Top Christmas Destinations in Central PA

November 18, 2018

(DESTINATIONS WITH A STAR NEXT TO THE NAME HAS A SEPARATE BLOG POST I HAVE PREVIOUSLY WRITTEN. YOU CAN SEARCH MY BLOG FOR A MORE DETAILED REVIEW!)

LIGHTS-Probably close to the top of most people’s list of beloved Christmas traditions, there is definitely something special about little glowing and twinkling lights against the dark and chilly night air. Bundle up the family, and visit one of these classic destinations . Of course, every town has one or two homeowners that go “all out” on their homes making it a popular spot for locals to drive by. Some even collect donations for a charitable cause. An easy and affordable idea is to just drive around in the evenings checking out the various neighborhoods.

Longwood Gardens*–If you are looking for classy and romantic, there is no topping this perennial favorite. Prepare to be amazed at the sheer beauty of these famous gardens at Christmas time. Of course the biggest downside is the crowds and the expense. Try to attend on a non-peak day (Monday through Thursdays) for an optimal experience and a lower price.

https://longwoodgardens.org/events-and-performances/events/longwood-christmas

Koziar’s Christmas Village*–This internationally acclaimed lights display has plenty of Christmas charm and whimsy to delight kids and adults alike. Started as a family tradition, this private home has become a beloved holiday destination for locals and travelers.

http://www.koziarschristmasvillage.com/home/

Rocky Ridge Christmas Lights*–Take a peaceful walk in the woods aglow with millions of lights. Get a break from the cold and warm up by the fire, grab a tasty bite, visit with Santa, or see the trains display. This is one of our family’s traditions.

https://yorkcountypa.gov/parks-recreation/event-parks/christmas-magic-parks.html

Clipper Magazine Stadium Winter Wonderland-Create new holiday memories in this dazzling drive-through Christmas light show around the stadium or go inside the stadium’s concourse for Christmas-themed activities and treats.

http://www.lancasterbarnstormers.com/christmas/

Christmas Village at Refreshing Mountain – NEW for 2018, zip your way through a glittery Christmas village and warm up with homemade hot chocolate. You can even book a cozy cabin for a romantic getaway.

https://refreshingmountain.com/christmas-cabins-and-ziplines-at-refreshing-mountain/

The Star Barn Village Christmas Drive-Through Light Show – 2 miles of elegant lights throughout this already gorgeous property in Elizabethtown includes an audio-guided tour and booklet detailing the real meaning of Christmas.

https://thestarbarn.com/upcoming-events/

Hershey Park Candy Lane–Experience the thrill of the rides under the 4 million twinkling lights, see a choreographed light show or live performance, or visit with Santa and his real reindeer. Another option is a drive through Christmas light display called “Hershey Sweet Lights.”

http://www.hersheypark.com/seasons/christmas.php

Dutch Winter Wonderland-Similar to HersheyPark but on a smaller scale, younger children will find their Christmas thrill here.

https://www.dutchwonderland.com/winterwonderland

Conestoga Valley Technology Student Association (TSA) Holiday Light Show – Students work hard to create a drive-in style light show synchronized with familiar holiday songs at the Gerald G. Huesken Middle School. FREE but donations accepted.

https://www.townlively.com/holiday-light-show-will-return/

GENERAL AND SHOPPING

PA Christmas and Gift Show at the Farm Show Complex – One of the largest holiday shows in the country, you will find a broad range of crafts and gifts for sale. Just walking around taking in the sights, sounds, and smells will be an immersive Christmas experience.

http://www.pachristmasshow.com/christmas-shop/

Gifts That Give Hope Alternative Gift Fair*–Take a fresh approach to the holidays with meaningful charitable gift-giving which supports non-profits and social enterprises in a festive, fun, family-oriented environment. I have the privilege of serving on the planning committee!

http://www.giftsthatgivehope.org/Lancaster

Christmas City-Bethlehem, PA–Take a trip to the aptly named city which loves to celebrate Christmas. From the lights, the history, the arts, and the shopping at the famous “Christkindlmarkt” you will find your fill of Christmas fun in this quaint town.

http://www.christmascity.org/

Old Time Christmas in Jim Thorpe, PA–Another wonderful town to visit during the Christmas season, the Victorian-themed décor and activities make for a lovely old-fashioned feel that will captivate your imagination.

https://www.jimthorpe.org/

Strasburg, PA–Trains and Christmas go hand-in-hand and there are plenty of trained-themed activities and displays for the holidays in this lovely historic town.

http://strasburgpa.com/events-schedule/

Huge train layout decked out for Christmas (one of my favorites!)…

https://www.choochoobarn.com/rates-and-hours/ (Check out their “Canned Food Fridays!”)

