This year, the folks at Black Barn Alpacas are wishing everyone a “Fleece Navidad: A Camelid Christmas,” blending holiday cheer with a celebration of beautiful and extraordinary alpacas.
The United Nations designated 2024 the International Year of the Camelids (IYC 2024).
Camelids include alpacas, llamas, camels, guanacos, and vicuñas. The U.N. designation acknowledges their vital importance to sustainable agriculture, cultural heritage, and economic resilience. To commemorate the honor, Black Barn Alpacas is offering an experience that brings Maryland families close to alpacas during the holiday season.
“Fleece Navidad: A Camelid Christmas” will be holiday fun with a purpose. The farm will be transformed into a winter wonderland, with places like Candy Cane Lane to explore, huge Christmas tree displays for taking photos, and alpaca feeding sessions for visitors to interact with these charming, gentle animals. Santa will join in each day from noon to 2 p.m. and have special surprises for the youngest guests.
Other unique and family-friendly attractions will include:
- Immersive Alpaca Feeding: meet and feed over 120 alpacas
- Mrs. Claus’s Gingerbread Playhouse: Whimsical oversized candy photo props
- North Pole Express Post Office: Where kids can send letters directly to Santa
- Sleigh Hay Rides: Cozy, scenic rides around the farm
- Craft Ornament Station: make your very own Christmas ornament featuring real alpaca fleece and more
- Christmas Shopping at The Shoppe: A curated selection of alpaca-themed gifts for the perfect holiday present
As Maryland joins the world in celebrating the camelids’ resilience and sustainability, “Fleece Navidad: A Camelid Christmas” will highlight the amazing contributions of alpacas in the ways they support small farms and communities across the globe. They’re known for their ability to thrive in even the most extreme climates, their soft and sustainable fibers, and their unique role in the traditions of Andean culture. Black Barn Alpacas hopes to create a festive and educational experience for all guests interacting with these beautiful creatures.
“Fleece Navidad: A Camelid Christmas” will take place on the first three weekends of December (Dec. 7-8, Dec. 14-15, and Dec. 21-23). Hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last admission at 4 p.m.
Black Barn Alpacas is located at 2401 Bollinger Mill Road, Finksburg, MD. For tickets and more information, please click this link.
