Reindeer Flight School officially took flight Dec. 12 with an outpour of visitors.
In its 21st year, Reindeer Flight School features over 40,000 lights all displayed in the yard of local Richard Phillips. Phillips was originally from Milledgeville but moved to Sparta to open a shop. There he would repair electronics and one day was tasked to repair a large reindeer that was later given to him. Phillips continued to fix Christmas that would also eventually be donated to him.
Beginning as craft shows in his front yard, the show evolved into its own walkthrough display featuring thousands of lights strung upon trees, homemade reindeer, candy canes, wreaths, snowflakes, a train, a homemade grand red sleigh, Santa appearances and more.
Phillips also began collecting Santas and other decorations that transformed into a big Christmas display in his barn behind his home. Phillip also performs the role of Santa on Fridays and Saturdays, when it is not raining.
“I love Christmas and this project became something that just took off,” said Phillips in a 2022 interview with The Baldwin Bulletin. “I love being Santa, seeing the joy that I bring to people, and just overall seeing the Christmas spirit.”
Reindeer Flight School will be open through Dec. 25 from 6 to 9 p.m. There is no admission, but donations for electricity fees are appreciated. Santa primarily visits on Friday and Saturday nights, if it’s not raining. For updates and pictures, visit the Reindeer Flight School Facebook page.