Christmas Wonderland has officially taken over the iconic Miami venue once home to Santa’s Enchanted Forest, bringing back the bright lights and thrill rides that locals remember but with a new twist. After Santa’s Enchanted Forest relocated to Hialeah, the original Tropical Park space opened the door for a fresh holiday attraction, and Christmas Wonderland is stepping into the spotlight with bigger rides, new food vendors, and updated entrance pricing.
Running from November through early January, the festival transforms the park into a glowing carnival packed with roller coasters, a towering Ferris wheel, game booths, and Christmas themed displays. Tickets range from about 35 to 45 dollars depending on the day and the age of the guest, while unlimited ride wristbands raise the cost but give visitors access to every attraction.
For many students, the nostalgia of the old location mixes with the excitement of something new.
Christopher Columbus senior Samuel Falcon said, “It feels familiar but different at the same time. You can tell they tried to keep the fun energy people expect from Miami during the holidays.”
The rides remain the biggest draw. The Ferris wheel, visible even from nearby highways, has quickly become the symbol of the event.
Senior Emma Angeli said, “Every time I am driving on the highway, I see the giant Ferris wheel and it makes me want to stop and go. It looks huge from the road.”
Beyond the rides, Christmas Wonderland brings a wide spread of carnival style food including fried Oreos, fresh churros, birria tacos, roasted corn, giant lemonades, cotton candy, and the classic funnel cakes that have become a Miami fair tradition. Families can also walk through illuminated tunnels, photo op zones, and meet and greet areas featuring holiday characters.
The event’s return to the Tropical Park site carries a sense of Miami nostalgia.
Senior Aya Bardawil said, “People grew up going to Santa’s Enchanted Forest there, so having another Christmas park in the same spot makes it feel like the tradition continues.”
Christmas Wonderland expects large crowds as winter break approaches, especially on weekends. Parking is available on site, but long lines are common and visitors are encouraged to arrive early. With bright lights, loud music, classic carnival scents, and a new holiday identity, Christmas Wonderland is aiming to create its own place in Miami’s seasonal traditions right on the same ground where the city’s most famous holiday amusement park once stood.
