Over 150 docents and volunteers join a staff of over 1000 employees to fill a multitude of jobs , many filled by our local youths . Photographed here is Linda Keahey , a volunteer since 2008 , with Matthew Katterhagen and Matt Peatfield , both from the rides department .
In 2004 , Holiday Lights was added to the parks calendar . In addition to having a wonderful family amusement park in our own backyard every summer , each Christmas season , millions of twinkling lights come on throughout the park and it is transformed into a holiday wonderland . Over the years , the park has offered a holiday fest , laser light show , Santa ’ s workshop , “ A Charlie Brown Christmas ” show , ice skating , holiday music and themed rides . Although final plans for this year won ’ t be released until August , the month of December ( Friday , Saturday & Sunday ) is sure to include a visit to Gilroy Gardens .
In 1981 , amusement rides were added to the park .
2007
Restructuring Of Bonfante Gardens Bonfante Gardens had accrued a huge debt . Something had to change . Bob Kraemer ( 1940-2008 ) and the then , Board of Directors was able to restructure the debt and proposed that the City of Gilroy purchase the Gardens for only $ 13 million , the outstanding debt . Even if the Garden did not continue as an amusement park , the 536 acres had the potential to become the “ Golden Gate Park ” of Gilroy .
A 2009 study on local and regional economic impact credits the Gardens with increased employment , tourism , direct and indirect spending , education , and local and regional awareness for Gilroy .