Plan the Perfect Date Night at WinterFest
Hayden Biebel
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'Tis the season for romance! The holidays are the perfect time for love, laughter and magical moments—and there is no better backdrop than WinterFest at Carowinds. The park comes alive and magically transforms into a winter wonderland, waiting for you and your loved one to explore. Here are our recommendations for the perfect holiday date night at WinterFest:
Explore the Lights & Sights
Start the night by exploring the park illuminated by six million shimmering lights and decorated with fun and festive embellishments. Stroll through the midways to take in the sights and magic of the season. Don’t forget to stop by Celebration Plaza at 5:30 p.m. for the nightly Tree Lighting Celebration to kick off your date!
Capture the moment with a plethora of festive photo opportunities throughout the park, including photos with Santa Claus at St. Nick’s Pics.
Festive Entertainment
As you make your way through the midways, pause to enjoy WinterFest’s many live entertainment offerings. Stop in Carousel Park to get serenaded by The Misteltones, a songstress trio performing Christmas classics reminiscent of the 1940s, or make your way to the Plaza Stage to experience Santa’s helpers perform the high-energy Cool Yule Christmas show.
Download the official Carowinds mobile app for a full list of entertainment options, as well as showtimes.
Gift Shopping
Shop with each other in mind at WinterFest’s charming merchandise locations. From cozy winter apparel to exclusive holiday home décor, you’ll surely find the perfect keepsake to remember your magical night. For a list of merchandise locations, download the Carowinds mobile app.
Ice Skate on Snow Flake Lake
What is more romantic than ice skating under the dazzling lights? Snow Flake Lake, located near Harmony Hall, is the perfect holiday bonding experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this experience is sure to create laughter and heartwarming memories.
Access to Snow Flake Lake fills up fast! Guarantee your spot on the ice by purchasing your reservation online in advance, which includes ice skate rental.
Cozy Up in a Private Luxury Igloo
For a luxurious WinterFest experience, reserve your own private igloo in Jack Frost’s Igloo Village. These radiant hideaways are the ultimate way to relax and bask in the holiday cheer. Snuggle up with your significant other next to the fire, enjoy mouthwatering food options and sip on hot chocolate.
Each igloo accommodates up to eight guests and includes:
- Concierge services for food and beverage delivery (additional purchase required)
- VIP seating at select shows
- Four WinterFest souvenir mugs
- Priority access to ice skating (additional purchase required)
No matter if you’re looking for a romantic retreat or a cozy spot to gather with friends, Jack Frost’s Igloo Village is the perfect way to elevate your WinterFest experience. Reservations fill up fast! Secure your igloo by reserving online before your visit.
Share a Treat
Savor the flavors of the season with festive eats and delicious drinks. Split a delectable holiday dessert such as the cinnamon pull-apart bread, a WinterFest favorite, or build your own cannoli flight.
Raise a toast with a comforting signature cocktail or mocktail. Stop in the Harmony Hall bar, Blue Ridge tavern bar or Terminal A to get lit or sip spirit-free.
Keep warm by building your own gourmet hot chocolate with a variety of toppings. Traditional hot chocolate is also available, and you can purchase a refillable WinterFest souvenir mug to enjoy FREE refills all night long, plus $1 refills for the rest of the season.
Check out the Foodie’s Guide to WinterFest at Carowinds for a full list of seasonal food and beverage options.
Take a Spin on the Rides
A date night at Carowinds is not complete without enjoying the rides! Up to 24 of Carowinds’ exhilarating rides and family attractions are open for WinterFest. Hop on the Carolina Skytower for breathtaking, 360-degree views above WinterFest. Thrill-seekers can rejoice while riding Fury 325, the park’s record-breaking roller coaster.
For a full list of rides in operation, check out the Oh, What Fun it is to Ride at WinterFest blog.
Start Planning Your Date Night!
Get the best value with a 2025 Gold Season Pass, offering unlimited visits and free parking this year and next, access to seasonal events like WinterFest, and exclusive discounts.
Guests can also purchase WinterFest daily admission tickets online or at the gate.
Whether this is your first date or your hundredth, WinterFest at Carowinds has everything you need for an enchanting and memorable night. WinterFest is open select nights from now until January 4, 2025.
