Tioga Downs opens 'Winterfest'

Tioga Downs officially opened their Winterfest Celebration Friday night.

The casino is using a mix of old time traditions and new technology to help get people in the holiday spirit. The celebration features a light show with the latest and greatest technology.

"There are approximately 36,000 lights here. We have the one tree that is over three stories tall, and there is over 3,700 lighting channels on it,” said Ken Williams, designer and creator of the light show.

Each light bulb is capable of doing more than 16 million colors, which makes the show exactly what Tioga Downs hoped it would be.

"Our owner Mr. Gural has wanted to do something for the winter time and holiday events. He wanted to create memories from far away and right here in our backyard," said Linn Redder, vice-president of marketing at Tioga Downs.

Winterfest also has activities that will get you out of your seat and on the move. One of the fan favorites at Winterfest so far is taking a ride around the track. You can either be pulled by tractor or by horse. The light show can be seen from wherever you are on the track.

Every aspect of Winterfest has a holiday feel, that is bringing families together.

"It was a great time. It is nice that Tioga Downs is doing things for families these days. It is a nice way to celebrate the holidays with your family," said Janelle St. Clair.

Before Friday night was over, Williams was already thinking about ways to improve Winterfest.

"We are already developing ideas for next year to improve,” he added. “This is something that has never been done in the Southern Tier."

Winterfest will be open through Jan. 3 and there is no cost to attend.