We all knew the Holiday’s wouldn’t be exactly the same after seeing the drastic changes that came to our beloved Halloween season. In all honestly, I thought we would have even less to do in comparison to Halloween. But thankfully there are a good handful of events that will help fill the void this Holiday season and Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain is one of those events!
Now, of course, it’s not the same HITP that we are use too, but an adjusted version. For $20 a person, on specific dates, guests are allowed to drive their cars onto SFMM property and enjoy the music and lights from the safety of their cars.
We showed up much earlier than our allotted time slot, which I highly suggest you do so. Because the event is pulsed, you might find yourself waiting in your car for a long time before entering the event. Once we had our tickets scanned, we were directed to drive all the way around the parking lot to the employee parking area. As media, I’ve parked int his area before. The area is nothing special and everyday guests don’t often see it up close. But, because guests are entering the park in their cars, this is the easiest spot for them to do so. Unfortunately, the area really wasn’t decorated at all, but there was some audio playing to help let guests know the safety protocols. I would have loved to see this area done up just a bit so guests have something to look at other than a barren landscape of parking spaces. Maybe even some interactive characters, like elves asking kids and families if they’ve been naughty or nice this year!
As we were slowly allowed into the park we finally started to get some glimpses into what we could expect. In all honesty, I thought that the event just wouldn’t be the same. Without being able to saunter through areas, eat food and interact with characters; HITP just wouldn’t be the same. I was completely wrong. There was something more classic and traditional about this experience than previous HITP events. It felt more akin to an evening out with family, driving around in your neighborhood to see Christmas lights. But instead of simple holiday lights; these were extravagant displays with music, characters and even snow!
SFMM did a really good job balancing show moments on both the left and right side of the car, as well as keeping those entertaining pieces themed to the areas of the park. Really, it was the same HITP we know and love, just from the safety of our cars.
There was something really satisfying about driving around SFMM. We’ll never want to hike up the mountain to Samurai Summit ever again! It was also just so nice to be back inside the park. We’ve mentioned the emotions tied to theme parks in the past, and SFMM is no different. We’d be lying if we didn’t get a bit verklempt from just seeing familiar landmarks within the park.
Overall, Holiday in the Park Drive-Thru Experience scratches that holiday itch you might have, especially with little to do during the jolliest season of them all. If you want something fun, classic, and heart warming to get you in the Holiday spirit this year while staying as safe as possible, we highly recommend checking out Holiday in the Park Drive Thru Experience at Six Flags Magic Mountain. For many families, going to outdoor food events just isn’t safe enough for them. As we’ve said in the past, it’s about calculated risks. For those who do not think outdoor food events are worth the risk, we highly suggest checking this out because you can safely take each member of the family without the worry of COVID.
If you do want to attend, here are some helpful reminders!
ONLINE TICKETS & RESERVATIONS
- Online reservations are required and tickets must be purchased in advance. A limited number of cars will be allowed each night so be sure to make your reservation and purchase early.
- Admission tickets start at $20 per person and vary by day. A minimum of two individuals per vehicle is requested. Tickets will not be available for sale at the park and all reservations must be made in advance.
- Members and Season Pass Holders can use their valid pass for free admission, along with a required reservation made online in advance.
- Reservations can be made per vehicle and each person in your party for this reservation requires a valid admission ticket, Season Pass, or Membership. Children under the age of 3 are free.
Theme Park Duo 