From November 13, 2026–January 3, 2027, the holiday season shines the brightest during Busch Gardens Williamsburg’s Christmas Town.
Compiled By Chris Murphy
From November 13, 2026, through January 3, 2027, the holiday season shines brighter than ever during Busch Gardens Williamsburg’s annual Christmas Town.
The World’s Most Beautiful Theme Park transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland featuring over ten million twinkling lights—creating one of the largest and most spectacular holiday light displays in North America. Laughter, joy, and festive cheer fill the park as families gather to celebrate the season.
Germany transforms into a magical North Pole. The sweet aroma of holiday cookies from the Cookies & Cocoa shop fills the air, while projection mapping brings virtual gingerbread men to life against the festive village backdrop.Find more souvenirs like toys, decorative mugs and personalized ornaments at the Christmas Town Shoppe in England and Ornament World at the North Pole.
Christmas Town Rides & Coasters
- Christmas Town Express: Climb aboard for a mile-and-a-half journey through holiday-themed vignettes lit by two million glimmering lights while singing along to classic holiday carols.
- Bird’s-Eye Views: Take a spin on the Mäch Tower (which rotates slowly without dropping to give you mile-high panoramic views) or board the Acrennial Skyride at three locations across the park for an 80-foot-high view of the glowing landscape.
- New & Thrilling Additions: Experience your favorite roller coasters in a whole new light, including the Christmas Town debut of Verbolten: Forbidden Turn, alongside seasonal favorites like DarKoaster.
- Family-Friendly Rides: Head to Holiday Hills (Festa Italia) to enjoy kid-friendly winter spins on The Peppermint Twist, bobsled races on Snowman Summit and Reindeer Run, or visit the Sesame Street Forest of Fun to ride Grover’s Alpine Express.
Spectacular Holiday Shows
- Christmas Town Live! A Holiday Special: Catch the park’s newest headlining festive production.
- Gloria! & Scrooge No More!: Return to the Abbey Stone Theatre and the Globe Theatre for traditional holiday song, dance, and the timeless tale of Scrooge.
- ‘Twas That Night: Experience a world-class ice-skating spectacle at the Royal Palace Theatre starring world-champion figure skater Elvis Stojko.
- O’Tannenbaum: Stop by the massive 50-foot Christmas Tree outside Das Festhaus throughout the day for a synchronized, multi-colored light and music show.
Holiday Dining & Treats
Warm up with a rich cup of hot cocoa, fresh homemade fudge, warm brownie skillets, and holiday cookies found throughout the park. For a hearty meal, head to the North Pole in Das Festhaus for a traditional turkey dinner or roasted sirloin sandwich, or grab festive themed cocktails and English cuisine at Dickens’ Tavern (Squire’s Grille).
Photos with Santa & Special Moments
- Santa’s Workshop: Visit Santa and his elves in the North Pole (Wilkommenhaus) to share your holiday wishes and capture a family keepsake photo.
- Santa’s Fireside Feast: Upgrade your visit with an all-you-care-to-eat meal where Santa recounts a classic Christmas story alongside Mrs. Claus.
- Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland: Meet Rudolph, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius, and Bumble in Holiday Hills, and stop by Highland Stables to snap a photo with the majestic Clydesdale horses.
Plan your trip today by checking the official Busch Gardens Williamsburg event calendar for daily operating hours and ticketing options!
Want more Events?
CALENDAR: Check out our goWilliamsburg calendar of events to help plan your activities!
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