My lady and I arrived at the park on Friday for our first time ever at OTC. All I can say is "WOW". From the moment we got in the gates we were really in awe. I expected it to be good but there's nothing like being there. We walked around the park and then to some shops and then decided to go to the Opera House for Dickens. Man what a show! Really did not anticipate THAT much quality. The story, the set, live music, singing, acting, etc. etc. the whole production was top quality and spectacular.
We hit the train ride and this was our favorite part of the entire trip. Goosebumps. I will never forget this train ride. What SDC is all about.
Walked around some more, when to the tree lighting which was really cool. Stepping into Wilderness Church is always a good moment. There was no late parade due to weather. It was cold and sprinkling, but I must say it may have been the best time I've ever had strolling the park. The lady and I walked around at night amongst all the lights and we felt like the town was ours. There was no one there, and it was wonderful. We left late with big smiles on our faces.
Got there today (sunday) at 1:00 and went down to the Christmas barn and planned to try our first apple dumplings then hit "It's a Wonderful Life". Was disappointed to find that the apple dumpling place wasn't open yet...and when someone got there at 1:15 she said she had to get stuff set up then would open. Well, 1:40 rolled around and the dumplings STILL weren't ready so we decided they did not deserve our business and went into the play. This is my only complaint of the trip. The park opens at 1:00, why can't you be open and ready by then? It's afternoon for heaven's sake. But it was a teenager and I suppose I did teenager things at that age too. So I didn't get to try these famous dumplings...next time.
It's a wonderful life was good, not as good as Dickens but it was good. (goes to show you the talent of SDC as most actors and the director for Dickens are SDC regulars). Hit the Living Nativity--it served it's purpose. Watched the lights parade and that was nice. Wanted to go to the Pickers but it was packed with people; a few grumps gave us the stink eye for even trying to come in, so we decided to wait until summer. Walked around, bought some Christmas gifts, froze our butts off and left.
It was cold. But I'm used to it and it added to the "Christmas" theme. Did not ride a single ride. Also did not get to see the saloon show--seems as all the shows are at the same time--so it will have to wait until next time. Not enough time for SDC!
Overall an impressive first trip to Old Time Christmas! The Lady kept mentioning "next year". yes!!
