EGG HARBOR CITY, NJ — If you have ever wanted to step inside the cozy, twinkling world of a Hallmark holiday movie, South Jersey’s historic Renault Winery is promising exactly that experience this winter.

The winery has announced the return of its popular Vintner Wonderland, a European-style winter festival that transforms the sprawling vineyard estate into a festive playground. The season kicks off on Black Friday, November 28, 2025, and runs through January 19, 2026.

Celebrated as "America’s Most Historic Winery," Renault is reimagining centuries-old European holiday traditions for the tri-state area. The grounds at 72 North Bremen Avenue will feature an outdoor ice skating rink, fire pits, heated igloos, and an artisan market, all designed to celebrate the end of the harvest season.

“Vintner Wonderland continues to be a place where friends and families can connect and make unforgettable holiday memories,” said Josh McCallen of Renault Winery & Resort. “This year, we’ve expanded our offerings to make the season even more magical. Bring your special someone for a romantic date night or bring the entire family out and make a new holiday tradition.”

Attractions and "Vintner Village"

The centerpiece of the festival is the Vintner Ice Rink, allowing guests to glide under festive lights. Surrounding the rink is the Vintner Village, a marketplace featuring themed huts including Santa’s Post Office and the Grinch’s Lair Pop-Up Bar, where adults can enjoy whimsical cocktails in a playful atmosphere.

Returning this year is the winery’s famous Barrel Tree, a massive holiday tree constructed entirely from wine barrels. A grand tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for Friday, December 5, featuring a visit from Santa Claus, live entertainment, and a DJ.

New and returning highlights for the 2025-2026 season include:

  • The Vintner Express Barrel Train: A whimsical ride around the vineyard village.

  • Festival of Trees: A charity display of decorated trees supporting the Beacon Church Hope Chest.

  • Louie’s Lounge & Santa’s Workshop: A heated space offering wine for adults and photo ops with Santa for the kids.

  • Buddy’s Sweet Shoppe: Featuring holiday confections and "ginormous" hot chocolates.

Dining and Special Events

Renault is offering a full calendar of culinary events, starting with a family-style Thanksgiving Feast featuring carved turkey, glazed ham, and a massive dessert table ($85 for adults, $35 for kids).

Families can book Breakfast with Santa (Dec. 7 and 14) or Stories with Santa (select dates in December), which includes milk, cookies, and a gift for the children. For fitness enthusiasts, the Reindeer Run 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run will take place on December 20.

To ring in 2026, the venue will host a "Noon Year’s Eve" on December 31. Starting at 11:30 a.m., the family-friendly event features a countdown at noon with a sparkling cider toast, allowing kids to celebrate the New Year without staying up until midnight.

Stay and Spa

For those looking to turn the visit into a getaway, the Chateau Renault Hotel is offering "Magic of Vintner" packages that include fire pit access, skating tickets, and dining credits.

Additionally, the resort is unveiling a new full-service Spa, which is currently open for previews with a grand opening set to coincide with the Vintner Wonderland season.

Guests are encouraged to pick up a bottle of Renault’s award-winning Blueberry Champagne for their holiday toasts. For a full schedule of events, ticket prices, and igloo reservations, visit renaultwinery.com/vintner-wonderland-2025/.