SPRING VALLEY — The Enchanted Village is back and brighter than ever as it welcomes the faith-based community to celebrate the Christmas spirit surrounded by 30,000 holiday lights, decorated trees, photos with Santa, a real snow run, interactive exhibits, live choirs and more. More than 5,000 San Diegans are expected over two weekends, Dec. 13-15 and 20-22, at Noah Homes in Spring Valley.
On Saturday, Dec. 14, at 5:15 p.m., Bishop Robert W. McElroy will lead a procession and live Nativity for “Faith Communities Night,” in collaboration with the Santa Sophia Academy choir, a handbell group, and student actors. This performance is included in the ticket price for the Enchanted Village, which is $14.99 for adults and $9.99 for children ages 3-12.
Now in its second year, the Enchanted Village is hosted on several acres in Spring Valley at Noah Homes, a nonprofit since 1983 dedicated to providing housing, services and advocacy to adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities such as autism and Down syndrome. In addition to a family night of fun, the Enchanted Village also serves as a job opportunity for eight of Noah Homes’ 90 residents.
“I had such a great time last year with my family that this year I’m coming back with friends too,” said Michelle Pardini, an attendee of last year’s event. “The lights, carolers, photos with Santa and free hot chocolate were all reasons enough to come back, but knowing that our fun night is helping fund jobs and homes for people in need truly warms my heart.”
Each night will have at least two choral performing groups and other entertainment. The lineup includes internationally acclaimed Chamber Bravura, Young Actors Theatre, Full Measure Carolers, handbell groups, school choirs, and others.
There will also be plenty of photo opportunities and displays such as 76 giant candy canes, 24 giant lollipops, creative interpretations for “15 days of Christmas,” a Hanukkah display, more than 40 Christmas trees sponsored by local businesses, and a light tunnel.
Building the Enchanted Village was a community effort that involved hundreds of volunteers ranging from students to active-duty military personnel. Sponsors underwriting the construction of the Enchanted Village include Starbucks, community members, and San Diego County Supervisors.
“We were searching for a fun way to get people to come to see the magic that is Noah Homes. We also saw a need for more employment opportunities for our residents and decided to put our faith in a Christmas miracle we now call the Enchanted Village,” said Molly Nocon, CEO of Noah Homes.“Many of San Diego’s holiday traditions have lost their luster and it’s time to spark a new family tradition. I’m so excited to welcome families to Noah Homes for another joyful year of the Enchanted Village.”
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the door or at www.EnchantedVillage.org. There are also still many volunteer opportunities available. Those interested can contact Barbie Bates, Noah Homes Volunteer Coordinator, at BBates@noahhomes.org or (619) 660-6200, ext.127.
