A winter wonderland awaits in the Hunter Valley as Snow Time in the Garden returns transforming Hunter Valley Gardens into a snowy escape for families, friends and visitors for a month of frosty fun! Opening on Saturday June 27th and running through to Sunday July 26th, this month-long extravaganza is packed with snow, ice skating, breathtaking display gardens, delicious food, and guaranteed joy for families, friends and couples looking for a winter getaway.
Hunter Valley Gardens’ Group Operations Manager, Julie Pettit, says: “Snow Time in the Garden continues to be one of the most anticipated events on our calendar each year, bringing families and friends together to embrace the magic of winter in the heart of the Hunter Valley. We’re proud to be part of a winter tradition that so many families have made their own.
“We’re always delighted to welcome Snow Time back, transforming the gardens into a winter wonderland complete with ice skating, snow play, a giant toboggan and plenty of family-friendly attractions. It offers all the fun and excitement of a snowy escape, without the long journey to Australia’s alpine regions.”
WHAT’S NEW FOR 2026
Throughout the month, families can skate to the sounds of DJ Jeff’s Glacial Grooves, with live DJ sets transforming the Ice Skating Rink into a vibrant winter party. In the Snow Play Zone, Glacier Guy will lead interactive snow games and supervised target challenges, giving kids even more ways to dive into the snowy fun.
For those craving adventure, the Abominable Adventure invites guests on a mission to free the Frozen Yeti by finding key challenges from around the gardens. These new additions join Snow Time’s much-loved snow activities, creating an even bigger and more immersive winter experience for visitors of all ages.
ICONIC FAVOURITES RETURNING
Rug up in your winter gear and explore the Snow Play Zone, where visitors can build a snowman, make snow angels, or simply take in the magic of the man-made snow. For those seeking a thrill, the 45-metre Giant Ice Toboggan offers an icy rush that is sure to excite. Step into the Ice-Skating Rink and show off your best twirls, or just wobble around, with fun guaranteed for skaters of all levels.
All of these winter activities are included in the price of an entry ticket, so visitors can enjoy a full day of fun without missing a moment.
ENTERTAINMENT
For those who cannot get enough of the action, Snow Time in the Garden offers a range of rides that keep the fun going all day long. Take in sweeping views of the winter wonderland from the 25-metre-high Ferris Wheel or feel the rush as you race down the thrilling 35-metre Superslide. The much-loved Venetian Carousel and exciting Spinning Tea Cups are also back this year, promising hours of fun for everyone. Ride tickets can be purchased at an additional fee from the rides booth in the event area.
Guests can also meet and snap a photo with roaming Snow Time characters, including Polar Bear, Penguin and Mr Abominable Snowman, as they wander through the Gardens.
FOOD AND DRINK
A range of winter-inspired food and beverage favourites will be available throughout the gardens’ many food stalls, including rainbow toasted cheese sandwiches, crepes and woodfired pizzas. For families looking to warm up after a day of fun in the Snow Play Zone, there are plenty of treats on offer, from rich hot chocolates and authentic Greek loukoumades to refreshing slushies for those embracing the chill.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Dates: 27 June – 26 July 2026
Sessions: 9:30am – 4:30pm (last entry 3pm)
TICKET PRICES
| Garden Entry – 9 am to 5 pm (last entry 4pm) | Amount |
| Adult | $42.00 |
| Children 4 – 15 years | $31.00 |
| Children 3 years and under | Free |
| Family (1 Adults and 2 Children) | $97.00 |
| Family (2 Adults and 1 Child) | $104.00 |
| Family (2 Adults and 2 Children) | $128.00 |
| Extra Child with Family Pass | $28.00 |
| Bonus Pack (6 tokens) | $30.00 |
| Ride Ticket (single use) | $6.00 |
