'Magical' XMas Drive Thru At Amusement Park Opens Next Week

WEST DUNDEE, IL — Santa's Village in East Dundee will be opening its magical Christmas drive-thru experience next week.

The amusement park, located at 601 Dundee Avenue in East Dundee, will open its immersive, drive thru event on Nov. 24. The display will remain open through Dec. 23 and will feature 3 million lights synchronized to holiday music as well as breathtaking displays, which are meant to transport guests to a winter wonderland.

At the end of the drive thru, visitors can park their car and take part in more holiday fun, according to a news release.

Santa Claus will be on hand for photos and there will also be a 300-foot tube slide meant to offer thrills for all ages. In addition, funnel cakes and hot chocolate will be available for purchase.

“Santa’s Village has been spreading holiday cheer to Chicagoland families for over 60 years, with exciting Christmas-themed attractions that bring the family together,” said Jason Sierpien,
park president of Santa’s Village. “We’re excited to continue the tradition of our Christmas Drive-Thru Experience this holiday season, offering families a unique and fun way to celebrate the holidays and create cherished memories.”

Santa’s Village first opened in East Dundee in 1959 with the vision of bringing joy to local families through Christmas-themed attractions, according to officials with the local amusement park. Tickets for the Christmas drive thru experience are available only on the Santa’s Village website, and are priced at $35 per vehicle and $25 for season pass holders.

Buses, vans, limos and RVs are not permitted due to the turning radius of the route. Santa’s Village recommends driving at 3 MPH to ensure an amazing show experience; however, the duration of the drive will depend on the day and time, as well as traffic and weather.