SUNDRE – Courtesy of a new addition to the expansive seasonal lights display on an acreage just minutes west of Sundre, visitors who perhaps had one too many cups of coffee or hot chocolate didn't have to hurry home should nature suddenly come calling.
Sprawling out over approximately three acres, the colourful decorations that adorn the property of Jackie and Allan Forbes just south of Highway 584 can take a little while to walk through.
So, Jackie said she was immensely grateful when the owner of Our Can recently offered to set up at no cost a port-o-potty for the public.
“That was very nice of him,” she told the Albertan.
Although the display has been available for public viewing since Dec. 1, work began much sooner as the pet project is something she essentially tackles on her own and would be far too great a task for a weekend.
“It’s non-stop from September on,” she said.
“Seems like every year I get more out there.”
Jackie’s been at it for so long that she cannot quite recall exactly how many years, but it’s been well over a decade.
“I love reading the guest book,” she said when asked what keeps her fired up about putting up the display every year.
“It’s quite amazing where they’re all from,” she said.
“We’ve seen people from pretty much all over the world,” she said, adding they’re often visiting to see their family for the holidays and along the way come out to see the display.
“And the kids,” she said about what keeps her passionate.
“I can hear the kids inside; they’re running and happy,” she said, adding even the adults seem to enjoy themselves.
“It’s just, it’s joyful,” she said. “Everybody needs a little cheer.”
Among this year’s additions are some new archways and angels as well as inflatables, she said. And there’s no right or wrong way to explore the winding paths that branch off in different directions.
Although there is no cost of admission, anyone who might be so inclined is certainly welcome to offer a contribution at the gazebo where the guestbook is.
“You can put a donation if you like, but if not that’s fine too,” she said.
Although every little bit helps, as the power bill does add up.
“It’s huge,” she said, chuckling. “You’re looking at probably roughly $1,000 each month.”
People are welcome to drop by any time before 9 p.m. on weekdays, while the lights are left on until 10 p.m. on weekends.
Some have already been out to visit since earlier this month, and she expressed appreciation not only for those who take the time out of their busy schedules to drop by, but also for ensuring the acreage remains tidy.
Plenty of people show up with a cup of coffee from local shops in their hands, but “everybody’s been very respectful; there’s never been any garbage.”
