Hundreds of families gathered on North 34th Court in Ridgefield on Saturday, Dec. 14, to take part in Candy Cane Lane, a free holiday event that has quickly become a beloved tradition in the community.
The third annual event, organized by the Bella Noche Homeowner’s Association (HOA), brought festive cheer to attendees with lights, music, treats and holiday magic.
The Bella Noche HOA, consisting of 34 homes, spearheaded the event to create a joyful and inclusive holiday experience amid rising costs. HOA President Lindy Pendzick shared that the idea for Candy Cane Lane emerged in 2020 during the pandemic as neighbors sought ways to uplift the community during a challenging time.
“This kind of came organically because everybody was decorating and doing such an amazing job, and I thought, ‘Wow, I don't have to go anywhere to enjoy some amazing light displays right here on my street.’ A couple of us chatted about it. We said, ‘What if we were to make this a thing?’” Pendzick said.
Since then, Candy Cane Lane has grown into a collaborative community effort. Volunteers handed out free treats, including candy canes, cookies and hot cocoa, with The Beverage Bar, a local trailer bar, contributing to the festive refreshments. Children delighted in meeting Santa Claus, elves and even The Grinch, all portrayed by local volunteers. Meanwhile, Ridgefield-based business Clark Christmas Lights decorated evergreen trees south of the cul-de-sac, adding to the holiday ambiance.
“It’s a big, amazing community event because we see neighbors helping neighbors — the way it should be. The way it used to be,” Pendzick said. “We’re thrilled to host it on this street. It’s very magical.”
Each year, HOA members and volunteers work together to elevate the event. Homes, streetlights and archways were adorned with dazzling lights, creating a whimsical atmosphere. Homeowners added their unique touches, such as a snow machine for kids to enjoy and take photos. James Cameron, an HOA resident, turned his driveway into a cozy break station complete with a fire pit, chairs and a projector playing “The Nativity.”
The event also featured lively performances that brought the community together. Lindy Pendzick led children in singing Christmas carols, handing out holiday bells for them to shake to the music. Her husband, Greg Pendzick, and his band of volunteers performed holiday classics, adding a musical highlight to the evening.
As families enjoyed the festivities, volunteers gathered donations later provided to Ridgefield's Family Resource Center to provide warm clothes for families in need. Contributions from local sponsors, including Costco and Rosauers, provided funds for snacks and equipment this year. Lindy Pendzick is already excited to plan future Candy Cane Lane events for years to come. In the meantime, residents are invited to visit and enjoy the holiday lights still on display this season.
“We're thrilled we get to do this, and we hope it brings smiles on people's faces and a wonderful addition to the holiday season for a lot of people,” she said.