Alton Towers, the UK’s largest and most beloved theme park, offers endless thrills and family fun throughout the year. But as winter approaches, many wonder: when does Alton Towers close for the season? Typically, Alton Towers wraps up its main season in early November, with a few special events running until Christmas, offering plenty of excitement before the park finally shuts its gates for the winter break.
Here’s a guide to the key events happening before Alton Towers closes for winter 2024, including Oktoberfest, Scarefest, Bonfire Night Fireworks, and the enchanting Santa’s Sleepover.
Oktoberfest: A Bavarian Celebration (September to early October)
Alton Towers kicks off its autumn festivities with Oktoberfest, transforming the park into a vibrant, Bavarian-themed celebration. Running from mid-September until early October, this event offers a blend of traditional German food, music, and live entertainment. Enjoy bratwursts, pretzels, and steins of beer while watching lively performances from Bavarian bands.
There’s also plenty of entertainment for families, with street performers, dancers, and themed games throughout the park. And, of course, visitors can still experience all their favourite rides, making Oktoberfest the perfect mix of thrills and fun.
Scarefest: Halloween Frights and Fun (Mid-October to early November)
For those brave enough to embrace the spooky season, Scarefest is a must. Running through October and into early November, this event transforms Alton Towers into a hauntingly immersive experience. From terrifying mazes and scare zones to eerie live shows, it’s an unforgettable Halloween adventure for thrill-seekers.
But Scarefest isn’t just for the brave. Younger visitors can join in the fun with kid-friendly activities, including trick-or-treating, costume contests, and spooky rides. As night falls, the park stays open late, allowing visitors to enjoy rides like Wicker Man and Nemesis in the dark for an extra spooky twist.
Bonfire Night Fireworks: A Dazzling Display (Early November)
One of Alton Towers’ most anticipated events is the Bonfire Night Fireworks display, which typically takes place in early November, just before the park’s main season closure. The sky above the park comes alive with a spectacular, choreographed fireworks show set to a heart-pounding soundtrack.
Guests can enjoy the dazzling display from various vantage points around the park, making this a magical way to end the day after enjoying the rides. With its blend of pyrotechnics, music, and effects, the Alton Towers fireworks show is one of the best in the UK.
Santa’s Sleepover: Festive Fun in December
Although the main season concludes after Bonfire Night, Alton Towers returns in December for the magical Santa’s Sleepover. This enchanting event brings the festive spirit to life with Christmas-themed entertainment and activities for the whole family.
During Santa’s Sleepover, families can enjoy selected rides, meet Santa Claus himself, and visit the Alton Towers Christmas Market, filled with festive treats and gifts. There’s also a special Pantomime performance, storytelling sessions, and a visit to Santa’s Grotto. The event is topped off with an overnight stay at one of Alton Towers’ themed hotels, offering a truly immersive Christmas experience.
When Does Alton Towers Close for Winter?
The last day of normal entry is November 10, 2024,. Following the conclusion of Santa’s Sleepover in late December, Alton Towers officially closes its gates for the winter season. The park typically remains closed from early January until it reopens in March for the new season, allowing time for maintenance and preparation for another year of thrills.
Whether you’re looking to celebrate Oktoberfest, get spooky at Scarefest, enjoy dazzling fireworks, or experience the magic of Christmas with Santa’s Sleepover, Alton Towers offers a full calendar of events to enjoy before it closes for the winter. Don’t miss out on the chance to make unforgettable memories this autumn and winter at the UK’s top theme park!