Every Christmas Eve, children around the world imagine Santa Claus soaring through the night sky in his sleigh, pulled by a team of magical flying reindeer. But where did these beloved characters come from, and what makes each one unique?
The Original Eight: A Poetic Beginning
The first reference to Santa’s sleigh being pulled by a reindeer appeared in 1821 in an illustrated children’s poem called “Old Santeclaus with Much Delight,” published in New York. However, it was the 1823 poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” (usually attributed to Clement Clarke Moore) that proved most enduring, describing Santa’s sleigh being pulled by a team of eight reindeer.
The original names from the 1823 poem were slightly different from what we know today. The poem originally named two reindeer “Dunder” and “Blixem,” derived from Dutch words for thunder and lightning. Over time, these evolved through various publications, eventually becoming “Donner” and “Blitzen” in the German form.
Meet the Original Eight
Dasher
One of Santa’s fastest reindeer, Dasher originally came from the German word “Dascher” which means ‘purse maker’ in English, though the name more likely refers to dashing or moving swiftly. The word dasher simply refers to a person who dashes, meaning “to run with spirited or brilliant action”. Known for incredible speed and agility, Dasher helps lead Santa’s team through the night sky with efficiency and style.
Dancer
Elegant and graceful, Dancer brings beauty and rhythm to the team. Dancer’s name probably refers to the reindeer being agile and light on its hooves. In popular lore, this reindeer is known for playful movements and a joyful attitude that keeps spirits high during the long Christmas journey.
Prancer
Prancer is a very loyal reindeer and is often found in the factory with the elves prancing around with them. Full of energy and enthusiasm, Prancer’s spirited nature and love of showing off make this reindeer essential for team morale. Similar to Dancer, Prancer’s name probably refers to the reindeer being light on its hooves and being agile enough to steer Santa’s sleigh on the correct route.
Vixen
The name Vixen adds a mystical and enchanting quality to the team. While vixen commonly refers to a female fox, that might point to the reindeer’s agility and intelligence, as foxes are often seen as wily, sly creatures. Vixen loves to put on a great show and show off with magic tricks.
Comet
Named after the celestial phenomenon, Comet represents speed and brilliance. The name Comet might imply the reindeer’s speed as it streaks through the sky, and the association with ice is a nice touch that connects back to the cold winter season. This reindeer’s swift movements mirror a comet’s journey across the heavens.
Cupid
Cupid is the ancient Roman god of love, equivalent to the Greek god Eros. This reindeer brings warmth, affection, and the spirit of giving to Santa’s team, embodying the love and generosity of the Christmas season.
Donner (originally Dunder/Donder)
Donner and Blitzen are Dutch names from ‘donder en bliksem’ which translates to ‘thunder and lightning,’ a phrase which was a mild form of swearing in nineteenth-century New York. Donner represents the powerful force of thunder, bringing strength and determination to the team.
Blitzen (originally Blixem)
Blitzen means lightning in German. Famous for his lightning-fast speed, Blitzen is essential for maintaining the swift pace of the sleigh ride. This reindeer’s quickness ensures that Santa can complete his worldwide journey in a single night.
The Ninth Reindeer: Rudolph’s Story
The popularity of the 1939 story “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” and the 1949 Christmas song of the same name, resulted in Rudolph often being included among the team. Unlike the original eight, Rudolph was created for a commercial purpose. Rudolph’s story began in 1939 with a booklet written by Robert L. May and was popularized by the hit song “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” by Johnny Marks.
Rudolph
The most famous reindeer of all is known for his bright red, glowing nose. In the beloved story, Rudolph was originally ostracised by the reindeer crew who excluded him from fun games and made fun of his bright red nose. However, Rudolph was introduced in Christmas 1939 as a celebrated hero for guiding Santa through the snowstorm. His unique nose provides the light needed to navigate through fog and storms, making him indispensable to Santa’s Christmas Eve mission.
An Interesting Biological Note
Here’s a fascinating fact about Santa’s reindeer team: Based on depictions of Santa’s reindeer herd with large antlers, they are all female, since male reindeer shed their antlers at the beginning of December after mating season, whereas female reindeer keep their antlers all winter. This means Santa’s sleigh is powered by a team of strong, capable females!
The Tenth Reindeer? Meet Olive
Olive, ‘The Other Reindeer’, has been taken from a misunderstanding on the lyrics of the ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ song, instead of “All of the other reindeer,” some people thought it to be “Olive, the other reindeer”. This charming mistake led to a children’s book and animated special featuring Olive the dog, who believes she’s actually a reindeer.
