After the 50th Anniversary Season, Kings Dominion Once Again Hosts WinterFest
In 2025, following its spectacular 50th anniversary season, Kings Dominion is once again transforming into a magical winter wonderland as it welcomes guests back to its beloved holiday celebration, WinterFest. This annual tradition, which has become a seasonal staple for families across Virginia and beyond, marks a joyful return with even more sparkle, spirit, and surprises than ever before.
A Season of Celebration
Kings Dominion, located in Doswell, Virginia, celebrated a major milestone in 2024: its 50th anniversary. Throughout that golden season, the park paid tribute to its rich history with special events, retro-themed attractions, exclusive merchandise, and nostalgic nods to fan-favorite rides from years past. Now, with the anniversary festivities in the rearview mirror, the park pivots into the holiday season with renewed energy and excitement.
WinterFest, Kings Dominion’s annual holiday spectacular, is back and bigger than ever. This year’s event promises a festive blend of classic charm and new experiences, reflecting both the park’s deep-rooted traditions and its ongoing innovation.
WinterFest is a full-park transformation that immerses visitors in the sights, sounds, and smells of the holiday season. As guests pass through the gates, they’re greeted by millions of twinkling lights, elaborately decorated trees, themed zones, live holiday music, and even snowfall—all designed to spark the joy and warmth of the season.
From the iconic Eiffel Tower, which is converted into a towering Christmas tree adorned with synchronized lights, to the glowing arches and snowflake projections throughout International Street, the park’s decorations are a visual feast. Each section of the park features its own themed lighting and décor, including Candy Cane Lane, Tinsel Town, and the charming North Pole Village.
WinterFest is known for its lineup of live performances, and 2025 is no exception. Returning favorites like the “Cool Yule Christmas” show, “Jingle Jazz,” and the ever-popular WinterFest Wonderland Parade take center stage, offering heartwarming and high-energy entertainment for all ages. Carolers dressed in Victorian attire roam the streets, serenading guests with classic holiday tunes, while interactive shows like “Charlie Brown’s Christmas Spectacular” delight the young and young at heart.
While many thrill rides take a seasonal break, a wide selection of family-friendly rides and coasters remain open, specially themed for the holidays. Children can hop aboard the Reindeer Express, enjoy a nighttime spin on Woodstock Whirlybirds, or glide around Snowflake Lake, the park’s festive ice skating rink set in front of the Eiffel Tower.
No holiday event would be complete without indulgent seasonal snacks, and WinterFest delivers on all fronts. Guests can sip on steaming cups of hot chocolate, feast on cinnamon-sugar funnel cakes, or try specialty treats like peppermint bark, roasted nuts, and gingerbread cookies. Dining locations throughout the park feature special holiday menus that add an extra layer of warmth and flavor to the experience.
Families with little ones can head to Santa’s Workshop, where children can write letters to Santa, decorate cookies, and meet the jolly old elf himself. The Holiday Market, inspired by traditional European Christmas markets, offers unique gifts and handcrafted items—perfect for holiday shopping.
As Kings Dominion steps into the holiday season, WinterFest 2025 serves as both a nostalgic nod to the park’s 50-year legacy and a celebration of the future. The event captures the timeless essence of the holidays while incorporating new technology, fresh performances, and expanded offerings to elevate the guest experience.
For long-time fans who visited the park during its inaugural years in the 1970s, the contrast between those early days and today’s dazzling winter transformation is striking. Yet, despite all the changes, Kings Dominion remains a place where memories are made—whether it’s on a summer roller coaster ride or beneath the snow-dusted lights of WinterFest.
WinterFest 2025 runs on select evenings from mid-November through early January. Tickets can be purchased online, with season passholders receiving special perks, including early entry and exclusive events. Guests are encouraged to dress warmly, wear comfortable shoes, and bring their holiday spirit.
Parking, dining, and shopping options are available throughout the park, and Kings Dominion offers a mobile app to help navigate the park, showtimes, and wait times for attractions.
As the nights grow colder and the spirit of the season fills the air, Kings Dominion invites guests to step into a world of enchantment, family fun, and festive cheer. After a landmark anniversary year, WinterFest 2025 is the perfect way for the park to wrap up its golden celebration—with twinkling lights, joyful laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime.