Christmas Village opens at ferry Nov. 25

As many as 2,000 people turned out for the Dashing Through The Show Fun Walk and Run.

“It’s amazing, but not surprising at all,” says Lewes Mayor Ted Becker, surveying the overwhelming turnout of community participants in Dashing Through The Show. “It just shows what a caring and enthusiastic community we have here.  Winter Wonderfest is certainly a big part of our bright future!”
 
The Nov. 18 event was the official kick-off for the new nonprofit Winter Wonderfest. The fundraising event included a non-timed fun run and walk through the larger-than-life holiday light displays throughout Cape Henlopen State Park.  Says event producer Peter Briccotto, “Everyone wins the same prize.  A chance to be up close with these incredible light displays. It’s a one-time selfie-photo op for friends and family who’ll remember this dazzling experience for years to come.”  Briccotto explains now that the Light Spectacular is open to the public, the two-mile tour may only be seen from the comfort of one’s vehicle. Light Spectacular, as well as the Christmas Village at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal will run through New Year’s Day night.
 
Thrilled that 2,000 people came out to support the inauguration of Winter Wonderfest, Lewes Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Betsy Reamer is quick to note that the community support is overwhelmingly enthusiastic.  “It wouldn’t be possible without the the generous support of Sussex businesses, nor the outpouring of local volunteers who want to be part of Delaware’s new tradition.”  Reamer notes her gratitude for the newly-formed nonprofit Festival of Cheer Inc. for making Winter Wonderfest come to life.  “These people are community business leaders who have devoted an enormous amount of their time to manage the endless details needed for this.  Everything from the countless calls for fundraising, to their hands-on labor to install this incredible event,” she adds.  “It’s a huge time commitment in addition to running their businesses and taking care of their families.”
 
“This is just our first year,” says spokesperson Josh Grapski.  “And I’ve heard from so many people that they appreciate there is so much to experience between the Light Spectacular at the park, and the many activities at the Christmas Village.”  In addition to the philanthropic mission, Grapski notes that Winter Wonderfest is designed to help people create their own lasting holiday memories at the Delaware beaches.  “It’s definitely helping to build a brighter future for Sussex County,” says Grapski.  His company, La Vida Hospitality, along with Schell Brothers, are the presenting sponsors of Winter Wonderfest.  “We couldn’t do it without our supporting partners, the Delaware State Parks, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, and our generous friends at Preston Automotive,” says Grapski, who notes that over 50 community businesses are eagerly involved as official sponsors.
 
Becker thinks this is also good for the entire Lewes business community.  “Winter Wonderfest broadens the appeal of having a complete holiday experience in Lewes,” he adds.  “Visitors will surely enjoy venturing into the business district before or after visiting the Light Spectacular and the Christmas Village.  We have many unique shops, hotels and restaurants to make the holidays so memorable for the entire family.”  
 
Next year?  “Our plans are already underway,” says Briccotto.  And although he says it will grow with each coming year, the focus will remain the same: “Raising money that stays right here in Sussex County so we can re-invest in its future and provide charitable grants for Sussex County charitable organizations.”
 
Schedules and ticket information for both the Light Spectacular holiday light show, and the many activities at the Christmas Village are online at www.wonderfestde.org