At Dutch Wonderland, the holiday season doesn’t simply arrive; it comes alive.
Each year, the Lancaster-area theme park transforms into Dutch Winter Wonderland, a glowing, family-focused celebration that has been nominated by USA Today as one of the country’s top holiday theme park events.
According to Marketing Director Courtney Burkarth, the acclaim reflects the strength of an event that families return to again and again. She highlighted the park’s blend of 20 kid-friendly rides, festive holiday shows, whimsical character meet-and-greets, and a storybook setting that captivates young visitors.
“One of the most magical moments happens daily in Market Square, where snow machines create a gentle flurry for the park’s lively dance party,” said Burkarth. “It’s really magical for kids.”
Families who’ve visited in previous years will also find expanded holiday features to enjoy this season, including interactive light displays, a glowing light trail, and Santa’s Jolly Lodge for festive photo opportunities.
But while beloved traditions return, 2025 also brings exciting new experiences. This year marks the debut of The Hilarious Magic of Sam Sandler, America’s only full-time deaf magician.
“He became deaf, turned his life around after some personal hardships, and then decided to bring hope to others by becoming an Inspirational Speaker and Magician,” shared Burkarth.
Families will also enjoy a brand-new partnership with PBS Kids’ Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, featuring hands-on cookie decorating with Daniel Tiger — a new offering already proving to be a guest favorite. Cookie decorating with Santa also remains a classic holiday option for visitors of all ages.
Behind the festive glow is a tremendous logistical lift. Dutch Wonderland closes for only a few weeks between its Halloween event and Winter Wonderland—an incredibly tight turnaround requiring round-the-clock teamwork. “Basically, from the second we shut down from Halloween… every second of that is putting out lights,” Burkarth explained.
Both the entertainment and maintenance teams collaborate to craft whimsical scenes throughout the park, including a magical forest where a friendly wizard invites children to cast spells that make the trees come alive with light.
“There’s a lot of love that goes into it and a lot of heart,” she added.
For families planning a visit, Burkarth recommends Fridays or Sundays, which tend to be less crowded than Saturdays. And with rides designed especially for younger guests, even busy nights remain manageable. “If kids are 30 inches and walking, they can do more than half the rides,” she noted.
Located right in the heart of Amish Country, Dutch Wonderland also serves as a gateway to the Lancaster region’s rich culture and family-friendly activities.
With on-site lodging and close proximity to Amish farms, American Music Theatre, and various local attractions, the park works closely with the tourism community to make Lancaster a standout holiday destination. “We all work together to create these great experiences,” she added.
After more than 60 years of delighting families, Dutch Wonderland continues to grow its magical holiday world — one twinkling light, snowflake, and spellbinding moment at a time.
Dutch Winter Wonderland Hours and Location
Address:
Dutch Wonderland
2249 Lincoln Highway East
Lancaster, PA 17602
Operating Dates and Hours:
Dec. 13, 14, 20-23, 26-30 — 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Dec. 12, 19 — 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Dec. 31 — 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Find ticket information here.
Explore more Lancaster-area favorites and festivities at Discover Lancaster.
