Festive family fun at The Galleria Al Maryah Island’s Winter Wonderland

The Galleria Al Maryah Island’s Winter Wonderland is back from 5 to 24 December, and this year’s celebrations are bigger and better than ever!

Children can explore and enjoy a number of festive areas and activities, including a spectacular display in the central atrium, Santa’s Grotto, a Narnia-themed winter maze, a Candyland arts and crafts zone, roaming entertainment and an opportunity to write to Santa. The American Community School of Abu Dhabi choir will also perform at The Galleria’s official Tree Lighting Ceremony on 11 December at 6pm.

The central atrium of The Galleria will feature Santa and his reindeer flying through 75 sleigh bells, which come to life every 20 minutes with a spectacular synchronised light and music show. Throughout the season, roaming entertainment such as gingerbread characters, snowmen, a toy soldier marching band and winter ballerinas will add festive cheer each weekend.

Children of all ages can write a Letter to Santa and post it in The Galleria’s festive letterbox. Every day from 5 to 24 December, one lucky winner will have their wish granted and will receive a gift voucher from The Toy Store of AED 500. A special letter template will be available for download from The Galleria’s website. It will also be available to pick up in person at Candyland on level 3. Guests just need to fill in why you have been a good boy or girl this year, write your festive wish list and post it to Santa in the dedicated letterboxes to make sure it gets to the North Pole on time.

Children will be amazed by Santa’s Grotto where they can meet and get a framed photograph with Santa Claus. Located in the north atrium, next to Debenhams, Santa’s Grotto is open from 3pm until 9pm daily from 5 to 24 December. Visitors are encouraged to share their magical experiences on social media by tagging #AtTheGalleria

Families won’t want to miss The Galleria’s Narnia-themed Winter maze located on the south bridge by the level 2 food court. Visitors can meet the Ice Queen and get a photo on her throne. The journey into the magical realm begins through a wardrobe and continues through a winter-themed forest.

There will also be a Candyland play zone especially for little ones from 4-10 years old, located on Level 3 next to Central Kitchens. Children can discover the special winter play area and enjoy kids’ entertainment, face-painting, arts and crafts and much more. Letters to Santa will also be available at Candyland for children to fill out and post in a Santa’s Letterbox.

Guests can also explore Al Maryah Island’s magical Winter Wonderland village on the waterfront promenade. This stunning festive market will have an array of dining options, workshops, play zones and stage performances keeping the whole family entertained.

Winter Wonderland will be available until 24 December 2019.