Southern California
Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain: dates, what's included and whether it's worth it
Six Flags Magic Mountain celebrates Holiday in the Park on select dates from November 26, 2026 through January 3, 2027. Admission includes the light displays, live shows and most rides. Food and some holiday activities cost extra.
Confirmed · Checked November 2026
Checked November 4, 2026. The Magic Mountain calendar lists select dates from November 26 through January 3, 2027. The official event guide explains which shows, rides and activities admission covers.
The pattern
- Typically starts
- late November
- Typically ends
- early January
- Hours
- Select operating days; consult the park calendar for daily hours
What you get, and what you do not
What you get
- Holiday light displays and decorated themed areas throughout the park.
- Select operating rides and attractions included with admission on event days.
- Seasonal entertainment and holiday character appearances, including Santa meet-and-greets.
- A festive atmosphere layered over the regular park experience without a separate event ticket.
What you do not
- A guarantee that a particular ride will operate. Check the park’s ride status for your visit.
- Food, drinks or premium holiday experiences included with admission; those cost extra.
- Warm weather; Valencia evenings in late November and December can drop below 50°F — dress in layers.
What it costs
- Use a daily ticket, season pass or membership valid for Magic Mountain on your chosen event date.
- Admission covers holiday shows, light displays, select activities and most rides operating that day.
- Budget separately for food, drinks, souvenirs and select activities such as cookie decorating and s’mores.
How to actually do Holiday in the Park
Ride first, lights later
Arrive at opening to ride the most popular coasters before holiday crowds build in the afternoon.
Save the decorated areas and light displays for after sunset — the effect is dramatically different and you will have covered the rides.
Check ride availability and showtimes
Pick a date on the event calendar, then check the park’s app for ride availability before you leave.
If a specific show is a priority, check its schedule separately from park opening and closing times.
Timing around the holidays
Check that your chosen day appears on the holiday calendar before making travel plans. Park operating hours and event dates can differ.
The announced window ends January 3, 2027. Choose a listed event day if you plan to visit in January.
Dress for Valencia evenings
Valencia evenings from late November through December regularly drop below 50°F. Dress in layers and bring a warm jacket for after sunset.
Closed-toe shoes are practical for walking between decorated areas.
The verdict
Worth a visit if your group wants an evening of lights and shows after a day on the rides. Choose a published event date and set aside extra money for food or paid activities.
Worth it if
- You want holiday shows and lights as part of a park day.
- You already hold a season pass or plan to visit Magic Mountain anyway.
- Your group enjoys holiday lights, decorated areas and seasonal food.
Skip it if
- A particular coaster is the main reason for your visit and its availability is uncertain.
- You expect every area decorated — some sections remain standard.
- You want warm-weather rides — Valencia evenings drop below 50°F from late November.
Frequently asked questions
When does Holiday in the Park at Magic Mountain run?
Select dates from November 26, 2026 through January 3, 2027. The event runs on scheduled operating days — not daily — so check the Six Flags Magic Mountain calendar for specific dates before planning a visit.
Is Holiday in the Park included with admission?
Yes. A ticket, season pass or membership valid for your visit covers holiday shows, light displays, select activities and most rides. Food, drinks, merchandise and some holiday experiences cost extra.
Are all rides open during Holiday in the Park?
Six Flags lists select rides and attractions for the celebration. Check the park’s app for ride availability, especially if one coaster is the reason for your trip.
What should I wear to Holiday in the Park?
Valencia, California evenings from late November through December regularly drop below 50°F. Dress in layers, bring a warm jacket for after sunset, and wear closed-toe shoes for walking between decorated areas.
Can I meet Santa at Holiday in the Park?
Six Flags Magic Mountain typically includes holiday character meet-and-greets, including Santa, as part of the event. Check the park’s daily entertainment schedule for times and locations on the day of your visit.
The permanent version of all this
Height requirements, ride mechanics, accessibility detail, and permanent dining live on our evergreen guide, our year-round sister site. They do not change with the season, so we do not repeat them here.