SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Another year of Winter Wonderland at Falls Park is coming to a close. Winter Wonderland has been a staple at Falls Park for over 20 years. It attracted big crowds throughout this holiday season, and it was a place where some people made some unforgettable memories.
There were plenty of people that decided to enjoy Winter Wonderland from their cars Sunday, but some people braved the cold.
“I definitely think it’s very nice out here, Like the lights, not the weather,” Hailey Karpinske said.
Will Spaethe and Karpinske had a good reason to be out in the January weather: They got engaged.
“Well, our one year is tomorrow, but I just thought I’d throw her off with it a day before it,” Spaethe said.
They are two of the many people that have seen what Winter Wonderland has to offer this season.
“I know that our numbers are up for Winter Wonderland. The word is out. People come from near and far, really regionally just to see the lights,” Experience Sioux Falls CEO Teri Schmidt said.
The lights have also drawn some praise.
“We get comments from all over the region. People love it. They just love it,” Schmidt said.
But after spreading holiday spirit for about six weeks, it’s about time for the display to be torn down. Sunday was Winter Wonderland’s final night.
“I am kind of sad to see it go. It’s beautiful, and it’s the heart of our city. The lights kind of bring that all together,” Schmidt said.
However, there’s already excitement for next season’s installment of Winter Wonderland.
“Oh, always excited for next year because who knows what’s going to be new? Who knows what lights might be new or what new fascinating things we’ll have for people to see?” Schmidt said.
“Can’t wait for next year to see it again,” Karpinske said.
The display included 29 miles of string lights. It took crews more than 1,500 hours to set up the park.
