Winterfest Enjoys Early Spike

OCEAN CITY – The first weekend for the Winterfest of Lights this year proved to be electric with a strong turnout on opening night.

“The Winterfest of Lights has had a very strong beginning this year,” Special Events Director John Sullivan said.

According to Sullivan more than 2,400 folks visited on opening night alone. Senator Jim Mathias, Mayor Rick Meehan and a few City Council members were attendance to join in on the holiday festivities.

The opening ceremony was a hit featuring a performance from Ocean City Elementary School’s OC Stars chorus, which sang traditional Christmas songs, paired with their own animated dance moves.

“At the end of the ceremony, Santa appeared out of nowhere and everyone was thrilled,” Sullivan said.

Many displays have been rebulbed with new third generation LED bulbs this year, including the 50-foot Christmas tree. The new LED lighting is brighter, stronger and saves on electricity.

“Attendance so far at Winterfest is up,” Sullivan said.

Up to Tuesday night, there had been 11,000 passengers on the Winterfest Express. That number is an increase of about 3,000 from last year.

“I would suspect the bright colors, beautifully decorated and heated tent and the warm weather has helped,” Sullivan said.

Winterfest is ready and waiting for those in town for Thanksgiving weekend.

“Come have your photo taken with Santa, shop at the Yukon Cornelius Gift Shop, and get some delicious hot chocolate from the OC Rec Boosters,” Sullivan said. “Winterfest is a holiday tradition.”