Visit an amusement park in winter

When it gets colder outside and the days get shorter, it’s tempting to stay inside. But did you know that there is a lot to do in amusement parks during the winter? Some parks transform themselves into true winter wonderlands! With atmospheric lighting, mulled wine, and maybe even a little snow, these parks offer a magical experience for young and old alike. For this blog, we looked for amusement parks that are open during the winter months.

The Winter Efteling

The Efteling is of course one of the most popular amusement parks in the Netherlands, and in winter the park transforms into a fairytale world: the Winter Efteling. Everywhere in the park you will see thousands of twinkling lights, crackling campfires and an enchanting winter atmosphere. Besides the famous attractions such as the Droomvlucht, the Spookslot and Symbolica, you can skate on the ice rink or enjoy a ride on the toboggan run. The Fairytale Forest is extra magical with a layer of snow (if we’re lucky!), and winter performances will be given. Don’t forget to have a hot chocolate at one of the cozy stalls! It is even more magical to stay overnight in the vacation park Bosrijk or the Efteling Hotel. That way you will enjoy the magical winter atmosphere all the longer.

The Winter Efteling is open from November 11 and opening hours change during this period. Therefore, check https://www.efteling.com/nl/park/openingstijden prior to your visit.

Winter Feelings Toverland

At Toverland in Sevenum, you can enjoy winter atmospheres during Winter Feelings in November, December and January. During these months, large parts of the park are attractively lit, and the indoor and outdoor attractions are supplemented with winter activities. During the first week of the Christmas vacations, launch coaster Booster Bike will receive a so-called “Christmas overlay” as it does every year. The profusion of Christmas lights on the station are a feast for the eyes! While you are waiting to also skim through the air at 75km/h, you will hear the most famous Christmas songs non-stop. You will also encounter a snow cannon while walking to the decorated station for the ultimate winter experience.

Especially the indoor themed areas such as Land of Toos and Wunderwald are ideal to visit during colder days. You can walk around nice and warm while enjoying exciting rides like the roller coaster Maximus’ Blitz Bahn. Outside, you can enjoy a magical stroll through the enchanting Winter Square, with bonfires and winter delicacies.

Winter Slagharen

Slagharen is best known for its Wild West theme, and in winter the park takes on a cozy winter atmosphere during Winter Slagharen. Countless lights, atmospheric Christmas decorations and Santa and his elf provide a magical winter experience. There are crackling fires to warm you up and Main Street is beautifully lit with thousands of lights. For little ones, there are plenty of opportunities to play and enjoy winter shows and parades, and you can ice skate indoors at the Western Winter Village

You can enjoy different attractions, such as roller coasters the Oldtimers or the Gold Rush and after that you can warm up in Aqua Mexicana, the park’s suptropical pool.

Winter Duinrell and Tiki Pool

Duinrell is a fine amusement park all year round, but in winter you can also enjoy it to the fullest. During weekends and school vacations a number of winter attractions are open alternately. Also open then is the renovated Arcade with endless gaming fun. On Saturday evenings, take evening rides during Rides by Lights.

But what makes Duinrell really special in winter is of course the Tiki Pool. This gigantic water park is covered and offers wonderful warm water fun with numerous slides, from quiet to super fast. Perfect for escaping the cold winter air!

Walibi Holland Bright Nights

At Walibi Holland amusement park you can enjoy Bright Nights during the Christmas vacations. The most spectacular rides in twinkling lights, where the rides are sensationally illuminated. Scattered throughout the park you will find various winter activities and entertainment and special light shows. Bright Nights can be visited on Dec. 22 and 23, from Dec. 26 through Dec. 30 and from Jan. 2 through Jan. 5 from noon to 8 p.m.

Credit photos: Canva.com Facebook pages of Walibi, Efteling and Slagharen