New Reindeer Class Training Begins
A class of 400 new reindeer recruits have started their training at the Kringle Reindeer Center, according to Elf Big Sled Ted, who leads the effort.
About a month ago the Reindeer Operations Department enlisted in a recruiting drive to bring more than 5000 new reindeer to the North Pole.
The need was spurred by a large order of 3500 new sleighs Santa ordered for use in Operation Airlift this upcoming Christmas Eve.
“We can build all the sleighs they want,” said Elf Big Sled Ted. “But without reindeer those sleighs aren’t going to do anything. That’s why we start training today, so those sleighs can fly on Christmas Eve.”
The class of 400 new reindeer is a huge task, but Elf Big Sled Ted says it’s just the beginning of the work with new reindeer he expects will take literally right up until Christmas Eve to accomplish.
“Working with brand new rookie reindeer is not like working with other reindeer who came back every year, even with those who only serve in limited capacities with Santa,” Elf Ted explained. “We not only have to teach them how to fly but also how to be elves.”
Reindeer at the North Pole are considered elves, which means they must learn the Elf Code and take the Elf Oath.
“That’s not just a thing we say,” Elf Big Sled Ted explained. “It is a way of life. These reindeer are coming from the wild and we’re changing everything about the way they live. So training is intense and it will be ongoing for some time.”
As test flights of Santa’s sleigh continue in Sector 2 more and more reindeer are joining a very early effort to help Santa accomplish his considerable goals this year.
- 500 New Rookie Reindeer Added - September 7, 2026
- Version #6 of Santa’s Sleigh Ordered - August 30, 2026
- Sleigh is Ready, Reindeer are Not - August 21, 2026
