The holidays are back in full swing, and with them comes the much-anticipated 2024/2025 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 the Bergen County Winter Wonderland at Van Saun Park in Paramus?
Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland at Van Saun Park runs from Friday, November 29, 2024, through Sunday, January 12, 2025.
What’s New at Winter Wonderland?
Winter Wonderland always finds ways to surprise and delight its visitors. For the 2024-2025 season, a few notable additions stand out!
First up is a brand-new ice bumper car rink, giving 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.
Another exciting addition is the Crafts Market Village, 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.
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 if you can’t get enough. 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 through Winter Wonderland’s Ice Academy. This could be a great opportunity to build confidence or sharpen your skills—make 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
- General Admission: $10
- Seniors, Veterans, and Active Military (with ID): $5-$10
- Age 3 and Under FREE
- Additional Skating Sessions: $10
- Ice Bumper Cars: $12
- Skate Rental: $5
Tickets can be purchased online, and securing yours early is recommended as sessions may sell out.
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 Bob O’s Cheesesteaks, Empanada Guy, Smokin Lips BBQ, and Waffle De Lys will serve up crowd-pleasing bites, while adults can unwind with a drink from the beer and wine garden.
Visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus and Live Music
Winter Wonderland offers even more holiday fun with visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus and live music to keep the festive spirit alive! Be sure to check the Winter Wonderland calendar for dates and times to plan your visit and make unforgettable holiday memories.
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 14, 6:00-7:00 PM
- Menorah Lighting: Saturday, December 28, 6:30-7:00 PM
- Kinara Lighting: Sunday, December 29, 5:30-6:00 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 laughing on the ice, it’s hard not to feel the magic of the season here.
For the full schedule, ticket information, and updates, visit BergenCountyWinterWonderland.com.
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 12th!
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 12th.
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.
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 highlights the best of Bergen County’s holiday celebrations.
Holiday Events for Kids
For families, our mybergen.com Events for Kids feature showcases the best events in Bergen County for children and parents alike. From visits with Santa to winter-themed story time, we’ve got you covered with activities to make the holiday season memorable for every member of the family.
Visit mybergen.com daily to plan your holiday season fun!
