A wave of nostalgia overtook Southern Californians this weekend in the form of giant gingerbread houses and candy cane lanes.

Nestled deep in the San Bernardino forest, Santa’s Village originally opened in 1955, two months before Disneyland. At 230 acres, the attraction was one of the biggest amusement parks of its time.

Children and adults alike were entertained by petting zoos, bobsleds, a candy kitchen and a monorail with bumblebee cars. Over the years though, attendance faltered and Santa's Village closed in 1998. 

Now after 18 years, the amusement park has re-opened,  branded SkyPark at Santa’s village.

For more on the park’s opening weekend, Bill Johnson, general manager at SkyPark, spoke with Alex Cohen.

To hear the full interview, click the blue play button above.