Winter Fest OC - Autism Friendly

Welcome to Southern California's largest Winter Fest, www.winterfestoc.com.

It was opening weekend, and we had VIP tickets (Gifted) to attend an evening filled with lights, snow, rides, and so much more.

Having kids on the spectrum, I have to choose wisely the places we are invited to. It's not always, "Hey, let's go." I wish it was, though.

My kids have grown up visiting The Winter Fest OC. We have seen the changes through the years, and even during COVID-19, they still manage to bring in the holiday magic with a drive-thru.

When I mentioned we would be going to Winter Fest, their faces lit up, and they remembered the holiday magic they had experienced through the years. We never know how the evening will go; something may trigger a meltdown, and we must leave.

The boys are getting older, and the time frame for attending events is getting longer. It's been such a blessing.

We arrived when they opened, got our VIP passes, stood in line, and waited to go in. As soon as you enter, you are surrounded by the holiday spirit, lights, trees, and beautiful photo opportunities.

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As we left and entered another building, Santa's workshop, we saw people writing letters to Santa, taking photos with his sled, and more. Plus, Santa was there. As an autistic parent, I appreciated that Santa was in his "house," so taking pictures was calming, and not everyone was in line staring.

Outside was decked out in lights and filled with the spirit of the holidays. The OC doesn't get snow, but they had snow play with real snow! My little one has some sensory issues. I should have brought gloves, but he did find a quiet area and played a bit. At the ice skating rink it looked like everyone was having a blast. Unfortunately, my boys weren't ready to tackle that fun adventure, so we just watched; sometimes, thats just as fun.

My boys enjoyed the tubing sliding down that hill. I enjoyed the light show with the holiday music.

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The carnival rides were a significant hit. My boy loves the fast and spinning ones. Now, Dad, not so much, but he is a trooper, and he went on with him.

After all the fun, we ate, enjoyed our meals, and indulged in some sweet treats. We were blessed with a few extra sweet treats; they recognized us as caregivers. It brought tears to my eyes because many people do not understand what all caregivers endure.

You must put this event on your holiday list of things to do.

It is autism-friendly, and all families will have a wonderful time.

88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

https://www.winterfestoc.com/

November 22, 2024 - January 5, 2025

Here's a sneak peek of what's in store!

✨ Experience an enchanting Winter Wonderland

☃️ Snow Play  & Ice Tubing included with General Admission!

🎡 ALL NEW Expanded Carnival Rides & Games

📸 Incredible Photo Spots for capturing Magical Memories

🎄 Dazzling Light Displays

⭐️ Nightly Entertainment

…AND SO MUCH MORE!