Hunter Valley Gardens Is Bringing Back Its Winter Wonderland

If you’ve ever promised the kids a snow trip only to remember the cost, the drive and the inevitable “Are we there yet?” before you’ve even left Sydney… I may have found the perfect compromise.

Because for one month only, Snow Time in the Garden is returning to Hunter Valley Gardens, transforming one of New South Wales’ most beautiful destinations into a winter wonderland complete with real snow, ice skating, giant toboggans and enough hot chocolate to keep everyone smiling.

And honestly? This is one of those school holiday events that ticks every box.

Winter Magic Without the Alpine Drive

Running from 27 June to 26 July 2026, Snow Time in the Garden brings everything we love about winter together in one place.

Think…

❄️ Ice skating

❄️ Snowball fights

❄️ Building snowmen

❄️ Snow angels

❄️ A 45-metre Giant Ice Toboggan

❄️ Beautiful display gardens

❄️ Winter food stalls

❄️ Family rides

It’s the closest thing to a snowy holiday without needing snow chains or a five-hour road trip.

As a parent, I also love that so many of the headline attractions are included in your entry ticket, meaning you’re not constantly reaching for your wallet every five minutes.

What’s New for 2026?

This year’s event is even bigger.

Families can skate to live DJ sets with DJ Jeff’s Glacial Grooves, turning the ice rink into a giant winter party.

Kids can also join Glacier Guy in the Snow Play Zone for interactive games and supervised snow challenges.

And if your little ones love a treasure hunt, they’ll be obsessed with the new Abominable Adventure, an interactive mission through the gardens to help free the Frozen Yeti.

It’s exactly the sort of immersive experience that keeps kids engaged long after the novelty of snowballs wears off.

The Classics Are Back

Some traditions are worth keeping.

The giant ice toboggan returns.

The ice skating rink is back for beginners and seasoned skaters alike.

And the Snow Play Zone once again becomes the place where kids can build snowmen, throw snowballs and embrace winter without ever leaving New South Wales.

For those chasing a little more excitement, there are also rides available including:

• A 25-metre Ferris Wheel
• A 35-metre Super Slide
• Venetian Carousel
• Spinning Tea Cups

(These are available for an additional cost.)

You’ll also spot roaming favourites like Polar Bear, Penguin and Mr Abominable Snowman wandering through the gardens for plenty of family photo opportunities.

Come Hungry

Let’s be honest… winter events are just as much about the food.

Expect rainbow toasted cheese sandwiches, woodfired pizzas, freshly made crepes, authentic Greek loukoumades and rich hot chocolates that somehow taste even better after an hour in the snow.

It’s comfort food done properly.

Why We Love It

As much as I’d love to whisk the family off to the snow every winter, the reality is it isn’t always practical.

That’s why events like Snow Time in the Garden have become such a tradition for so many NSW families.

You get all the excitement, plenty of snow, beautiful scenery and a full day of activities without the expense and logistics of an alpine holiday.

Whether you’re making a day trip from Sydney or turning it into a Hunter Valley weekend away, it’s one of those winter experiences that kids genuinely remember.

And let’s be honest… there’s something pretty magical about seeing snowflakes falling among the gardens.

Snow Time in the Garden 2026

📍 Where: Hunter Valley Gardens

📅 When: 27 June – 26 July 2026

⏰ Sessions: 9:30am–4:30pm (last entry 3pm)

🎟️ Tickets:

• Adults: $42
• Children (4–15): $31
• Children under 4: Free
• Family passes available from $97

For tickets and more information, visit Hunter Valley Gardens Snow Time in the Garden.