This year’s Christmas Festival at Hewitts Farm Market is being modified into a safe, quarter-kilometre-long drive-thru holiday light and display show.
A dozen local businesses, clubs, and organizations have teamed up with Hewitts Farm Market to create 25 Christmas exhibit scenes for the community to enjoy.
The event takes place on Friday and Saturday evenings beginning Dec. 4. Admission is $10 for a carload, which comes with two free cookie coupons which are redeemable at the on-site store.
Co-owner Margie Hewitt says it was important for the Town Line business to put on a holiday celebration event this year because of the disappointment that came with the cancellation of other events such as the Orillia Santa Claus parade.
“I know how disappointed our own family is that we can’t do all the same things that we normally do this year, so we thought, is there something we can do for other families in the community?” Hewitt said.
Hewitt believes local families will get the same enjoyment from their event this year as they do with their usual traditions.
“The displays are really amazing and creative. We have a Nutcracker, Alice in Wonderland, Santa’s workshop, a gingerbread house ... everyone has been doing a different theme which is really working out well,” she said.
“It’s something different that allows everyone to stay in their car, and keep warm while getting some holiday enjoyment.”
Hewitt says her family and the local businesses who have teamed up with them to build the Christmas displays have put all their time and effort into making this year’s event magical.
“We have put in every spare minute we have into getting these displays together. Wveryone is kind of working as a family to do this which has been a lot of fun,” she said.
“It’s something fun and magical. It’s different, but it still allows for families to keep those Christmas traditions going.”
Hewitts has spared no expense to make the event possible. They have installed a near 500-foot row of hydro and outlets. They have also purchased a sizable number of power generators.
“I honestly don’t think we are going to cover our expenses (but) we aren’t in it to make a profit. We are in it to promote the spirit of Christmas, as well as shopping and supporting local businesses,” Hewitt said.
During the event, guests are asked to remain in their vehicles. Once they have completed the drive-thru, they are welcome to visit the on-site store as long as they wear a mask.
Hewitts staff also ask guests to limit store visits to one person from each carload. There is no way to secure admission ahead of the event. Guests can pay at the door upon arrival by debit, credit, or cash.
