Winter Wonderfest to bring family fun to Cape Henlopen State Park

Yes, Santa, there really is a lot to do in Sussex County this year.

Beginning with a dazzling light show that will light up Cape Henlopen State Park, it's just one of the many Winter Wonderfest attractions bringing new excitement to the Cape Region for the 2016 holiday season.

The two-mile Light Spectacular drive-thru holiday light show features over 60 magical light displays created by renowned designer John Brandano. With over 30 years' experience, Brandano, whose innovative lighting displays have been showcased along the East Coast, was selected for the Cape Henlopen project because of his commitment to engineering environmental conservation into each of his designs. "This project is very special since carloads of families will get to see the show with such close proximity from the comfort of their vehicle. And experience this unique park in a whole new light -  pun intended!" says Brandano with a smile. "The lighting just adds the magic of the Christmas holiday."

Peter Briccotto, producer of "Winter Wonderfest" notes that this first-ever local project is geared specifically for the Sussex community. "The generosity of our presenting sponsors, Schell Brothers and LaVida Hospitality Group, has been the catalyst to produce this extraordinary project. Both of these respected companies are based here in our community, and are energized to make it happen." says Briccotto.

Proceeds from Winter Wonderfest will be distributed by nonprofit Festival of Cheer Inc., to support a variety of charitable causes serving those residing in and visiting Sussex. "We are excited to be participating in Winter Wonderfest and to help create a new holiday tradition for our community, " says Chris Schell, CEO of Schell Brothers "As so many people in the local area already know, Christmas is my favorite time of year. When this opportunity came about, I jumped at the chance for our company to get involved," continues Schell. "Winter Wonderfest will be a great event that provides families and friends a unique and special way to celebrate the season and we're happy that we are a part of it."

Josh Grapski, managing partner of LaVida Hospitality Group, and co-presenting sponsor, reiterates Schell's enthusiasm for the people of Sussex County. "Ours is such a vibrant community. We believe "Winter Wonderfest" will provide families a venue to create their own wonderful holiday memories right here at home. There just isn't anything else like it in our area."

Free community kick-off party set Sept. 22

On Thursday, Sept. 22, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Crooked Hammock is hosting a community kick-off party for Winter Wonderfest. Grapski, the Festival of Light spokesperson, is encouraging everyone to become involved. "This party is the perfect opportunity for everyone in our community to learn more about this exciting new holiday attraction. We have many ways for people to have fun as a much-needed volunteer. And we'll be serving complimentary bites of food from the Crooked Hammock kitchen!" Grapski adds that there will be more information about the Light Spectacular show in the park as well as the Christmas Village carnival at the ferry.

"We also have a variety of sponsorship levels for community businesses who want to take advantage of this unique opportunity. We're expecting visitors to come from all over Delaware, and from out of state," says Grapski. "We're happy to show how Winter Wonderfest can benefit business owners during the critical holiday season."

Dashing Through The Show 5K Run & Walk kicks off event Nov. 18

Holiday lovers will have a unique opportunity to experience the Light Spectacular up close and in person when they participate in a special 5-K run and two-mile walk at Cape Henlopen State Park Friday, Nov. 18. Gates open at 5 p.m.; run and walk at 6 p.m. "You can run, or you can walk," says Briccotto. "It's all about community spirit and being among the first to enjoy the scope of this holiday event," he adds.

Immediately following the 5K, all of the participants, along with Winter Wonderfest sponsors, are invited to attend the opening night party at Lewes' Crooked Hammock Brewery, one of the local brands at LaVida Hospitality Group.

Light Spectacular tours begin Nov. 19

Light Spectacular is one of many new Winter Wonderfest attractions. "Visitors will be amazed at the unique holiday perspective of this beautiful park - all from the comfort of your vehicle," says Briccotto. "Definitely bring your camera!" Park gates open at 5 p.m.

Subsequent dates for "Light Spectacular" are Thanksgiving weekend, Nov. 24 to Sunday. Nov. 27. In December, Thursdays thru Sundays, Dec. 1-4; Dec. 8-11; Dec. 15-18.

Beginning Dec. 22, "Light Spectacular" will take place every evening through Jan 1, 2017, including Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Admission to "Light Spectacular" is $15 for cars, $30 for vans, and $50 for busses. Single vehicle tickets will be available online beginning in October. Discounts are available in advance for groups bringing multiple vehicles. More information is available at www.Wonderfestde.org.
Christmas Village Winter Carnival grand opening Nov. 25

"People from all over Delaware will want to add this family-fun destination to their holiday To-Do List," says Grapski. "The kids in particular will love our giant ferris wheel, among the rides at the Carnival Midway." He adds "It's the perfect -stop before or after experiencing the Light Spectacular show in the park," adds Grapski.

The Christmas Village also includes a special i-Rink on the ferry grounds for ice skating, plus indoor holiday workshops, live music, a strolling Santa, and carnival games for all ages. Delicious hot chocolate will also be available to chase away the chill.

Opening weekend for Christmas Village Winter Carnival is Friday and Saturday, Nov 25-26. The event also runs Dec. 9-10, Dec. 16-17, and Friday, Dec. 23, through Sunday, Jan1, including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Chris Schell emphasizes that Winter Wonderfest is community-driven event which is designed to benefit a variety of charitable efforts throughout Sussex County. "The Festival Cheer team is committed to supporting Sussex County's needs. In fact, they have already begun planning for expanding Winter Wonderfest for the following year!"

For Christmas Village events and activities see the weekly updates at www.Wonderfestde.org.