Cultural Origins
The connection between reindeer and Christmas has deep roots in Northern European culture. In Scandinavia and across Eastern Europe, long before the modern Santa Claus tradition, reindeer have been associated with Christmas and winter festivities. Real reindeer (also called caribou in North America) have been domesticated by indigenous peoples in Arctic regions for thousands of years, making them natural symbols of winter endurance and survival.
Viewing Historical Reindeer Images
Numerous public domain images of vintage reindeer and Santa’s sleigh exist from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Collections can be found at:
- The University of Amsterdam’s Iconographia Zoologica collection
- The National Gallery of Art
- Library of Congress digital collections
- Vintage Christmas card collections from the 1950s
- Historical natural history illustrations from the 1800s
These images capture everything from realistic reindeer illustrations to whimsical depictions of Santa’s flying team, offering a window into how these beloved characters have been portrayed throughout history.
A Lasting Legacy
From their first appearance in 1821 to today’s elaborate Christmas displays, Santa’s reindeer have become an inseparable part of Christmas tradition. Each reindeer, with its unique name and personality, contributes to the magic of Christmas Eve. Whether you’re reciting the famous poem, singing about Rudolph’s glowing nose, or simply looking up at the night sky on December 24th, these nine (or ten!) flying reindeer continue to capture our imagination and embody the wonder of the holiday season.
Books About Santa’s Reindeer
Complete Guide with Publishers & Formats
Includes affiliate links
Classic Rudolph Books
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (Original Story)
Author: Robert L. May
Publisher: Simon & Schuster (modern editions)
Original Publisher: Montgomery Ward (1939)
ISBN: 9781442474956 (Hardback)
ISBN: 9781471123382 (paperback)
Number of pages 40 (paperback)
Dimensions: 305 x22 mm
Formats:
Book Versions: Hardback Amazon UK Click Here, Waterstones); Paperback
Boardbook Amazon UK Click Here
Age Range: 4-8 years
Description: The original 1939 story written in verse about a young reindeer with a glowing red nose who is teased by his peers but saves Christmas when Santa needs him to guide the sleigh through foggy weather. This is the story that started it all, written as a promotional booklet for Montgomery Ward department stores.
Where to buy the books: Amazon, Waterstones
Lift-the-Tab: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Author: Roger Priddy
Publisher: Priddy Books
ISBN: Available
Formats:
Board book with lift-the-flap features
Age Range: 2-4 years
Description: Interactive lift-the-tab book celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 1964 television special. Perfect for toddlers who love hands-on books.
Where to buy the books: Amazon Click Here
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (Multiple TV Special Adaptations)
Author: Dennis R. Shealy
Publisher: Penguin Random House
ISBN: 9798217023745
Formats:
Book Versions: Hardback and Paperback
E-Read: Kindle edition
Audiobook on Audible UK
Age Range: 4-8 years
Description: Storybook adaptation of the classic 1964 TV special following Rudolph and Hermey on their journey to the Island of Misfit Toys and beyond.
Where to buy the books: Amazon Click Here
Books About All the Reindeer
Olive, the Other Reindeer
Author: Vivian Walsh, illustrated by J. otto Seibold
Publisher: Chronicle Books
ISBN: 9780811861618 (hardback), 9780590689519 (paperback)
Formats:
Book versions: Hardback (Chronicle Books)
Paperback (Scholastic)
E-reader: Kindle edition available (Amazon UK)-
Board book edition
Gift set with plush doll (ISBN: 9780811825740)
Advent calendar edition available
Age Range: 4-8 years
Description: Charming story of Olive, a dog who mishears “all of the other reindeer” in the Rudolph song and thinks she’s actually a reindeer. She travels to the North Pole to help Santa and proves herself invaluable with her dog skills. Based on the author’s Jack Russell Terrier. Later adapted into an Emmy-nominated animated TV special produced by Matt Groening.
Note: There’s also a different adventure novel called “Olive the Other Reindeer” by Bruce Kilby (published by Bruce Kilby, ISBN: 9780992074272) available in Kindle and ePub formats on OverDrive/Libby.
Where to buy the books: Amazon Click Here
The Wild Christmas Reindeer
Author: Jan Brett
Publisher: Penguin Putnam Books
ISBN: 9780399232633
Formats:
Book Versions: Hardback (Amazon UK); Paperback
E-reader: Kindle edition available
Audiobook available Age Range: 4-8 years
Description: Teeka is tasked with getting Santa’s wild reindeer ready for Christmas Eve, but her bossy approach only makes things worse. Beautiful Jan Brett illustrations with intricate border details. Teaches lessons about kindness and patience.
