Hi, I’m Katie! Are you new here? Welcome!
I’m a travel advisor with The Magic’s Yours Travel and I send clients on vacations of all kinds all over the world. My specialty is Disney travel!
Want to work together? Please check out my website katievtravel.com to request a vacation quote or email me at katiev@themagicsyours.com with any questions. I’d love to make your vacation dreams a reality!
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is beautiful year-round, but the holiday season transforms the park into something truly unforgettable. From mid-November through early January, Busch Gardens becomes Christmas Town, a glowing winter wonderland filled with millions of twinkling lights, festive shows, seasonal treats, and heartwarming holiday traditions around every corner. It’s one of my absolute favorite times to visit. There’s just something about the blend of cozy charm, nostalgic music, and thrilling rides that makes it feel like the ultimate holiday escape.
For the past three years, my extended family has made it a tradition to spend a weekend at Christmas Town each December. We always thoroughly enjoy riding the rides, meeting Santa, and soaking in all the dazzling lights, but the biggest highlight for us is definitely the Christmas Train.
To help you make the most of your visit and soak up all the seasonal magic, here’s my guide to what you can expect at Christmas Town in Williamsburg this holiday season!
New To Busch Gardens Williamsburg?
Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a European-themed amusement park nestled in the heart of Virginia’s Historic Triangle. Known for its blend of thrilling roller coasters, immersive cultural villages, and beautifully landscaped grounds, the park offers a unique mix of excitement and charm. From adrenaline-pumping rides to live entertainment and seasonal festivals, Busch Gardens delivers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
The Lights & Decor!
One of the most breathtaking parts of Christmas Town is the lights and décor that blanket every inch of the park in holiday magic. With over 10 million lights on display, each themed village glows in its own unique way—but two areas stand out for their dazzling shows that combine lights and music in unforgettable ways. In Oktoberfest, the Celebration of Lights surrounds you in a canopy of twinkling color, creating the feeling that you’re completely immersed in the display. Over near Escape from Pompeii, the Polar Pathway offers a grander, more dramatic spectacle, with towering trees and sweeping light effects set to music. Both shows play frequently throughout the night, so you’ll have plenty of chances to catch them.
PRO TIP: The lights are truly the stars of the show, and crowds tend to grow as night falls. To avoid long lines at parking, security, and the entrance, plan to arrive before 4:30 PM or wait until after 6:30–7:00 PM for a smoother entry.
Rides!
While Christmas Town focuses on holiday cheer, it still offers plenty of ride excitement for guests of all ages. While the park’s largest coasters—like Pantheon and Griffon—do not operate during the event, there are still several fan favorites open throughout the night (weather permitting). The new indoor Darkoaster, a thrilling ride through a haunted German castle, is a standout option for coaster lovers. You’ll also find the brand-new family coaster, Big Bad Wolf, designed to deliver just the right mix of excitement and accessibility for younger riders. Other popular coasters like InvadR, Loch Ness Monster, Verbolten, and the high-speed, twisty Alpengeist typically operate as long as temperatures remain above safety thresholds.
PRO TIP: If coasters are a priority, be sure to ride them earlier in the day—temperatures often drop in the evening, and some rides may close if it gets too cold for safe operation. Getting your thrills in early ensures you don’t miss out!
For families with younger kids, there’s a ton to explore as well. The Sesame Street Forest of Fun offers kid-friendly rides and holiday character meet-and-greets, while the massive Forest of Dragons playground in the Land of the Dragons is a hit for little climbers and explorers. Throughout the park, you’ll also find a variety of gentle family rides like the carousel, train, spinner rides, and more that make the experience magical for everyone.
Keep in mind that ride availability can vary with the weather, especially on colder nights, so it’s a good idea to check the Busch Gardens app for up-to-date ride statuses during your visit.
Christmas Stage Shows
The stage shows at Christmas Town are a highlight of the holiday celebration, featuring festive music, storytelling, and lively performances that appeal to all ages. Shows include Scrooge No More, a heartwarming take on A Christmas Carol; Up on the Housetop, a fun musical about Santa’s Christmas Eve journey; Gloria!, a joyous retelling of the story of the first Christmas; and ‘Twas That Night, a spectacular ice-skating show that reimagines the classic tale of The Night Before Christmas. There are also several other shows featuring Sesame Street characters, fabulous vocal performances, and multiple small stages around the park where you can make a quick stop or enjoy entertainment as you stroll by.
PRO TIP: Indoor shows draw large crowds and seats fill quickly. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early if you want good seats. Later performances usually have smaller crowds, making them a great option for a more relaxed experience. (Indoor shows include Scrooge No More, Up on the Housetop, and Gloria!)
Meeting Characters & Santa
Santa greets guests in a beautiful, festive setting inside Busch Gardens’ Wilkommenhaus, surrounded by classic holiday décor that makes the moment truly magical. My family has always found this to be a fabulous interaction with Santa and his elves. When planning your visit, be sure to look for Santa’s Workshop on the map—not Father Christmas, who can be found in the England village.
PRO TIP: Santa’s line can get very long, so consider adding on Quick Queue access or plan to visit within the first hour of the park opening (rope dropping Santa is even a good idea) to beat the crowds. While professional photos are available for purchase, you’re welcome to snap your own pictures off to the side.
Throughout the park, you can also meet beloved Christmas characters, including Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Clarice, Rudolph’s charming friend from the classic holiday movie. For animal lovers, the majestic Clydesdale horses at the Highland Stables are dressed up in a stunning holiday setting, adding to the festive atmosphere. The Sesame Street characters join the fun too, decked out in adorable Christmas outfits that delight kids and adults alike.
