by Molly Eide Marquez

The winter season is upon us, and what better way to embrace its magic than by diving into the enchanting Third Annual Winter Wonderland at Storyland? Organized by Valley PBS in collaboration with Storyland, this event is set to sprinkle some seasonal joy across Fresno on December 16 and 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The brainchild of Allison Hopkins and Bonnie Guest from Valley PBS, this event was conceived with a whiteboard and a vision to create something unique for families in the Central Valley. Partnering with Storyland, a whimsical and beloved local spot, they’ve curated an experience that transforms the park into a literal winter wonderland.

One of the main highlights is the arrival of 40 tons of real snow, setting the stage for a thrilling sledding hill and a playful “Jack and Jill” hill for children to explore. As if that isn’t enough, there’s a craft center where young ones can create ornaments and write letters to Santa Claus, engaging in fun-filled activities scattered throughout the park, including encounters with the beloved fan-favorite character Curious George and a special appearance by the Grinch. Note: Sleds for the hills are provided, eliminating the need for attendees to bring their own. The snow is brought in fresh on both days, bringing the thrill of the California mountains directly to the Central Valley.

Moreover, families can cherish one-on-one moments with Santa Claus himself in the Storyland castle. The event also offers a shopping opportunity with local vendors present throughout the park, offering a variety of delights. Reptile Ron will captivate audiences with an exciting show, adding an educational touch to the festivities.

This year marks the event’s third edition, with major sponsors including Learn 4 Life, Fresno Unified School District, First 5 California, and the Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission. Local businesses have sponsored beautifully decorated trees, enhancing the park’s holiday ambiance.

Tickets for this magical event are available at $12 each in advance through EventBrite, while gate prices on event day are $15 per ticket. Notably, children under one can enter for free, while everyone else requires a ticket to join in the excitement.

Allison and Bonnie express their delight in witnessing the joy this event brings to families. Allison particularly revels in watching children enjoy the sled hill, emphasizing the joy of bringing fresh snow to a Valley city that doesn’t often see snow. Meanwhile, Bonnie enjoys capturing precious moments through various photo opportunities, watching kids interact with characters like Curious George and the Grinch.

New attractions this year include an entertaining snowball fight involving four inflatable gingerbread people. Storyland will offer delightful treats like hot chocolate and cookies, adding warmth to the wintry setting.

The ultimate goal is to create lasting family memories, providing keepsakes from the craft area and ensuring a wholesome, entertaining, and cherished experience for all attendees.

Not only is the event providing a magical experience for families, but it also supports two local nonprofits, Valley PBS, and Storyland.

Winter Wonderland at Storyland is poised to be a heartwarming event, promising a day filled with laughter, fun, and magical moments that families will treasure for years to come. So mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and prepare to immerse yourself in the joyous spirit of the season!
Purchase tickets: eventbrite.com/e/3rd-annual-winter-wonderland-at-storyland-tickets-739535158567

Note: All photos provided by Valley PBS

Molly is a Central Valley native, where she and her family live, work, and play. A graduate of CSU Fresno, she is actively involved in the local community and is proud to lift up those around her, shining light on the many wonderful people and organizations that make the Central Valley such a great place to live.