Winter Wonderland is back! Why a Bradenton Christmas tradition ended a 7-year hiatus

After a long hiatus, a beloved holiday tradition will return to downtown Bradenton this weekend.

Winter Wonderland was first dreamed up in 1996. The free and family-friendly event transforms Bradenton’s historic downtown district along Old Main Street into a holiday festival with lots to see and do.

The last Winter Wonderland was held in 2013, and in the following years the city transitioned to a new holiday event called Sounds of the Season. That event was discontinued after several years as well.

But in 2021, city officials felt it was time to revive the Winter Wonderland tradition.

“We love this city and can’t wait to see all the kids having a great time,” said Councilwoman Marianne Barnebey, who originally founded the festival.

Barnebey said Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown approached her about bringing the festival back this year, and the planning began.

“Especially now coming out of COVID, I thought it was very important for our downtown to have something festive like this to boost businesses and bring people out and get the holiday season started with a bang,” Brown said.

What you’ll find at Winter Wonderland

The 20th Winter Wonderland will offer familiar activities to years past as well as some new twists.

Craft and food vendors will line the decorated Old Main Street.

Snow mountains a bunny slope will be back for kids to enjoy, with Manatee High School’s Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps serving as “ski patrol.” The snow slides are free of charge.

Live musical entertainment will run on the Winter Wonderland Stage from 5-8:15 p.m. Holiday music performers will include students from Community Christian School and The Couch Music Education Foundation.

Kiddos will be able to visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus via video call. And families can preserve memories of the occasion at the Winter Wonderland Photo Spot, which is also free. Children’s craft activities will also be offered for a small charge.

To add to the fun, Winter Wonderland takes place just near the waterfront, where the Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade will pass by around 8 p.m.

The event is alcohol-free, but many downtown restaurants will be open for drinks, dinner and dessert during the festival.

Details: 5-9 p.m. Saturday. Old Main Street, Bradenton. Free.

Info: facebook.com/Winter-Wonderland-Bradenton-137508373064845.

This story was originally published December 10, 2021 at 6:00 AM.