ASHLAND — Frigid temperatures didn’t stop Ashland-area residents from setting a world record on Sunday.
Hundreds came to a decked Freer Field to witness history — when Ashland became an official Guinness World Record holder for hosting the largest display of illuminated metal structures/sculptures.
Mittened spectators donning hats were treated with hot cocoa, peppermint donuts, caroling and — just before the moment of dazzling truth — a fireworks display, accompanied by the iconic soundtrack from the “Hallelujah Chorus.”
“This is unique,” said Brittany Dunn, an adjudicator for Guinness World Records.
Dunn flew to Ohio earlier Sunday to determine whether Candy Cane Trail would, indeed, set the world record.
“It’s not often you get a whole city to come and see something happen like this,” Dunn said, gesturing to the sea of residents meandering their way through the mile-or-so trail.
To set the world record, organizers needed to install a minimum of 400 illuminated structures. They also had to represent or symbolize something specific. In this case, the structures represented Christmas trees.
Dunn said she counted 776 of the illuminated tree structures.
“The city of Ashland — you are officially amazing,” Dunn proclaimed to a raucous crowd, hearkening Guinness’ catch phrase.
The Candy Cane Trail’s first iteration featured 295 of the illuminated tree sculptures, along with thematic displays situated along the paved trail.
At the time, Ashland Mayor Matt Miller said the trail featured more than a million twinkling lights.
This year, he wanted to set the record straight. He asked Scott Trumpower, of Innovations In Lights, how many little lights he thought he hung along the trail. He didn’t know. Trumpower is the man behind the installation of the lights, Miller said.
“So, ladies and gentlemen, there’s over five million little twinkling lights out here at Freer Field this Christmas season,” he said. “And if you can prove me wrong, try it.”
So this year’s iteration more than doubled, and the paved trail continued on a loop that connects spectators back to Freer Field’s white barn.
The holiday spectacle happened through a partnership between Dick and Ronda Poorbaugh of Grandpa’s Cheesebarn, the City of Ashland and the Ashland County Parks District. Crews from BCU Electric, McB’s Paving and Innovations In Lights helped put it all together.
If you missed it, you can walk the trail any time before 9:30 p.m. each night through Jan. 5. Walking the trail is free and open to the public.
