Visit Santa's reindeer at this one-of-a-kind Seattle festival

Everyone knows that reindeer are the cutest deer of the North — well, besides that one grandma that got run over by one.

This winter, get up close and personal with reindeer at the Swansons Reindeer Festival.

Swansons Nursery

Reindeer, part of the Cervidae family, are also known as caribou depending on their location. They are in fact real and not just fictional characters from holiday tales. The story of Rudolph may have factual evidence though, as their noses do turn red at times, and some scientists believe that reindeer were one of the first domesticated animals.

Swansons Nursery

Dasher and Blitzen will be this year’s featured reindeer at Swansons Reindeer Festival. The two handsome bulls will be available for a meet and greet until December 24, when they have to return to the North Pole.

Besides reindeer, the Seattle Humane Society will be bringing along their Maxmobile filled with furry friends looking for their fur-ever homes. The Maxmobile will be at the festival at 5 pm on the following Tuesdays: November 26, December 3, December 10, and December 17.

On December 4 and 11, 10 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 4 pm, Santa will be wandering around Swansons Nursery, spreading cheer and giving out candy canes (and perhaps some dog treats too). He will then be ready for the camera by appointment on specific dates from November 16 through December 23. More information regarding photos with Santa can be found on the Bonjour Photography website.

Swansons Nursery

Snap photos of your ride in Santa’s yurt — his sleigh full of festive decorations. There will also be a model train village with themed fantastical landscapes and a live-moving model train.

Swansons Nursery

Swanson’s Nursery will have real Christmas trees available for purchase beginning November 23. Browse the endless collection of trees in the North greenhouse. They guarantee that you’ll find the perfect tree with their “spin & pick” system: their trees are suspended above the floor for easy viewing.

If all this wasn’t enough for you, visit the Holiday Pavilion! Shop a variety of seasonal plants and bulbs, or create your own custom arrangement, wreath, or centerpiece. Packed with holiday decor, ornaments, stocking stuffers, and gifts for everyone on your list, you won’t find a more festive pavilion than this one.

Swanson Nursery

Pet reindeer, shop, listen to live music, and do so much more at this year’s magical Swansons Reindeer Festival.

Swansons Nursery

Swansons Reindeer Festival

When: November 9 to December 24
Time: 9 am to 6 pm
Where: Swansons Nursery, 9701 15th Avenue NW, Seattle
Admission: Free