Reindeer Feed Boxes

Adorably decorated boxes with the reindeer faces peeking out also line store shelves. These cardboard boxes picture traditional red-nosed reindeer surrounded by holly, trees, snowflakes and other seasonal icons. Kids fill them with reindeer treats then lay them right out on the lawn themselves.

Other Reindeer Feed Containers

In addition to bags and boxes, many other Christmas themed vessels get filled with reindeer feed including:

• Pails
• Buckets
• Baskets
• Bowls
• Cups
• Hats
• Stockings

Part of the appeal is allowing children to decide which special container to leave the food in. The reindeer are sure to notice and appreciate so much effort going into their Christmas Eve treats!

Fun Ideas for Making Reindeer Feed

While simply pouring pre-mixed reindeer food into containers undoubtedly still delights kids, getting the chance to make their own magical reindeer feed often rates top on their lists. Inviting children to craft their own edible reindeer treats makes for a wonderfully festive family activity.

Kid Friendly Ingredients

Start by assembling an assortment of novelty ingredients for them to choose from. Allow kids of all ages to combine their favorite items.

• Red and green M&Ms
• Holiday sprinkles
• Crushed peppermint
• Rolled oats
• Goldfish crackers
• Dried fruit bits
• Chocolate chips

Glitters and Sparkles

Then bring out the flashier elements to really make their custom blends stand out. Add as much or as little as they please to achieve their desired look.

• Edible glitter
• Edible glitters
• Sugar crystals
• Food coloring
• Luster dust
• Cake glitter

Adult Supervision

Depending on age, kids will likely require some degree of adult supervision. Very young children may only handle pre-approved items while older ones can independently measure and pour. Guiding them along the way offers a great opportunity for holiday-themed learning.

Reusable Tools

Allow kids access to any reusable kitchen tools within safe limits. Assign them their own mixing bowls, measuring cups, spoons and more. They will find it infinitely more engaging than just watching preparations.

Custom Mixes

There are no rules stating reindeer feed must contain specific items. Encourage each child to create unique blends using favorite textures, flavors and colors. They will find immense satisfaction in leaving out treats they alone designed just for Santa’s reindeer.

Where to Place Reindeer Feed

Families have ample options when deciding optimal outdoor placement for their prepared reindeer food. While the front lawn sees lots of action, reindeer will spot feed placed in all sorts of locations outside homes.

Front Lawn

The front lawn makes an excellent spot to arrange reindeer feed containers. Children delight in tromping through the yard in pajamas and slippers to carefully set out the feed where reindeer can easily dip in as they pull the sleigh overhead.

Backyard

Backyards work just as well for feed placement. Reindeer will fly all around houses searching for treats so any outdoor location works. Backyards offer more privacy and separation from curious passersby.

Porch

The front porch provides ideal real estate for showcasing dazzling reindeer treats. Line up glittery feeds along the railing or top stair to really put the magic on full display. The glow shines beautifully guiding the reindeer right to the tasty mixes.

Patio

Patios stretch feed access into rear grounds. Depending on weather conditions, patios range from snow covered surfaces to lush green grass. Reindeer will certainly swoop down and make themselves comfortable while enjoying patio offerings.

Cleaning Up Reindeer Feed

One inevitable downside of placing reindeer feed outside is needing to clean up the remains at some point. Whether this takes place first thing Christmas morning or days later, tackling it sooner than later makes for easier efforts.

Christmas Morning

Some families religiously tidy up reindeer feed remnants immediately on Christmas Day. They still want to visually point out evidence of the reindeer visit for a short time Christmas morning while opening gifts and enjoying family time.

Next Few Days

Other households opt to leave reindeer feed containers exactly where the reindeer finished them off for several days. They want the festive holiday magic to linger a big longer before dismantling all evidence.

New Year's Removal

Especially cold climates see some families leaving reindeer feed displays out for weeks until after the New Year. As long as weather permits and rain does not ruin containers, they become part of the ongoing holiday decor.

Prompt Clean Up

Still, most families complete reindeer feed removal within the week following Christmas Day. Lingering longer increases the chances neighborhood critters will scavenge sites and make a mess looking for any scraps.

Recycle Containers

An eco-friendly idea involves repurposing plastic or cardboard containers the following year. Sturdy buckets, baskets and cloth bags easily store for reuse saving money too. Get kids involved picking new reindeer feed containers each season.

FAQs

What are some traditional ingredients used in reindeer feed?

Some traditional ingredients are carrots, apples, sugar cubes, clover, oats, and hay. These are foods reindeer would be likely to enjoy.

What are some magical modern ingredients used in reindeer feed?

Nowadays, many families make reindeer feed more magical and fun with ingredients like sprinkles, glitter, crushed candy canes, gold and silver sugar crystals, crushed cookies, and red and green sugar.

Where is the best place to leave out reindeer feed?

Good places are the front lawn, backyard, front porch, patio - anywhere outside that the reindeer can easily spot it and dip down to grab a bite as they fly over pulling Santa's sleigh!

When should reindeer feed containers be cleaned up?

Most families clean up reindeer feed containers and glittery remnants within a week after Christmas to prevent making a mess that attracts critters. Some wait until New Year's for full holiday magic effect!