Bergen Winter Wonderland Sensory-Friendly Event Is Thursday

PARAMUS, NJ – Van Saun Park’s Winter Wonderland will offer kids with disabilities a chance to enjoy the annual winter event in a calmer setting.

On Thursday, the county will host two sensory-free sessions, one from 11 a.m. to 2:30 pm. and another from 3:30 to 7 p.m.

The free event, which is open to individuals of all abilities, features ice skating, ice performances, arts and crafts, carousel rides and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. It is geared towards those who need additional assistance, extra time or a quieter, less stressful environment to enjoy Winter Wonderland.

Standard ice skate rentals are free and residents are encouraged to bring necessary and/or approved devices, if needed.

Disability Inclusion Day is being sponsored by the Bergen County Department of Parks, the Department of Human Services and the Division of Disability Services.

Winter Wonderland, back for its fourth year, transforms 3.5 acres of Van Saun County Park into a holiday oasis. It features two ice skating rinks, a North Pole Dome, carnival-style games, and a heated pavilion tent which houses a beer garden, food vendors and lawn games. Retrofitted for the holiday season, Van Saun County Park’s celebrated train will also run, along with the carousel.

The county-run event will be held Fridays through Sundays until Jan. 5, 2020 at Van Saun County Park, 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus.

Tickets are $15 each and children age 3 and under are admitted for free. Visit bergencountywinterwonderland.com for more information.