By Stephanie Loder
If you want to make some good memories this holiday season, then grab your ice skates and head to Vintner Wonderland at Renault Winery in Egg Harbor City.
Nestled in the heart of the South Jersey Pine Barrens, the free holiday festival – which opened Nov. 29 and continues until Jan. 20 – celebrates a successful harvest in the Renault Winery vineyard.
“Vintner Wonderland is a cherished event because it offers something special for everyone in the family, making it a perfect holiday outing. It combines the magic of the season with activities that cater to all ages,” said spokeswoman Alexis Morello.
The festival provides families or groups with a chance to savor the season with ice skating, culinary and wine events, local music, and live entertainment. There are special events and overnight stays at the hotel.
Children can enjoy festive attractions, while parents can relax with a glass of wine or a gourmet treat, Morello said.
“The free admission also makes it accessible to everyone, with the option to enhance the experience through a variety of ticketed activities. It’s a family-friendly, budget-conscious celebration with a luxurious, festive touch,” Morello said.
There is ice skating from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
A Christmas Tree Lighting will take place on Dec. 6.
Holiday markets are offered on Dec. 6, 8, 20 and 22 and give visitors a chance to find the perfect holiday gift.
There’s also a special cookies and cocktails event on Dec. 21.
“The festival offers something for everyone,” Morello said.
Visitors can spend the day in warmth and comfort.
Vintner Wonderland offers various rentals for groups who want to spend time together off of the ice.
They can rent a “cabin cabana” which accommodates up to six people and overlooks the ice rink.
There’s also a choice of renting a dome-shaped heated igloo with views of Vintner Wonderland or a private fire pit for up to eight people for a cozy gathering.
Morello said visitors will enjoy several new features for the 2024 season.
“This year, Vintner Wonderland is introducing exciting new features to delight guests of all ages,” Morello said.
Some of the new features include Santa’s Post Office, Santa, a free photo booth to capture memories with friends and family in a festive setting, Santa’s Workshop which is a hands-on, creative play area for kids to immerse themselves in holiday crafts and fun, and Barrel Rides in authentic wine barrels.
There are new treats that include funnel cakes, cotton candy, and fried Oreos.
This year, the festival will include a Charity Skate Night on Fridays.
“Every Friday, we highlight a special charity, and 50% of the proceeds from skating are donated to these important causes, making your visit even more meaningful,” Morello said.
The Festival of Trees display continues this year in partnership with Faces4Autism to celebrate the season of giving.
Guests can tour decorated trees and support Faces4Autism, a non-profit organization dedicated to the education and support of children with Autism.
“These additions and beloved returning features ensure this year’s Vintner Wonderland is truly unforgettable,” Morello said.
Vintner Wonderland has grown in popularity.
Last year, the festival welcomed 15,000 to 20,000 guests from New Jersey and other states, Morello said.
“Visitors come from all over the region, with many traveling from 1 to 2 hours away, including the New York City metro area, Philadelphia, and surrounding communities. Its growing reputation draws families and holiday enthusiasts from near and far, making it a regional highlight of the holiday season,” Morello said.
Stephanie is a freelance writer with 40 years experience covering NJ news for The Asbury Park Press, The Courier Post, The Catholic Star Herald and The Press of AC. Email her at stephanieloder59@hotmail.com
