Boar's Head Resort
Insider’s Guide to Winter Wander at Boar’s Head Resort
See What’s New for 2023
Back for its third year, Winter Wander is a family-friendly event with plentiful illuminations, seasonal fare, and more.
Held November 17, 2023, to January 6, 2024, this half-mile hiking path features abundant illuminated light displays sure to enthrall visitors of all ages. Guests are encouraged to come hungry as there are food vendors along the trail and The Mill Room is accepting reservations. After completing the trail, stop at a fire pit and make some s’mores or relax while sipping on an age-appropriate beverage. Reserve your Winter Wander tickets here.
When planning your visit, consider booking an overnight stay and request a balcony room overlooking the light show. Overnight guests receive unlimited access to Winter Wander without being restricted to a particular ticket time along with an exclusive Winter Wander keepsake.
![Winter Wander ice skating rink with five young adults skating at Boar's Head Resort](https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Ice-skating-group.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=7847c63766845a0f3608b2a6353bb1ce 320w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Ice-skating-group.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=4bb43c23f7f4a4a5914128220dd4ef19 540w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Ice-skating-group.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=eae29c7033434b5f2a5c5e123899cec3 768w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Ice-skating-group.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=476acba44fd0147cc3e4becb7dbc76e5 1024w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Ice-skating-group.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=0ede9f3fc8fb71f1eb129ebe7450dbd1 1200w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Ice-skating-group.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=1714977cb299e0f13ad7c9b8b0cb3a55 1440w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Ice-skating-group.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=359b151d2314989eb6211c350fef757e 1920w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Ice-skating-group.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=0042e041226aae193e66c35cd07e5cf1 2560w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Ice-skating-group.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=3840&s=8640e8596c97dd68cc434d078b5fa0f5 3840w)
Activities & Refreshments
Artificial Ice Skating
New this year, lace up your skates and get ready to glide on a massive 40x50 synthetic ice rink! Even when the temperatures don’t drop below freezing, the ice rink is ready and waiting to show you a fun time. Made from unique plastic polymer, this synthetic rink encapsulates the feeling of skating on a frozen body of water. Activated through the touch of your ice skate's blade, a lubricating spray generates just as a thin layer of water would on frozen ice. Purchase skate rentals or bring your own! View skating admission fees on the Winter Wander website.
Santa’s Mill
Located inside the market, Santa’s Mill is where visitors can get a photo with Santa nightly until 9 p.m. from Nov 17 - Dec 24.
The Market
Gather for family-friendly beverages, explore vendor booths, enjoy seasonal bites, and relax around the outdoor fire pit on the patio just outside of Hearth Lounge.
The Mill Room
The Mill Room is a AAA, 4-diamond restaurant at Boar’s Head Resort. Book a reservation and enjoy a delicious and elegant dinner before or after meandering through the light displays.
![Two children take a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus in front of the Christmas Tree at Boar's Head Resort's Winter Wander event.](https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Santa-s-Mill.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=915d12e9ba195c5d48c8f35da9347157 320w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Santa-s-Mill.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=c3e16fd15d8f8a212f4b67e5c41aafbe 540w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Santa-s-Mill.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=f790b73fdb5e2e454069c9b267507c75 768w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Santa-s-Mill.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=8c18ed1271888caab609a451c1f1ed32 1024w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Santa-s-Mill.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=ff81551fae885cf8a29117c4096b73d8 1200w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Santa-s-Mill.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=88032aab8237268281849b6e907c41fc 1440w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Santa-s-Mill.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=435b38349cecff36aabaaaad85dd4bcc 1920w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Santa-s-Mill.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=1bb321f8fd4489f85dc318c8e3027d8e 2560w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Santa-s-Mill.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=3840&s=b8eb465a921c42f2d0174a42be07a22e 2976w)
Winter Wander Trail
The Welcome Tree
Begin your Winter Wander experience by walking through the 35-foot, illuminated holiday tree, the Welcome Tree, and enter into a world of wonder.
![Illuminated dogwood sculptures in Dogwood Alley at Boar's Head Resort](https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/1cdaacf0e91de218597db030f93ac983.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=209e3626ab9d560c212cf6732707c849 320w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/1cdaacf0e91de218597db030f93ac983.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=07698064dc65e8f2eb2736028e625ba3 540w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/1cdaacf0e91de218597db030f93ac983.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=120a4e7f0494ce1d2d14ef2509ab12d8 768w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/1cdaacf0e91de218597db030f93ac983.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=cd0744f9ca8460a15020b41be3be4125 1024w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/1cdaacf0e91de218597db030f93ac983.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=93c6ec79ff57a68ff971f1780f271153 1200w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/1cdaacf0e91de218597db030f93ac983.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=ad26c868453249d3ce9afd569724fa48 1440w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/1cdaacf0e91de218597db030f93ac983.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=0d563dc55aaea5492f81b31e048b6757 1680w)
Dogwood Alley
Dogwood Alley received an upgrade this year with larger lanterns for even better photo opportunities while paying respect to the American Dogwood, Virginia’s state flower, and tree.
Trout House
A historic building where people would net a fish for their own dinner before bringing it to the resort’s restaurant, Trout House is a brightly illuminated feature along the path.
![Pins of light float over the grass in Firefly Grove at Boar's Head Resort](https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/bd8f92136905eedfc870b84e6c087790.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=f17804c24d141693e3020c49d4a26233 320w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/bd8f92136905eedfc870b84e6c087790.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=d017575c8354a472d1a3f0e27baf5381 540w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/bd8f92136905eedfc870b84e6c087790.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=19e0e855481a39036ee030ffbbc88de8 768w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/bd8f92136905eedfc870b84e6c087790.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=abf6c413c7a977e02c6d522bdb8bba27 1024w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/bd8f92136905eedfc870b84e6c087790.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=93512759d00e25cbf7d6e1a17c5cf77c 1200w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/bd8f92136905eedfc870b84e6c087790.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=3b160c27563238acd594d3f4e296af5f 1300w)
Firefly Grove
Large-scale fireflies are surrounded by pins of light that appear to float over the grass at Firefly Grove, bringing a sense of childhood wonder to your wander.
