Winter Wander FAQs
All About Our Holiday Light Show
What is Winter Wander?
The Winter Wander is a predominantly hard-surface trail that circles nearly one-half mile around Heritage Lake behind the main hotel at Boar's Head Resort. Guests will experience multiple Instagram-worthy moments as thousands of festive lights illuminate the rolling landscape. With an “easy” trail rating, this unique pathway is truly built for all walks of life.
Location and Parking
The Winter Wander is staged behind the main hotel at Boar's Head Resort. For driving directions, use: 200 Ednam Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22903. Parking for the Winter Wander is free, and one of our smiling staff members will be on location to direct you to a nearby parking space.
What is the one-night ticket price for the event?
Guests MUST enter during their purchased 30-minute entry window. The only exception is for overnight package guests and season ticket holders who are not narrowed to any particular entry time and may enjoy Winter Wander throughout their stay at the resort. Discounts will not apply to any specially priced ticket nights. All pricing is inclusive of all fee, so the price you see is the price you pay.
The Winter Wander+ Ticket
While choosing your ticket option online, guests can opt for the Winter Wander+ ticket that bypasses the 30-minute ticket entry window, allowing guests to enter whenever they choose. This option also includes a complimentary drink, priority check-in lane at ticketing and a light-up necklace.
| Purchase Dates* | Adult Ages 13 & Up | Child Ages 4-12 | Under 3 Years of Age |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 11- Aug. 11 | $15 | $10 | Free |
| Aug. 12 - Oct. 31 | $20 | $15 | Free |
| Nov. 1 - Jan. 3 | $25 | $15 | Free |
| Day of Event | $30 | $20 | Free |
*Value Nights Are Back! $15 value nights are Nov. 14, 21 & 30 and Jan. 1, 2 & 3, when purchased in advance.
Are there service fees or hidden costs?
All tickets must be purchased online. The price you see is the price you pay with no added fees. Guests can purchase tickets the day of the event, but there is a higher cost for day-of ticket sales and many nights will sell out.
Are tickets refundable or transferrable?
Tickets to our winter light show are non-refundable. CLICK HERE to view all ticket transfer information.
What type of light show is this?
Winter Wander is a one-of-a-kind walking experience highlighting the beauty of the resort and the natural landscape. This is a WALKING experience and does not allow for motor vehicles or bicycles. Due to the crowds, pets are also not permitted during the event hours.
Is Winter Wander ADA accessible/stroller friendly?
The event takes place on an outdoor hard-surface walking trail that is compatible with most strollers and wheel chairs. An elevator is available inside Boar's Head Resort to reach the ticketing and event level.
What kind of attire should we bring/wear?
We suggest dressing for the weather, but remember that it is outdoors and walking on a hard-surface path so we also suggest comfortable shoes or boots.
May I use my tickets on any night of Winter Wander?
No. Winter Wander tickets are valid ONLY on the specific date and time for which you purchased your tickets.
Why are there timed entry tickets?
Timed entry tickets help us regulate how many people are at Winter Wander during each time slot this helps us provide a safe evening for everyone.
Why is there a limit on the number of people who can attend each night?
We've placed a limit on attendance each evening to provide a better experience for guests.
When should I buy my tickets?
ASAP! We highly recommend purchasing tickets as far in advance as you can, as we anticipate selling out most nights of Winter Wander.
Can I purchase my ticket at Winter Wander?
Yes, if tickets are available, you may purchase your ticket at the event. However, we highly recommend purchasing ahead of time online because many nights will sell out.
If tickets are sold out online, will there be tickets available at the event?
No. If the event is sold out, there will be no tickets available at the entrance to Winter Wander.
How do I get to Winter Wander?
Use 200 Ednam Dr., Charlottesville, VA 22903 for your GPS.
For those coming from the WEST (Waynesboro, Staunton):
- Take I-64 East to exit 118B (US 29 North Charlottesville)
- Exit to US 250 West and turn left on Ivy Road
- Turn left on Ednam Drive (Fourth light after turning on to Ivy Road)
- Follow the directions of the parking staff
For those coming from the EAST (Richmond, Norfolk, Virginia Beach):
- Take I-64 West to exit 118B (US 29 North Charlottesville)
- Exit to US 250 West and turn left on Ivy Road
- Turn left on Ednam Drive (Fourth light after turning on to Ivy Road)
- Follow the directions of the parking staff
For those coming from the SOUTH (Lynchburg, Danville, Greensboro):
- Take US 29 North to Charlottesville
- Exit to US 250 West and turn left on Ivy Road
- Turn left on Ednam Drive (Fourth light after turning on to Ivy Road)
- Follow the directions of the parking staff
For those coming from the NORTH (Culpeper, NOVA, Washington, D.C.):
- Take US 29 South to Charlottesville
- Take ramp to US 29 Bypass South / US 250 Bypass West
- Exit to US 250 West and turn left on Ivy Road
- Turn left on Ednam Drive (Third light after turning on to Ivy Road)
- Follow the directions of the parking staff
Will Winter Wander cancel due to rain or snow?
Winter Wander is a rain, snow or shine event. Should a weather cancellation occur, please check our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @BoarsHeadResort. Please check the weather as the walking trail is outside.
We suggest dressing for the weather. Please remember this is an outdoor event, walking on a cinder path so we suggest comfortable shoes or boots.
Is parking free?
Yes! Parking is free for the Winter Wander. Our staff will help direct you to a spot when you arrive.
Where should I park?
Free parking is available in lots near the resort. Our staff will direct you to the lot when you arrive. A drop-off is available for guests who cannot walk from the parking lot to Winter Wander (approximately a quarter-mile walk).
How long does it take to walk around Winter Wander?
While every guest/visit is different, it typically takes approximately 30-45 minutes to see the whole Winter Wander display. In addition, there is a market with gifts, food and drinks after the walk. It's not uncommon for our guests to spend a couple of hours at Winter Wander.
How long is the Winter Wander trail?
The trail is just over one-half mile in distance. The entire trail is outdoors. Guests should dress for the weather. The market at the end of the trail has limited indoor seating available and there are multiple locations with outdoor seating and fire pits.
Are there wheelchairs or strollers available onsite?
No. Guests who need a wheelchair or stroller should bring their own. We do have an elevator inside of the main inn providing easier access to the the lower level entrance to the event.
Are pets allowed at Winter Wander?
No. Outside of the designated SPCA nights and for the safety of our guests, no pets of any kind are permitted at Winter Wander, including comfort animals. Only legally registered service animals are permitted.
Are food and drinks available?
There will be food trucks and tents along the trail with multiple food and drink options appropriate for adults and children. The Mill Room, our four-diamond restaurant, also takes reservations for dinner on select nights.
May I bring my own food and drinks?
No outside food is permitted at our winter light show. Due to Virginia ABC regulations, outside beverages are not permitted.
Is Winter Wander a one-time event?
No, this is our holiday tradition.