The holidays are back in full swing, and with them comes the much-anticipated 2025-2026 Bergen County Winter Wonderland at Van Saun Park in Paramus, a favorite seasonal event for residents across the North Jersey area.
Whether it’s skating, grabbing a hot chocolate, or enjoying the cheerful atmosphere, Winter Wonderland offers something for everyone—and maybe a new holiday tradition or two. This is definitely a mybergen.com Don’t Miss Event!
Here’s what you need to know to plan your visit.
When is Bergen County Winter Wonderland at Van Saun Park in Paramus?
Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland at Van Saun Park runs from Friday, November 28, 2025, through Sunday, January 4, 2026. Now in its 10th year, Winter Wonderland features open-air ice skating, bumper cars, a heated hospitality tent, games, food trucks, a beer and wine garden, carousel and train rides, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a crafts market village, live music, and more!
Ice Skating Details: What You Need to Know
Ice skating is, of course, the main attraction at Winter Wonderland. With open-air rinks surrounded by festive lights, it’s as picturesque as it is fun. Your ticket includes access to a single skating session, and additional sessions can be purchased separately. Skates are available to rent for $5, but bring them along if you have your own!
If you’re new to skating or a bit unsteady, skate aids are available to rent in 25-minute blocks for $10. These aids are perfect for kids or anyone who wants extra help gliding on the ice.
Skating lessons, including group and individual sessions, are available. Book your session here. This could be a great opportunity to build confidence or sharpen your skills. Be sure to book ahead.
Ticket Information and Pricing
Winter Wonderland offers affordable pricing for all the fun it has in store:
- All Access Ticket (admission, skating, and one carousel ride): $20
- All Access Ticket for Seniors, Veterans, Active Military: $10
- General Admission: $10
- General Admission Seniors, Veterans, and Active Military: $5
- Age 3 and Under FREE
- Additional Skating Sessions: $10
- Ice Bumper Cars: $12
- Skate Rental: $5
Other Amenities:
- Carousel: $3
- Train: $3
Tickets can be purchased online, and securing yours early is recommended as sessions may sell out. Online ticket sales include an online service fee.
Important Details to Know Before You Go
- Operating Hours: Visit the official Winter Wonderland website to confirm dates and hours of operation.
- Weather Policy: While the rink operates rain or shine, safety is a top priority. In case of inclement weather that makes skating unsafe, refunds will be issued for canceled sessions.
- No Pets Allowed: Only service animals are permitted on the premises.
- Birthday Parties and Private Rentals: Celebrate in style with a birthday party package or private rink rental. Contact the Winter Wonderland team for more details and pricing.
Family-Friendly Fun Beyond Skating
Carousel and Train Rides
A ticket to Winter Wonderland also includes one carousel ride, a perfect activity for younger visitors or those looking for a bit of nostalgia. The nearby train rides are also running during select times, making for a relaxing way to tour the park.
Food Trucks and a Beer Garden
No need to pack snacks, Winter Wonderland has you covered. Food trucks will serve up crowd-pleasing bites, while adults can unwind with a drink from the beer and wine garden.
Ice Bumper Cars
Blitzen’s Bumper Cars give visitors a fun and unexpected way to glide on the ice. The synthetic ice rink is located on the tennis courts, separate from the main skating rink. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so plan ahead if this is on your to-do list.
Crafts Market Village
Be sure to visit the Winter Wonderland Crafts Market Village (open through December 24), where local artisans and businesses showcase handmade goods. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts or browsing with a cup of hot chocolate in hand, it’s a great way to connect with the community and take home something special.
Visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Winter Wonderland offers even more holiday fun with visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus through December 24! Be sure to check the Winter Wonderland calendar for dates and times to plan your visit and make unforgettable holiday memories.
Live Music
Live music by local musicians and bands add to the festive atmosphere. Visit the Bergen County Winter Wonderland facebook page for performance information and schedules.
Learn to Play Hockey with the New Jersey Devils
In partnership with the New Jersey Devils, Winter Wonderland is hosting Learn to Play Hockey with the New Jersey Devils. This Learn to Play program is designed to teach kids the fundamentals of ice hockey. On-ice sessions are run by USA Hockey certified coaches and New Jersey Devils alumni and are structured to be both instructional and fun. This program is available to first-time participants only. Find more information about the Learn to Play Hockey program.
Special Events to Mark the Season
Winter Wonderland’s calendar is packed with events that bring the community together. Highlights include:
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: Saturday, December 6, at 6:00 pm
- Menorah Lighting: Saturday, December 20, at 7:00 pm
- Kinara Lighting: Sunday, December 28, at 5:30 pm
These ceremonies add a meaningful touch to the festivities and are a great way to celebrate the season with neighbors and friends.
A Winter Visit to Remember
Winter Wonderland is more than just an event—it’s a snapshot of everything that makes Bergen County special during the holidays. From the twinkling lights and cheerful music to the sight of families having fun on the ice, it’s hard not to feel the magic of the season here.
For the full schedule, ticket information, and updates, visit the BergenCountyWinterWonderland website and Facebook page.
Where is Van Saun Park?
Van Saun County Park is located at 216 Forest Avenue in Paramus, New Jersey, conveniently accessible from major highways including the Garden State Parkway, Route 4, and Route 17. Ample parking is available on-site, and the park is also reachable via NJ Transit bus routes.
The Magic Doesn’t Stop: Let It GLOW! Lantern Spectacular Continues Through January 11th!
In addition to Winter Wonderland, Van Saun County Park also hosts the enchanting Let It GLOW! A Holiday Lantern Spectacular at the Bergen County Zoo. This event is another must-visit attraction this holiday season featuring over 30 larger-than-life lantern displays! The event also features fire pits and s’mores kits available to purchase. This event is separate from Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland and continues through January 11th. Find more information and purchase tickets for Let It GLOW!
More Bergen County Area Holiday Fun
If you’re searching for other holiday events in and around Bergen County, be sure to visit the mybergen.com Bergen County Events Calendar and the mybergen.com Ultimate Guide to Bergen County Area Holiday Events article.
Since 2009, the mybergen.com Events Calendar has been the region’s go-to resource for details on hundreds of holiday happenings, from parades to concerts and everything in between. Updated daily, it’s the perfect tool to help you find new and exciting places to visit and activities to enjoy throughout the holiday season. Check back often to stay in the know!
Don’t Miss Events: Handpicked Recommendations
Looking for standout events this season? The mybergen.com Don’t Miss Events feature dives deeper into a selection of local happenings our team highly recommends.
Whether it’s a local tree or menorah lighting, a Kwanzaa celebration, a local holiday parade or community festival, an outdoor market, a New Year’s Eve celebration, a New Year’s Day hike, or a festive family concert, the mybergen.com Don’t Miss feature articles highlight the best of Bergen County’s holiday celebrations and beyond.
Visit mybergen.com daily to plan your holiday season fun!
