Pensacola Winterfest
Pensacola Winterfest transforms downtown Pensacola into a holiday wonderland with enchanting trolley tours, character meet-and-greets, and festive performances. Experience the magic of the Polar Express, join the Peanuts gang on a Christmas adventure, or get into the holiday spirit with Scrooge. Capture memories with photos alongside Santa or the Grinch, and don't miss the Elf Parade and magical snowfall on Palafox Place.
What to Expect
Themed trolley tours bringing holiday stories to life.
Event Details
Duration
Tours run approximately 25 minutes.
Ages
All ages (children 24 months and younger are free in a parent's lap)
Neighborhood
Downtown Pensacola
Timed Entry
Yes
Featured Performers
- Sam the Snowman
- Dancing reindeer
- The Grinch
- Snoopy
- Charlie Brown
- Ebenezer Scrooge
- Jacob Marley
- Spirits of Christmas
Organizer
Pensacola Winterfest, Inc.
Food & Drink
Hot chocolate and cookies available at the Gingerbread House. Many downtown restaurants nearby.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, magical, whimsical
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low (shows go on rain or shine, with some adjustments for weather)
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Plenty of parking nearby, including the Old Courthouse Parking Garage at 25 W Intendencia Street. Free on-street parking is also available. Accessible parking is available in the on-site garage with curb-ramp connection to the plazas.
- Accessibility: ASL interpretation available on request, wheelchair lift on Polar Express tour, accessible parking and curb-ramp access, script available in advance.
- Pets: Pet-friendly for the Elf Parade (dogs in strollers).
Tips & Advice
- Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time to find parking, check in, and enjoy the opening show.
- Dress in layers, as Pensacola evenings can vary in temperature; bring a warm coat, hat, and gloves for colder nights.
- Book tickets in advance, especially for large groups or popular dates, as tours and photo sessions often sell out.
- Strollers cannot ride on the trolleys but can be safely parked at the boarding area.
- Consider booking a private trolley charter for larger groups by contacting Five Flags Trolley.
Special Events & Promotions
- Summer Splash Sale with discounted tickets
- Elf Parade on Opening Night
- Snoopy Tour with dog costume contest
- Winterfest Christmas Special live performance
- Early bird pricing before October 1
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Pensacola Winterfest 2026?
Winterfest 2026 runs on select nights from November 20 to December 24. First shows start at 5:00 PM on Fridays and 4:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.
Where is Winterfest located and where can I park?
Winterfest is at the plazas around the Old County Courthouse, 223 S Palafox Place, Pensacola, FL 32502. Parking is available at the on-site garage and nearby public lots, with free options on Friday and Saturday evenings.
What should we wear to Winterfest?
Dress in layers for varying temperatures. Bring a warm coat, hat, and gloves for colder nights. If riding the Polar Express, consider bringing pajamas for the kids.
What are the different tours offered?
They offer the Polar Express Tour, Grinch's Merry Match, the Peanuts gang tour, and the Scrooge & Marley Tour (Christmas week only). Photo sessions with Santa and the Grinch are also available.
What is the policy on strollers and car seats?
Strollers cannot ride on the trolleys but can be parked at the boarding area. Car seats are not required; children can sit on benches, and those 24 months and younger ride free in a parent's lap.
More Christmas Events Near Pensacola
More Christmas Events near Pensacola
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.