Opportunities for walks under twinkling lights, photos with Santa and numerous chances to make holiday memories are just a few months away.
The World Equestrian Center recently released details for the 2026 Winter Wonderland,which will be held Nov. 27 to Dec. 23 at the WEC Grand Plaza. The event transforms the plaza into a popular holiday destination that features countless decorations, live entertainment, food and other interactive activities.
Event organizers have noted guests can expect returning favorites, including meet-ups with Santa Claus, visits to the Grinch's lair and more.
"From breathtaking decorations to festive family fun, this holiday tradition is guaranteed to fill your evenings with cheer," the WEC's website reads. "The wonder
grows with a full lineup of live holiday entertainment."
According to a recent press release from the World Equestrian Center, tickets are required to enter the plaza on Wednesdays through Sundays during the event from 3-9 p.m. They can be purchased by visiting worldequestriancenter.com
On Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, tickets are $8 per person if bought in advance and $11 per person if bought the day of. Children 4 and younger get in free.
On Fridays and Saturdays, as well as from Dec. 20-23, tickets are $14 per person if bought in advance and $16 per person if bought the day of. Again, children 4 and younger get in free.
The WEC's website notes tickets are date-specific and valid only for the day selected at purchase. All sales are final, with no refunds or rainchecks given.
Activities that will be offered as part of the Winter Wonderland include:
- .Holiday lights − Wednesdays to Sundays and special event dates from 5-9 p.m.
- Greet the Grinch − Wednesdays to Sundays and special event dates from 5-9 p.m. in Arena 1.
- Meet Santa − Wednesdays to Sunday and special event dates from 5-9 p.m. in Arena 2.
- Virtual reality rides − Wednesdays to Sundays and special event dates from 5-9 p.m. in Arena 2.
- Line dancing lessons − Fridays, Saturdays and special event dates from 5-9 p.m. outside Miss Tilly's Lollipops.
- Enchanted entertainment − Fridays, Saturdays and special event dates from 5-9 p.m. in the WEC Grand Plaza.
- Festive fare − Fridays, Saturdays and special event dates from 5-9 p.m. in the WEC Grand Plaza.
A related part of the holiday experience can be found inside the Equestrian Hotel. Check out the decorated lobby and festive surrounding areas inside. Last year, the hotel placed No. 10 on the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers' Choice Awards list of Best Hotels for the Holidays.
This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: Don't miss out: Tickets available for 2026 WEC Winter Wonderland
