Winter Wonderland San Jose
Winter Wonderland brings a festive arcade of amusement rides and attractions to the city center, including a classic carousel and a 60-foot Ferris wheel. Visitors can browse unique seasonal items at the holiday gift market and enjoy holiday photo opportunities throughout the event space. A rotating variety of food trucks and booths offer seasonal treats such as gourmet hot chocolate, churros, and international cuisine.
What to Expect
Downtown carnival featuring a 60-foot Ferris wheel, rides, and food trucks.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown San Jose
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Winter Wonderland
Food & Drink
Rotating food trucks and booths serve gourmet hot chocolate, churros, comfort foods, and international cuisine.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday-season visitors
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Admission is free. Select attractions, including amusement rides, may require tickets. Ride tickets: 1 for $1.50, 20 for $25.00, or 50 for $50.00; one-day unlimited rides wristbands are $40.00. VTA pass holders can get $2 off unlimited ride wristbands Monday–Friday by showing a pass at the ticket booth; one pass can be used for up to two wristband discounts.
Tips & Advice
- Show a VTA pass at the ticket booth Monday through Friday to get $2 off unlimited ride wristbands; one pass covers up to two discounts.
- Look for Winter Wonderland Official Vendor signs before buying, as organizers ask visitors to support only authorized event vendors.
- Use trash bins and pick up litter if you spot it, helping keep the event area clean.
- During Run 1, remember Market Street remains open to traffic, so stay alert while moving between event areas.
- Wear warm layers for this outdoor downtown event, since visitors will be moving among rides, food vendors, and market stalls.
Special Events & Promotions
- From December 17, the event expands onto southbound Market Street with larger rides, food trucks and entertainment stages.
- Monday through Friday, VTA riders get a discount on unlimited ride wristbands by showing their pass at the ticket booth. One pass covers up to two wristbands.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What rides are there?
There's a 60-foot Ferris wheel, a classic carousel and a festive arcade of rides and games. Rides take tickets or a one-day unlimited rides wristband. Larger rides arrive on southbound Market Street from December 17.
What is there to eat?
A rotating mix of food trucks and booths sells gourmet hot chocolate, churros, comfort food and international dishes. You'll find them all through the event space.
What can I shop for?
The Winter Market on Paseo de San Antonio, run with Culture Night Market, has dozens of holiday gift vendors selling unique seasonal items. Other vendors are spread through the event area.
What changes in the second half of the season?
From December 17, southbound Market Street closes and the event grows. You'll find larger rides and attractions plus a bigger festival area with vendors, food trucks, rides and entertainment stages.
How do I spot official vendors, or become one?
Official vendors have "Winter Wonderland Official Vendor" signs at their booths. To sell at this year's event, fill out the vendor interest form.
More Christmas Events Near San Jose
More Christmas Events near San Jose
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.