There’s a moment, just before the red curtains open, when a small hand tightens around yours. Eyes go wide. Breath is held. And then: Santa.
From 4 to 24 December 2026, the Jubilee Pavilion at Adelaide Showground will once again become a world of Christmas wonder as Santa’s Wonderland returns for its 11th year. For many South Australian families, it’s become part of how they celebrate the lead-up to Christmas, a pause in the rush of December to simply be together.
Each three-hour session includes unlimited access to over 10 carnival rides, including the wave rider, ice skating, dodgem cars, jumping castles, live stage shows and a ten-stop Christmas Activity Trail, all included in your entry ticket.
For older kids, it’s a chance to find their feet on the ice and chase each other around the dodgem track. For the little ones, it’s wide-eyed wonder at every turn. And for the whole family, it’s a rare afternoon where everyone is having fun in the same place at the same time.
The Christmas Activity Trail
Along the Activity Trail, children can write and post their letter to Santa, create Christmas artwork, decorate a bauble for the family tree and line up for storytelling with Mrs Claus. There are festive settings for family photographs, space for imaginations to run wild, and little treasures to take home.
Santa’s Wonderland has partnered with local South Australian brands to add special touches throughout. At Stop 5, Edible Blooms presents Spin to Win, where little believers can spin the wheel and everyone walks away with a prize, whether it’s chocolate, a candy cane, a WonderBuddy or an Edible Blooms Christmas Cracker.
At Stop 6, Pick a Local, Pick SA! has families covered with fresh Nicol carrots to leave out for Santa’s reindeer on Christmas Eve, along with magical reindeer food. And in the White Christmas scene at Stop 10, Fleurieu Milk Company provides mini milk treats, a nod to Santa’s favourite drink.
A space for everyone
SACARE returns with the Quiet Zone, a calm retreat for anyone who needs a break from the excitement. It’s a thoughtful addition for children who may be sensitive to sensory stimulation, ensuring every visitor can enjoy the magic at their own pace.
Optional Santa photo packages are available to purchase separately for families wanting a keepsake of their visit.
What you need to know
- Dates: 4 to 24 December 2026
- Location: Jubilee Pavilion, Adelaide Showground, Wayville
- Sessions: Three-hour sessions daily, Morning 10am to 1pm, Afternoon 2pm to 5pm
- Entry includes: Unlimited access to rides, ice skating, dodgem cars, jumping castles, live stage shows and the Christmas Activity Trail. Age and height restrictions apply to some rides.
- Additional costs: Santa photo packages, food, drinks and selected extras
- Tickets: santaswonderland.com.au
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