How Corn Shows Up at Christmas


By Tara Desmond December 23, 2025

December doesn’t slow things down on the farm — it just changes the work. While the fields may no longer be green, farmers are deep into year-end business and planning: reviewing finances, ordering seed for the season ahead, fixing and maintaining equipment, caring for livestock with extra feed and shelter, and hauling stored grain to market.


Even in the middle of all that work, Christmas finds its way onto the farm. And so does corn — not just as a crop grown and harvested, but as a quiet part of the holiday season itself. From the drinks we share, to the gifts we give, to the stories we tell, corn shows up in places you might not expect.


This season, we pulled together a few fun reminders of how corn connects farm life to Christmas traditions — both on and off the farm.


1. A Toast to Corn in Every Cheer

When families gather around the fire and raise a glass, they’re often toasting with something crafted from corn. Corn not only fuels our farms — it fuels our celebrations too. From rich holiday ales to crisp lagers, corn brings holiday cheer to mugs across the Midwest and beyond.
Watch how corn plays a starring role in festive brews and spirits:

2. Gifts that Grow from the Ground Up

Ever wonder why certain gifts feel just right for Christmas morning? Some toys and treasures — made from renewable, corn-based materials — remind us that the best presents don’t have to come from far away. They can grow right here in the field. See corn-inspired gifts that make Christmas brighter.



3. Six Reasons Santa Could’ve Been a Farmer

Have you ever thought about Santa’s roots? Between long nights in the North Pole and feeding windswept reindeer, there’s something very agricultural about his spirit. In fact, Santa and farmers share a whole lot in common — from working through the night to spreading joy across the globe.
Here are six reasons Santa could’ve been a farmer too:

santa next to livestock on the farm

4. Elfanol and the Reindeer Feast

And of course, there’s the unsung holiday hero — elfanol. Reindeer can’t power through Christmas Eve without a little extra fuel, and in our story, the elves turn to a corn-based blend to keep the sleigh soaring. It’s a whimsical reminder that corn isn’t just a crop — it’s part of the magic.
Watch how corn keeps Santa’s team energized.


A Corn-Filled Christmas for All

This holiday season, as you laugh with loved ones, share gifts, toast with family, and watch the snow fall … remember that corn isn’t just in the fields. It’s in our traditions, our celebrations, and our stories.

From our fields to your festivities — Merry Christmas from IL Corn.


Not a member?

Become one today!

SHARE THIS

Latest Posts

thumbnail of Lindsay and DeAnne
By Tara Desmond April 30, 2026
IL Corn TV sits down with DeAnne Bloomberg to reflect on nearly four decades of agricultural change, from the ethanol boom to her new role in community philanthropy.
5 Ag Students
By Tara Desmond April 30, 2026
Five Outstanding Students Named to Receive Support for Careers in Agriculture
Farm Bill text over the U.S. Capitol building under a partly cloudy sky
By Lyndi Allen April 30, 2026
Farm Bill 2.0 was passed by the House of Representatives with a vote of 224-200 (H.R. 7576). This is the first step for the Farm Bill package since its last enactment in 2018
Tara and Johnna in the field
By Johnna Fulcher April 30, 2026
ISU student Johnna Fulcher discovered her passion for agriculture through IL Corn, gaining real-world insight into advocacy, policy, and her future career.
headshot of Shane Gray
By Tara Desmond April 30, 2026
Meet Shane Gray — Waverly, IL farmer, business owner, and host of Illinois Corn TV — sharing insights, industry leaders, and a passion for corn across Illinois.
Ron Meece outside of planter
By Tara Desmond April 29, 2026
Ron Meece farms with his sons Kyle and Ryan. Hear how his lessons and leadership shaped their family farm and keep the operation running strong.
Gas station pump display showing unleaded and super unleaded prices on four vintage fuel pumps.
By Lindsay Croke & Lyndi Allen April 27, 2026
IL Corn Growers Association, National Corn Growers Association, and your farmer leaders have engaged in an overwhelming amount of E15 negotiations, conversations, and education.
thumbnail of Brady
By Tara Desmond April 23, 2026
IL Corn TV goes live from the field as Brady Gray shares planting season insights, farm life, and advice on staying profitable in today’s ag economy.
U.S. Capitol building under a partly cloudy blue sky, centered front facade with white dome and columns
By Lyndi Allen April 23, 2026
The House of Representatives are schedule to vote on the Farm Bill 2.0 next week. IL Corn is reviewing and monitoring over 300 amendments that were submitted that cover a wide range of topics.
Robbinsm
By Tara Desmond April 23, 2026
Illinois journalists experience immersive full-day on Illinois farms illustrating purposeful conservation practices.
Show More