I’m Dreaming of a Frosted Christmas

Dreamland Margate, the UK amusement park that celebrates all things vintage, hosts its second winter season from December 3 onwards.

Open weekends and school holidays until January 2, The Frosted Fairground is set to transform the park in Kent into a magical winter experience for people of all ages. In addition to sampling many of Dreamland’s regular rides and attractions, guests will be able to enjoy performances from local school choirs and community groups as well as music on the bandstand, pop-up panto, carol singing, Teddy and Betty’s Christmas Show and much more.

When it all gets a little too chilly outside, then visitors can head inside and experience Dreamland Undercover with a yuletide skate on the Roller Disco or chance their arm at one of the retro arcade machines to win a few stocking fillers. The Octopus’s Garden kids area and Ark Animal Experience will be open too.

Added to the ride line-up just in time for the festive season is a classic fairground ride in the shape of the Waltzer, this particular model originating from the late 1960s and previously operated at Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach on the UK east coast. In the new year, the ride will be redecorated to complement the heritage style of the rest of the attractions at Dreamland.

In the centre of the park’s historic Scenic Railway wooden coaster, kids can check out a very special Santa’s Grotto as they help Angus the Elf sort the coloured baubles in their correct jars, help Betty Bear mix the magic reindeer food and as a treat they can take away their own bag of food to leave out for the big man on Christmas Eve! With all the tasks completed, little ones will become honorary elves and as a reward, will step into the Grotto, have their picture taken with Father Christmas and receive a traditional gift.

The Santa’s Grotto experience, photograph and gift are available for an all-inclusive price of £9.95, or £8.95 for Dreamland members. Entry to the park during the Christmas period is free, with unlimited ride wristbands staring at £7 for kids when booked online.

But that’s not all! On Saturday, December 3, Dreamland was set to host its first Vintage Market, with traders selling vintage, antique, up-styled, repro and industrial stock to provide an eclectic alternative to high street Christmas shopping. And on the afternoon of Sunday, December 11, the Dreamland Tea Dance returns for a festive edition in the park’s beautifully restored 1920s Ballroom, hosted by Ms Tequila Slammer Anna and live music from 78 RPMS.