Better known as the Peach Capital of the World, Fort Valley is a beautiful destination 30 miles Southwest of Macon, Georgia. Visitors will find of Americana with tree-lined streets, preserved historic homes, and many unique shops. Many travelers choose to make their travels to Fort Valley unforgettable by participating in one of the big community events or touring a local historical landmark.
The Winter Wonderland Festival is a brand new festival aiming to be Central Georgia's top family-friendly winter event. Planners expect over 5,000 attendees for the first year. The event is held at Fort Valley Festival Park, conveniently located near the center of town, Saturday, December 17, 1 pm to 10 pm and Sunday, December 18, 1 pm to 8 pm. Patrons will find a winter-themed spectacular complete with an ice skating rink, giant snowglobe, polar train ride, and much more. Food trucks will be on hand serving a variety of meal options, and various craft vendors will be selling some unique holiday themed items. We got the opportunity to interview Tisa Horton, Executive Director of the Austin Theater Enrichment Arts Alliance, Inc., to talk about this great winter event.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
TH: This is the 1st annual Winter Wonderland Festival.
RAL: How many people do you expect to attend and who are they?
TH: We anticipate 5,000 participants for this event. The target demographic is families of all ages and ethnicities.
RAL: What makes the event unique?
TH: The event itself is unique. Plus, we have great main attractions including the dazzling ice skating rink, a life-size snow globe, Santa letter writing station, and more.
RAL: Tell me about the activities people will find at the event.
TH: Attractions and activities include a dazzling 30x40 ice skating rink, a life-size snow globe, bungee jump, Tubs of Fun Ride, rock climbing, Santa maze, Jumbo Tubing Slide, FYI Gaming Truck, and a Polar Express Trackless Train Ride. We also have photos with Santa, live entertainment, food trucks, and many vendors.
RAL: What will attendees find for dining options?
TH: We will have local and specialty food trucks onsite.
RAL: What is the overall environment like?
TH: We want to provide a family-oriented, festive atmosphere for everyone, where you can learn, laugh, play, strengthen the community and build lifelong memories with family and friends.
RAL: Are there any locations that visitors tend to flock to?
TH: Visitors usually make their way to the Historic District, Downtown Fort Valley, World Famously Known, and Georgia Grown Lane Southern Orchard.
RAL: What does the event mean to the community?
TH: It’s a wonderful time of the year to bring families and tourists together. The event creates a great opportunity for an entire day of festive family-oriented fun, a romantic date on ice, or a day hanging out with your friends. Winter Wonderland Festival is a community event that brings joy to other’s Christmas Holiday.
RAL: Does the event support any special causes in the community?
TH: Yes, we support local fine arts groups including the local high school band and chorus, and the elementary school's D.A.R.E. Program.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
TH: The event will give attendees the opportunity to create great new memories. Travelers can interact, engage, listen, taste, and embrace our hometown holiday spirit.
For more information about the Winter Wonderland Festival, please visit their website.