In December 2015, a small family farm in South Dakota became the talk of the town—and beyond—with a remarkable display of creativity and holiday spirit. Prunty Farms, a fifth-generation family-owned operation, decided to spread festive cheer in an unexpected way: by turning a snow-covered field into a canvas for a bold seasonal message. What resulted was a stunning piece of tractor snow art that has captured the hearts of people everywhere.
Using nothing more than a trusty John Deere 6400 tractor and a passion for innovation, farmer Dan Prunty carved out the words “Merry Christmas” in flowing cursive across 10 inches of fresh snow. His artistic endeavor was beautifully captured from above by his son, Adam Prunty, who used a drone to record the process. The result? A viral video titled Deere Tracks that showcases not only the family’s skill and ingenuity but also their deep-rooted holiday spirit.
Behind the Scenes: A Family Tradition
In an interview with the Argus Leader, Adam explained how the project came together. “I drove it first with the tractor, and then I had my dad drive it again while I filmed with a drone,” he said. The process, though intricate, was entirely freehand. This lack of pre-planned precision made the final product all the more impressive, reflecting not only artistic talent but also decades of farming expertise and instinctive precision.
The snow art is more than just a holiday message; it’s a reflection of the Prunty family’s agricultural legacy. Prunty Farms has been part of the South Dakota landscape for generations, and this project blends the timeless tradition of farming with the modern capabilities of drone technology.
Photo Credit: Prunty Farms/Youtube
The Role of Technology
Adam’s drone, which he purchased two years before the creation of Deere Tracks, has become an invaluable tool for capturing the beauty of farm life. Since acquiring it, he has made a hobby of filming the fields and operations at Prunty Farms, sharing the wonders of rural life with a wider audience.
The drone footage in the Deere Tracks video adds a layer of cinematic appeal, offering viewers a bird’s-eye view of the intricate snow message. The combination of traditional farming equipment and modern technology creates a mesmerizing spectacle that celebrates both innovation and tradition.
Going Viral
The video quickly gained traction online, drawing viewers from far beyond the local South Dakota community. People were captivated by the ingenuity and holiday cheer displayed in the snowy fields of Prunty Farms. It wasn’t just the technical skill that resonated—it was the message of warmth, creativity, and family unity that shone through.
As the video spread, it introduced many people to the concept of tractor snow art, a niche but growing trend that combines farming expertise with artistic expression. For the Prunty family, it was a unique way to share their love of agriculture and the holiday season with the world.
Photo Credit: Prunty Farms/Youtube
A Symbol of American Spirit
At its core, the Deere Tracks project is a celebration of the American agricultural spirit. Prunty Farms embodies the resilience, creativity, and resourcefulness that are hallmarks of family farms across the country. The snow art not only reflects the family’s farming skills but also their willingness to embrace new technologies and think outside the box.
This heartwarming display of creativity serves as a reminder that joy and inspiration can come from the most unexpected places. In a time when viral videos often focus on fleeting entertainment, the Deere Tracks video stands out as a meaningful expression of holiday cheer and family values.
Photo Credit: Prunty Farms/Youtube
Spreading Cheer Across Borders
What makes the Prunty family’s snow art truly special is its ability to connect people. The bold “Merry Christmas” message carved into the snow transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, spreading seasonal cheer to viewers near and far.
In a world that sometimes feels divided, the simplicity and beauty of this holiday gesture remind us of the universal joy that comes with celebrating together. For the Prunty family, it’s not just about showcasing their farm—it’s about sharing a piece of their heart with everyone who watches.
A Lasting Impression
As the snow-covered fields of South Dakota transform into a canvas for holiday messages, the Prunty family’s creativity leaves a lasting impression. Their bold snow art is more than just a viral sensation; it’s a testament to the power of tradition, innovation, and community.
Whether you’re a fan of farming, an admirer of art, or simply someone who loves the holiday season, the Deere Tracks video is sure to inspire. It’s a reminder that even in the simplest acts—like carving a message in the snow—there’s room for greatness and a bit of magic.
Morgan White is the Lead Writer and Editorial Director at Bengali Media, driving the creation of impactful and engaging content across the website. As the principal author and a visionary leader, Morgan has established himself as the backbone of Bengali Media, contributing extensively to its growth and reputation.
With a degree in Mass Communication from University of Ljubljana and over 6 years of experience in journalism and digital publishing, Morgan is not just a writer but a strategist. His expertise spans news, popular culture, and lifestyle topics, delivering articles that inform, entertain, and resonate with a global audience.
Under his guidance, Bengali Media has flourished, attracting millions of readers and becoming a trusted source of authentic and original content. Morgan’s leadership ensures the team consistently produces high-quality work, maintaining the website’s commitment to excellence.
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