RLPS Architects-Gingerbread House display–Every year this firm puts on an elaborate and very delicious-looking gingerbread house display in their lobby, free and open to the public. Be prepared for long lines, but worthwhile according to past visitors.

https://www.facebook.com/rlpsarchitects/

HISTORY-Another wonderful idea during the holidays is to visit a house museum and participate in their seasonal programming. Almost all house museums have some kind of Christmas celebration and it is a fantastic way to learn about customs from times past while creating warm holiday memories. Even sites you may consider boring during the rest of the year come alive with many lovely sights and smells during the holidays. You can’t argue with candlelight and warm cider!

Wheatland–Residence of the 15^th president James Buchanan and built in 1828, the house is decked out for a Victorian Christmas with the costumed actors to accompany it.

https://www.lancasterhistory.org/events-calendar/yuletide/

Landis Valley Museum*–Experience the 18^th and 19^th century village life of Pennsylvania Germans during a wonderful free event for the family, which includes a bonfire, hayrides, and carols.

Country Christmas Village

Johannes Mueller House*–Tour the 1792 house by candlelight and learn how Christmas was celebrated centuries ago.

http://lititzrecord.com/entertainment/carol-sing-historic-candlelight-tour/

Rockford Plantation Yuletide Tours*–Revolutionary War General Edward Hand owned this Georgian mansion built in 1794. After December 25th, participate in a candlelight yuletide tour which details this colonial precursor to our modern Christmas celebration.

https://rockfordplantation.org/yuletide/

Ephrata Cloister*–A unique monastic settlement started in 1732 by Ephrata’s founder Conrad Beissel. Seasonal readings and holiday music along with quiet reflection bring a little peace and joy to your busy holiday schedule.

Christmas at the Cloister

Hans Herr House*–This 1719 simple German home is the oldest existing dwelling in Lancaster. Participants can tour the home by candlelight, learning about the Native American art of weaving, listening to the Christmas story in German, and enjoying hot chocolate and popcorn by the fire.

https://hansherr.org/events-2/candlelight-tours/

SHOWS AND MUSIC

Millersville University-“Glorious Sounds of the Season” – among other Christmas-themed events

http://www.artsmu.com/2017-2018-season

Franklin and Marshall-Holiday Choral Concert–Soak in the holiday music sung by the college’s chorus and chamber singers.

https://www.fandm.edu/music/upcoming-concerts

Lancaster Bible College-“Reflections on Messiah”–the Worship & Performing Arts Department takes you on journey into the world-renowned works of Handel’s Messiah utilizing music, theater, and dance. FREE but hurry, tickets go fast!

https://www.lbc.edu/events/

Mount Hope Estate and Winery–Traditional Christmas tales and carols blend with a refined four-course dining experience in their annual Holidays at Mount Hope Dinner Theater.

http://www.parenfaire.com/holidays.html#stories

Magic Lantern Show-at Amish Experience*–A totally unparalleled chance to hear the old familiar stories of Christmas through the rare medium of a magic lantern combined with distinctive storytelling.

http://amishexperience.com/magic-lantern-shows/christmas-show/

American Music Theater-“The First Noel”–High-quality, Broadway-caliber performances characterize this high-spirited show with appeal for the whole family.

https://amtshows.com/2018-christmas-show/

Dutch Apple Dinner Theater-“A Christmas Carol”–It’s dinner and a show! Fill up and enjoy this family favorite.

https://dutchapple.com/shows/a-christmas-carol/

Fulton-“A Christmas Carol”–A reimagined version of this classic Dickens tale interjected with pop culture references and a fun holiday sing-a-long.

https://thefulton.org/shows/a-christmas-carol/

26th Annual Nutcracker Ballet featuring the Donetsk Ballet Co. of Ukraine -Introduce the next generation to this beautiful holiday classic performed at the Lancaster Mennonite School. (Nov. 30-Dec. 2)

https://www.vyballet.com/performances/

Not to mention oodles of churches putting on pageants, concerts, and live nativities. Check out one in your town. I know this list is not comprehensive. If you have other ideas to add, let me know!