Hanging with some Christmas celebrities at the recent “North Pole” event at the FIC

After an immensely successful kick-off last year, the Town of Whitecourt held their second annual “A Night at the North Pole” event last weekend. Initially created as a way to get people together outside during indoor restrictions without the issue of having people unable to enter the AJMC, the Town decided to use the expansive open grounds at the Forest Interpretive Centre.

This year, the staff brought in a couple of new things and were able to use an area they weren’t able to previously. “Last year, we really wanted to use the barn, but we couldn’t figure out how because there’s no power down there or anything like that. So, we thought maybe we could make the wagon rides work. We will see how it goes, and maybe for next year, we can build on it if it’s an option. We love that we can use the red barn this way because it’s just gorgeous,” explained Emma Harper, Recreation Coordinator for the Town of Whitecourt.

Red barns are synonymous with Christmas, popping up in numerous holiday movies, including most of the sometimes cringy but always addicting films made by a well-known card company. “It was meant to be. People were already lining up to go on a ride before Cactus Patch Ranch got out there and were ready to take people around the loop. There was excitement right away. It’s definitely the most popular thing so far tonight.”

Harper said that they added in more lights and that, being the second time around, it was easier to organize everything and set it up. “It’s always a big task for us, so it was nice that it was a bit easier this year.” They also brought in a few new performers, including the talented trio, The Sugar Plums. Santa and Mrs. Claus utilized the deck of one of the outer buildings, posing for pictures with children and hearing about their wish lists ahead of Christmas morning. The Grinch made the rounds, too, bringing out the giggles in guests.

One towering guest that was new this year was Jack Skellington. The main character from The Nightmare Before Christmas was up on stilts and had guests in awe as he maneuvered the snowy terrain with ease. “We are so happy to have him here with us. It’s a neat addition this year,” said Harper.

Outside of the new guests, the event featured many of the same popular things, including a craft station (provided by BGC Whitecourt & District), elf games, and fire pits to warm up by while sipping hot chocolate provided by Tim Hortons. “We added a bit here and there, but overall, we kept it similar to last year because it went over so well. We wanted to keep a good thing going.”

As families walked the grounds, listening to Christmas carols and taking in the sights, Harper said it was a joy to see people enjoying themselves. “It’s always a nice surprise when you get a lot of people out at an event. Last year, we were expecting quite a few people with things just opening back up, and we were able to offer something, and we knew that people would be excited to do something finally. It’ll be interesting to see how it goes this year and if we see more people or the same number of people as last year since many more things are happening now, and people are busy again.”

If the consistent stream of vehicles entering the Forest Interpretive Centre parking lot was any indication, the event was once again a big hit. “It’s so much fun to do events like this where everyone can come together and participate. It’s open, and we have lots of space and can have different activities happening that people will enjoy. It’s great to see families out and having fun together. It’s heartwarming.”

Hearing the jingle of bells as the wagon circled the cleared path by the barn was the icing on the cake. “It just makes sense to have some kind of animal at a Christmas event, like horses, because it adds that extra bit of magic. The wagon ride was pretty high on our list of things to have this year, and I’m so glad it worked out and that people are enjoying it.”

After a super chilly evening the night before for the Chamber’s Santa Claus Parade, Harper said they had their fingers crossed that Mother Nature would warm things up a bit. “The weather makes all the difference on how many people you get and whether or not they will stay and enjoy the event. It’s great when it works out, and we see so many people hanging out, having fun, and feeling that sense of community. It’s a great night!”