Where to buy the books: Amazon Click Here
The Great Reindeer Rebellion
Author: Lisa Trumbauer, illustrated by Jannie Ho
Publisher: Sterling Children’s Books
ISBN: 9781402765650
Formats:
Book version: Hardback
Board book edition
Age Range: 3-7 years
Description: Humorous retelling set to the rhythm of “The Night Before Christmas” about what happens when Santa’s reindeer go on strike. Silly and entertaining holiday read.
Where to buy the books: Amazon Click Here
How the Reindeer Got Their Antlers
Author: Geraldine McCaughrean, illustrated by Heather Holland
Publisher: Holiday House
ISBN: 9780823427666
Formats:
Book Versions: Hardback Click Here and paperback Click Here
Age Range: 4-8 years
Description: Origin story explaining how reindeer received their antlers as crowns from angels, and how a shy reindeer hiding in the north eventually becomes important to Santa. Sweet message about self-acceptance.
Where to buy the books: Amazon
Uncles and Antlers
Author: Lisa Wheeler, illustrated by Brian Floca
Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers
ISBN: 9781416986690
Formats:
Book Versions: Hardback Click Here and paperback Click Here
EBook: Kindle edition Click Here
Age Range: 4-8 years
Description: Counting book told in rhyme about a family of reindeer who help Santa fly his sleigh. Charming family story with holiday spirit.
Where to buy the books: Amazon
How to Catch a Reindeer
Author: Adam Wallace, illustrated by Andy Elkerton
Publisher: Sourcebooks Wonderland
ISBN: 9781728222950
Formats:
Book Versions: Hardback and paperback
E-reader: Kindle edition available Click Here
Age Range: 4-8 years
Description: Part of the popular “How to Catch” series. On Christmas Eve, Santa’s reindeer Comet decides to explore, giving the “How to Catch Kids” a chance to trap her and prove Santa exists. Interactive and fun.
Where to buy the books: Amazon Click Here and Waterstones
Board Books for Toddlers
That’s Not My Reindeer
Author: Fiona Watt, illustrated by Rachel Wells
Publisher: Usborne Publishing
ISBN: 9781409581529
Formats:6
Board book with touch-and-feel elements
Age Range: 0-3 years
Description: Touch-and-feel board book with different textures as children search for “their” reindeer. Part of the popular “That’s Not My…” series.
Where to buy the books: Amazon Click Here and Waterstones
Don’t Tickle the Reindeer
Author: Sam Taplin, illustrated by Ana Martín Larrañaga
Publisher: Usborne Publishing
ISBN: 9781474968713
Formats:
Interactive board book with sound
Age Range: 0-3 years
Description: Interactive touch-and-feel board book warning children not to tickle Santa’s reindeer. Combines playful narrative with sensory elements.
Where to buy the books: Amazon Click Hereand Waterstones
Never Touch a Grumpy Reindeer
Author: Rosie Greening, illustrated by Stuart Lynch
Publisher: Make Believe Ideas
ISBN: 9781788436502
Formats:
Touch-and-feel board book
Age Range: 0-3 years
Description: Tactile board book with textured silicone touches and vibrant illustrations. Interactive reading experience for babies and toddlers.
Where to buy the books: Amazon Click Here
Ten Little Reindeer
Author: Johnny Lambert (illustrations by Mike Jolley)
Publisher: Little Tiger Press
ISBN: 9781848957169
Formats:
Board book
Book Version: Paperback edition
Age Range: 2-5 years
Description: Festive counting book that counts down from ten as adorable reindeer prepare for Christmas. Captures the excitement of the holiday season.
Where to buy the books: Amazon Click Hereand Waterstones
Five Little Reindeer
Author: Make Believe Ideas Ltd
Publisher: Make Believe Ideas
Formats:
Board book Click Here
Age Range: 1-3 years
Description: Heartwarming counting story about five little reindeer who help deliver presents to Santa. Simple text perfect for young children.
Where to buy the books: Amazon
Illustrated Picture Books
A Reindeer’s First Christmas / My First Reindeer
Author: Various authors
Publishers: Scholastic, Random House, DK Children
Formats:
Picture books
Board books
Age Range: 3-7 years
Description: Various illustrated books introducing young readers to reindeer, how they help Santa, and what makes them special.
Available widely in UK bookshops
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