Mincio cycle path: a trip for everyone from Peschiera
November 6, 2025
Gardaland All Year Round with Oktoberfest, Halloween and Magic Winter
Anyone who thinks Gardaland is only a summer destination is seriously mistaken. Italy’s most famous amusement park—just minutes from Peschiera del Garda—has long mastered the art of surprising visitors in every season, with themed events that completely transform its atmosphere.
From September to January, Gardaland changes its look three times, moving from the cheerfulness of Oktoberfest to the thrills of Halloween, and finally to the enchanting atmosphere of Magic Winter. It’s the perfect way to experience Lake Garda all year long, surrounded by lights, music, fun and emotions for both adults and children.
Guests staying at Locanda Al Santuario, just five minutes by car from the park, can enjoy all these events with total convenience, returning afterward to a peaceful oasis surrounded by greenery near the Frassino Sanctuary.
Gardaland: Italy’s Most Beloved Amusement Park
Opened in 1975, Gardaland is now one of the most visited theme parks in Europe. With more than thirty attractions, daily shows and meticulously designed themed areas, it offers an experience that blends adventure, fantasy and entertainment.
Learn more on Wikipedia.
Located in Castelnuovo del Garda, the park is easy to reach by car or train. Guests staying in Peschiera del Garda or at Locanda Al Santuario can get there in just a few minutes, thanks to the convenient provincial road connecting the Frassino area with the park.
The themed zones range from fantasy worlds featuring Prezzemolo and his friends, to adrenaline-pumping rides like Oblivion and Raptor, and areas dedicated to younger visitors such as Peppa Pig Land and Fantasy Kingdom. But what truly makes Gardaland special is its ability to transform throughout the year, offering seasonal events that feel completely new every time.
Gardaland Oktoberfest: September Full of Beer and Music
Autumn at Gardaland starts with a big Bavarian-style celebration: Oktoberfest. From mid-September to early October, the park fills with music, aromas and colors reminiscent of Munich. Even the entrance welcomes guests with flower garlands, white-and-blue flags and a giant decorative beer stein—the event’s signature symbol.
Throughout the day, in addition to the classic attractions, visitors can enjoy food stands serving typical specialties such as wurstel, pretzels and apple strudel, paired with excellent Bavarian beers served in traditional one-liter steins. Folk bands and parades in traditional costumes bring extra cheer to the park’s streets.
The atmosphere is lively yet family-friendly. Children enjoy meeting Gardaland mascots dressed in Tyrolean outfits and participating in themed games, while adults appreciate the festive, social spirit of the event.
Oktoberfest is also a great opportunity to visit the park during a less crowded period, with mild temperatures and more relaxed opening hours.
After a day of laughter, music and roller coasters, heading back to Locanda Al Santuario means rediscovering calm: a seasonal dinner, a glass of wine and the silence of the Garda countryside complete the experience perfectly.
Gardaland Halloween: Thrills and Fun for Everyone
As soon as Oktoberfest ends, Gardaland transforms again for the most thrilling and entertaining event of the year: Halloween. From early October to early November, the park takes on a completely new appearance, decorated with pumpkins, skeletons, cobwebs and hundreds of orange lanterns that create a spooky—yet family-friendly—atmosphere.
The attractions remain the same, but with an extra touch of mystery: horror-themed shows, parades of friendly monsters, witches greeting children, and plenty of lively music. For the bravest guests, special areas feature striking sets and eerie special effects, while younger visitors can enjoy gentler activities such as pumpkin-decorating workshops and comic performances with Prezzemolo.
One of the most anticipated moments is the “Night of the Witches”, a big evening celebration with lights, music and performances until late at night. It’s a unique way to experience the park in a completely different mood, with illuminated attractions and a super-excited crowd.
After a long day of chills and laughter, returning to Locanda Al Santuario feels like a luxury: just a few minutes by car are enough to leave the noise behind and enjoy peace again. Many guests love ending the day with a hot pizza or a house-made dessert, perhaps with a glass of Lugana in hand.
Gardaland Magic Winter: The Magic of Christmas on Lake Garda
When December arrives, Gardaland turns white. Magic Winter is one of the most special times of the year, as the park becomes a true Christmas village. From the Feast of the Immaculate Conception to Epiphany, every corner glows with colorful lights, decorated trees and festive music.
The main entrance welcomes guests with a giant Christmas tree and falling artificial snow, making the atmosphere even more magical. The park’s mascots wear scarves and hats, while the main streets host holiday markets selling sweets, gifts and local specialties.
For children, the most awaited moment is meeting Santa Claus in his cabin, where they can deliver their letter and take a photo. Shows embrace the Christmas spirit, with light and sound effects that enchant visitors of all ages.
During Magic Winter, some attractions remain closed due to weather conditions, but the park’s most iconic rides—along with a large ice-skating rink and heated indoor areas—remain available.
The Christmas atmosphere is so intense that many visitors return year after year, combining the event with a relaxing winter getaway on Lake Garda.
Guests of Locanda Al Santuario enjoy the advantage of staying in a peaceful location, far from traffic yet just minutes from the park, even on busy weekends. In the evening, after the visit, the inn’s restaurant welcomes guests with warm dishes, local wines and a cozy atmosphere—perfect to end the day in harmony.
Tickets, Opening Hours and Practical Tips
Gardaland is open from March to January, with varying schedules depending on the season. In summer the park is open daily, while during special events like Oktoberfest, Halloween and Magic Winter, it opens on weekends and holidays.
Tickets can be purchased easily online, often with special discounts and family offers, or combined passes including Sea Life Aquarium or Legoland Water Park. To plan your visit or book a package, you can purchase tickets here:
Click here
Useful tips to organize your day:
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and during holiday periods
- Buy tickets in advance to avoid queues
- Dress appropriately: autumn and winter on Lake Garda can be cool, especially in the evening
- Always check Gardaland’s official website for event dates, opening hours and attraction availability
- The park has large parking areas and a shuttle service from Peschiera del Garda train station during peak periods
After Gardaland: Relax and Great Food at Locanda Al Santuario
After a full day of roller coasters, shows and music, returning to Locanda Al Santuario feels like a reward. Surrounded by greenery, just five minutes from Gardaland, the inn offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant loved for its genuine, home-style cuisine.
Many guests choose to combine their Gardaland visit with a one- or two-night stay to explore Peschiera del Garda, its historic center and the nearby Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Frassino, a peaceful and spiritual destination.
The restaurant at the Locanda serves seasonal dishes from land and sea, prepared with fresh ingredients and served in a welcoming atmosphere. On weekends, guests can also enjoy an excellent pizza—perfect for families and groups of friends.
Returning here after a day at Gardaland means disconnecting completely: the noise of the park fades away, replaced by the sound of crickets and the aroma of freshly prepared dishes. It’s the best way to end an emotion-filled weekend and start the next day full of energy.
Conclusion
Gardaland never disappoints, no matter the season. From the cheerfulness of Oktoberfest to the chills of the Halloween Party, and the enchantment of Magic Winter, each event offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
And while the park provides the excitement, Locanda Al Santuario offers the rest: a place where you can rediscover silence, good food and warm hospitality after a day of adventures.
Gardaland all year round: Oktoberfest, Halloween and Magic WinterWhether you’re traveling with family, your partner or a group of friends, experiencing Gardaland year-round is the best way to discover just how surprising Lake Garda can be… even beyond summer.
