By Donna McMillan
IF you haven’t visited the Simcoe Christmas Panorama River of Lights for a few years, you are in for a surprise, Simcoe Christmas Panorama committee member Lucas Wilson told the Maple Leaf. Many displays that were retired have been restored and are shining brightly at the Panorama in Grant Anderson Park in downtown Simcoe.
The Simcoe Christmas Panorama is over 60 years old and boasts over 60 displays, 200,000 lights and hundreds of decorated trees. Mr. Wilson estimated that 30,000–40,000 people visit the park annually. He pointed out that snow motivates people to come.
“We are so lucky to have such a festive festival in our area,” he said. He remembers attending the Panorama as a child and the joy the displays brought.
Mr. Wilson volunteered to join the Panorama’s barn committee, which works on displays all year round. Besides regular maintenance of the displays, he was interested in working on the animatronics, especially the penguins display, Santa’s workshop, and, new this year, Mrs. Claus’ kitchen.
He said the tractor pulling a toy box and driven by the Grinch has not been seen since 2018. Fellow committee member Scott Smith fixed the tractor and got the display going, he said. In all, during the past four years, Panorama volunteers have restored, rebuilt and refurbished 10 of their iconic displays.
Mascots including Frosty and Rudolf wander through the magical scenes at various times. Santa and Mrs. Claus visit on the weekends. Larry Dickey, a past president of the Panorama, co-ordinates mascots and brings Rudolph to life while Daryl Granger enjoys living the life of Santa. Santa’s last visit to the Panorama will be Saturday, Dec. 21, from 6 to 8 p.m.
The Simcoe Christmas Panorama runs until New Year’s Day with the lights on from 6 to 10 p.m. daily.
Visitors are invited to enjoy the Christmas Market at the Panorama. Hot apple cider and apple cider donuts are available at the Tumaini Hut, with part of the proceeds supporting the Tumaini Children’s Foundation. At the log cabin, Panorama volunteers sell hot chocolate and cookies to help fund new lights and displays. Dolly’s Sandwiches Food Truck serves poutines and sandwiches.
Trolley rides by the Sowden family of Evergreen Hill Farm are available from 6:30–9:30 p.m. on December 20 and 21 for $4 per person.
Admission to the Panorama is free with funding from sponsors and donations which can be made on the Panorama website, www.simcoepanorama.ca.
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Originally published December 18, 2024
