November 17, 2006

Windermere annual Winter Wonderland Celebration to be held Dec. 7-10

Windermere Silicon Valley Properties is finalizing the details for its annual Winter Wonderland celebration, a four-day event that will take place Dec. 7 through Dec. 10 at Canyon Creek Plaza.

Children can enjoy having their photograph taken with Santa Claus at Windermere’s Winter Wonderland.

Children will enjoy making holiday crafts and sitting on Santa’s lap for a commemorative photograph. Adults will be treated to refreshments and the sights and sounds of the season, including holiday music performed by local groups.

“We were looking for another way to give back to the community we serve,” said Dave Walsh, manager of the Windermere office. “Our agents are instrumental in bringing together all the details of the celebration and staffing the event over the four days. With over 1,000 families attending each year, we all enjoy the feeling of bringing a joyous start to the holiday season for so many.”

“My kids love this event,” added Lynne Ziffer, who has attended previous Winter Wonderland celebrations. “We’ll be there on opening night waiting for Santa’s arrival.”

Windermere’s Winter Wonderland is free to all those who attend. It will take place at Canyon Creek Plaza, located near Cosentino’s on Silver Creek Valley Road. Festivities commence at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday evening with the arrival of Santa Claus, followed by a tree lighting ceremony. The hours for this event are Thursday from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m., Friday 3 p.m. until 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.

“Each year we learn how to improve our presentation,” said Walsh. “This year, a copy of photos taken with Santa Claus will be available electronically the week following the event. This could allow people to use the photos taken at Windermere Wonderland as part of their holiday greeting cards.”

Each photo will be assigned a number on the back. Those interested can email santa@windermere.com the week after the Winter Wonderland event and reference a photo number. Windermere will then send them a copy of that photo to the interested party.

Scheduled entertainment this year includes the return of Manual Romero and the Villages Hand Bells group. K.R. Smith Elementary School children will perform, as well as the Mt. Pleasant High School Band and the Evergreen High School Brass Ensemble. Additionally, the Cantabile Choir and Villages Choir will be there to entertain.

“There’s nothing like witnessing children’s delight during the holiday season,” said Scott Kliewer, owner of the Windermere office. “We’re pleased to hold this event for the community and look forward to seeing lots of smiles and joy that weekend.”