Canad Inns Winter Wonderland runs November 30 to January 5, 2019 at Red River Exhibition Park. (HANDOUT)

WINNIPEG — The lights are up and the big switch just needs to be flicked.

Canad Inns Winter Wonderland will officially light up the holiday season beginning tonight, taking Christmas revellers through 26 different theme areas.

“It’s a special time around here at Christmas and we’re always pleased when Winnipeg families make Canad Inns Winter Wonderland one of their annual holiday destinations,” said Garth Rogerson, Red River Exhibition CEO.

Since its launch 19 years ago, the exhibition has been able to raise more than $300,000 Manitoba charities on behalf of those who attend.

Canad Inns Winter Wonderland opens at 6 p.m. tonight and operates nightly from 6-10 p.m. until Saturday, January 5, 2019 (closed on Christmas Day).

Advance vehicle passes can be purchased for $15 at any Canad Inns Winnipeg location, Red River Co-op grocery store and gas bar or Circle K (formerly Mac’s) convenience store. Vehicle tickets are $20 for each family vehicle at the gate (up to seven people).

What to expect

Guests will be able to take some great pictures near the skating rink at the “Wonderland Photo Stop” featuring a polar bear statue, a gingerbread family, elves and more! Free horse-drawn sleigh rides happen Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting. On Wednesday nights, the first 100 vehicles in line will receive one pair of free 3D glasses to see a special effect that lights up right in front of your eyes. A free skating rink will be available for use; however, it will open once the pond is safe enough to skate on.

A portion of this year’s proceeds will be donated to KidSport Manitoba and the Red River Exhibition Foundation.