The Bay Area’s most immersive holiday event returns this year, sparkling brighter than ever before. WinterFest brings holiday cheer to California’s Great America as the park is magically transformed into a winter wonderland and holiday festival. Guests can ice-skate in front of the iconic Carousel Columbia, take in the dazzling sights, sip on crafted hot chocolate and marvel at spectacular live shows. ​

With more than 60 rides and holiday attractions, such as sending letters to the North Pole, checking out Santa’s workshop and baking cookies in Mrs. Claus’ kitchen, and all the scrumptious holiday fare at numerous dining locations—WinterFest has something for guests of all ages and appetites. This enchanted wintery world and Christmas celebration is dominated by one of the Bay Area’s tallest Christmas trees adorned with thousands of twinkling lights accompanied by giant toy soldiers greeting guests. This amazing event features millions of lights, creating a Christmas event for the entire family. .​

Live Entertainment

Let our world class performers put the spirit into your season.  Enjoy your favorite holiday live entertainment, including Holly Jolly Trolley, Cool Yule Christmas, and much more.

Lights & Sights

Enter WinterFest and be transported to a whole new world as you experience warm displays of soft, ambient holiday lights. Gather around to watch brilliant lights dance to festive holiday music or take a trip back to heart-warming holidays of yesteryear with traditional sights, sounds, and experiences.

Experiences & Activities

Fill your night with holiday fun like ice skating on Snow Flake Lake, write a letter to Santa, decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus, find that perfect gift for someone special and get a family photo with the big man in red himself!

Tree Lighting Ceremony

Kick off WinterFest in the most spectacular way with appearances by SNOOPY and our holiday singers.

Location: Celebration Plaza Stage

Holiday Music

The Mistletones The MistleTones trio of songstresses performs classic Christmas tunes reminiscent of the 1940s.
Location: Tinsel Town

The Kris Kringles Classic Barbershop meets the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! Join the Kris Kringles in the Hometown Square Gazebo for singing good time!
Location: Hometown Square Gazebo

Cool Yule Christmas Our joyful entertainers perform all your favorite Christmas pop songs in this high- energy, high-fun show!
Location: Celebration Plaza

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