
Navy Pier President and CEO Marilynn Gardner announces that the popular Winter WonderFest will return. (Navy Pier photo)
Chicago, the sun may still be shining, but it’s never too early to start planning for Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier. From December 5, 2025 through January 4, 2026, the beloved holiday tradition returns indoors in a big way.

Early bird, deep-discounted tickets available now for Navy Pier's Winter WonderFest. (Navy Pier photo)
Inside Festival Hall, over 170,000 square feet are transformed into a climate‑controlled winter playground complete with sparkling lights, towering holiday décor and nonstop seasonal energy, no mittens required.
This year’s lineup is packed with festive thrills for all ages: glide on the indoor ice rink, tackle the Polar Extreme obstacle course, ride the Arctic Express train, soar on the Cliffhanger and Zero Gravity swing, cruise with bumper cars and more. One ride per ticket is also included on the iconic Centennial Wheel, offering enclosed city‑and‑lake views through every winter cloud.

50% off now through Aug. 7 for early bird tickets to Navy Pier's Winter WonderFest. (Navy Pier photo)
Chicagoans can lock in a 50 % early bird discount using the code WWF50 at checkout—but act fast: it expires August 7, 2025. Tickets, including wheels and skating admission, are available now on the Winter WonderFest ticket page.
Whether you’re creating new memories or rekindling an old tradition, Winter WonderFest provides the perfect indoor escape into holiday cheer. With early bird savings and a sparkling setup that stretches from floor to ceiling, it’s absolutely worth marking your calendar and claiming your tickets early.
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