OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The World Equestrian Center’s Winter Wonderland returns for the 2025 season, bringing holiday lights, festive displays and themed entertainment to the Grand Plaza, though some guests noted concerns about pricing and limited activities compared with previous years.
The event runs Wednesday through Sunday from 5 to 9 p.m., featuring more than a million lights and popular photo spots such as the walk-through Christmas tree and the illuminated horse-and-carriage display. Visitors can meet Santa and the Grinch each evening and holiday sweets, food vendors and $7 hot chocolate stands remain available daily through Dec. 31.
A major attraction this year is the full-scale R+L Carrier gingerbread truck displayed in the Equestrian Hotel–a replica of Larry Roberts Sr.’s 1963 GMC 1-ton cab. Built with 320 pounds of gingerbread, 110 pounds of flour and nearly two pounds of spices, the project began in January with WEC’s Jump Crew and the pastry team led by Chef Yohann Le Bescond. Many attendees praised it as a standout piece of craftmanship.
Additional offerings include customizable merchandise at Santa’s Workshop, small pop-up shops for Mr. Pickles and Sailor Bear and seasonal treats at on-site eateries such as Ms. Tilly’s Lollipops and Viola and Dot’s Pizzeria. Ms. Tilly’s also features Enchanted Christmas Cases–featuring festive cupcakes, cookies and snacks–and specialty hot chocolate. A build-your-own candy bag station drew families looking for hands-on activities.
Weekend entertainment includes specialty performances on Fridays, Saturdays and Dec. 21-23. Walk-around characters–including Captain Jack Sparrow, Bluey and Bingo–interact with guests. “Face Painting with Tonya,” Creative Chippy Party Service’s caricatures and balloon twisting and the large light-up piano add to the atmosphere.
However, some visitors cited ticket prices–ranging from $5 to $12 depending on the night, with children 4 and under free–as a factor in their disappointment. Guests said the price point felt high for what they described as limited interactive options beyond photo opportunities, vendors and character meet-and-greets. Others noted that while the lights were impressive, the experience felt brief compared with previous years.
Some attendees also noted that that interior of the Equestrian Hotel–particularly the hotel lobby–featured more elaborate Christmas decorations than the outdoor Winter Wonderland event itself. Guests described the hotel’s trees, garlands and festive animatronics as “far more detailed,” saying the contrast made the plaza feel comparatively minimal.
Despite mixed feedback, the Winter Wonderland remains a well-attended seasonal tradition in Ocala, offering a blend of holiday decor, themed performances and family-oriented attractions. As the event continues through Dec. 23, visitors can expect a festive atmosphere.
