Winter Wonderfest to open with 5K walk/run Nov. 16

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Hudson Fields.

Festival of Cheer, the community nonprofit organization which creates cultural traditions and reinvests proceeds from its events into local nonprofits, has begun installing its award-winning Winter Wonderfest attractions in preparation for the festival’s grand opening Saturday, Nov. 16.

The grand opening will feature the Wonderfest 5K race and 1.5-mile fun walk through the Light Spectacular. An opening-night tradition since 2016, this will be the community’s opportunity to get up close and personal with the dazzling light displays. The competitive 5K run/walk will begin at twilight, 5 p.m., with the 1.5-mile fun walk beginning at 6 p.m.

Festival of Cheer President John Snow said, “Just two days into our month-long installation effort, everyone working on this enormous project realizes how special our event will be at Hudson Fields. Even if you have experienced Wonderfest in previous incarnations, the event we are producing this year will far outshine our previous efforts. We are delivering a more cohesive festival that will fill everyone’s heart with wonder and holiday joy.”

All race/walk participants can enjoy their on-foot experience through the Light Spectacular, free hot chocolate, fresh-baked cookies, complimentary Bud Lights for those ages 21 and above, and the newly designed ugly sweater long-sleeve T-shirt. Adult admission is $35, and tickets are $20 for students and children ages 17 and under.

All other amenities will open for this special evening including Schellville, the VisitDelaware.com Ice Rink, the Christmas Carnival, the Highway Lodge featuring Crooked Hammock Brews, the Community Bank Main Stage and more.

Organizers believe their fourth installment of Wonderfest is truly a revitalization of this beloved community event. Hopefully, the community will help them surpass their record-breaking grand opening fundraising haul from 2016. They have streamlined the guest experience this year, and promise a grand opening event where everyone can simply park their vehicle, check in and run ... or walk.

Event Director Peter Briccotto said, “A huge part of relocating Wonderfest to Hudson Fields was the ability to provide an improved customer experience. In our new venue, we have more then enough parking, no need for shuttle buses, and we can truly ensure the lights are shining bright during our Wonderfest 5K race after the sun has gone down.”

As November approaches, volunteers can lend a hand to build the Light Spectacular, decorate the Christmas Carnival, and more. Beginning Nov. 16, volunteers will be needed to operate the ticket booths, Santa’s Workshop Craft Area, Skate Rental Shed and more. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old to sign up without a parent.

For more information and to register, go to www.wonderfestde.org.