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Winter Wonderfest exceeding projections

Organizers address criticism, plan for bigger event in 2017
December 2, 2016

More than 3,000 cars, trucks and buses have already traveled through Cape Henlopen State Park for the Winter Wonderfest Light Spectacular. That’s about halfway to the organizers’ goal of 6,000 to 7,000 for the entire 30-day event in just the first five days.

There were also near-capacity crowds at the Christmas Village, a complement to the light show, at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, in its first weekend Nov. 25-26. 

Organizers of the first-year event are pleasantly surprised with the turnout, as the numbers are easily exceeding their conservative goals. But with high attendance comes longer lines and a few unhappy people. 

It was difficult for planners to predict the response a brand-new event would receive, said Josh Grapski, vice president of the Festival of Cheer board and managing partner of LaVida Hospitality.

“We view this as a mom-and-pop production,” he said, noting there are only two paid employees working with hundreds of volunteers to make it happen. “Although we’re happy with where we’re at, we do envision more. We know we can bring more lights in for year two, and we can do more with decorating trees and getting more of that ‘wow’ effect. We didn’t know that when we started this.” 

Peter Briccotto, executive producer of Winter Wonderfest, said the Light Spectacular features 60 light displays over a 2-mile driving tour in the state park. He said people should definitely expect more in 2017. 

“We look forward to being bigger and brighter than this next year,” he said.

After overwhelming response for opening weekend, Christmas Village will reopen Dec. 2-3. Briccotto said organizers had originally planned to open Thanksgiving weekend, take a weekend off and then reopen Dec. 9-10. 

Grapski said organizers are happy to listen to constructive criticism. If possible, he said, concerns will be addressed this year. One recurring comment, he said, is the placement of sponsorship signs throughout the Light Spectacular path – some people say they interfere with the light displays. By the time the light show reopened Dec. 1, he said, the signs were rearranged to create a better experience while also giving the more than 50 sponsors their proper thanks.   

Some visitors have been disappointed with the small number of rides at the Christmas Village, which features a Ferris wheel, two smaller amusement rides and an all-weather alternative to an ice skating rink. He said it’s likely the carnival-style outdoor area will feature more rides in the future, and a real ice rink may be added. Grapski reiterated that it was difficult to plan for the unknowns of a first-year event.

“Most people are happy and really appreciate what we’re doing,” he said. “We agree there is room for improvement, but for the first year, we’re really happy.” 

Along with amusement rides, the Christmas Village also offers indoor activities, such as pictures with Santa and make-your-own gingerbread houses and ornaments. 

If the numbers continue to exceed expectations, more money will be raised for the Cape Region community, as the event is a nonprofit fundraiser. Briccotto said they’ve already raised $3,000 for the Cape Henlopen Educational Foundation and $8,000 for projects at Cape Henlopen State Park. The ultimate goal is to raise $50,000 for the community. 

“We are making a big impact,” Briccotto said. “I think that’s what sets us apart from other light shows in the region - the funds raised go right back into the community. That’s the essence of the season, and what we’re trying to do here.”

Money raised from a Community Giving Tree at the Christmas Village is donated to a different nonprofit organization each night. Beneficiaries the first weekend included the Get Well Gabby Foundation, Food Bank of Delaware and the Harry K Foundation. 

Winter Wonderfest also has an economic impact on the region, said Scott Thomas, executive director of Southern Delaware Tourism. He said tourism officials are constantly trying to find new ways to extend the season, and Winter Wonderfest is a great complement to the tax-free shopping for which thousands of visitors come to Delaware.

“We’re hoping to make this a wintertime tradition,” he said. “It’s all about creating a place of memories. This has tremendous potential.”

The Light Spectacular opens at 5 p.m. every Thursday through Sunday through Dec. 18. Beginning Thursday, Dec. 22, the light show will be open every night through Sunday, Jan. 1. 

The Christmas Village is open from 5 to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday through Dec. 17. Beginning Monday, Dec. 26, the village will be open daily through Jan. 1. 

For more information, go to www.wonderfestde.org

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