By Alyssa Schnugg
The most wonderful time of the year is returning to Oxford, as Holly Jolly Holidays once again transforms mTrade Park into a winter wonderland. Running from Nov. 22 through Jan. 4, this beloved community celebration promises fun, laughter, and holiday cheer for all ages.
Two main attractions anchor the festivities — Oxford on Ice and the Walk of Lights — both offering visitors a magical way to celebrate the season.
At Oxford on Ice, skaters can glide across a real ice rink beneath twinkling lights, creating a classic winter experience right here in Oxford. Admission is $15 per person, including skate rental, and children two and under are free.
The Walk of Lights dazzles with a breathtaking display of glowing pathways and creative light installations. This year’s reimagined layout begins at the ice rink and concludes at the Upper Quad, making it easier than ever to enjoy every bit of the magic. Tickets are $15 per person, with combo passes available for $25.
Kids six and under enter the Walk of Lights for free, and local residents can enjoy half-price admission on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
New this season, visitors will find even more to explore along the Walk of Lights. Highlights include Santa’s Toy Box on Field 9, where a larger-than-life T-Rex, a sparkling Princess Castle, and the all-new Gingerbread Park invite families to step inside a glowing gingerbread house. Frosty Lane offers interactive snowman building, while Field 10 features fresh, festive enhancements.
From twinkling lights and ice skating to Santa visits and larger-than-life displays, Holly Jolly Holidays offers something for everyone.
To make planning easy, here’s a quick look at this year’s schedule and special events:
Event Schedule
Holly Jolly Holidays at mTrade Park
Nov. 22 – Jan. 4
- Wednesday – Friday, Sunday: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- Saturday: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
(last tickets sold at 8:30 p.m.)
Holiday Hours
- 24 week: Open all week, 12 p.m. – 9 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving Day)
- 22, 23, 26, 27: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- 31 – Jan. 3: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- 4: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Special Events
- Ice Karts: Nov. 24–29 (closed Thanksgiving); Dec. 27–Jan. 4 (closed Dec. 29–30)
- Santa Visits:
- 22: 1–3 p.m.
- 29: 2–6 p.m.
- 6: 2–6 p.m.
- 13: 5:30–9 p.m.
- 20: 2–6 p.m.
Pricing
- $15 Ice Skating
- $15 Walk of Lights
- $25 Combo Ticket
- Kids 6 & under: Free for Walk of Lights
- Skate aides: Free
- Wednesday & Thursday: Half-price Walk of Lights for locals