Around 65 years ago, the Big Guy in the red suit set up camp in Lake Arrowhead and turned it into a Christmas wonderland complete with gingerbread homes, giant candy canes, a grand old sleigh, a gleaming tree and faux alpine dwellings. Fittingly, the charming Yuletide land was named Santa’s Village. However, with its ever-growing “Nice List,” it has since expanded to what is now known as SkyPark at Santa’s Village.
The theme park is filled with festive activities like Silver Bells Arena (an outdoor pond for ice skating), Santa’s Workshop & Post Office (where you can post letters to Santa and watch the elves craft beautiful toys). You can explore the grounds on the Northwoods Express Train Ride and go on Fantasy Forest wanders. At night, the towering trees and winding paths are illuminated with glittering lights.
While only some of the usual outdoor activities like Adventure Zipline and Magic Tree Bouldering Room are currently closed, there are still many outdoor recreational options that are still happening—all modified to align with CDC guidelines. You’ll always be able to stock up on scrumptious holiday treats at the quaint shops, and enjoy the crisp air on the hiking & biking trails throughout the 230 acres of land, along with a few other merry pastimes.
This retro escape oozes seasonal nostalgia and has just the right amount of kitsch to keep things fun for the whole family. Sometimes you can even catch a sprinkling of real snow and the odd bobcat roaming the grounds.
The season begins on November 17 through January 8 with the park opening from 10 a.m. daily. Reservations are required and day tickets cost $69 for adults and $59 for children 4 to 12.
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