Create lasting memories at Winter WonderFest through Dec. 31

Not sure about the hottest new toys for kids? Can't bear to buy another candle for your neighbor? And let's face it, no one on your gift list has won the lottery with those tickets you bought because you were out of ideas ... and time.

This year, Winter WonderFest may be the solution for gift giving. It's back for its second year, and organizers say it's bigger, brighter and cooler than its first year, which generated $100,000 in community grants for 17 nonprofit groups throughout Sussex County. That's great for the deserving charities, but what about those with holiday shopping lists at this hectic time of year?

"Winter WonderFest is actually perfect for anyone who wants their gift-giving to be special," said Peter Briccotto, executive producer of the fundraising juggernaut produced by Sussex-based nonprofit Festival of Cheer Inc.

"Nothing can compare to the time you spend with your loved ones. So why not take advantage of the incredible activities going on at the expanded Christmas Village? This year we now have the amazing new Visit DE Ice Skating Rink," said John Snow, Festival of Cheer president.

Measuring 75-by-90-feet, it replaces the previous synthetic surface with real ice. It's open every day, except Monday, and may be booked for private holiday parties, birthdays and family get-togethers. Private sessions and skating lessons are also available along with skate rentals.

This year carloads of Light Spectacular visitors will enjoy an all-new route through Cape Henlopen State Park's campgrounds to see the dazzling displays nestled among the trees and picturesque landscape. "This year's event is designed to be bigger, brighter and cooler than our first year," said Briccotto, noting that many of the improvements are in response to suggestions from the Sussex County community.

The tour includes five over-the-road displays for vehicles to drive through. The show also includes 58 different holiday scenes (18 more than last year), plus 19 animated installations. "The new giant Igloo display and Golfing Santa are sure to be crowd pleasers," said John Brandano, principle for the renowned Florida-based lighting company, creator of the holiday themed displays.

"The thrill of seeing this year's Light Spectacular displays is a carload of fun driving through Cape Henlopen State Park – and a lot more enjoyable than driving around looking for a parking space on Black Friday!" said Briccotto, who notes that visitors will see more than 90 festive light installations, 30 percent more than than the first year.

Sharing the experience of Winter WonderFest with people you care about will create lasting holiday memories to look back on forever, he adds. "No wrapping paper required!" he said with a laugh. "Getting your tickets is so easy. They can be purchased online, or you can call our box office." There is also a free Winter WonderFest App with special offers and free music to play while touring the light show.

Children in particular will learn the joy of the holidays, the importance of family time, and of course, the thrill of putting Santa on notice about their wish list. St. Nick will be at the Christmas Village at the Lewes Ferry terminal for all event days through Dec. 23. They'll love the kid-size Schellville Christmas Lane – an enchanting place full of surprises and interactive activities.

Let it snow! Kids of every age can frolic inside a larger-than-life snow globe at the Christmas Village. Even the young-at-heart will enjoy the carnival rides, including a giant Ferris wheel and several midway games. Cape Gazette is providing a special photo booth where groups can make it onto the 'front page news'. Bring cameras and enter those pictures for great prizes.

Check the entertainment schedule, and come as often as you like for free, live professional entertainment on the main stage. Gather round the fire pit to toast s'mores and sip hot chocolate. You can also warm up and hang out The Lodge . It's enclosed and heated so you can relax with adult beverages and a slice from the onsite pizza truck. It's also kid-friendly with lots of games – perfect for a family outing this holiday.

Thanksgiving weekend marks the opening of vehicle tours for the Light Spectacular at Cape Henlopen State Park. The Light Spectacular holiday light show in the park and the Christmas Village share the same times, with a few exceptions, running through Dec. 31. Complete at-a-glance schedule of dates and hours is listed on the Winter WonderFest website, wonderfestde.org, along with many other details.

"Also stay in touch with our website for free entertainment times, plus updates on a community New Year's Eve Day Closing Party from 3 to 7 p.m.," said Snow. "A great way to celebrate with kids before going out later that night."

Visitors save $5 on Light Spectacular advance ticket purchases online for cars and vans. Bus tickets are $10 off in advance. Special group discounts are given for 10 or more vehicles. Tickets are required for most of the activities at the Christmas Village, including carnival rides and midway games. Family Fun Packs include 60 tickets for $40; for a greater value, 100 tickets are $60. Smaller packs are available at the event entrance. There is no gate fee, and parking is free for the Christmas Village, and for Santa's Workshops and photo ops with Santa, which are located indoors at the ferry terminal.

To reach the Winter WonderFest box office, call 302-727-0221.

"Everything we do for Winter WonderFest is to enhance the experience of being here in Sussex County during the holidays," says Snow. "It's why the money we raise here stays right here in Sussex County. In addition to lasting holiday memories, there is a great satisfaction in knowing your experience with Winter WonderFest will also help other organizations provide services and accommodations for the people of Sussex County. It's the true spirit of giving – no gift wrapping required!"

Find out more about Winter WonderFest, and details about the new free app at wonderfestde.org.