Boardwalk Winter Wonderland
Celebrate the holiday season at the beach surrounded by festive decorations and enchanting light shows. Guests can enjoy rides, play arcade games, and indulge in seasonal holiday treats. The festivities also include opportunities to take photos with Santa.
Nov 26, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027 All ages
See more other Christmas activities near Santa Cruz
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Pacific Grove's Holiday Parade of Lights
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Plan Your Visit
Neighborhood
Beachfront
Food & Drink
Seasonal holiday treats are offered; no specific food or drink options are listed.
Location
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday outings with kids
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Tips & Advice
- Buy ride wristbands online by the day before your visit, because buying ahead online saves money on unlimited all-day rides.
- Bring a card instead of cash, because the park is cashless and only Ticket Booths, Guest Services, the Season Pass Office and MyBoardwalk Kiosks take cash.
- If you have a Season Pass, come on November 27, when each pass includes one free All-Day Rides Wristband for a friend.
- Use paid points on your MyBoardwalk Card for holiday treats and gifts, because bonus points don't work for food or retail.
- Hold on to your wristband if weather closes the rides, because its paid value can roll over to another date.
Special Events & Promotions
- Season Pass members can bring a friend for free on November 27, with one free All-Day Rides Wristband per pass (not valid on attractions).
Links & Contact
Run by Santa Cruz Seaside Company
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do at Winter Wonderland?
There are holiday decorations, light shows, rides, arcade games, photos with Santa and holiday treats.
Can we get photos with Santa?
Yes. Photos with Santa are part of Winter Wonderland.
How do rides and games work?
A Ride Wristband gives you unlimited rides all day. MyBoardwalk Cards work for single rides, attractions, games, arcades, food and retail. Bonus points can't be used for food or retail.
Can I pay with cash?
The park is cashless. Cash is only accepted at Ticket Booths, Guest Services, the Season Pass Office and MyBoardwalk Kiosks.
What happens if the rides close because of weather?
If the rides close on the date you booked, you can roll the paid value of your Ride Wristband over to another date. Other dates may carry an upgrade fee.
Featured Video
Browse Christmas in Santa Cruz
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.