As the holiday season settled over the Interlake, a stretch of Winfield Road once again transformed into a glowing Christmas wonderland.
Jacquie Derewianchuk and Mark Shurek lit up their home with more than 60,000 Christmas lights, creating a dazzling display that could be seen from miles away along Highway 7 at Winfield Road. The annual spectacle, known as A Very Merry Winfield Christmas Winter Wonderland, has become a beloved community tradition.
Beyond the sparkle, the event carried a meaningful purpose. For one evening in December, the couple opened their yard to the public for a drive-through light display, inviting donations in support of Community Living Interlake.
Visitors enjoyed hot chocolate, bonfire warming stations, horse-drawn wagon rides provided by KB Clydesdales and family photos with Santa, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
“The night was chilly, but our hearts were warmed by the fires and the smiles that surrounded us,” Derewianchuk said.
Community Living Interlake executive director Tracy Fidler said the organization is deeply grateful for the continued generosity behind the event.
“Once again, Jacquie and Mark created an amazingly successful event that brought joy to our community,” Fidler said. “We recognize the tremendous time, effort and dedication it takes to organize this event each year, and we are truly grateful. Their continued support and generous donation to Community Living Interlake means so much.”
Through donations collected during the drive-through display and generous sponsorship support from Badger Daylighting, Denray Tire, Evergreen Custom Landscaping, Insureline, Access Credit Union, Tri-Core, Bituminex Paving Ltd. and Peterbilt Manitoba, the event raised $30,000.
Plans are already underway to make next year’s event even bigger and brighter.
Community Living Interlake supports individuals living with disabilities, and donations are still being accepted. Those wishing to contribute can arrange a donation by texting Derewianchuk at 1-204-461-2057.
