‘Holiday in the Hills’ has returned to the Orono Fairgrounds for its third season, offering a close-to-home winter outing for Durham Region residents.
The event runs Thursdays to Sundays until Dec. 22 and features light displays, meet-and-greets and activities spread across the fairgrounds.
Visitors can enter through a 100-foot light tunnel that leads into a series of small attractions, including Santa’s Cabin, Elf School, Santa’s Mail Room and a gingerbread house where children can decorate cookies.
Whitby resident Kelly-Ann Dunleavy attended with her children after hearing about the festival in local parent-led Facebook group.
“We typically do something community-related every weekend leading up to the holidays,” she said. “This was one of our activities.”
Her daughter, Julia, said she was most excited to meet Santa.
“I’m really happy that I’m here,” the 11-year-old said.
Her younger brother, Joshua, said he came for “Mr. Grinch and Santa!”
The event is shaped largely around children’s activities, including a make-your-own plush station, elf training, a light maze, letter writing, and small games.
A nightly tree-lighting ceremony takes place at 6:30 p.m., followed by a brief Santa dance.
Event staff say the small scale and slower pace are part of its appeal.
“Definitely to build a tradition for families,” said staff member Emma Finlay, who is in her third year working at the festival. “It’s nice seeing kids playing and even making friends in the snowball area or curling area.”
Finlay said turnout increases once December begins, but most operating days are already sold out.
Bonfires and food stalls are also set up throughout the grounds with food options including snacks, hot chocolate and seasonal drinks served from the Polar Bear Pub.
General admission is $15.51, while visits to Santa’s Cabin cost $68.30 for up to four visitors. Extra fees apply for activities such as gingerbread decorating and The Bear Factory.