Today, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland announces the return of Winter Wishes, an accessible experience that invites visitors from local charities, hospitals, and underserved schools to enjoy a magical day out at the UK’s largest festive event.
Taking place on Wednesday 27th November, Winter Wonderland will once again close its doors to the public from 10am to 2pm, offering 6,000 guests free entry and unlimited access to over 100 rides and attractions.
Winter Wonderland will operate at a significantly reduced capacity during Winter Wishes, ensuring it is accessible not just for those with additional financial constraints but also those with physical and sensory sensitivities. The event will feature enhanced accessibility measures including reduced lighting and sound levels, low-sensory skating on the open-air Ice Rink, audio guides in the Magical Ice Kingdom, and an increased number of accessible facilities.
The event programming will include a free 1pm performance of Zippos Christmas Circus, which will have an expanded seating area for wheelchair users, as well as the chance to meet Father Christmas in Santa’s Grotto and enjoy surprise entertainment throughout the day. A dedicated customer service team will be on hand to assist throughout the event, with trained access champions available to any Winter Wishes guests.
Winter Wishes launched at Winter Wonderland last year, with the inaugural experience welcoming 5,000 guests from 23 charities and 48 schools. Over 50 organisations have already confirmed their participation in the 2024 event, with guests from Make-A-Wish UK, Scope, NSPCC, Shelter, Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, Prince’s Trust, and Sense amongst those set to attend.
Louise Griew, CEO, Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity said: “Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity establishes specialist nurses to care for children living with complex, lifelong medical conditions. The opportunity for some of these children and their families to attend the Winter Wishes event in 2023 was a magical treat. Access without queues and crowds allowed them to enjoy it at their own pace, and to make precious memories. Feedback from our Roald Dahl families was glowing, demonstrating how special this type of event is for these families who live with such challenging circumstances. Thank you from all of us at the charity, our Roald Dahl Nurses and all their families – it truly is appreciated and we look forward to returning this year.”
Winter Wonderland has also once again extended its invitation to local schools with a significant percentage of the students attending receiving free school lunches, along with London-based youth groups working with vulnerable or underprivileged populations.
Stephen Flint Wood, Managing Director, Arts & Entertainment, IMG said: “Winter Wishes was introduced to allow more people the opportunity to experience the magic of Winter Wonderland, whilst also supporting the invaluable work of charities, hospitals, and local organisations. Building on the success of our inaugural event, we are focused on deepening our commitment to creating a space where every individual, regardless of their circumstances, can enjoy a magical day out over the festive season. We are honoured to welcome even more guests back to Winter Wishes in Hyde Park this year, where every moment is a testament to the power of community and inclusivity.”
Limited spaces are still available for Winter Wishes. Eligible groups can apply to join in on the magical day here. The application deadline is 31st September 2024.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland will be closed to the public from 10am to 2pm on Wednesday 27th November, with entry, rides, and attraction tickets available to purchase for the 2pm session onwards
