Castle Park Opens New 'Royal Holiday' Experience In Riverside

RIVERSIDE, CA — Riverside's Castle Park is launching an all-new seasonal celebration this weekend, unveiling a monthlong holiday attraction running Fridays through Sundays from Nov. 28 to Dec. 28.

The Riverside amusement park will transform into a winter wonderland — “A Royal Holiday at Castle Park” — featuring nightly Christmas tree lightings, magical snowfall, photo opportunities and live performances. Park officials say the new event is designed to offer families “a magical winter wonderland” with activities and entertainment for all ages.

Guests can enjoy holiday-themed rides including the Holiday Express Train, Antique Cars and a carousel accompanied by Santa and costumed characters. Children can take part in ornament decorating, snowball play and letter-writing for Santa and local service members.

Daily entertainment throughout the village will include handbell performers, youth choirs, strolling carolers, giveaways, Duke’s Ugly Sweater Contest and Duke’s Holiday Hop Dance Party. Seasonal treats such as Santa’s Cookie Cake, Frosty’s Funnel Cake and Rudolph’s Red-Nose Cocoa will be available. From 8 to 9 p.m., visitors can explore lights and continue riding the Holiday Express during an extended evening hour.

All children 12 and under who visit Santa will receive a holiday prize. Annual Passholders will receive complimentary admission to the event, and the first 50 passholder children each day will receive a “Nice List” coupon for a free treat.

A Royal Holiday Experience Ticket includes standard park admission, unlimited mini golf and access to Holiday Village activities beginning at 3 p.m., along with Santa photo opportunities and entry to Duke’s Holiday Hop Dance Party.

The event will run Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 28 during regular park hours. Holiday Village activities begin daily at 3 p.m. Castle Park is located at 3500 Polk Street in Riverside. Tickets and packages are available online and at the park.