Boardwalk Winter Wonderland
November 26, 2026 –
January 3, 2027
(Select Dates)
Get in the holiday spirit – Celebrate the season at the beach!
Winter Wonderland is Admission Free!
Free Nightly Light Shows
Every 15 minutes, 5pm-8pm
In the Main Plaza
Hours
12pm – 7pm
- Thursday-Sunday: November 26-29
- Saturdays-Sundays: December 5-6 & 12-13
- Every Day: December 19 – January 3
Rides & Games
- Limited Rides & Attractions Wristband – Purchase in advance to save!
- Expect 10-15 rides open during Winter Wonderland, weather permitting.
- PLUS – $2 Rides after 5pm!
Photos with Santa
Create a new holiday tradition with a one-of-a-kind photo experience at Boardwalk Winter Wonderland! Gather your family, strike a pose with Santa aboard a Giant Dipper car, and capture magical holiday memories you’ll treasure for years to come.
- Dates Available: Select days and times from November 27 – December 24.
- Location: Main Plaza (next to Double Shot)
Every photo package includes an exclusive Snowflake Photo Keepsake!
Check back soon to purchase.
Holiday Food
Find festive treats around every corner, featuring:
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup and Banana Crepe
- Dubai Chocolate Crepe
- Holi-Dog
- Specialty Espresso Drinks
- and more!
Ocean-view Fire Pits
Cozy up around fire pits overlooking the beautiful Monterey Bay!
- Fire pits turned on at 5pm during Winter Wonderland days.
- Fire pits areas are conveniently located near Boardwalk Grille and Dipper Smash Burgers & Milkshakes.
- All fire pits are first come first serve.
Shopping
Retail Sale!
11/27/26 – 1/3/27
- 50% off select Santa Cruz Skateboards Apparel
- 75% off select Boardwalk merchandise
- $3.50 socks (no show only)
Special Dates
Holiday Train Rides
November 27, - December 31, 2026 (dates vary)
Celebrate the holiday season with a ride on a festive train!
- Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train
- Santa Cruz Chanukah Train (One night only!)
- New Year's Train
Winter Wonderland: Opening Celebration
Saturday, November 28, 2026
Help us kick off Winter Wonderland with a night full of holiday magic! Enjoy a festive drone show, a sparkling tree lighting countdown, live entertainment, and complimentary cookies and hot cocoa to warm your holiday spirit.
Brunch with Santa
Sunday, December 13, 2026
9am-11:30am
Grab your friends and family for a jolly morning in The Grove: Santa Cruz Event Center! Enjoy a gourmet brunch, exclusive story time with Santa, and cookie decorating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will rides be open at night?
Yes! Rides will be available for Limited Operation from 12 PM to 7 PM. For specific dates and hours of operation, please visit our Hours Page.
Will there be flashing lights at night?
Yes, there will be a light show every 15 minutes in the main plaza starting at 5pm that contains flashing lights, strobe effect, and rapid color changes that may trigger seizures for people with photosensitive epilepsy or other light sensitivities. Viewer discretion is strongly advised. There will also be flashing lights in front of Neptune’s Kingdom.
Is Winter Wonderland admission free?
Yes! Admission to Winter Wonderland is free and open to the public. Enjoy a festive stroll through dazzling holiday lights and decorations at no cost.
If you’d like to hop on a ride, you can purchase individual ride tickets or a Ride Wristband for unlimited rides all day. Games, attractions, and photos with Santa are also available for individual purchase.
Do I need a reservation to take photos with Santa?
No reservations needed! You’re welcome to purchase your Santa photo either online or at the ticket booth during the available dates and times listed above in the Photos with Santa section.
Can I reserve a fire pit?
Fire pits during Winter Wonderland are first come, first served and will be turned on after 5 PM. No reservations are needed—just arrive early to grab a spot!
Will there be ice skating this year?
Unfortunately, ice skating will not be available this season.
Do I need separate tickets for Movie with Santa and Brunch with Santa?
Yes. Each event requires its own individual purchase and ticket for entry.