Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland returns for its milestone 20th year, unveiling new festive features, dazzling decorations and the North’s largest outdoor ice rink.
A milestone winter celebration
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland has officially opened at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet York, marking its 20th festive season with spectacular new displays and an expanded programme of winter fun for families across the region.
At last night’s lights switch-on, around 300 invited guests enjoyed a magical woodland-themed reveal featuring giant illuminated trees edged with colourful neon ropes, glowing bauble trees and a vibrant forest backdrop surrounding the ice rink.
The event was hosted by YorkMix, with appearances from cast members of Joseph Rowntree Theatre’s pantomime The Adventures of Peter Pan, plus YorkMix character Mixie. Led by Town Crier Ben Fry, guests counted down to the switch-on by nine-year-old “Young Star” Harper Wrigglesworth.
Skating, performances and festive fun
Professional skating duo Jack Gilbert and Ami-Lee opened the rink with a bespoke performance, before guests enjoyed skating sessions, the funfair and a first look at this year’s expanded Wonderland experience.
At the heart of the attraction is the North of England’s largest outdoor ice rink, spanning 975 sq m. The rink features a 30ft Christmas tree, premium ice technology and the cosy après-skate Chalet café, decorated in an alpine theme with vintage ski posters and traditional touches.
The rink is open daily (excluding Christmas Day), offering eleven 45-minute sessions each day and an extra 9:15am session on weekends and holidays. A Frequent Skater Pass rewards regular visitors with their sixth session free.
A fairground full of festive nostalgia
This year’s funfair once again offers something for all ages, from the thrilling Waltzer and Twister to the vintage 1937 Brooklands Dodgems. Four children’s rides — including new Jets and Train rides, the Muffin the Mule Autodrome and the Toy Set — add extra magic, alongside game stalls offering a prize every time.
Visitors can also enjoy gourmet sausages at the German Grill, mulled wine, hot chocolate and winter treats from the Chalet café.
Explore the Enchanted Woodland and Santa’s Grotto
A highlight of this year’s experience is the expanded Enchanted Woodland, featuring giant woodland creatures, hidden wish potions, Wilson the Wise Owl, Stardust the Unicorn and the glowing Wishing Cauldron where children can leave their Christmas dreams.
Following the illuminated light tunnel, families reach Santa’s Grotto, where children receive a gift and a warm welcome from Santa and his helpers.
York Designer Outlet is also supporting the YorkMix Children’s Toy Appeal 2025, collecting new gifts for children up to age 16. Donations can be dropped off at Santa’s Workshop in the Enchanted Woodland.
Perfect for Christmas shopping
The Designer Outlet remains a key festive shopping destination, offering up to 60% off premium brands including Levi’s, Clarins, Columbia, French Connection and Sweaty Betty. Groups can enjoy an extra 10% discount at selected stores when booking online.
Two decades of festive magic
The ice rink first debuted in York in 2005 as The Ice Factor, later moving to York Designer Outlet in 2010 where it has grown into a full winter attraction with a funfair and grotto. It has run every year except 2020 due to the pandemic, and now attracts visitors from across the UK during its seven-week season.
Voices from the event
Paul Tyler, Centre Manager at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet York, said:
“Christmas at York Designer Outlet just wouldn’t be the same without Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland. For many families it’s a cherished festive tradition, and it’s wonderful to see how it brings people together to create lasting memories.”
Georgi Wood, Event Director for Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland, said:
“We are so excited to be celebrating our 20th anniversary. So many people have grown up with Winter Wonderland as part of their Christmas celebrations. Our new decorations — especially the electric trees — make it the perfect spot for festive selfies and some great winter exercise!”
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