Share: 

Winter Wonderfest looks to the future

Organizers hope to raise money this season to fund expansion next year
December 3, 2021

With the growing popularity of Winter Wonderfest, it became apparent to the organizers that changes had to be made.

Event founder Peter Briccotto said organizers faced several challenges such as parking at Hudson Fields for those visiting the event's other attractions, including carnival rides and the Christmas village. Wait lines began to block area housing development entrances and caused backups on Route 1, he said.

“Organizers felt it was best that Wonderfest will remain a drive-though-only experience for 2021 with the Light Spectacular route,” he said.

This year, the parking lot was converted to into a waiting line to keep vehicles off surrounding roads.

The growing attendance also created challenges for possible expansion of Schellville at Winter Wonderfest. So this year, the new Schellville Enchanted Winter Celebration has relocated to a parcel behind Tanger Outlets Seaside off Route 1 and Holland Glade Road near Rehoboth Beach.

Presented by the nonprofit Festival of Cheer, Winter Wonderfest is open daily from 5 to 10 p.m. through Jan. 2. For more information, go to wonderfestde.org. Reservations are not required, but tickets can be purchased online.

 

Another venue for events

Briccotto said some of the proceeds from this year's event will be used to secure another venue to bring back the carnival, ice-skating rink and other attractions in 2022. The Light Spectacular drive-through will remain at Hudson Fields.

“We are thrilled that this region continues to embrace our festival,” said John Snow, president of the nonprofit Festival of Cheer. “Unveiling the Small Wonder exhibit is a tremendous moment for our nonprofit, which celebrates the landmarks that make our community beautiful.”

Snow said the reason for the event is to raise funds to support the Festival of Cheer community grant program; this year's goal is $75,000. In addition, he said, they have a goal of $100,000 to reinvest into the event to build a new venue for more attractions in 2022.

The year's Winter Wonderfest at Hudson Fields off Route 1 north of Lewes has expanded its Light Spectacular of more than 50 holiday light displays to include a new Small Wonder exhibit. The exhibit features many of the most iconic landmarks in the Cape Region, such as the Indian River Inlet bridge, World War II towers, Dolle's sign and a Lewes lighthouse.

Also new this year is an Under the Sea exhibit featuring dolphins jumping over the trail and water-skiing Santas. In addition to the ride-through, open-air hayrides are available, which include hot chocolate and a cookie refreshment bar. The ride ends with a trip through the fantasy forest. Tickets can be purchased online before arrival.

Briccotto said organizers want to clarify that their fundraiser is no longer affiliated with Schellville.

“Schell Brothers desired to offer their attraction this holiday season for the community. With the limitations at Hudson Fields, they relocated Schellville to a new location,” he said. “We encourage everyone to visit Schellville before or after their drive through Wonderfest.”

 

Through the years

2016 – Winter Wonderfest debuts with Light Spectacular at Cape Henlopen State Park, and the Christmas Village, ice-skating rink and carnival rides at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal.

2017 – Lights at the park and other events at the ferry terminal.

2018 – Lights at the park and other events, including a larger skating rink and expanded village, at the ferry terminal.

2019 – Needing more space, Winter Wonderfest relocates to Hudson Fields near Milton with all of the same events taking place.

2020 – Event is drive-through only because of the COVID-19 state of emergency with an expanded Light Spectacular and drive-though Christmas Village hosting Santa and Mrs. Claus.

2021 – Winter Wonderfest Light Spectacular continues at Hudson Fields and expanded Schellville relocates to a 6-acre parcel behind Tanger Outlets Seaside near Rehoboth Beach.

 

 

Subscribe to the CapeGazette.com Daily Newsletter