Generations of South Jersey families have marked the holiday season with a visit to Storybook Land. Beginning Nov. 14, the third-generation, family-owned amusement park will once again transform for Christmas Fantasy with Lights, its signature holiday event featuring more than one million lights, Santa and Mrs. Claus, falling snow, seasonal rides, festive food and nearly 40 years of Christmas tradition.
The magic begins each evening at 5 p.m., when Santa Claus waves his wand and more than one million lights illuminate Storybook Land. From Santa’s House and holiday twists on classic rides to falling snow, festive flavors and Christmas surprises throughout the park, Christmas Fantasy with Lights brings the sights, sounds, tastes and even smells of the season to life.
“There is a reason families tell us we have the Santa and Mrs. Claus,” said Jessica Panetta, co-owner of Storybook Land. “They take the time to listen, remember the little things and make every child who walks through their door feel like they’re the most important person in the room. That kind of experience can’t be rushed or recreated, and it is something we are incredibly proud to be known for.”
Families can visit Santa and Mrs. Claus inside Santa’s House through Dec. 23, where children can share their Christmas wishes and take photos with the pair before the big day.
Even Storybook Land’s rides get into the Christmas spirit. Jumping Jumbos transforms into Santa’s Fantasy Flight, taking families on a flying sleigh ride through falling snow. The holiday transformation continues with a musical light show near Bubbles the Coaster, a classic train ride through falling snow and festive touches around every corner.
The tastes of the season are part of the experience, with a special holiday food and beverage menu featuring hot chocolate and returning favorites, including loaded baked potatoes, chili, deconstructed chicken pot pie and seasonal soups, among other festive offerings. Holiday gifts and merchandise will also be available, while familiar Christmas scents add another layer of holiday magic to the experience.
Christmas Fantasy with Lights has become one of Storybook Land’s longest-running traditions. The event was previously featured on ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight and was recognized as No. 10 in USA TODAY’s 10Best Theme Park Holiday Events in 2023.
Christmas Fantasy with Lights runs on select dates Nov. 14 through Dec. 30. Santa and Mrs. Claus will welcome families in Santa’s House through Dec. 23 before returning to the North Pole. The park is closed Dec. 24 and 25, with Christmas Fantasy with Lights continuing Dec. 26–30.
Special event tickets are $42.95 per person, including tax, and must be purchased online in advance for a selected date. Tickets are not timed, allowing families to arrive at any point during operating hours on their selected date. 2026 season pass holders do not need to purchase an additional event ticket.
Tickets are on sale now. For tickets, operating dates, hours and additional information, visit Storybook Land’s website.