Big Boar Ridge
As you trek farther down the trail you will come across a large mamma and papa boar looking for their piglets at Big Boar Ridge.
Serenity Way
Follow the illuminations to Serenity Way, where trees are bathed in colorful lights creating a picturesque scene with even more lights and motion than last year!
![A mammoth oak tree is fully adorned with a vibrant display of dynamic lights along the Winter Wander's Lattice Lane at Boar's Head Resort](https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/bd0cca3b985d71ed6c54fa612a4b1145.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=7967daff6a0ac7473781c14a1df4bb6f 320w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/bd0cca3b985d71ed6c54fa612a4b1145.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=4a933e76f9620934869a896f451950de 540w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/bd0cca3b985d71ed6c54fa612a4b1145.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=821af633fedbf5c6d276a106c4129ab2 768w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/bd0cca3b985d71ed6c54fa612a4b1145.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=c5f7c3dea7aeb80125e5aa197cc0ca95 1024w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/bd0cca3b985d71ed6c54fa612a4b1145.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=acb83e4a59f779cd94a83cdb9388e702 1200w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/bd0cca3b985d71ed6c54fa612a4b1145.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=1d314abe5ac2f79bd097102b6df5ba81 1300w)
Lattice Lane
Be sure to stop and admire the 100-foot tree at Lattice Lane, covered from root to treetop in a sprawling, colorful glow.
Sun Kissed Meadow
Grab your camera and stop at this designated photo spot to take immersive photos in front of the field of glowing plants.
![A family walks beneath illuminated trees in the Starry Night Sky exhibit at Winter Wander](https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/a26c49776a58ffb71fba530a3c5dd1f0.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=b1954b685a1bb49117cd0f168f005f0f 320w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/a26c49776a58ffb71fba530a3c5dd1f0.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=02e34170648ac0a5707486c2d3ae7fae 540w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/a26c49776a58ffb71fba530a3c5dd1f0.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=0ef2f0941eb79c24cbe398729f8544da 768w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/a26c49776a58ffb71fba530a3c5dd1f0.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=33bd3f416671a697f136e02a2be345af 1024w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/a26c49776a58ffb71fba530a3c5dd1f0.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=fa0c8bd7c5a4c239a6d6b305063f4db8 1200w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/a26c49776a58ffb71fba530a3c5dd1f0.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=19cc8fbcdcc50232ec75d7d13ce55815 1300w)
Starry Night Sky
Gaze up at the twinkling lights dripping down from the tree canopy and immerse yourself in this art-inspired section of the trail.
Flower Garden
Marking the middle of the trail, the Flower Garden features jumbo flowers that illuminate your path.
Fountain of Dreams
Marvel at this display that mimics fountains of water shooting toward the sky with tons of light and motion.
![Multicolor lights line Finale Field at Boar's Head Resort's Winter Wander event](https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Finale-Field.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=1cde08775be064845e3bd16088928950 320w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Finale-Field.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=42aea4b2195fd2b13a5a8f52895c158b 540w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Finale-Field.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=7e2ecf9e8f2bbc870a8b39d814a41dc3 768w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Finale-Field.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=15dc3c6036596b81d2107713fc3250af 1024w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Finale-Field.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=88c343f0ba78f922c12823e63f27d78d 1200w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Finale-Field.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=74ac917daadd2515df764da43e8bacf6 1440w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Finale-Field.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=465269a8813dcf1761c17f764645b415 1920w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Finale-Field.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=115357b769ed9af981644d43fe8ecaf9 2560w, https://visit-charlottesville.imgix.net/images/Finale-Field.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=3840&s=041ca7572252a4248bc545ea47d6b9b4 3840w)
Finale Field
Following the path, wander into massive tunnels. Pause here for photos filled with colorful lights- perfect for selfies or family shots. The tunnels take you to the trail’s breathtaking final destination, a field filled with color-changing lights.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2023 Winter Wander?
Winter Wander 2023 takes place on select nights from November 17, 2023, to January 6, 2024.
How much are tickets to Winter Wander and why is it a timed entry?
Ticket prices are subject to change and begin at $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 4-12. Entry to Winter Wander typically begins at 4:30 p.m. and runs through 9 p.m. with peak hours from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., however, times may vary depending on the day of the week. To secure the best pricing, attend during non-peak hours before Christmas.
Timed entry ensures all guests have an enjoyable experience with fantastic views. Visitors must enter during their 30-minute entry window unless they are overnight package guests.
What should I wear to Winter Wander?
Winter Wander is outdoors so please dress for the weather. Comfortable walking shoes and warm clothes are highly encouraged.
How do I get to Winter Wander?
This event takes place behind the main hotel at Boar’s Head Resort. The address is 200 Ednam Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22903. Parking is available for free and a smiling staff member will be on hand to direct you to a nearby spot.
Are pets allowed?
The only time when pets are permitted is during opening weekend, November 17-19, 2023. For everyone’s safety, pets are not allowed at any other time, however, registered service dogs are always permitted.
Is the path wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Yes! The trail has been upgraded since the first year and is a hard-packed surface that is compatible with most strollers and wheelchairs.
Make sure you don't miss out on the fun – reserve your tickets today!
*This blog post is sponsored by Boar's Head Resort