Christmas Train
The Christmas Train is an authentic steam train and easily our favorite part of the Christmas Town experience. Kids absolutely love it! It’s a wonderful way to relax while taking in the entire park beautifully decorated with twinkling holiday lights, all set to a festive soundtrack of classic holiday favorites. The ride lasts about 20 minutes, winding through the entire park feels truly magical.
To avoid long waits, consider purchasing Quick Queue access or arriving at least 30 minutes before the first train of the night. It’s definitely worth it for the chance to enjoy this charming holiday tradition without the hassle.
Pro tip: The metal benches can get very cold, so be sure to bring blankets or something cozy to sit on.
Food & Drink
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers a delightful array of holiday dining experiences that complement the festive atmosphere. From savory meals to sweet treats, there’s something to satisfy everyone.
Das Festhaus (Oktoberfest): Dine in festive style inside Das Festhaus, beautifully transformed with Christmas garlands, wreaths, and twinkling lights. Enjoy the lively Up on the HausTop show while you feast on a decadent menu ranging from pizza and salads to a traditional German Christmas dinner. (Heads up: it gets quite loud during the show.) INDOORS
Trapper’s Smokehouse (New France): This outdoor spot serves up smoky favorites like signature ribs, smoked chicken, and kid-friendly options. OUTDOORS
Squire’s Grille (England): Located in the bustling town square, Squire’s Grille offers outdoor dining surrounded by festive décor and good cheer. Grab classic family favorites like beef burgers to keep you fueled as you explore. OUTDOORS
Marco Polo’s Marketplace (Italy): Celebrate the season with a delicious meal featuring Italian, Mediterranean, and Asian flavors, all served outdoors alongside festive holiday entertainment at Wisemen. OUTDOORS
PRO TIP: For outdoor dining locations and other areas throughout the park, heated tents are available to help you warm up between bites.
You can upgrade your experience with Santa’s Fireside Feast a reservations required dinner and a show experience. Gather around the majestic castle as Santa recounts a classic Christmas story while elves prepare a scrumptious all-you-care-to-eat meal and Mrs. Claus dazzles the dining room with holiday cheer.
Additionally, you’ll find lots of holidays snacks and sweet treats throughout the park. Hot chocolate is an annual favorite and you can purchase a refillable mug to enjoy it all day long.
There are also plenty of seasonal brews and festive alcoholic beverages around the park.
| Brauhaus Oktoberfest | German Pretzels & Beer Oktoberfest |
| North Pole Nightcap Oktoberfest | Grogan’s Pub Ireland |
You’ll also find wine tastings at
- La Belle Maison (France)
- Acadia Traders (New France)
- German Gifts (Germany)
- Bella Casa (Italy)
New in 2025 visit Bürgermeister’s Hideaway a festive German speakeasy with holiday cocktails. Reservations Required.
Set Your Food Expectations: While Busch Gardens offers a variety of dining options, it’s important to note that the food here isn’t quite on the same level as Disney World or Universal Orlando. It’s not a gourmet culinary experience, but you will find plenty to satisfy your appetite and keep you energized for the festivities.
Available Upgrades
Quick Queue – Jump The Line – If you’re looking to make the most of your visit, especially during busy weekends, Quick Queue is a smart upgrade. It allows you to skip the regular lines and have a significantly shorter wait at select rides and attractions, including popular coasters. Quick Queue is also offered separately for Santa’s Workshop and the Christmas Train, both of which can have long waits, particularly after sunset.
Pro Tip: Quick Queue quantities are limited each day and can sell out, especially during peak holiday weekends, so it’s best to purchase in advance online.
The All-Day Dining Deal lets you enjoy one entrée, one side or dessert, and one non-alcoholic beverage every 90 minutes at participating dining locations throughout the park. It’s a good value and a nice way to pre-budget if you plan to spend the entire day in the park and want to try different meals, snacks, or warm drinks.
Nearby Attractions
Williamsburg, VA and its surroundings come alive during the holidays with plenty to explore beyond Christmas Town. In Colonial Williamsburg, the streets are decked with garlands and cressets, and you can enjoy carriage rides, caroling, and the spectacular Grand Illumination fireworks weekends, typically held in early to mid‑December . Nearby Yorktown lights up with a charming riverfront boat parade and tree lighting ceremony. You’ll also find festive markets and quaint shops in Merchants Square, the historic retail village, offering everything from handmade crafts to holiday treats. Whether you’re checking out colonial charm, family-friendly strolls, or scenic carriage rides, the Holiday season around Busch Gardens offers a full weekend of festive fun.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Williamsburg truly has something for everyone, whether you’re chasing thrills on coasters, making memories with Santa, marveling at the millions of twinkling lights, or enjoying the heartwarming holiday shows. From little ones exploring the Sesame Street Forest of Fun to grandparents soaking in the festive scenery on the Christmas Train, it’s an experience that brings all generations together. If you’re hoping to catch multiple shows, ride as many attractions as possible, and take your time exploring all the beautiful light displays and seasonal treats, you could easily spend two days enjoying everything the park has to offer. It’s the kind of holiday tradition that leaves you glowing long after the lights go out.
I’m a travel advisor and would love to work with you!
Check out my website katievtravel.com to request a vacation quote or email me at katiev@themagicsyours.com with any questions.
I’d love to make your vacation dreams a reality!
Katie Vassalotti - Travel Advisor - Travel Blog 