Event description
Winter Wonderland Festival
December 5 and 6, 2026 | 1:00 to 5:00 PM
Each year, the California Center for the Arts, Escondido Foundation transforms the campus into a magical Winter Wonderland. Families can play in real snow, visit Santa, enjoy live holiday performances, create festive crafts, shop from local artisans, and much more.
This free community event brings the magic of the holiday season to the heart of Escondido, with activities and entertainment for the whole family.
Event Highlights
Real Snow
Our popular snow play area is back! Bundle up and enjoy an afternoon of real snow with plenty of opportunities to build a snowman, play, and experience a little winter magic right here in Escondido.
Pictures with Santa
Santa is coming to Winter Wonderland! Gather the family for a photo with our classic Old World Santa and give the kids a chance to share those last minute holiday wishes.
Live Holiday Performances
Enjoy an original holiday show from Loud Fridge Theatre Group, featuring music and festive characters. Performances will take place both days at 1:30 PM, 2:45 PM, and 4:00 PM.
Keep an ear out for roaming carolers throughout the festival, too! The Escondido Choral Arts Foundation Children’s Choir will perform on Saturday, December 5, with additional roaming carolers joining the festivities on Sunday, December 6.
Holiday Artisan Market
Find something special for everyone on your list while supporting local artists and makers. Browse our artisan market featuring unique gifts and creations perfect for the holiday season.
Bubble Domes
Step inside two magical floating bubble dome experiences where kids can play, explore, and enjoy some extra holiday fun.
Food & Treats
Come hungry! A selection of food trucks and pop up food vendors will be serving up delicious bites throughout the festival.
Holiday Crafts
Get creative with a special holiday craft activity organized by Esco Alley Art.
Free Face Painting
Fancy Nancy and her face painting friends will offer free holiday themed face painting and airbrush tattoos.
Santa’s Reindeer Scavenger Hunt
Can you find all nine of Santa’s reindeer? Kids can explore the campus in search of each one, then return their completed map to the CAT tent to claim a prize.
Give Back This Winter
This year, Winter Wonderland will also serve as a donation station benefiting Interfaith Community Services. Guests are encouraged to bring canned goods, nonperishable foods like cereal and oatmeal, or everyday hygiene items such as soap, toothpaste, and diapers.
Every donation helps nourish local families and neighbors in need, bringing dignity and hope so no one in our community goes hungry.
Generously Funded By
Interested in sponsoring Winter Wonderland 2026? Click here for more information.
