White Plains, NY (October 2025) – Westchester’s Winter Wonderland Drive-Thru Holiday Light Extravaganza, presented by Westchester Parks Foundation and founding sponsor Westchester Medical Center Health Network, returns to Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla for its twelfth magical season from November 21 through December 31, 2025. This year introduces an exciting new opening weekend celebration: NOVEMBERFEST, a walk-thru holiday experience to launch the season in festive style before the beloved drive-thru opens. Tickets are now on sale!
The NOVEMBERFEST limited three-night walk-thru experience, takes place Friday, November 21 through Sunday, November 23, from 5:00–9:00 PM nightly. Tickets are $30 per adult, $20 per child (ages 5–12, Under 5 Free). Enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring:
- Free photos with Santa (using your own phone or camera)
- Live holiday music and entertainment
- Winter Market with over 60 curated local vendors
- Food trucks, beer & spirit vendors
- And of course, 1.2 miles of Holiday light displays, two 100-foot tunnels, the return of the Dancing Trees, and Westchester’s best live Santa!
Each night at NOVEMBERFEST brings something uniquely festive. The weekend kicks off on Friday, November 21 with our Opening Night Celebration, including the official tree lighting at 6:00 PM, proudly sponsored by Robison. On Saturday, November 22, guests can cheer on participants in the Santa Fun Run & Mascot Race, starting at 5:00 PM. Schools with mascots are encouraged to participate. Finally, Sunday, November 23 wraps up the weekend with a showcase of live music performances by bands throughout the evening.
Following NovemberFest, the Winter Wonderland Drive-Thru begins Friday, November 28, all from the comfort of your car. Admission: $35-$42 for off-peak and-peak tickets, per vehicle. (Additional fee for oversized vehicles. Reservations required to avoid surcharges.) Holiday classics will be simulcast through your vehicle’s FM radio, setting the mood from the moment you enter the park. Guests should allow 25-30 minutes to drive thru the attraction.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “For more than a decade, the Westchester County Parks Department and Westchester Parks Foundation have done an outstanding job presenting Westchester’s Winter Wonderland Drive-thru Holiday Light Extravaganza, which has become a special part of the holiday season in Westchester. What began as a festive event has become a cherished tradition for many families in the area. The dazzling displays captivate children, delight adults, and create memories that will last for years to come.”
Seth Mandelbaum, Westchester Parks Foundation Board of Trustees Chair stated: “Whether you're walking through NovemberFest or driving through our spectacular light show, Winter Wonderland 2025 offers something magical for all. And the best part? Every ticket supports your favorite Westchester County parks.”
Westchester County Parks Commissioner, Kathy O’Connor said, “Thanks to all the wonderful partners, sponsors and, of course, our outstanding parks staff for transforming the Kensico Dam Plaza into a magical Winter Wonderland. Join us for the limited three-night walk-thru experience opening weekend and come back later in the season to experience the drive-thru from the warmth of your car. It's a perfect way to get family and friends outdoors and into the holiday spirit."
When purchasing tickets, guests will have the option to donate additional funds to Westchester Parks Foundation to help expand its Camp Morty program for underserved youth along with Westchester Medical Center Health Network Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital.
Tickets are on sale HERE. For more information on the event visit: wwinterwonderland.com
Con Edison will return as a Platinum Sponsor, helping to light up over 118,000 Watts of energy at Kensico Dam Plaza for all to enjoy! The lighting masterpiece is designed by Peekskill based Eclectic Precision and Dark Tech Effects. Wegman’s is returning as the live character sponsor, along with our Opening Night Sponsor Robison and Iona Preparatory School as the audio sponsor. Media sponsors include News 12, WHUD and The Peak.
Westchester’s Winter Wonderland is a place to make priceless holiday memories. It has become a Westchester holiday tradition without the hassle or expense of traveling to New York City and one of the safest and most affordable holiday options for the 2025 Holiday Season. For complete information and to purchase tickets, visit wwinterwonderland.com
About Westchester Parks Foundation
Westchester Parks Foundation is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit, philanthropic organization which provides private support to preserve the County’s Park system and improve the quality of life in our communities. Westchester Parks Foundation’s mission is to invest in, advocate for, and enhance the 50+ parks of the Westchester County Parks system. For more information, visit http://www.thewpf.org.
