The train rides along smoothly at the Winter Wonderland inside Gateway Mall. (Derek Craddock/paNOW Staff)

By Derek Craddock

WINTER WONDERLAND

P.A. families are walking in a winter wonderland indoors this Christmas

Dec 5, 2022 | 12:27 PM

What was once a large retail store in Gateway Mall has transformed into a Christmas Oasis and local families are taking in the excitement.

The Optimist Club of Prince Albert is hosting Winter Wonderland, a Christmas-themed display inside the former Staples store in the mall.

“It’s a holiday event for anybody who loves Christmas,” Carol Markling with the club said. “We have lots of activities for children like story time with Mrs. Claus, train rides, there’s a kid’s craft table. It’s a really fun, family event. I don’t think there’s been anything like this in P.A.”

And don’t forget to take photos.

“There’s also lots of opportunities for people to take selfies if you want to do family selfies,” she said.

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As you enter the magical place through a tunnel of lights, you’ll be greeted with decorative trees and elves standing by to welcome you to the wonderland.

The event started on the Nov. 26 weekend, not long after the Santa Claus Parade concluded on Central Avenue to rave reviews.

“Some really great comments and responses about the event and what we had there,” board member Karla Preston said. “People seemed to enjoy it a lot.”

(Derek Craddock/paNOW Staff)

It’s not long before you stumble upon Santa’s sleigh, which remains empty because the jolly old man is in a house but unfortunately stuck in the fireplace as he tries to make his way out.

Beside that fireplace is a small village house where Mrs. Claus is reading stories to kids enjoying the tales of Christmases past.

Right next to Mrs. Claus’ home is another house belonging to a family from Whoville. Yes, the Grinch himself makes an appearance in this Winter Wonderland but much like his nemesis Santa Claus, he too finds himself stuck, this time in a Christmas tree.

(Derek Craddock/paNOW Staff)

As you walk further, you’ll see more trees decorated with different lights and ornaments. Eventually, you’ll have a chance to get your photo taken with Snowoff.

Right next to the rejoicing, summer-loving snowman is an interesting display inspired by a trend on Pinterest where Christmas trees are half decorated with women’s dresses.

(Derek Craddock/paNOW Staff)

It won’t be long until you come to arguably the best part of the wonderland, the train ride. The conductor welcomes you and the family to his train which does several loops inside the building.

Just a stone’s throw away from there is a beautiful display put on the Prince Albert Model Railroaders. Train enthusiasts like to see model-sized versions of passenger trains, old-style locomotives, farm equipment, and emergency services.

(Derek Craddock/paNOW Staff)

If all that has you tired so far, you’re in luck. A concession stand is nearby offering hot chocolates, homemade cookies, Rice Krispies treats, candy apples, and popcorn. While the weather inside the Winter Wonderland isn’t frightful, it sure is nice to sit with a delightful hot cocoa.

Near the concession is a chance for kids to ride one of Santa’s reindeer. No, not the real kind, but rather the bouncy versions of the popular quadrupeds that both kids and adults enjoy.

Around the corner is another kid’s favourite, the craft table. Here you can decorate your gingerbread man out of paper, pipe cleaners, pom poms and other unique items.

Finally, the end of the Winter Wonderland is upon you but not without a chance to view locally crafted items made by local artists. Painting, wooden displays, candles, book art, and even tumblers are there for you to purchase if you’re still looking for gifts.

Winter Wonderland continues this Friday through Sunday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Dec. 16 to 23 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

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derek.craddock@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @PA_Craddock