Sharing the Christmas spirit Dionne-style, one light display at a time

Woodlands County resident Gwen Dionne presented to Woodlands County Council at the end of
November seeking funding for her magical light display, a holiday tradition for many in the region. For
years, a large expanse of Dionne’s property has been painstakingly transformed into a glittering
wonderland of holiday magic. The driveway she and her husband Richard use is shared with hundreds
throughout December, with visitors constantly coming in.
Their displays feature all kinds of things, from fun characters to whimsical patterns to Christmas
activities and nativities. The lights are known for being an exceptional display of time, talent and love, all
done for the sheer joy and appreciation of others. When it comes to Christmas in Whitecourt and
Woodlands County, a stop at the lights, for many, is a tradition they do not miss.
In 2021, the Dionne’s added wagon rides to the fun, enticing visitors to come and see the light displays
in a whole new way. The event was such a hit that they brought it back in 2022, this time with two
nights. It was planned the same for 2023. The first event of this year took place on December 9, and the
second is slated for this weekend, on Saturday, December 16.
The Dionne’s had sought financial support from Woodlands County for adding the wagon rides and
received it in both 2021 and 2022. Gwen was joined by Heather Anderson, Community Services
Coordinator for Woodlands, for the presentation. “In 2021, we provided $1000 for one night for the
wagon rides. In 2022, the cost of the wagon rides increased, and she did two nights. So there was $1,600
provided. This year, she’s doing two nights again, and the wagon rides cost has increased again, so she is
requesting $1,750,” explained Anderson. She also said that Woodlands County would help market and
display the rides for the community in a way similar to any other tourism-related event.
Dionne began her presentation by emotionally thanking the Council for supporting her venture of the
wagon rides for the last two years. “It’s been awesome!” Dionne explained that in the first year, she had
to turn people away from the rides, but she didn’t last year. “We had 334 people on the first night, and
on the second night, even though it was really cold, we still had 289 people that came for the rides,” she
explained.
“I collect food for the food bank, and you know last year was a hard year because we usually get around
two thousand pounds and last year we only got 850 pounds. Nobody was turned away from the lights or
the rides, whether they had food bank donations or not,” said Dionne. “This has gotten to be an annual
event for families from Whitecourt and Woodlands County and even the surrounding areas. We have
anywhere from 1,800 to 2,000 people drive through our yard every year. I quit counting after 2,000.”
Dionne also provides hot chocolate for everyone who attends the wagon ride nights, and the kids in
attendance can put their names into a draw from which she awards various prizes. “It has really gotten
to be a big event in the County, and I think you should all come and see it and come for the ride,” she
smiled. Reeve Dave Kusch called the Dionne Lights a “fantastic place,” adding that he enjoys taking his
children to see it. “It’s very well done,” he remarked.
Reeve Kusch asked Anderson if anyone else was seeking funding support from the Community Grants
budget line this year, which still had $2,500 left for 2023. Anderson explained that one other group

would be putting in receipts soon and was expected to receive $500, leaving $2,000 in the budget, more
than enough to cover the ask from Dionne.
Reeve Kusch then asked if increasing her support to $2,000 and using up the remaining dollars in the
Community Grants budget, which is replenished each year, would be more helpful. “Oh, absolutely,”
said Dionne. “I usually buy most of the door prizes myself and give away about twenty gifts.”
Councillor John Burrows said he fully supported the increased funding. “We as a Council, we can
approve buildings and put stuff up, but the people that are around us, that’s the community. I really
want to thank you for building that community spirit. That’s what makes this the place that it is. Thank
you very much for doing this.” He encouraged residents to look into the funding available through the
County for events and block parties to help build more community spirit.
Council unanimously voted to provide $2,000 to support the wagon rides. Dionne typically starts putting
her display together in September for her grand opening on December 1. She’s been inviting residents
onto her property for well over a decade and said one of the busiest nights is Christmas Eve. “I enjoy
doing this. I love Christmas lights, and the people seem to enjoy it. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate
it.”
The second of the two wagon ride events is happening THIS Saturday from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Food
bank donations are encouraged with two drop-off spots: Santa’s Workshop or the back deck of the main
home. Dionne said she doesn’t have any more storage for new lights but will somehow have to find
more. “I said I wasn’t getting anymore because I don’t have the storage room, but I did end up getting a
few more this year,” she laughed.
The Dionne’s Lights are open nightly from 5-10 pm and are located at 590055 Range Road 121. There
are two ways to reach the property. From Whitecourt, head down West Mountain Road and hang a left
onto Tower Road. This option includes a big hill climb on gravel but is a straight shot. The other option is
to stay on West Mountain Road, climb the big, paved hill, and hang a left onto TWP RD 591A. When you
reach the end of the road, turn right onto Range Road 121. The Dionne’s home will be up the road and
on your left. A driveway full of characters and a large nativity scene will greet you at the gate.