The second Saturday in December is the traditional time for Christmas at the Empire Ranch. This year was no exception and the weather was perfect for the 18 vendors to present their wares for attendees looking to do a little shopping for handmade Christmas gifts. A table loaded with baked goods greeted those touring the old ranch house with drinks also available to wash the tasty goodies down.
Santas were there. Yes, two of them. There was the traditional Santa, all ‘ho ho ho,’ plump and stocked with candy canes for the children. ‘Santa’ David Burhams, is a 50-year resident of the Empire Mountains. “I’m a Santa from the heart,” Burhams said as he took his place on his throne for the awaiting DeMerits children—Nora, Bauer and Isla—to share their Christmas wishes with him. Other families were also lined up and ready for a word with the jolly old elf.
The second ‘Santa’ was a bit more untraditional. His very tall stature and green, homely face identified him as The Grinch. Michigan resident Robert Bilodeau was this year’s Grinch and delighted the youngsters with his antics. Bilodeau grew up in foster care, so as an adult, he said, “I take my role here as the Grinch to heart and love helping out with the kids and making them smile.”
Regie Richter and her palomino horse, Remington Steel, both beautifully attired for the season, strolled around and added the equine element to the day’s festivities. The Saguaro Strutters, a country dance group from Tucson, performed their various country dances and invited the crowd to join in. In the old hay barn, the Mountain Saddle Band, a trio of talented musicians, played country and western songs for the crowd.
This year’s Christmas at the Empire Ranch was a success with many enjoying all that this historic Sonoita treasure had to offer.