Navy Pier Announces Return of 'Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest'

'Tis the season for magic, memories and more at Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier! For the 17th consecutive year, Chicago's mission-driven cultural district is transforming its Festival Hall to offer families from near and far the holiday thrills without the wintery chills! From Friday, December 1, 2017 through Sunday, January 7, 2018, guests are invited to escape the Chicago cold and step into the dazzling indoor wonderland that is Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest.

To further elevate the experience this year, a ride on the 200-foot-tall Centennial Wheel will be included with every ticket purchase. Opened in May 2016 as part of the Fifth Third Bank Centennial Celebration, the iconic attraction features enclosed and temperature-controlled gondolas with state-of-the-art entertainment systems and video screens, offering guests comfortable and enjoyable rides complemented by unparalleled views of the city and lake all year round.

"Navy Pier is taking the holiday spirit to new heights this year as guests who experience the magic of Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest will be treated to a spin on the Centennial Wheel," said Navy Pier President and CEO Marilynn Gardner. "We are thrilled to offer this opportunity as part of our annual marquee event, further enhancing the guest experience and making Navy Pier the perfect place for the entire family to come together and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year!"

As in years past, Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest guests will be greeted by festive décor and a glittering forest of nearly 500 trees decorated with 25,000 ornaments hung on a mile of wire. Under the shimmering white lights and across the wintery blue carpet that blankets Navy Pier's Festival Hall lies dozens of activities and 170,000 square feet of entertainment for all ages - from the ever-popular Chicago Blackhawks Ice Skating Rink to the Polar Extreme Obstacle Course. Those with an appetite for adventure are invited to soar across the 40-foot Cliff Hanger or scale the Polar Ice Peaks Climbing Wall. Younger guests may enjoy a ride around Winter WonderTown on the Arctic Express Train or decorating cookies at the Cookie Cottage, a timeless holiday bonding activity. And of course, Santa Claus will be on hand for festive family photo opportunities and last-minute holiday gift requests!

"For the second year in a row, we are proud to serve as the title partner of Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier," said Fifth Third Bank Market President Eric S. Smith. "We look forward to celebrating this time-honored tradition as we welcome families, friends and guests of all generations and walks of life to Chicago's lakefront treasure for what is sure to be a magical and memorable experience."

Tickets to Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest can be purchased online or at the on-site box office. Ticket options include General Admission ($28) for guests over 42 inches and under the age of 65; Junior Admission ($13) for children between 36 inches and under 42 inches; and Senior Admission ($13) for guests 65 years and older. Children under 36 inches are permitted for free. All ticket options include one complimentary Centennial Wheel ticket - a $15 value - valid from the time of purchase through March 31, 2018. Guests may save $1 on Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest tickets when purchasing online in advance. Click here for other special pricing and offers.

Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest also offers opportunities to host private events with family, friends, co-workers, business partners and/or clients in an exclusive Navy Pier event space with all-inclusive package options. Packages include: private event space fitting the group size for up to four hours; discounted food and beverage selections to fit each experience; and a variety of Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest ticket options to meet the group's needs. Call (312) 595-5300 or e-mail navypierevents@navypier.com for more information or to book a private event.

Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, with the exception of special hours as listed below:

• December 4-6 and 11-13: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Christmas Eve: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Christmas Day: Closed
• December 26-28: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• New Year's Eve: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Click here to view the full calendar and hours.

For the comfort and safety of all Navy Pier guests, those under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Guests 18 years and older must present a valid military ID, state ID or driver's license with their pass to enter Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest. Parents or guardians are responsible for the safety and conduct of minor guests in their respective parties.

For more information on Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest or to purchase tickets in advance, please visit www.navypier.org.

Photo Credit: Heidi Zeiger Photography / Navy Pier

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