The holiday season is about to shine brighter than ever as WinterFest returns to Kings Island for select nights beginning November 28 through December 31, 2025. Every year, the park transforms into a glimmering winter wonderland packed with shimmering lights, live entertainment, festive treats, and beloved rides made even more enchanting by the holiday glow.
Once you step into the park, the twinkle of millions of lights and the sounds of holiday cheer fill the air. Guests can take in the nightly WinterFest Wonderland Parade, enjoy festive live shows, or simply stroll through themed areas glowing in vibrant color. One of this year’s highlights is the debut of Tinker’s Jingle Bell Ball, a brand-new holiday spectacular that combines dazzling dance numbers, lively music, and a special appearance from Santa himself.
Families will find plenty to enjoy, from hands-on holiday fun to classic rides. Little ones can dive into creative activities at Sally’s Christmas Crafts, decorate cookies, or hop on favorites like Snoopy’s Soap Box Racers and Charlie Brown’s Wind Up. For those looking to add a touch of ice to their holiday fun, Ice Skating on Snow Flake Lake offers a picture-perfect setting for both beginners and pros alike — just remember, this activity requires a small additional fee.
No holiday outing is complete without indulging in the flavors of the season. Guests can cozy up with a cup of hot chocolate in a collectible souvenir mug, enjoy hearty winter comfort food, or treat themselves to sweet desserts like cinnamon pull-apart bread. Adults can sip on festive cocktails while kids delight in marshmallow-topped cocoa — the perfect way to stay warm as snowflakes dance overhead.
And of course, it wouldn’t be WinterFest without a bit of shopping magic. Across the park, shops are filled with Kings Island-branded apparel, ornaments, and festive souvenirs, making it easy to find the perfect gift while soaking in the holiday spirit.
Those who come to enjoy WinterFest at Kings Island will have an abundance of activities to choose from — from the dazzling lights and festive entertainment to delicious seasonal eats and drinks that make every visit special. If rides are more your style, you’ll be glad to know that Kings Island offers an impressive lineup of attractions to keep your heart racing through the holidays.
During WinterFest, you can enjoy rides such as Mystic Timbers, The Racer (both sides), Zephyr, Scrambler, Shake, Rattle and Roll, Snow Works, Sol Spin, and family favorites like Grand Carousel, Kings Mills Antique Autos, K.I. & Miami Valley Railroad, and Flight of Cheer. Kids can explore Beagle Scout Acres, Linus’ Beetle Bugs, Snoopy’s Space Buggies, and Peanuts Off-Road Rally, while thrill-seekers can still find plenty of action. From Cargo Loco and Franklin’s Flyers to Joe Cool’s Dodgem School, there’s something for every age and adventure level. (Ride availability subject to change.)
To make the most of your visit, be sure to download the Kings Island Mobile App for real-time updates, showtimes, and ride wait times. Whether you’re in it for the parades, the lights, or a few laps on Mystic Timbers under the stars, WinterFest delivers a celebration that captures everything we love about the holidays — magic, togetherness, and just the right touch of thrill.
When the countdown to the new year begins, guests can cap off the season with Kings Island’s New Year’s Eve celebration, featuring final rides of the year, a festive countdown, and fireworks to welcome 2026 in grand fashion.
WinterFest 2025 is more than an event — it’s a holiday tradition that brings families together year after year. So grab your mug, bundle up, and get ready to experience the sights, sounds, and sensations of the season at Kings Island’s most enchanting celebration of the year.
