(PARAMUS, NJ) -- Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco, III, the Board of Commissioners, the Bergen County Parks Department, and presenting sponsor Bergen New Bridge Medical Center have announced that Bergen County's Winter Wonderland will return to Van Saun County Park on Friday, November 27, 2026 for it's 11th annual year of holiday family fun.
Running through Sunday, January 3, 2027, Winter Wonderland will once again transform Van Saun County Park into a festive holiday destination, featuring open-air ice skating, the popular Blitzen's Bumper Cars, carousel rides, live entertainment, food trucks, a beer and wine garden, and plenty of holiday cheer.
Winter Wonderland has become a beloved Bergen County tradition, welcoming families and visitors from across North Jersey to celebrate the holiday season together. In addition to its regular attractions, this year's festivities will include special celebrations throughout the season, including the County's annual Christmas Tree Lighting, Menorah Lighting, and Kinara Lighting ceremonies.
"Winter Wonderland has become one of those special traditions that Bergen County families look forward to every year, and I'm excited that we're bringing it back for an 11th season," said Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco, III. "Whether you're coming to skate, enjoy the music, or just spend some time with family and friends, there's something here for everyone. You don't have to travel far to experience the magic of the holiday season. We've got it right here in Bergen County, and I hope everyone comes out to enjoy it!"
Winter Wonderland will officially open to the public on Friday, November 27, at 12:00pm, with a special ribbon cutting ceremony scheduled for 6:00pm. The festivities will continue throughout the holiday season, including the annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Municipal Tree Decorating Contest winner announcement on December 5.
Winter Wonderland will also offer extended holiday hours, remaining open daily from December 26 through January 3rd, giving families even more opportunities to enjoy the festivities during the holiday break.
"Winter Wonderland is a great example of how our County parks bring people together, even during the colder months," said Bergen County Commissioner Chairman Steven A. Tanelli. "For over a decade, this event has given families a place to make memories and enjoy the holidays close to home. We're proud to continue this tradition and grateful to all of our sponsors and partners who help make it possible."
"Our Parks Department team puts a tremendous amount of work into transforming Van Saun Park into Winter Wonderland each year, and we're looking forward to welcoming families back," said Bergen County Acting Parks Director Craig Dorsett. "From preparing the ice rink and attractions to organizing our special events and entertainment, there's a lot that goes into making this experience special. We're excited for another great season and encourage everyone to come out and enjoy everything Winter Wonderland has to offer."
Winter Wonderland will officially open to the public on Friday, November 27, at 12:00pm, with a special ribbon cutting ceremony scheduled for 6:00pm. The festivities will continue throughout the holiday season, including the annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Municipal Tree Decorating Contest winner announcement on December 5.
Bergen County's Winter Wonderland is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors, led by presenting sponsor Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. The County also extends its appreciation to Tilcon, ConnectOne, the Bergen County Education Association (BCEA), KearnyBank, Visions Federal Credit Union, CarePlus NJ, Bruno & Associates, Inc., DARCARS, MRA International, Mazzer Plumbing & HVAC, LLC, Orange & Rockland, LLC, Neglia Engineering, and ANA Painting. Their continued partnership and support help make Winter Wonderland a holiday tradition for families across Bergen County and beyond.
Tickets are on sale now at www.BergenCountyWinterWonderland.com. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, particularly for popular ice skating sessions.
BERGEN COUNTY WINTER WONDERLAND 2026–2027 OPERATING SCHEDULE
Special Events
Friday, November 27 – Opening Day & Ribbon Cutting: Open 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 5 – Christmas Tree Lighting: Open 11:00am – 9:00pm | Tree Lighting Ceremony and Municipal Tree Decorating Contest Winner Announcement at 6:00pm.
Wednesday, December 9 – Menorah Lighting: Open 4:00pm – 9:00pm | Menorah Lighting Ceremony at 6:00pm.
Sunday, December 27 – Kinara Lighting: Open 11:00am – 9:00pm | Kinara Lighting Ceremony at 6:00pm.
Regular Operating Hours | November 27 – December 20, 2026 | Fridays: 4:00pm – 9:00pm; Saturdays: 11:00am – 9:00pm; Sundays: 11:00am – 7:00pm
Special event hours supersede regular operating hours where applicable.
Extended Holiday Hours | December 23, 2026 – January 3, 2027
Wednesday, December 23: 11:00am – 9:00pm
Thursday, December 24 (Christmas Eve): 11:00am – 6:00pm
Friday, December 25 (Christmas Day): CLOSED
OPEN DAILY DECEMBER 26 – JANUARY 2 | Saturday, December 26 – Wednesday, December 30: 11:00am – 9:00pm daily; Thursday, December 31 (New Year's Eve): 11:00am – 6:00pm; Friday, January 1 (New Year's Day): 11:00am – 9:00pm; Saturday, January 2: 11:00am – 9:00pm; Sunday, January 3: 11:00am – 7:00pm
Van Saun County Park is located at 216 Forest Avenue in Paramus, New Jersey.
For tickets, pricing, additional event information, and the latest operating schedule, visit www.BergenCountyWinterWonderland.com.
The Bergen County Parks Department provides recreation opportunities for all, preserving open space, enhancing environmental health, and protecting significant cultural and historic sites for current and future generations. The Bergen County Parks System, which has been connecting people to nature for over 75 years, spans nearly 10,000 acres and includes a zoo, six golf courses, 21 parks, two horseback riding areas, an environmental center, and nine historic sites.
There are multiple performances including:
Friday, November 13, 2026 @ 7:30pm
Kean Stage - Bauer Boucher Theatre Center
Union, NJ
Music and lyrics by Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison
There are multiple performances including:
Friday, November 13, 2026 @ 8:00pm
McCarter Theatre Center (Matthews Theatre)
Princeton, NJ
