Winter Wonderland
Illuminate the winter season at Southwick’s Zoo’s annual walk-through holiday lights festival – Winter Wonderland! This Christmas Eve, visit Winter Wonderland from 5 PM – 7:30 PM.
When is Winter Wonderland?
Winter Wonderland runs Fridays through Sundays and select weekdays from November 20, 2026 to January 3, 2027. Click here to view the full calendar.
*** Winter Wonderland will be closed on Christmas Day, December 25, 2026 and New Year’s Day, January 1, 2027.
What is Winter Wonderland?
Winter Wonderland is a one-of-a-kind winter holiday festival featuring over 4 million dazzling lights, nightly shows and entertainment, seasonal sips and snacks, visits from holiday characters, and everything in between to light up the most magical time of the year.
Winter Wonderland Event Highlights
A Premier Holiday Lights Display
Explore over 40 acres of larger-than-life holiday lights displays, sparkling light tunnels, and glowing decorations that are sure to mesmerize the senses. Perfect for all with a sense of wonder, children and adults alike, the festival will take you through the park’s paths, gleaming with millions of dazzling lights along the way.
Pro Tip: Bring a camera or make sure your phone is charged – you won’t want to miss these photo opportunities!
Live Shows & Entertainment All Night Long
Back by popular demand, the Ice Queens have returned with some friends to captivate audiences in their captivating, high-energy live performances. This beloved show will be featured at 6 PM at the show arena, sprinkling just a bit more magic to your evening.
Pro Tip: Stick around for a few minutes after Ice Queen and Friends shows to grab a picture with the cast!
Share Holiday Wishes with Santa Himself
Santa’s Barn will be open nightly, where guests of all ages can meet Santa Claus himself, share their holiday wishes, and capture a photo that will last a lifetime.
Pro Tip: Santa’s Barn will be open all night long, so if the line is long, circle back before you leave!
Family-Friendly Animal Attractions
Although many of Southwick’s Zoo’s animals will be cuddled up for the night during Winter Wonderland, the pygmy goats at the petting zoo will be available to share in the glee with. The rainforest room will also be open for guests to explore its many wonderful creatures.
Pro Tip: Bring quarters to purchase goat food at the Petting Zoo to hand-feed the goats!
Carousel Rides Under the Winter Lights
Take a ride on the Within the Wild Carousel during your visit. Located in our heated carousel building and featuring beautifully crafted animals to ride on, this charming ride brings classic carousel magic to Winter Wonderland.
*** Carousel ride tickets are sold separately and are not included with admission. Tickets can be purchased for $5/ride at the carousel building.
Seasonal Flavors Aplenty
Add to the spirit of the season with holiday treats and festive drinks throughout the park. Whether you want to warm up by one of the cozy fire pits with a perfectly roasted s’more, sip on spiked hot cocoa, savor the flavor of a classic fresh-baked holiday cookie, or indulge in hand-rolled pretzels – there’s something for everyone to try at Winter Wonderland!
*** Food and beverage are sold separately and are not included with admission. Food and beverages can be purchased at any of our available dining venues.
Holiday Shopping and Unique Gifts at the Purple Peacock
Before you wrap up your night, take the opportunity to discover a treasure trove of holiday cheer at the Purple Peacock Gift Shop. From soft plushes and festive décor, to souvenirs and apparel, find unique gifts you can’t get anywhere else for the ones you love.
And don’t forget – The Purple Peacock Gift Shop offers free gift wrapping all season long!
Join us at Winter Wonderland this Season
Whether you’re planning a festive outing with the family, spreading holiday cheer with friends, or having a date night under the lights, join us at Winter Wonderland to light up the spirit of the season.
Purchase tickets online to save on admission, or purchase at the gate.
For more information, visit the Winter Wonderland page.
