The Mission Valley stadium parking lot has few tailgate parties this year — no roar of Chargers fans. But families can still find entertainment there during the holidays.
Global Winter Wonderland, an international holiday event, features a large display of traditional Chinese lanterns, entertainment, carnival rides and international food.
Global Winter Wonderland’s large, luminescent, hand-crafted lanterns depict landscapes and landmarks such as the Taj Mahal and Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and London’s Big Ben.
Called a “Circus of Lights,” the event is spread across 17 acres of the SDCCU Stadium parking lot at 9449 Friars Road with dozens of larger-than-life structures, and up to 100 displays, many of which are being newly designed and constructed for San Diego.
The display has been held in three other U.S. cities, organizers said.
About 50 Chinese artisans spent several weeks hand-sewing the intricate lantern displays, some reaching heights of more than 20 feet.
The construction begins by molding wire and welding steel to make the frame of the lantern. Then LEDs are wired to the inside structure and colorful silk is stretched across the framework. Final additions such as airbrush paint are added to give lanterns a unique look.
The 35 carnival rides and food booths are reminiscent of a county fair, but the Christmas music and colorful displays remind you that the season has changed.
Tickets are available for purchase at globalwonderland.com. Adult tickets are $22. Children ages 4 to 12 and seniors aged 62 and older are $19.
The Wonderland is open from 4:30 to 10 p.m. starting Sunday. Check the schedule for times and days of operation through Jan. 7, 2018.
