Skip to content

The 20th Is The Last

Pipestone Flyer

    Every November for the past 19 years people of all ages, backgrounds and interests have been entertained, dazzled, overwhelmed, awed - -- and every other word that can describe the premier family event that has been held in Wetaskiwin. It was nineteen years ago a loyal group of community minded people led by Dot Brekke decided Wetaskiwin and region needed a family orientated event to kick-off to the festive season. Sadly, this year will be the 20th, and final year for Gingerbread and Glitter. Although each year saw some changes, ‘G. and G.’ as it became known, always maintained a focus on the serving families and the community.  

    Gingerbread and Glitter 20th edition will be hosted on November 15th-17th, 2013. Each year the Drill Hall is transformed into a dazzling display of decorated trees, wreaths, creative creations, and of course gingerbread displays. Each year community organizations, businesses and individuals support this event with auction items, sponsorship and donations. Dot Brekke  proudly states that over the years the event was kept reasonably priced so all residents could attend.  “We have kept it affordable as admission is a food item, cash donation or an unwrapped gift. The other important thing about Gingerbread and Glitter is we can proudly say 100 % of proceeds raised go directly to charitable causes in the community.”

    The program is always full of fun and entertainment and is suited to all ages. Dorothy unveils the new and exciting activities planned for 2013.  “The program is pretty similar each year but we try to change it up a bit each year. It all begins on Friday, November 15th with a display of the decorated trees and gingerbread creations, Christmas Craft Fair and Kids Korner. During this time we will be serving free coffee and donuts.” 

    Beginning at 1:00 until 5:45 the Entertainment Stage in the Drill Hall will provide a steady stream of entertainment.  At 6:45 pm, people will line Main Street for the Wetaskiwin Firefighters Santa Parade. At the end of the parade they are invited to the Drill Hall to warm up with free hot chocolate before proceeding to the  Norm Brown Field  at 9:30 for the Backyard Fireworks.  (These are not commercial fireworks but the ‘backyard or beach’ type that have permission to be set off in town).

    Saturday begins with a pancake breakfast at 8:30 am.  Again, there will be a variety of acts on the Entertainment Stage in the Drill Hall throughout the day, the displays, Christmas Craft Fair and Kids Korner.  Sunday the festivities begin with a beef-on-a-bun brunch from 11:00 am to 3:00 and once again a variety of entertainment. Check your local newspapers and bill boards throughout the town for more detailed information.

    The proceeds from Gingerbread and Glitter are invested directly back into the community. “We have supported many worthwhile causes over the years but have narrowed it down to 3 local charities in recent years; Secret Santa, The Wetaskiwin Health Foundation and the Food Bank.” Gingerbread and Glitter also makes donations to other groups such as Horizons Centre for helping out with the event. Each year an estimated 2300 hours of volunteerism make Gingerbread and Glitter possible. Clubs, individuals and businesses become ‘one’ to prepare for the event. They need your help once again.

    Businesses and organizations have recently been sent entry & sponsorship forms. If you did not get yours, you can enter online or download the form from their website. http://www.gingerbreadandglitter.com/.

“We are looking for your participation in the following ways:

    Entries, cash donations and raffle/silent auction items - we still need lots of these. If you are planning to do any of these but haven't formally notified us yet, can you please send us a quick email so we don't call and bug you 

    Volunteers - We are starting to call for volunteers to work setup/teardown and during the event.  If you are able to help out, please let us know.  

    Entertainment – looking for individuals and groups who would like to perform on our entertainment stage...let us know if you are.

    Any youth groups fundraising? We offer a small donation for helping us with some of the events (our way of giving back to the community and getting help).   Contact me for more details.

    Floats for the Wetaskiwin Firefights Santa Parade – registration information on website.

    As well, please encourage everyone else you know to enter or volunteer! It is our last year and we want to make it the best!!! Thanks Dot.”

    For more info, call me at 780-361-7779, email us at gingerbread_glitter@yahoo.com or check out our website http://www.gingerbreadandglitter.com/