Wakamow Valley Authority’s third annual Valley of Lights exhibition kicks off at the start of December and will be sure to delight residents young and old with its dozens of illuminated displays.
The event starts on Friday, Dec. 1, runs until Sunday, Dec. 31, and is open Thursday to Sunday from 6 to 9 p.m., including on Christmas Day.
Viewers are asked to donate $10 per passenger vehicle.
All funds raised support the upkeep and operations of the park’s 200 hectares (500 acres) of recreational and natural spaces.
More than 10,000 people visited the Christmas light show last December, which featured over 100,000 LED lights — including a new 17-foot-tall moose — in a drive-thru format in Lorne Calvert Campground. The $10 donation entitles families to drive around the lighted loop as many times as they want.
General manager Donna MacQuarrie-Bye said she was excited about this year’s exhibition because the non-profit conservation group had expanded the driving loop so attendees could see more things and added more displays for a bigger “wow factor.” Furthermore, organizers are looking at creating a station where people can take photos with family and friends.
“It’s a great way to spread Christmas cheer and give families something to do, (especially) with people coming in from out of town … ,” she continued.
With a laugh, MacQuarrie Bye said the organization had lost count of the number of LED lights its staff has strung throughout the valley but knew the number easily eclipsed 100,000. Meanwhile, employees had decorated nearly 100 trees and added many more candy cane ornaments to the loop.
As part of this year’s festivities, the Moose Jaw Choir will perform on Saturday, Dec. 9 and add Christmas carol serenades to the magical winter wonderland atmosphere.
On Saturday, Dec. 16 and Saturday, Dec. 23, Tracey and Blaine Brickford with Prairie Percherons will offer wagon rides. The cost is $20 per family of five people and people must register with the valley authority ahead of time by calling 306-692-2717.
On Sunday, Dec. 17, that famous green-faced Whoville resident — The Grinch — will be on hand for pictures. Also that day, the valley authority is teaming up with the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Club to raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis.
Lastly, on Saturday, Dec. 23, the jolly old elf himself, Santa Claus, will bring his friendly ho-ho-ho character to the valley and spend time with children of all ages.
MacQuarrie-Bye encouraged people to watch the Wakamow Valley Authority’s Facebook page for more announcements and potential changes.
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