WinterFest Kings Island: 2023 In-Depth Guide

From dazzling five million lights to 11 spectacular winter wonderlands, Kings Island’s WinterFest is the place where holiday dreams become a reality!

This annual celebration at Kings Island secured its place as one of the top Theme Park Holiday Events in the nation in 2021 for a reason. Curious about what is Winterfest at Kings Island and why it’s award-winning?

For one, this event promises a magical experience with highlights such as the Eiffel Tower’s enchanting transformation into a Christmas tree, ice skating on the Royal Fountain, the extravagant WinterFest Wonderland Parade, and non-stop live entertainment that fills every corner of the park with joy.

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And if that’s not enough, soak in the excitement of up to 20 rides, featuring favorites like the Mystic Timbers and Kings Mills Antique Autos. Follow along as we explore the thrill and wonder of Kings Island Winterfest.

Kings Island WinterFest Tickets

WinterFest Kings Island is included with your season pass. Enjoy big savings by booking your Kings Island Winterfest discount tickets online.

Regular: Over 48″ tall, ages 3-61

• Gate Price: $45.00
• Online Price: $29.99

JR/SR: Under 48″ tall, ages 62 and older

• Gate Price: $45.00
• Online Price: $19.99

Nearby Hotels and Lodging

• Hampton Inn Cincinnati Kings Island
• Comfort Suites Mason near Kings Island
• DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Cincinnati – Blue Ash
• Drury Inn & Suites Cincinnati Northeast Mason
• Hilton Garden Inn Cincinnati Blue Ash
• Hilton Garden Inn Cincinnati/Mason
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Cincinnati North – Liberty Way
• Tru By Hilton Mason Kings Island

WinterFest Attractions

Winter Wonderlands

WinterFest promises 11 enchanting winter wonderlands, each adorned with millions of sparkling lights and breathtaking decorations that will leave you in awe. To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive early to explore the enchantment of each distinct theme.

Ice Skating on the Royal Fountain

Lace up your roller skates because WinterFest is bringing ice skating to the party! Get ready for an incredible time with your little ones, filled with laughter and countless spins. Remember to snap photos while gliding through the beautifully adorned wonderland during your Kings Island Winterfest ice skating experience.

314-foot Christmas Tree

Marvel at the Kings Island Eiffel Tower as it becomes a magical Christmas tree. This extraordinary spectacle during WinterFest is a rare and mesmerizing sight, where millions of radiant lights fill the park with holiday warmth. The 314-foot structure that has transformed into a magical tree is an absolute beauty, so make sure you have your cameras at ready to capture the attraction.

WinterFest Wonderland Parade

Let the Winterfest Wonderland Parade sweep you into the perfect holiday spirit. Feast your eyes on an incredible array of floats adorned with dazzling, colorful decorations. Then, be swept off your feet by the live music, as the performers dance to the heartwarming holiday tunes, inviting you to groove to the beats.

An extra sprinkle of magic also awaits as special characters, led by Santa, make their grand appearance. Join in the joy and wave to Santa Claus and his loyal helpers as they become a part of the parade. The procession lasts around 20 minutes. For prime viewing, consider staking out a spot along the bustling International Street. The parade may start at 8:30 PM.

Live Holiday Shows at WinterFest

Take your Christmas festivities to the next level by immersing your family in the joy of live shows. Make it a holiday tradition to witness captivating performances starring iconic figures such as Jack Frost and Charlie Brown.

Kings Island Winterfest Rides

Thinking what rides are open during Kings Island Winterfest? Well, the park has lined up a range of thrilling rides that will leave you with an unforgettable adrenaline rush. Discover the following attractions that are sure to rev up your adrenaline:

K.I. & Miami Valley Railroad

Toot-toot! Full steam ahead for adventure! For those who’ve never tasted the excitement of train travel, this is your chance to experience it. Kings Island’s railroad is a thrilling ride through history that brings smiles to the faces of every age.

Kings Mills Antique Autos

This family ride offers a charming step back in time. Climb into replica classic touring cars and enjoy a leisurely drive. Make sure to allot a lot of waiting time when visiting the rides on Saturday and Sunday.

Zephyr

Hold on to your excitement as this high-speed ride takes you on a thrilling adventure through the skies. No matter your age, this family-friendly attraction is designed to guarantee that you’ll have an absolute blast.

Dodgem

Hold onto your hat because you’re in for an adventure like no other – where bumper-to-bumper action is anything but ordinary! Gather your friends and family for a fantastic ride on our Dodgem classic bumper cars.

Charlie Brown’s Wind Up

Swing into action with Charlie Brown’s Wind Up ride, a home run of amusement that brings major-league excitement to minor-league baseball players of all ages, even featuring Charlie himself and the beloved PEANUTS™ gang. As kids take their seats on the free-hanging swings, they can live out their baseball dreams, picturing themselves in the batter’s box.

Character Carousel

Known by many names – carousel, roundabout, and merry-go-round, this ride promises a whirlwind of excitement for both the young and the young at heart as they gather for an enchanting spin on this timeless attraction.

Woodstock Gliders

Buckle up for an adventure in the sky, where the glider ride offers a one-of-a-kind experience. With eight gliders, each with its own path, you’re the captain of your flight, soaring 28 feet above, gliding through the clouds, and skillfully navigating Planet Snoopy. Your kids need to stand at least 44 inches tall to ride solo, or if they’re 36 inches tall, they can join the fun with a supervising companion.

Mystic Timbers

For all those who crave the adrenaline rush of a roller coaster, Mystic Timbers is a must-try experience. Recognized as the “Best New Ride” in 2017 by Amusement Today, this attraction promises to take you on a wild journey. Brace yourself for 16 exhilarating airtime moments as you race along 3,265 feet of track through a lush forest.

Kings Island WinterFest Dates and Time

“When Does Kings Island WinterFest Start?” you may ask. It starts on Friday, November 24. Please see the Kings Island Winterfest hours and dates.

November 24 to December 15
5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
November 25 to December 23
4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
December 18 to December 22
5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
December 26 to December 29
5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
December 30
4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
December 31
4:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Always check the Kings Island Winterfest Calendar to be updated on any changes in the schedule.

Kings Island WinterFest Venue

The festivities of WinterFest at Kings Island are located at 6300 Kings Island Dr, Mason, OH 45040.

Experience Kings Island Winterfest

Feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairytale as you arrive at King Island Winterfest this holiday season. With a range of enchanting shows, the iconic parade, thrilling rides, ice skating, and the mesmerizing millions of decorations, there’s something for everyone.

Discover the magic of WinterFest as you wander through the park, equipped with a Kings Island WinterFest map that guarantees you experience every ounce of the festivities and delightful surprises.

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Then, enjoy a delectable array of Kings Island WinterFest food options from freshly baked treats to cool drinks when your hunger strikes. And don’t forget to meet Santa and his merry crew to share your wishes.

Be sure to check out the Kings Island WinterFest reviews to know all the fun that awaits you. Score your tickets and dive into the enchantment of Christmas with your family at this magical destination!