OCALA, Fla. — Ocala’s World Equestrian’s Winter Wonderland is a unique destination to get visitors in the holiday spirit.


What You Need To Know

  • The World Equestrian’s Winter Wonderland in Ocala features over a million lights decorating the property

  • Families can meet Santa, the Grinch, see the colorful lights and explore the property's 348 acres

  • Horse-jumping by riders from around the world entertains guests during the holidays

Over a million lights decorate the center's plaza with themed decorations that light up the sky.

This includes many lighted interactions that guests can walk through, including giant Christmas trees, sleighs and animals.

Director of Marketing’s Leah Tong says there is something for everyone during the holidays.

“Winter Wonderland, we not only have a million twinkling lights and a truly spectacular display of decorations throughout our grand plaza, but we also have the opportunity to meet Santa,” Tong said.

An attraction on property that guests often wait in line for is the Grinch, who typically brings lots of energy to his young visitors.

The Grinch at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala for the holidays enjoys interacting with children. (Spectrum News/Randy Rauch)

Plenty of food and drinks are available on the property, too.

One interesting creation comes from chef Yohann Le Bescond, who cooked up a life-sized gingerbread horse for guests to see.

He said it took months of planning and time to prepare, but he loved the challenge.

“Food is stories and emotions,” Le Bescond said.

The WEC is the largest equestrian complex in the United States and features horse-jumping — often featuring Olympic competitors performing under the lights — that anyone can watch during the holidays.

Parking costs $10 per vehicle Monday through Thursday and $30 per vehicle Friday through Sunday.

Winter Wonderland continues until Dec. 23.