With 2020 being a crazy year we wanted to make sure that our family still got the holiday experience. We went over to Altamonte Mall and checked out The Wishing Forest. They had several different experiences to take part in. The Wishing Tree Grove, Memory Grove, and The Giving Grove: each one tailored to a different experience.
The wishing tree was amazing. We were welcomed by several very charismatic merry wishers who explained the experience and what we were in for. They handed us a pinecone to write our secret wish for 2021 and then we entered into the Wishing tree. Once inside, we were amazed at how beautiful it was. There was a lavish chandelier that went to the ceiling and a tube for our pinecone to enter in to. With the doors closed and there just being a twinkle of light, we dropped our pinecone into the tube and waited to see the dazzling light show. Wow! The pinecone shoots up into the atmosphere with lightning speed leaving a trail in its wake. The chandelier began to light up with a whimsical tune and then our wish was off into the atmosphere for it to hopefully come true. I have my fingers crossed! When the light show ended our pinecone was returned to us so that we were able to assemble it into an ornament and we could bring it home as a keepsake to put on our Christmas tree. The Wishing Tree and it’s magical light show is definitely something you have to experience for yourself.
We then headed over to see Santa. First we came across the selfie trees where the lighting was amazing. The girls and I took a few picture but as anyone with toddlers know, it’s almost impossible to get a shot where both of them are looking. Luckily I was able to get Regan to sit tight and look at the camera for one good one. We then headed over to talk to Santa. With COVID happening this year, the experience was a bit different then years past but they did a great job making us feel safe and welcomed considering the circumstances. We left with the girls happy to see the man in the red suit and with that happiness decide to head to the next stop.
Arriving at the Giving Grove the girls eyes lit up again. More lights and this time interactive games for them. We got a few coins and the girls began to drop them in. First stop, the gum ball machine. They were excited to watch the gum ball pop out and as any good mother does, I ate it for them. I would say that the girls favorite activity was the giant music box as they loved watching the lights and trees spin around with the pretty melody playing in the background. The best part of course is that all proceeds benefit Ali’s Hope Foundation. This was definitely teachable moment to show the girls the importance of giving back and supporting our community.
With all the strangeness this year brought, it was great to take some time in the Altamonte Mall enjoy the holiday season and what it has to offer. The wishing forest was an all around great experience and a must do if you are in the area. You still have until 7pm on Christmas Eve to join in all the fun.
Hillary
