Winter WonderFest, Chicago’s Ultimate Indoor Holiday Playground, Returns to Navy Pier December 5 – January 4
CHICAGO – Twinkling light displays and playful pops of holiday décor will fill Navy Pier’s Festival Hall with the long-awaited return of Winter WonderFest. December 5 through January 4, the highly-anticipated return of Chicago’s beloved holiday tradition promises 30 days of festive fun for families and friends.
Holiday Cheer as Far as the Eye Can See
Festival Hall will transform itself into a true holiday lover’s paradise. Beginning at 10 a.m. every day (except Christmas), the 170,000 square foot space will transform into an enchanting winter wonderland with a glittering forest of festively decorated trees and mesmerizing light displays to amaze guests of all ages. Winter WonderFest guests will also get to experience the awe-inspiring holiday magic of the towering, 42-foot Holiday Tree that serves as the centerpiece of the space.
A Complete Winter Experience Under One Roof
Whether you are looking to lace up a pair of skates or sing along to holiday classics, Winter WonderFest is sure to be a can’t-miss experience. For ice skating enthusiasts, the ice rink is a can’t miss attraction, providing opportunities for families to hit the ice without having to worry about that pesky winter wind chill. Ice skating is available for an additional $10 per guest. Ticket upgrades can be made on-site at Navy Pier, but guests are encouraged to make this decision in advance. Additionally, throughout Winter WonderFest, local artists and performance groups will be spotlighted on the Winter Wonder Stage, bringing the spirit of the season to life through iconic holiday songs and performances.
Winter WonderFest will be offering quintessential holiday sips and light bites for guests to nibble on while enjoying the magic of the winter season. For those looking for a hearty meal after a day chalk-full of delight, Navy Pier has 30+ dining opportunities and dozens of cuisines that guests can take advantage of. Ranging from traditional American fare at restaurants like Harry Caray’s Tavern and Chef Art Smith’s Reunion, to the Latin-influenced offerings at Bar Sol Mariscos and Lirica, the Pier has an option for every appetite, and Winter WonderFest tickets grant unlimited in and out access for the date purchased, so guests can enjoy the full range of all that Navy Pier has to offer.
Excitement for the Whole Family
From classic, family-friendly rides like the Arctic Express Train, to the heart-pumping Polar Extreme obstacle course, there are attractions for guests of all ages to enjoy. Families can enjoy leisurely exploring the dazzling holiday décor, spend time with children in the bounce house, take in a ride on electric bumper cars, or enjoy a ride on the beautiful Carousel. For the more adventurous, rides like the Cliffhanger and Zero Gravity will surely not disappoint. Height requirements for Winder WonderFest rides include;
- Guests under 42” will be able to enjoy nine of the rides, some of which require parental assistance.
- Those 42” and up in height will be able to access a dozen rides.
- Guests 46” and above will be permitted to ride Cliffhanger/Zero Gravity.
- Bumper cars may be driven by guests 48” and up.
Tickets will be required for all rides for guests ages three and older.
For those looking to show off their skills, the Arctic Arcade will invite guests of all ages to try their luck at a variety of arcade games as well as games of skill such as air hockey, foosball, and basketball shoot-outs.
Families should also keep an eye on Santa’s schedule, which will be posted here, to see when he takes a break from the North Pole in the Family Pavilion, which is located at the West entrance of the Pier.
Each Winter WonderFest ticket includes one ride on Navy Pier’s iconic Centennial Ferris Wheel. Cap off the perfect holiday experience by taking in breathtaking views from the comfort of Navy Pier’s year-round, enclosed gondolas as you soar nearly 200 feet into the sky.
Tickets to Winter WonderFest start at $25 and can be purchased in advance through navypier.org/winterwonderfest or onsite at the box office. Ticket options include a general admission pass, which will grant guests access to the event and over ten activities (pending height requirements). An all-access ticket is also available, which includes access to the ice-skating rink and complimentary skate rental.
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Winter WonderFest images and b-roll can be found here.
About Navy Pier
Located on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is the most visited destination in the Midwest, stretching more than six city blocks and welcoming nearly 9 million annual guests. Originally opened in 1916 as a shipping and recreation facility, this Chicago landmark showcases over 50 acres of parks, restaurants, attractions, retail shops, sightseeing and dining cruise boats, exposition facilities, and more. The Pier celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016 with the unveiling of the Centennial Wheel, Polk Bros Park, and Peoples Energy Welcome Pavilion. Today, Navy Pier continues to usher in its second century with ongoing redevelopment efforts including the 223-room Sable hotel, the all-transient Navy Pier Marina, and thrilling new attractions such as Flyover Chicago. The Pier is proud to present free programming designed to inspire and engage communities across the city and globe, including the #1 Fireworks display in the nation. For more information, visit NavyPier.org.