Sadly the frozen three-metre high calendar could only last a single day but it signalled the build up to the start of London’s festive season on November 14.
That’s when the annual winter-themed festival takes over the Royal Park with thrill rides, ice skating and an entire Bavarian village with bars and food outlets.
The calendar boasted 24 frozen windows which members of the public could try to smash open to win prizes for the event, including overnight stays, ride tokens, food vouchers and preview night tickets.
Winter Wonderland attractions this year include the popular Real ice slide, the Magical Ice Kingdom of frozen sculptures, and Santa Land with rides for younger visitors and the chance to meet the man in red.
Zippos will be bringing their Christmas themed circus show, there’s Cirque Beserk for older visitors, and the big rides include the thrilling Munich Looping, and festive favourites such as the Giant Wheel.
A spokesperson for Hyde Park Winter Wonderland said: “We wanted to kick off the festive countdown to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland this year in a truly unforgettable way. Everyone loves the anticipation of an Advent Calendar, and we’ve turned that excitement into a real-life, icy challenge. It’s the perfect chilly thrill to get everyone excited for the magic, lights, laughter, and joy waiting for them at Winter Wonderland.”
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland runs this year from November 14 until January 1. All visitors must have a pre-booked timed entry ticket with entry fees waived if they spend £25 or more online ahead of their visit.
Further details at wwwhydeparkwinterwonderland.com
