Winter Wonderfest apologizes to discontented guests
My family and I were present opening night, see my Winter Wonderfest Review and other information regarding the event. I admit we were underwhelmed after reading the description on their web page, but we also did make the best of it and have some fun. I also admire the fact they have admitted they failed customers and are trying to improve the event for future guests as well as offer a revisit to those who found themselves disappointed. I will in fact be returning December 1st and will update this post with a new review.On November 25th, Winter Wonderfest posted an apology to guests who participated in opening night on Facebook.
The apology is making the news and to try and win back customers, Peter Orr says admission, bounce houses and rides are free to everyone from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. this coming Friday, Dec. 1, 2017.
While Orr says refunds are not available for dissatisfied customers who came over this last weekend, he is offering another free visit for those who contact him.
He hopes the revamped park impresses future customers as they wish this to become a staple event for the Christmas Season in the future.
http://www.facebook.com/WinterWonderfestAZ/posts/1770803013219893
"First and foremost, we want to thank everyone who attended our opening night, Friday, November 24th.
While there may be several reasons; there is absolutely no excuse for the challenges and disappointments some our guests and their families experienced.
As new promoters, our intent was to be able to deliver 100% of our vision for this new holiday Arizona event. We are fully aware that we disappointed many of you, and we want to offer our most sincere apologies to you, and to your families.
We are making every effort possible to improve the experience moving forward and live up to the true potential of this event, both for those of you who attended this past Friday, and for all future patrons.
We are committed to the long term success and improvement of this event, as well as dedicated “to making it right” for those of you, whose experience at our event, did not live up to your expectations. For these folks, we are asking that you email us at winterwonderfestaz@gmail.com, giving us the ability to communicate and resolve these issues directly and personally with you.
Please be patient and allow us a few days to ensure we are able to respond to each and every one on of you.
Sincerely,
Josh Ahearn & Peter Orr
Managing Partners and Owners, Winter Wonderfest AZ."
My two cents
I went back for the free apology day, with one of my kids and had way more fun without spending a ton.
There was some new decoration which did increase the atmosphere and the snow pit was a nice addition. Part of the issue I think is the venue, a dirt lot is hard to dress up. They also adjusted the hours so it is dusk and lights are on when people arrive, rather than opening at 2PM, which has upset some people, but you can't please everyone.
There were still only like 3 vendors selling things and not really 'Christmas Gift' type stuff. Even Glendale Glitters lacked in vendors this year. I am not sure if it was the event, the vendor fees or the number of attractions this year, but there just does not seem to be an event with vendors to find gifts.
Now the cost VS value will have increased for those going the next two weekends, compared to the first weekend. However you still should expect to pay for rides, s'mores and crafts. Winter Wonderfest since having lowered their entry fee has started applying the difference in amount paid for pre-purchased tickets to the new $10 admission towards ride tickets.
