My son, Aidan, and I got the chance to go to see Westchester's Winter Wonderland, held at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla. This year's event has been completely re-imagined due to COVID-19. What had been an outdoor festival where you walked around is now a drive-thru holiday lights experience. We weren't sure what to expect upon arrival but the traffic pattern was easy to follow off the Bronx River Parkway and the registration process was contactless. It was a cold night and I confess I enjoyed not having to get out of my car! They recommend that you turn the radio on to 88.7 FM to hear holiday music as you drive through the event.
The entire drive is 1.2 miles and it is very easy to drive slowly and take some great photos of all the attractions. Aidan handled the photography while I drove. His favorite exhibits were the giant Christmas tree in the center and the tunnel of lights that you drive through. I enjoyed the beautiful angels with the important message of "goodwill toward all" and, of course, seeing Santa Claus at the end. Westchester's Winter Wonderland is definitely worth the trip. The whole event took only 30 minutes from the time we pulled off the highway to when we drove out. On weekends, I have heard there is more traffic so plan ahead for more time if you go on Friday or Saturday. Westchester's Winter Wonderland captures the great feeling you get from looking at Christmas lights and is a fun way to kick-off the holiday season.
Westchester's Winter Wonderland runs on select nights through January 3rd. The cost is $25 for the car and must be purchased in advance. To buy tickets, visit wwonderland.com.
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*Macaroni Kid Chappaqua was given free admission for the purposes of this review. All opinions are my own.
