Businesses organize new Winter WonderFEST

In an effort to bring more year-round visitors to the beaches, local businesses and organizations are partnering to bring a Winter WonderFEST to the Cape Region.

Bringing together organizations such as the Lions Club, Delaware state parks, restaurants and the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, the upcoming winter festival, expected to launch in November, is shaping up to bring new visitors during a quiet time at Delaware's beaches.

Featuring light shows in Cape Henlopen State Park, and live music and a Christmas Village at Northbeach, the event will be produced by an organization called Festival of Cheer. It is expected to offer winter-themed activities across the region from Saturday, Nov. 19, to Sunday, Jan 1, 2017.

Four main attractions are planned from the Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal to a bayside ice rink at the Dewey Beach Lions Club, but the activities are not yet finalized.

"It will definitely get people here for events and things to do," said Hyatt Place General Manager Keith Whisenant.

The light show at CHSP is expected to feature 25 minutes of professional light displays for a stay-in-your-car, rain-or-shine experience, while the ferry terminal is set to transform into a winter carnival with amusement rides and a concert series.

In Dewey Beach, the Lions Club is going to offer an ice skating rink with concessions, and Northbeach is set to open as a Christmas village, with vendors, live music and a supersize Christmas tree.

Event Executive Producer Peter Briccotto said Festival of Cheer is still finalizing contracts, but he sees a lot of enthusiasm already.

"Its going to be as successful as the community behind it," Briccotto said. "There's already a lot of parties interested in sponsorship."

For more information about the upcoming festival, email info@festivalofcheer.org.