Know Before You Go: The Ultimate Guide to WinterFest at Carowinds

If you’re looking Christmas events in Charlotte this holiday season, you’ll find an immersive world of holiday fun on the state line during WinterFest at Carowinds, the premier holiday festival in the Carolinas.

In 2025, WinterFest will run from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays and 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on all other days, giving families more time to enjoy the merriment of the holiday season. Experience fun with a little twinkle while enjoying festive live shows and making memories on up to 29 select rides open for winter fun. With family memories like Santa visits, cookie decorating and holiday shopping - there’s magic here for every age.

More Rides Open than Ever Before

This magic season you can ride up to 29 different coasters and attractions. With our new opening hours this year, we can have even more rides open, such as Thunder Striker and our new family coaster for 2025, Snoopy’s Racing Railway.

Amongst the open rides, we have 4 rides that will make its WinterFest debut:

Thunder Striker
Snoopy’s Racing Railway
Kiddy Hawk
Woodstock Express

A full list of open rides and attractions is available here. You can also view ride wait times on the new Six Flags app.

Feast in Holiday Bites and Seasonal Sips

Hungry? Sip hot chocolate in a souvenir mug, indulge in seasonal treats, or share a holiday feast with friends and family. End the night with a cheery stroll through our picturesque midway and see why Carowinds is the best holiday tradition in Charlotte.

Refillable Hot Chocolate

You can find our refillable hot chocolate mug around the park, as well as our gourmet hot chocolate to really get in the spirit of the holidays.

Smore Kits

At Thrill Zone and Camp Snoopy you can find firepits to make your own smore. You can buy your smore kit at nearby food and beverage locations.

Tipsy Reindeer Bar

Sip spirited drinks in a bar that celebrates tacky sweaters and holiday cheer.  For full menu, check out our Foodies’ Guide to WinterFest here. You will find the Tipsy Reindeer Bar by Thrill Zone.

Add-On Dining Plan

To get the most out of your day, we recommend checking out our All Day Dining Plan, which includes an entrée and a side, every 90 minutes! You can find this delicious add on here.

Experience Holiday Shows

This season we are offering 8 live shows, with 3 new productions for you and your family to enjoy.

NEW! Snoopy’s Jingle Jam Dance Party – Jump into a festive dance party with Snoopy and friends. Located in Camp Snoopy.
NEW! The Wisemen – Enjoy festive bluegrass tunes from this lively Christmas trio. Located at Blue Ridge Junction.
NEW! Storytime with Mrs. Claus – Gather ‘round for a magical holiday tradition at the Crossroads Gazebo! Join Mrs. Claus for a cozy and heartwarming story time filled with classic wintery tales, laughter, and a sprinkle of North Pole magic. Children and families are invited to snuggle up and listen as Mrs. Claus shares stories of holiday cheer, kindness, and the spirit of giving. Located at Crossroads Gazebo.
Tinker’s Toy Factory – Dive into the bustling holiday season at the toy factory and follow Santa, Tinker and the elves as they discover the importance of family and friends during this heartwarming holiday musical. Located at Carowinds Theatre.
Reindeer Games – Participate in a series of energetic challenges with some of Santa’s most playful reindeer. Located at County Fair.
Holly Jolly Trolley – The energetic cast of Holly Jolly Trolley performs a collection of classic holiday songs. Located at Plaza Stage.
Tree Lightening Ceremony – Gather for a dazzling show with music, dance and a towering Christmas tree. Located at Thunder Road Stage.

Holiday Activities for the Entire Family

WinterFest at Carowinds has activities for all ages to enjoy:

Tinker’s Reindeer Round-Up – Join a scavenger hunt to find Santa’s reindeer and earn a festive prize. Located parkwide, begins near Plaza Stage.
Snow & Glow – Stroll through glowing lanterns and snowfall synced to favorite holiday tunes. Located by Crossroads Gazebo.
North Pole Craft Depot and Post Office – Write a certified letter to Santa and send it straight to the North Pole. Plus, create your home crafts at the North Pole Craft Depot. Located by Crossroads (Beer & Snacks).

For an extra charge you can also experience:

St. Nick’s Pics – Children can meet Santa Claus during WinterFest at St. Nick’s Pics. Here, Santa Claus is surrounded by holiday merriment where children and families can gather around to take photos. Families are welcome to visit Santa at no charge, and a variety of photo packages are available for purchase. Located at Bailey’s Barnyard.
Jack Frost’s Igloo Village – Stroll through glowing lanterns and snowfall synced to favorite holiday tunes. Locatedby Thunder Road.
Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen – Decorate your own box of delicious cookies with Mrs. Claus – she may even put in a good word for you with the Big Man! Located by Crossroads.

You can receive unlimited visits to WinterFest this year and the entire 2026 season when you purchase a 2026 Gold Season Gold Pass, which also includes free parking, exclusive perks, discounts and unlimited visits to Carowinds and Carolina Harbor Waterpark. It’s the gift that keeps giving and pays for itself in less than two visits. Season Passes and tickets are available exclusively at carowinds.com.