THE FOLLOWING IS A HARDY’S REINDEER RANCH RELEASE
Rantoul, IL— Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch in Rantoul is proud to announce that it has been selected by Good Morning America (GMA) to represent the State of Illinois in its nationally televised series “America the Beautiful: 50 States in 50 Weeks.” This special segment, which spotlights organizations making a positive difference in their communities, will air on ABC on Friday, November 21 between 6:00–8:00 a.m.
Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch opened in 1995 by Julie and Mark Hardy after they purchased two reindeer to help sell Christmas trees on their farm in Rantoul. Two years later, the couple traveled to Alaska, where they returned with 13 more reindeer. They were put in special crates and flew on a 747 airplane, so the Hardys note that, “It is true. Reindeer really do fly.”
Today, the ranch is home to 20 reindeer, a barn gift shop, pedal karts, a paintball gallery, and a popular 10-acre corn maze in the fall, with a new theme each year designed by Mark. Cut Christmas trees are also available each winter. Annually, the Reindeer Ranch hosts dozens of group tours from around the country, as well as international groups, that want to visit with the reindeer and enjoy a western-style barbecue in their banquet area.
“As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we can’t think of a better way to spend it than showcasing our special reindeer with Good Morning America,” exclaims Julie Hardy. “This farm and these animals have been a labor of love, and to be able to share that with this audience is incredibly special. We are very honored.”
The community is encouraged to tune into the broadcast to celebrate this special honor. The Reindeer Ranch will not be open to the public during the taping. Live segments will be broadcast on November 21 between 6:00–8:00 a.m. The Reindeer Ranch will open to the public for regular hours beginning at 10:00 a.m.
For questions, contact Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch at 217-893-3407.
