BELLEFONTE — During Bellefonte Victorian Christmas, the clip-clop sound of draft horse hooves hitting the pavement as they pull festive people through the old historic town certainly adds to the charm of the event.
For the past 25-years the Percheron draft horses from Spring Mount Farms in Warriors Mark have been a big part of Bellefonte’s old-timey Christmas celebration.
Owners David and Linda Hershey have eight geldings they drive on the farm regularly to keep them in shape for pulling the carriage through the hills of Bellefonte, along with other various events throughout the year.
In the summer, the horse usually compete in about five horse shows and they have also done the K.I.L.E and the Farm Show in Harrisburg. Through the year they do multiple community parades and events, as well as private outings, weddings and private rides at the farm.
There is something special about Victorian Christmas said Melessa Hershey, who helps her parents with the operation.
She said she enjoys the event because of, ‘the total ambiance of the town, people and season. Riding in the carriage, bundled up under the lap robes, it just seems to invoke that Christmas feeling. Hearing the clip-clop of the horse hooves on the pavement, the bells jingling from their harness, especially on Friday evening when the town is lit with lights. It’s just magical.”
She said all the people they meet at the event are full of “Christmas Cheer.” There is a family of 11 who has been passengers on the carriage every year since it started.
“We have watched their children grow up. It’s incredibly special to be a part of their family tradition. We have also had several wedding proposals throughout the years,” said Melessa Hershey.
Over the weekend, carriage rides will be offered Dec. 9 from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
