Winter Wonderlights returns to Whitewater Park in Azilda starting on Dec. 12, promising a bigger, more impressive event than in previous years.
Conceived in 2021 by Cafe Héritage under the concept of bringing Christmas carols to life, the first event was held in 2022.
“We are truly excited to bring this regional attraction over the top,” Gary Michalak, the executive director of Cafe Héritage, told Sudbury.com in an email. “With a substantial investment from the Tourism Development fund, we were able to upgrade the power at Whitewater Park and purchase additional gigantic displays. In addition to the walk-thru bulb and the incredible teddy bear we will be installing a new entrance, an additional walk-thru bulb as well as a Santa Claus.
“When we say ‘gigantic’, we are saying over 12 feet high. They are truly remarkable and I am thinking a great opportunity for our local photographers.”
Winter Wonderlights features 16 visitor kiosks that bring to life various Christmas carols. The display also includes a lamp comprised of 16 mini pods that lights up the park. “There is over 5,000 feet of cable running to our event centre that provides different colour patterns,” Michalak said. “One can hear the music as each of our carols is played over our loud speakers.”
He said each easel is around seven feet tall by three feet wide, and were designed by Belanger Salach Architects. The figurines featured at the Wonderlights event were purchased from a supplier in St. Louis, Missouri, at a cost of more than $18,000.
It takes about 150 volunteers to make it all happen, Michalak said.
The opening event on Dec. 12 begins at 6 p.m. Hot chocolate will be available to warm folks up and Chorale Heritage will be on hand to perform. The countdown to the lighting ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m.
The lights will be on each evening from Dec. 13, 2025 to Jan. 1, 2026, between 6-9 p.m.
The event is funded by the City of Greater Sudbury, the Ministry of Francophone Affairs, Fednor and NOHFC, as well as “many sponsors [that] have invested over $150,000 into the project,” Michalak said.
Besides the public viewings, renowned Franco-Ontarian performer Chuck Labelle will be on hand to perform two shows at Winter Wonderlights on Dec. 19.