Bringing young children to Holiday Village can be a truly magical experience. With twinkling lights, festive treats, snow tubing, and cozy firesides, the festival offers plenty for little ones to enjoy. It’s a place where wonder and excitement come alive for kids of all ages. From the moment you arrive, the sights and sounds of the holiday season will spark wide-eyed smiles and joyful laughter. That said, a bit of preparation can help make your family’s visit even more fun, safe, and stress-free. Here are five helpful tips for getting the most out of your Holiday Village adventure with young children.
1. Start with the Right Hill
Holiday Village’s signature Snow Peak Tube Hill may be the main attraction, but younger children, especially those under 42 inches tall, might feel more comfortable on the medium or small-sized hills designed just for them. These newer tubing hills feature simple walking paths to the peak, making them easy for little legs to climb. They still get the excitement of tubing but on a more manageable scale.
Parents are welcome to accompany their children for added support. And if your little one isn’t quite ready to ride, you can still enjoy watching from the nearby village area or fireside viewing spots.
2. Bundle Up for the Elements
While Holiday Village is a winter wonderland, it’s important to remember that many of the activities are outdoors; and that means chilly temperatures. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather. Layering is key: think warm base layers, snow pants, waterproof boots, gloves, and a cozy hat. Even though the tubing hill uses an all-weather surface, the wind chill from sliding downhill can still make things brisk for young visitors.
Also, consider bringing an extra pair of gloves or socks in case anything gets wet, and don’t forget a blanket or stroller cover if you’ll be pushing a little one around the village.
3. Plan a Midway Break
Between tubing and walking the light village, kids can get tired or hungry quickly. The Midway Food and Drinks area offers a great opportunity to recharge. This covered indoor/outdoor space features warm treats like hot cocoa and family-friendly snacks that can help boost energy and mood.
Taking a break here can also help your child warm up and reset before heading out for more adventures. If your family enjoys sweet treats together, you may want to plan your visit around snack time to enjoy s’mores or a warm drink as part of your outing.
4. Visit Santa Early (or Late)
Meeting Santa at his Holiday Village house is a must for many young children. To make the experience more enjoyable, consider visiting Santa’s House early in your visit, before the crowds build, or later in the evening, when things tend to slow down. This can help reduce long wait times and prevent meltdowns from tired or overstimulated kids.
Remember that photos with Santa require a separate ticket, so be sure to stop by the office or plan ahead if this is a part of your visit. Giving your child time to warm up to the idea of meeting Santa (especially if they’re shy) can also help ensure a smooth experience.
5. Create a Cozy End to the Night
After a fun-filled evening of tubing, exploring, and meeting Santa, young children will likely need a wind-down moment. That’s where the Fireside Rentals come in. Booking a private campfire area gives your family a quiet space to relax and reflect on the evening. With firewood, a lighter, and a s’mores kit included, it’s a perfect way to end your visit on a warm and memorable note.
If your child is old enough, involve them in roasting marshmallows and assembling s’mores, it’s often a highlight for younger guests. Fireside areas also offer a bit of shelter and calm after the excitement of the park.
Make the Most of Every Magical Moment
Holiday Village is designed with families in mind, and with a little planning, your visit can be smooth, joyful, and full of magical memories. From child-friendly snow hills and heartwarming light displays to snacks, Santa, and fireside bonding, there’s something for every child to enjoy.
Contact Holiday Village to learn more or book your visit today, and get ready to share in the wonder of the season with your little ones.