Experience the ultimate indoor holiday playground at the 2025–2026 Navy Pier Winter WonderFest. Returning to Chicago's iconic lakefront, this massive 170,000-square-foot celebration inside Festival Hall is the city's largest indoor winter event. Perfect for families, couples, and holiday enthusiasts, Winter WonderFest offers a temperature-controlled escape from the Chicago chill, filled with dazzling lights, high-speed rides, and seasonal cheer.
Whether you are soaring on the Centennial Wheel or gliding across the indoor ice rink, Winter WonderFest is designed to create lasting holiday memories.
Event Overview: Winter WonderFest 2025–2026
Dates & Operating Hours
- Season Dates: December 5, 2025 – January 4, 2026
- Daily Opening: 10:00 AM
- Closing Times: Vary by date (typically 8:00 PM or 10:00 PM).
- Closed: Christmas Day (December 25)
- Holiday Hours: Special limited hours apply on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Location
Navy Pier – Festival Hall
600 E. Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611
Top Attractions & Things to Do
- The Verizon | Google Pixel Ice Rink: Lace up your skates and glide across Chicagoland’s premier indoor rink. (Skate rentals are often included with specific ticket tiers).
- Thrilling Indoor Rides: Experience favorites like the Cliffhanger hang-gliding simulator, Zero Gravity, Arctic Plunge inflatable slides, and the Hot Cocoa Cup teacup ride.
- The Centennial Wheel: Every Winter WonderFest ticket includes one ride on the iconic 200-foot Ferris Wheel, featuring climate-controlled gondolas with 360-degree views of the city skyline.
- Arctic Express Train: Hop on this trackless train for a scenic loop through the beautifully decorated holiday village.
- Holiday Tree & Photo Ops: Marvel at the 42-foot towering Holiday Tree and explore dozens of oversized light sculptures, including a 25-foot soaring deer and a 60-foot light tunnel.
- Winter Wonder Stage: Catch daily live performances, including local DJs, musicians, and holiday-themed entertainment.
- Meet Santa Claus: Visit Santa in the nearby Family Pavilion for festive photos and holiday wishes.
Ticketing & Admission
- General Admission: Required for all guests ages 3 and older. Children under 3 enter free.
- Pricing: Tickets typically range from $25 to $35 depending on the date and inclusions (such as ice skating).
- Group Sales: Discounts are available for groups of 20 or more.
- Advance Booking: It is strongly recommended to purchase tickets online to guarantee entry, especially for weekends and holiday dates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q Is Winter WonderFest entirely indoors?
AYes, the main event takes place inside the climate-controlled Festival Hall. However, the Centennial Wheel is located just outside on the Pier (though the gondolas are enclosed and heated).
Q What are the height requirements for rides?
A Most thrill rides require guests to be at least 42" to 46" tall. Younger children under 42" can enjoy the Jingle Jim Junior inflatables and smaller bounce houses.
Q Is there a coat check available?
A Yes, a coat check is available for a $5 fee per item. It is highly recommended so you can enjoy the rides and skating without bulky layers.
Q How do I get to Navy Pier?
A Public transit is encouraged via CTA bus routes 29, 65, 66, and 124. For those driving, on-site parking is available in the East and West garages, though rates vary by hour.
Q Can I bring my own ice skates?
A Yes, you are welcome to bring your own skates, though skate rental is typically included in the upgraded ticket price.
Q Are there food options inside?
A Light snacks, sweet treats, and seasonal beverages are available for purchase within Festival Hall. For full meals, you can explore the many restaurants throughout the Navy Pier Family Pavilion.
Q Is the event accessible?
A Absolutely. Navy Pier and Festival Hall are fully ADA-compliant, featuring ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. The Centennial Wheel also features gondolas that can accommodate wheelchairs.
Event Venue
Navy Pier, 600 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
