Happy Dance! The much-anticipated Winterfest is officially open at Canada's Wonderland!
I have been looking forward to this opening since I learned about it last year; we are big fans of Canada's Wonderland, of course, and have been for years. I have fond memories of spending long summer days at the park and have been continuing that tradition with my family through the summers and fall, with events like Camp Spooky and Halloween Haunt.
And now, after 38 years, Canada's Wonderland has knocked it out of the park with their brand new Winterfest event; it's as good as it looks and my only wonder is what took them so long!? With hundreds of thousands of lights, winter grub, live entertainment and tons of cheer, the much-anticipated winter wonderland is a must-visit in 2019 (and for years to come!).
Here's What You Need to Know if you're going to Winterfest:
Dates and Times: Winterfest is open on weekends (Fri-Sun) and SOME weekdays during the holiday break. Visit Canada's Wonderland's website to plan your trip.
Tree Lighting: Make a point to be at the Front Entrance for 5:30 pm, regardless of the day you visit. There's live entertainment, singing and dancing and the magical lighting ceremony, where the entire International Street and mountain shimmer with illumination.
Skating: Should you wish to skate on the famous Canada's Wonderland fountains, you need to reserve your skate time. You can do so a) in person at the park or b) online, cost $10/pp. You will be reserving a skate time window. If you have your own skates, you can bring them, or rentals are available for $10/pp or included with online booking. Kids must be fully equipped with helmets and an adult and everyone needs to sign a waiver, available online. Best to have this organized before you arrive.
What to Do: This is where you choose your own adventure. You can do a lot, or a little, or visit more than once (which is what we plan on doing!)
While the majority of the adult rides are closed for the season, there are lots of rides available in Planet Snoopy. On the way there, you'll walk through the Candy Cane Lane, which is nothing short of spectacular. While inside Planet Snoopy, take in a show, visit Charlie Brown's Tree Lot and check out some of the indoor attractions, too.
If shopping is more your jam (I hear you), peruse the shops for beautiful holiday decor and inspiration. Or, visit the small shops at the Christmas Market, located in the Courtyard (near Medieval Faire). 
Speaking of Medieval Faire, that's where you can visit the castle and take in a show or hear tales of Dickens (which we'll catch next time), sip on muddled wine, winter food and relax by the fire. Or, bust a move to your favourite Christmas carol or holiday classic. While Winterfest is definitely kid and family-friendly, a visit would also make a nice date night! 
If you want more ideas, go visit Ms. Claus and decorate the biggest, most delicious shortbread cookies you've ever seen (4 for $20), visit Santa in the North Pole and have your holiday photos taken right on site. Yes, some activities are priced in addition to the entrance admission.
And if all that wasn't enough, pick up a hot chocolate and just walk, in wonder, though the magnificent displays, one more awesome than the other.
A few more tips: If you're a GOLD pass holder, you get in FREE to Winterfest, and if you're a season's ticket holder, you can buy your tickets online before you go. And if you KNOW a season's ticket holder, they can get you in for discounted rates, too. Dress warmly and in layers, bring your patience for long lines and crowds, but most of all, take it all in and hopefully, make some more memories with your family and friends.
That's the magic of the holidays, right? Spending time with your loved ones, being jolly and merry and spreading cheer -- and that's just what Canada's Wonderland has done with Winterfest. I highly recommend.
Disclaimer: I am a member of the WonderCrew and receive special perks as part of my affiliation. The opinions on my blog are always my own.
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