Pine's Holiday Dazzle 2022 features family focused activities

Two years in a row might not yet make it a tradition, but having a sloth at the annual Holiday Dazzle in Pine could be heading in that direction.

“We like to have this event before Thanksgiving to get people in the mood for the holidays,” said Gina Kampi, program and recreation coordinator at the Pine Community Center. “There’s a lot of fun family activities and always a great time.”

Holiday Dazzle 2022 is scheduled from 4 to 7 p.m. on Nov. 19 at the community center.

There will be an ice carver, food vendors, live reindeer, cookie decorating, train rides, a train display and performances by the Allegro Ballet Academy and the Pine Richland Orchestra.

Kids also will get a chance to meet Santa and the night will cap off with a fireworks display.

Bakers are invited to show off their skills by registering for the Gingerbread House contest. Their creations will on display during the event for visitors to vote on. The house with the most votes will win a prize.

To participate in the baking contest, pick up a form and the requirements at the Pine Community Center located at 100 Pine Park Drive.

One of the low-key but popular features at last year’s event was a display of sloths from the Wild World of Animals preserve in Eighty Four.

“The sloths are about the size of a wiener dog and so cute,” Kampi said. “They’re out in the open so people can get up real close to check them out. They were a big hit last year, so we decided to bring them back.”

Registration is required to attend the event because space is limited. The sign up page also can be reached at bit.ly/3WlkRiC.

The cost is $5 per person.

Organizers expect the event, which can accommodate up to 1,200 people, to sell out as it has in previous years, Kampi said.

As of Nov. 3, 300 tickets had been sold. A limited number of tickets will be sold at the door if spaces is available. Tickets are required for all people 1 or older who will be attending.