Experience the Magic of WEC Winter Wonderland Returning November 27 Through December 23

Ocala, FL – Tickets are now on sale for another enchanting year of WEC Winter Wonderland at World Equestrian Center – Ocala (WEC). Returning Friday, November 27 through Wednesday, December 23, this holiday tradition transforms the Grand Plaza into a dazzling destination with over four million twinkling lights and show-stopping holiday decorations. Winter Wonderland runs Wednesday through Sunday with activations from 5pm to 9pm. 

Returning favorites include photos with Santa Claus, a visit to the Grinch’s lair and breathtaking light displays throughout the Grand Plaza. On Fridays, Saturdays and December 20 through 23, the festivities grow with a rotating lineup of live holiday entertainment, favorite characters, festive food and drink, as well as line dancing lessons. 

New this year, attendees can enhance their visit with two immersive virtual reality adventures, available as an add-on to Winter Wonderland admission. Journey to the North Pole aboard Santa’s Enchanted Express, then soar through the sky on a Magical Sleigh Ride for a festive experience the whole family will enjoy. 

The 2026 event also welcomes exciting new special events, alongside the return of a guest favorite on select dates. Join Santa for a heartwarming Breakfast with Santa, offered Saturdays throughout the season at The Equestrian Manor from 9am to 11am. The event includes a festive breakfast, hot chocolate station, story time and photos with Santa.  

Adding to the holiday experience are new additions: Kids’ Character Brunch, an exciting buffet featuring rotating appearances by beloved characters and cozy Holiday Movie Nights, showcasing family-friendly holiday classics on select evenings at The Equestrian Manor. Kids’ Character Brunch is held on select Sundays at The Equestrian Manor from 11am to 1pm. Tickets for Breakfast with Santa, Kids’ Character Brunch and Holiday Movie Nights are sold separately.

Winter Wonderland admission tickets are required for plaza entry Wednesday through Sunday from 3pm to 9pm. Lights illuminate the Grand Plaza beginning at 5pm. Tickets start at $8 per person in advance and $11 day of on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Weekend pricing on Fridays, Saturdays and December 20 through 23 starts at $14 per person in advance and $16 day of. Pricing is inclusive of tax and fees. Actual prices may vary. Please note that tickets are date-specific and valid only on the day selected at purchase. Children 4 and under are free. General and accessible parking is complimentary for all attendees, with VIP parking available for purchase.

Turn your visit into an enchanting getaway for the whole family. Winter Wonderland stay packages are available at The Equestrian Hotel and The Riding Academy Hotel on select dates Wednesday through Sunday. Packages include admission to WEC Winter Wonderland plus virtual reality tickets, one commemorative WEC holiday ornament, a $100 dining credit, 15% off coupon at A Sudden Impulse and an in-room teepee camp experience with a special gift for each child. 

Attendees are encouraged to check the event website for additional information, tickets and entertainment updates. Discover all the enchanting details at wecwinterwonderland.com.   

About World Equestrian Center  

Named one of TIME’s World’s Greatest Places, World Equestrian Center features two premier equestrian and multidisciplinary venues in Ocala, Florida, and Wilmington, Ohio.  

These exclusive facilities comprise state-of-the-art arenas, expansive stadiums, versatile outdoor space, sporting fields and well-appointed exposition centers. An abundance of lodging options and luxury accommodations are conveniently located on-site, along with shopping and dining throughout each property.  

Dedicated to offering great sport and good fun in a family-friendly environment, World Equestrian Center promises an unparalleled experience for exhibitors, spectators, vendors, sponsors and retailers built on three core values: Quality. Class. Distinction.  

Learn more at wec.net.  

Media Contact: 
Jeremy Gow 
[email protected]