Draft horses, mules and ponies are gearing up for the 17th annual World’s Greatest Sleigh Ride on Sun., Feb. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. off of route 125 in Lisbon Falls.

The Sleigh Ride, hosted by the Pejepscot Sno-Chiefs and the Farmers Draft Horse, Mule and Pony Club, will benefit Pine Tree Camp, an extraordinary summer camp for children and adults with disabilities. Pine Tree Camp is a program of Pine Tree Society.  Since 1994, this fun-filled family event has raised more than $39,000.00 for Pine Tree Camp.

“Some of our club members have visited Pine Tree Camp in the summer, and I guess that is reason enough to continue our efforts,” said organizer Gordon Curtis. “Many of our teams come back year after year because they know who we are doing it for.  Mention Pine Tree Camp and the public feels it is a very worthy cause.”

The Sleigh Ride is perfect for children and adults of all ages. Fourteen teams of horses will be pulling a variety of sleighs. Snowmobile rides will also be available in the adjacent field. After a ride or two through the beautiful fields and woods, guests can warm up with a delicious homemade doughnut, a cup of hot chocolate or soup at the concession stand.

To learn more, please call (207) 443-3341.

Established in 1945, Pine Tree Camp offers Maine children and adults with disabilities an extraordinary summer camp experience.  The 280-acre camp is located on North Pond in Rome, Maine.  The facility is fully adapted to meet the special needs of campers.  The barrier-free setting and commitment of our staff allow campers to fully participate in activities that normally aren’t available to them including swimming, fishing, boating, outdoor games, kayaking, arts and crafts and even camping in a tent under the stars.

For campers, Pine Tree Camp is a highlight of their year.  It gives them the opportunity to spend time with their friends in a setting that meets their unique needs.  For families, the camp offers an extended period of greatly needed respite from caregiving.

Since it began in 1945, Pine Tree Camp has never turned anyone away because they could not afford to pay tuition.  This tradition is kept alive by thousands of generous friends, supporters and volunteers.

Pine Tree Camp is one of the many programs of Pine Tree Society. Pine Tree Society helps people in Maine with disabilities lead richer, more socially connected lives. Too often, people with disabilities feel left out, even isolated. With the help of Pine Tree Society, they’re not alone!  We share a spirit of innovation and desire to discover new ways to break down barriers that many find insurmountable. It started as a bold new idea in 1936 and it continues every day.  Whether it’s a child discovering her first best friend at Pine Tree Camp or an adult finding his voice with customized assistive technology, Pine Tree Society changes lives. For more information, please call (207) 443-3341.

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