By JESSE SCOTT
FOR THE FREE LANCE-STAR
From Joyeux Noel to Frohe Weihnachten, Busch Gardens has found several ways to say "Merry Christmas" to its guests this season.
Starting tomorrow, the Williamsburg theme park will be transformed into "Christmas Town" for the very first time. The park's cultural neighborhoods will be dressed up to capture the global Christmas spirit--including great food and a handful of its renowned attractions.
"For the first time ever, we're open for the holiday and Christmas season," said Scott Gasparich, vice president of Entertainment for Busch Gardens. "We have over 1 million Christmas lights, wreaths, garlands, trees and lots of special decor."
In addition to the decorations, special shows and concerts, carolers and musicians will be performing across the park. And of course, Santa will be in the house. Or in Das Festhaus, in case you find yourself in the part of the park focused on Christmas cheer in Germany.
In addition to experiencing the Christmas traditions and authentic music of England, France, Ireland and Germany, guests will have the opportunity to get up-close and personal with live penguins. The loveable creatures are being transported from Sea World in San Antonio, Texas.
Patrons should also come with an appetite. From a vast selection of hearty soups in bread bowls to gingerbread to kettle corn, there will be many ways to satisfy the palate.
"Our Christmas Town event is all about sharing the Christmas spirit with friends and family," said Gasparich. ¨It's about capturing those heartfelt memories and the tradition of Christmas."
And visitors looking to make a day (or more) out of their Busch Gardens visit are in luck. Colonial Williamsburg has teamed up with Busch Gardens to offer the Williamsburg Christmas Bounce Ticket. The ticket is available for $69 and provides seven consecutive days admission to Colonial Williamsburg and Christmas Town.
"The Williamsburg region itself is known for its Christmas celebrations," said Kevin Crossett, manager of communications for Busch Gardens. "Colonial Williamsburg's Grand Illumination is one of the more popular celebrations in the state. The bounce ticket is a great way for guests to enjoy Colonial Williamsburg throughout the day, and finish the night with some good family fun."
For those looking to kick off the Christmas season with a wow, yum and the occasional carol, Christmas Town is the place to do it.
Jesse Scott is a Fredericksburg writer.
| What: Christmas Town: A Busch Gardens celebration When: Nov. 27-Dec. 27 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (3-10 p.m.). The park will be open daily Dec. 18-27, with the exception of Christmas Day. Christmas Eve hours are 3-9 p.m. Where: Busch Gardens Williamsburg Cost: $19.95. Annual passholders receive a 50 percent discount, free parking and in-park discounts. The Williamsburg Bounce ticket is available for $69. Info: 800/343-7946; christ mastown.com, buschgardens .com |