Miami – November 03, 2026 -- Christmas Wonderland at Tropical Park returns for its fourth season from Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026, through Sunday, Jan. 3, 2027, with a 230-foot observation wheel, a European-style Christmas market and an hourly light show. A single admission ticket covers more than 50 unlimited carnival rides, the new wheel, live shows and Santa encounters.
Light Up the Night syncs a mile of lights to music every hour
Tinsel Trail, a mile of lights, winds through all six of the park's holiday worlds. Every hour on the hour, every archway, display and installation along the route moves in time to a holiday soundtrack. The show runs from the Miami colors of HoliDade to the frosty Arctic Delight and ends with a parkwide finale in the new marketplace. It is included with admission.
The America 250 Wheel gives riders views up to 14 miles
The 700,000-pound America 250 Wheel arrives on 11 tractor-trailers and is billed as the world's largest portable observation wheel. Each of its 45 gondolas honors one of the 45 U.S. presidents and shares historical facts with riders. Rides are included with paid admission.
The new Christmas Marketplace adds twinkling chalets around the park's towering Christmas tree. Artisans and local vendors sell handcrafted ornaments and seasonal treats, alongside hot cocoa with a toppings bar, spiced cider, roasted nuts and carols. St. Nicholas also visits.
Duck Discovery sends kids hunting for 24 rubber ducks
Children 12 and younger can join the free hunt by picking up a Duck Passport at the entrance and registering at the Duck Depot. Four to five varieties are hidden each night, and every new find earns a dated stamp. Ten different ducks earn a four-pack of tickets for a return visit, and all 24 win a grand prize for the 2027 season.
On Choir Nights, Dec. 1, 8 and 15, local choirs perform carols, and each evening ends with a crowd sing-along. Memory Lane, a tribute to Santa's Enchanted Forest, brings back original set pieces and photo spots including Surfin' Santa.
Six themed worlds range from Miami-Dade tributes to Santa's Village
HoliDade features more than 12 photo installations by Moyano Productions, including a Gingerbread Lifeguard Stand and the Toy Factoria. Other areas are Town Square, Sweet Street, Toy Town, Arctic Delight and Santa's Village. Adults can order wine, Champagne and seasonal cocktails at Nelson's Nightcap Bar in Arctic Delight. Professional photos with Santa cost extra, and advance booking is recommended.
The Magnificent Midway offers more than 50 rides, including three roller coasters, a carousel and bumper cars. Food trucks and local vendors serve holiday sweets and carnival classics, and bars pour coquito and craft cocktails. Cervecería La Tropical is the official beer partner.
Gates open at 4 p.m. daily during Thanksgiving week and winter break
Tropical Park is at 7900 SW 40th St., Miami, FL 33155. Gates open at 4 p.m. daily Nov. 23 to 28 and Dec. 21 to Jan. 2. The park is closed Monday, Nov. 16, Monday, Nov. 30 and Monday, Dec. 7.
Carnival games, food, drinks, merchandise and Santa photos cost extra. Weekday online bundle deals are available in limited quantities until 5 p.m. on the day of admission, and blackout dates apply. Parking is free, VIP parking can be purchased, and a free trolley runs from the main lots until one hour after closing.