By ELISE GRAY
Special to the Alpine Mountaineer
As the end of January approaches, the holiday spirit remains strong at SkyPark at Santa’s Village with a beloved immersive experience, Fantasy Forest Nights. Set in the heart of the mountains beneath a perfectly starlit sky, the event draws families, locals, and out-of-towners alike for a fan-favorite winter experience held every Friday and Saturday from 4 to 9 p.m.
Fantasy Forest Nights was initially created as a seasonal winter attraction designed to extend SkyPark at Santa’s Village beyond daytime activities and traditional Christmas programming. Rather than focusing solely on Santa meet-and-greets, the event leans into immersive light installations, music, and nighttime ambiance, encouraging visitors to slow down and experience the forest itself.
The concept reflects a growing trend in mountain and resort communities toward after-dark, walk-through experiences that celebrate nature while remaining family-friendly. By hosting Fantasy Forest Nights in January, after peak holiday crowds, SkyPark keeps the winter spirit alive while giving locals and visitors something new to enjoy during the quieter part of the season.
Visitors enjoying ice skating at Silver Bells Arena.
Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly, bring their cameras, and take their time exploring each glowing corner of the forest before stopping for a skate session.
Just past Archery lies the walkable scenic escape designed for wandering. Visitors could be seen strolling through the beautifully lit forest path, enjoying an immersive display of pink, blue, and green hues illuminating towering pines. Soothing music drifted through the air as onlookers passed festive depictions of cabins and whimsical caricatures posted along the trees. Toward the end of the path, a dreamy sequence of twinkling lights danced across the tree branches, culminating in an immersive light show that seemed to bring the night sky down into the forest. With ethereal beats throughout, the experience offers a slow, soul-soothing opportunity to bundle up, unplug and reconnect with nature.
One of the highlights of the event is Silver Bell’s Skating Arena, which gradually fills with the warm glow of string lights, music, and a touch of North Pole magic. Skates are available on site in a range of sizes, making it easy for visitors to slide right in and enjoy the fun. Seasonal treats and drinks are also offered, allowing parents to grab a snack while watching loved ones glide across the ice as popular songs like Dexys Midnight Runners’ “Come On Eileen” drift through the speakers.
The event blends the natural beauty of the San Bernardino National Forest with SkyPark’s signature holiday enchantment. With Fantasy Forest Nights, SkyPark offers a fresh way to celebrate winter in the mountains. Whether visitors or locals are looking to start a new family tradition or simply wander through a glowing forest beneath a blanket of stars, the experience is sure to leave guests feeling a little merrier and a bit more enchanted.
Fantasy Forest Nights will run from early January through the end of February, Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at skyparksantasvillage.com/fantasy-forest-nights.
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