Winter Wonderland at Naftzger Park is back for 2026! This completely FREE Christmas event in downtown Wichita is hosted by Wichita Parks & Recreation on Friday, December 4, 2026. Families can enjoy s’mores, Santa, hot cocoa, holiday lights, live entertainment, and more without spending a dime!
Wander through the park while enjoying the Christmas lights and festive decorations. Listen to holiday music, roast marshmallows around the fire pits, and enjoy a fun evening with family and friends.
The celebration includes a Christmas tree lighting at 6 p.m., when two children from the Miracle League of Wichita will flip the switch to light up the holiday tree.
FREE Christmas Activities at Winter Wonderland in Wichita
There’s so much included in this FREE holiday celebration! Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Holiday tree lighting at 6 p.m.
- Visits and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus
- S’mores around the fire pits
- Hot cocoa
- Cookies and candy canes
- The Grinch making appearances throughout the evening
- Festive holiday photo stations
- Letters to Santa
- Live holiday music and entertainment
- Community vendors
- Raffle prizes
Kids can even drop a letter into Santa’s magical mailbox for a chance to receive a reply before Christmas!
Live Holiday Entertainment at Naftzger Park
Winter Wonderland will feature live entertainment throughout the evening.
The 2026 lineup includes:
- Wichita Children’s Dance
- Nita Lujan
- Julian Sampson
- Additional performers
Lisa Teachman, KSN Head Meteorologist, will serve as the evening’s emcee.
Winter Wonderland Raffle Prizes and Community Vendors
In addition to the holiday activities, guests can visit community vendors and enter raffles for prizes.
Some of the announced prizes include:
- $100 Music Theatre Wichita gift certificate
- Two day-pass admissions to Tanganyika Wildlife Park
- Orangetheory gift certificate
- Additional prizes
The Mayor’s Youth Council is among the announced community participants.
Tips for Enjoying This FREE Wichita Christmas Event
My biggest tip is to arrive a little before 6 p.m. so you don’t miss the Christmas tree lighting!
A few more things to know:
- Dress warmly since the celebration takes place outdoors.
- Bring your camera or phone for Santa and Grinch photos.
- Plan time to roast s’mores and enjoy the holiday treats.
- Have the kids prepare their letters to Santa before arriving if they want to use the magical mailbox.
- Be aware that St. Francis Street will be closed between Douglas and East Williams during the event.
Since admission and the advertised holiday activities are FREE, this is an easy way to enjoy a Christmas outing without adding another expense to your holiday budget.
Winter Wonderland at Naftzger Park
Date: Friday, December 4, 2026
Time: 6–8 p.m.
Tree Lighting: 6 p.m.
Location: Naftzger Park, 601 E. Douglas Ave., Wichita, KS 67202
Cost: FREE admission; all ages welcome
Hosted By: Wichita Parks & Recreation
Official Event Information: City of Wichita Winter Wonderland
