WinterFest brightens the holidays

WinterFest 2024 in downtown Aberdeen wrapped up this past weekend, and what a gift it was for our community.

Held on Friday and Saturday, the event showcased the beauty of the season and the warmth of Aberdeen, marking it as a cherished holiday tradition. The festivities kicked off on Friday night with the inaugural Trolley Express Christmas Light Tour, guided by the cheerful voices of Santa’s elves, Rick and Amy Moyer, and WinterFest organizers Bette Worth and Bobbi McCracken.

The opening song “Jingle Bells” came with some clang, clang, clang as the trolly headed up the hill to Broadway Heights to view Christmas decorations.

“Hold on, we’re going around a corner,” Bette said as families gasped in delight at the stunning light displays illuminating the neighborhood.

In preparation for the event, Bette, Bobbi and a few volunteers distributed more than 200 flyers to homes in the Broadway area, inviting residents to join in the festive fun. The goal was to bring sparkle and joy to the trolley riders and the mission was accomplished. The trolley ride transformed into a magical Christmas adventure, with the sound of carols creating an enchanting atmosphere.

All around, voices rang out with “oohs” and “aahs” as riders admired the beautifully decorated homes. “This is my first-ever trolley ride, and I love it,” said Sinnead Cruz, who moved to Aberdeen from Skagit Valley two years ago. “It was so much fun singing Christmas songs and seeing all the beautiful lights.”

Her children, Aaliyah, 6, and Yadiel, 4, were excited as they pointed at the beautiful lights. A lot of wows were heard caught up in the magic of the evening.

The trolley itself, a vintage 1985 model, was lovingly restored just in time for the festivities. Owner Dave Jennings put in a new motor and just finished refurbishing the transmission right before the maiden voyage — needing a bit of Christmas miracle to be ready in time. The success of the Trolley Express delighted the organizers, who were relieved to see a strong turnout for their first-year event, with free rides, hot cocoa and cookies continuing until 9 p.m. Friday — an hour longer than expected.

Breakfast with Santa

Saturday began with a community-focused breakfast with Santa at Messy Jessy’s Restaurant. Volunteers were in abundance and the Lions Club represented from Aberdeen and Central Park. They came together to provide free meals to children under 12.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s raining cats and dogs; people come out and support WinterFest,” said Judy Hubbard, a volunteer at the breakfast.

The leftover food, ham and pancakes, goes to the mission, said Hubbard.

“I love seeing the kids smile — that’s what it’s all about,” said Andy Palmer, another Lions Club volunteer, as he flipped Mickey Mouse pancakes in the back.

Other members of the Lions Club echoed similar sentiments — it’s all about the kids.

“We get more than we give,” said Linda Welliver.

The Goldenaires choir from Aberdeen High School added an extra layer of festivities by serenading the crowd with Christmas carols as children and parents enjoyed their meals. Their harmonious voices filled the restaurant, spreading holiday cheer among the guests and into the next room where Santa was hearing the Christmas wishes of the kids.

Rick and Amy Moyer took free photos with Santa that can be downloaded at moyermultimedia.com or Moyer Multi Media LLC on Facebook.

Holiday Marketplace and gingerbread houses

After breakfast, the Goldenaires choir continued their festive journey, making their way outside where there was a hint of (fake) snow as they crossed the street to the Holiday Marketplace. The bustling marketplace atmosphere offered a variety of handmade gifts and unique crafts.

At noon, the Goldenaires performed at the Gingerbread House Contest, held at the Go Get The Pho Building. Their beautiful voices echoed through the space, enticing attendees to gather and appreciate the spirit of the season.

The Gingerbread House Contest was a highlight of the day, displaying the creativity and skills of local businesses, talented children, families and adults alike.

In the children’s category, Mae Gambee took home first place for her delightful gingerbread house, impressing the judges. Ginnette Gerchak received first place in the family group and the winner of the People’s Choice Award went to Curt Holt.

The judges awarded first place to Olympic Family Dental in the business challenge group. They followed the judges criteria and transformed their house into a gingerbread castle complete with the tooth fairy. The Business Charity Gingerbread House decorating competition raised close to $1,300. The Tap Room won the most money raised by a business in two weeks donating $514 to their favorite charity, Beyond Survival.

The event transformed downtown Aberdeen into a festive haven, proving that even in the bustling holiday season, the heart of the community can shine through. As residents and visitors left with smiles and goodwill, it was clear that WinterFest 2024 not only celebrated the holidays but also fostered lasting bonds within the community. High hopes for returning spirits and new traditions filled the air, eagerly anticipated for the next year’s celebration.