Holiday World: fun for all ages

What’s better than Christmas in July? How about Christmas in May?

In Santa Claus, Ind., everyday is Christmas, Halloween, the Fourth of July and even Thanksgiving at Holiday World. A relatively short road trip can turn a lazy summer day into an exciting adventure.

Santa Claus, Ind.,  is located in Spencer County and is slightly more than a hundred miles from Bloomington, which Mapquest.com estimates as a two-hour drive.
The park, which was originally called Santa Claus Land, opened in 1946 and is said to be the first themed amusement park in the world, even predating Disneyland in California.

Starting in the 1980s, the park began to expand by adding new holidays and attractions.

Currently, Holiday World includes Christmas, Halloween, Fourth of July and Thanksgiving areas, as well as an ever-expanding water park called Splashin’ Safari.

The Wildebeest, which is the world’s longest water coaster, just opened this year. Since these new additions, the park has earned many awards, mostly in recognition of their famous wooden coasters.

Many college students, however, are deterred by stiff ticket prices. Amusement parks are fun but can be costly, and Holiday World is a slightly less expensive option.
Tickets cost around $42, and there are no student discounts. However, bringing an empty Pepsi product can or a Bunny Bread wrapper can result in a $2-$7 discount, depending on the day.  

Additionally, the park boasts free parking, free sunscreen and free and unlimited Pepsi products all day long.  

A few helpful hints can make the day more enjoyable: Arriving early makes for shorter lines, and planning makes perfect when it comes to making the most of every minute.

 — Katie Koselke