Celebrate the Magic and Wonder of the Holiday Season at Kings Island WinterFest
The sweet aroma of hot cocoa awakens your senses. Familiar holiday carols fill the air, and the glow of twinkling lights brightens the night sky for as far as the eye can see. And who’s that I see? Could it be? Santa! Wow, it must be time for WinterFest at Kings Island!
Kings Island has been thrilling park-goers for 50 summers. But once the holidays roll around and Santa gets his sleigh ready, it’s time to transform into a winter wonderland for all ages. WinterFest is ready to welcome everyone to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with all the excitement and wonder of Kings Island.
Immediately upon entering the park, you know you are somewhere special. Bring your family and friends because you won’t want them to miss out. If you are lucky, there may even be a snowflake or two.
A winter wonderland of epic proportions stretches out before you. Millions of lights sparkle and dazzle your senses as you look down International Street and behold the magic of the season.
The iconic Eiffel Tower is ablaze in holiday splendor as it stands over the Royal Fountain, which old man winter has turned into a spectacular ice skating rink. Whether you lace up some skates or enjoy being a spectator, it is a must-stop in your evening activities. Check out the 40-foot Christmas tree all lit up for the festivities.
The magic of the holidays lives in every nook and cranny as you meander through all the amazing winter wonderlands, each sure to delight everyone in your group. You will discover costume characters, a parade, along with a dozen outstanding shows throughout the park. Each performance is sure to get your feet tapping and put a smile on your face.
Wafting through the air, you get a hint of chocolate or maybe peppermint? Probably both! After all, who can resist the smell of hot cocoa, candy canes, and funnel cakes? But that’s not all.
There are many tempting treats, including cookies and cinnamon pull-apart bread at Clause Confectionary, or the adults may want to visit Jack Frost’s Liquid Libations.
The grown-ups can keep the winter chill away with some spiked cider and other spirited drinks. Whatever your appetite, the park concessions and restaurants are open for your indulgence.
Make sure and stop by Mrs. Claus’s kitchen to decorate your own cookie or visit Sally’s Christmas Craft to make a handmade delight to take home. You may even see Santa and his reindeer. The big guy loves to visit with the kids and take pictures with them. Another favorite stop is the train. All decked out in its holiday splendor, the locomotive and its crew will take you on a 10-minute train ride as you enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.
For you thrill seekers who have no fear. Almost 20 of the park’s regular rides are also open for your pleasure, including the award-winning Mystic Timbers and Kings Mill Antique Autos. There is no better way to see the park in all its grandeur.
Looking for something special to give as a gift? They will have it here. The park has a vast array of specialty shops, handmade treats, holiday decor, and local artisan crafts available for purchase. There will surely be something special for even the hardest to shop for on your list.
“Of all the experiences I’ve enjoyed and events I’ve attended at the park over the years, WinterFest is hands down one of the coolest. As soon as you hop out of your car in the parking lot, you’re immediately surrounded by holiday music, lights, and more seasonal fun”—Scott Hutchinson, Warren County Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Embrace the magic of the season and bring your family and friends to visit what USA Today readers voted as one of the country’s top Theme Park Holiday Events. Kings Island Winterfest will be the pinnacle of your holiday celebration for years to come, and memories are just waiting to be made.
“WinterFest is an awesome way to check out Kings Island in an entirely different light and jumpstart your holiday spirit going into the Christmas season.”—Scott Hutchinson, Warren County Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Located just outside of Cincinnati, this special event is open on select nights in November and December. Please see Kings Island WinterFest for more details.
WinterFest at Kings Island