In a season often defined by the "Detty December" party culture, Shornaa Island has carved out a unique space for a different kind of celebration: the intentional reconnection of families for healthy wellbeing.

On Saturday, December 20, 2025, the amusement park located near the Trade Fair in La officially kicked off its Christmas Festival with a stunning Christmas Tree Lighting Spectacular.

The event served as more than just a festive display; it was a symbolic call to action for families to prioritize shared experiences as a foundation for national development.

A Vision of ‘Intentional Fun’ and Nation Building

“Welcome to Shornaa Island, the moment you walk into the island you feel joy, real joy. You are welcomed by colour, music, laughter and the sound of families having fun together. You immediately sense that this is a place where stress is left at the gate,” Mr. Quarshie said.

Addressing the media during the music night that accompanied the lighting, Magnus Lincoln Quarshie, CEO of Xtreme Fun (the operators of Shornaa Island), articulated a vision where leisure serves a higher purpose.

Mr. Quarshie, an engineer by profession who holds a deep interest in urban design and "edutainment," argues that amusement parks offer a critical location for citizens to "de-stress" in a fast-paced world. He believes that the health of a nation is directly tied to the strength of its families.

“The essence and the objective of all of these activities is to remind us that families make a great society, families make a great bond, families build a strong nation. Here at Shornaa, ours is to promote the family—ensuring that daddy, mommy, grandpa, and of course the grandma and the children all bond together. Stronger families eventually create a stronger nation,” he emphasized.

The ‘Island Magic’ Calendar: Nine Days of Wonder

Following the Tree Lighting, which commemorated the "Star of Bethlehem," the park has outlined a robust schedule of events designed to foster this national bond:

• Dec 24: Sing-to-Win & Fireworks: Families are encouraged to take the stage together to sing their favorite songs for prizes, followed by a fireworks display to "announce the Christmas season."
• Dec 25: Santa & Mrs. Sparkle Claus: A chance for children and parents to meet the iconic festive couple for "memorable photos."
• Dec 26: Enchanted Lantern Parade: In a moving display of collective hope, families will light lanterns, "share a blessing or a prayer," and allow them to fly into the sky.
• Dec 27–28: Open-Air Magical Movie Weekend: Screenings of “The Star” and “The Unbreakable Boy” will be held under the stars. Mr. Quarshie noted that while the films are an attraction, the true goal is creating an “ambience where families and friends will sit together to spend time together.”

Ghana’s First International-Standard ‘Fun House’

Shornaa Island isn’t just about the atmosphere; it boasts world-class infrastructure designed for safety and excitement. The park features Africa’s first Fun House experience and the region's largest international bumper car rides.

The ‘Dry’ Side: Guests can engage in mini-golf, the Bungee Jumpy for an adrenaline rush, and the "Mini Convoy" for toddlers. A unique highlight is the "Midway Games," such as "Catch the Stick" and the "Wire Game," which test reflexes and provide "healthy competition" for prizes.

The ‘Aqua’ Zone: The park leverages its lagoon-side location with paddle boats, kayaks, and a dry water fountain that uses lights and music to create a "dancing water" spectacle—a perfect place to "de-stress," according to the CEO.

The Future of Edutainment

Looking beyond the Christmas season, Mr. Quarshie revealed that Shornaa Island is being designed for "edutainment."

Upcoming programs will allow schoolchildren to engage with concepts of renewable energy and nature in a hands-on environment.

“For many visitors, Shornaa is not just a destination; it becomes a tradition. It’s a place where laughter replaces stress, where families reconnect, and where children can simply be children again. Shornaa Island matters because memories matter,” Mr Quarshie concluded.

For the thousands expected to visit this yuletide season, Shornaa Island represents more than a playground—it is a "happy escape" where the joy of today builds the strong Ghana of tomorrow.