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Pennsylvania transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a mix of historical charm, festive events, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re exploring twinkling light displays, cozy towns, or iconic landmarks, there’s no shortage of festive cheer. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Pennsylvania during Christmas to make your holiday season magical.
1. Visit Longwood Gardens for Christmas Lights
The world-famous Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square lights up with dazzling displays during the holiday season.
- Stroll through the Outdoor Gardens adorned with over 500,000 lights.
- Enjoy the Holiday Garden Railway, featuring miniature trains and winter scenes.
- Don’t miss the stunning indoor Conservatory, filled with festive floral arrangements and holiday trees.
Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania During Christmas
2. Experience Christmas Village in Philadelphia
Head to Philadelphia’s iconic Love Park to experience the Christmas Village, a traditional German-style holiday market.
- Browse for unique gifts from over 100 vendors offering handmade crafts and holiday treats.
- Indulge in festive foods like bratwurst, strudel, and mulled wine.
- Enjoy live music, holiday performances, and photo ops with Santa Claus.
3. Explore Koziar’s Christmas Village
Located in Bernville, Koziar’s Christmas Village is a must-visit destination for holiday enthusiasts.
- Walk through millions of sparkling lights illuminating the village.
- Explore themed displays like Santa’s Workshop, Toyland, and the Nativity.
- Enjoy sweet holiday treats and capture memories with Santa.
4. Ride the Santa Express Train
Hop aboard a Santa Express Train Ride for a magical holiday adventure.
- Strasburg Rail Road (Lancaster County): A historic train that takes you through scenic landscapes while Santa greets passengers.
- New Hope Railroad (Bucks County): Offers festive train rides featuring hot chocolate and caroling.
5. Visit Hersheypark’s Christmas Candylane
Hersheypark transforms into a holiday paradise during Christmas Candylane.
- Enjoy over 5 million lights across the park.
- Visit Santa and his reindeer at Santa’s Stables.
- Ride holiday-themed roller coasters and indulge in seasonal treats like hot chocolate and cookies.
6. Discover Bethlehem, “Christmas City”
Bethlehem, PA, also known as “Christmas City,” offers a historic and festive holiday atmosphere.
- Visit the Christkindlmarkt, a European-style holiday market with artisan crafts and delicious treats.
- Explore the historic Bethlehem SteelStacks, illuminated with holiday lights.
- Take a guided Christmas Lantern Tour to learn about the city’s rich history and traditions.
7. Tour the Nationality Rooms at the University of Pittsburgh
The Nationality Rooms at the University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning are beautifully decorated for the holidays.
- Each room represents a different culture’s holiday traditions.
- Experience a global Christmas without leaving Pennsylvania.
8. Enjoy Phipps Conservatory Winter Flower Show
Located in Pittsburgh, the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens hosts a stunning Winter Flower Show and Light Garden.
- Wander through holiday-themed floral displays.
- Enjoy interactive exhibits and dazzling outdoor light installations.
9. Ice Skating at Dilworth Park
Located in the heart of Philadelphia, Dilworth Park offers a magical ice-skating experience during the holidays.
- Skate beneath the city’s towering Christmas tree.
- Warm up with hot cocoa from nearby vendors.
- Visit the festive Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market.
10. Explore Pennsylvania’s Charming Small Towns
Pennsylvania’s small towns come alive with holiday spirit during Christmas.
- Jim Thorpe: Known as the “Switzerland of America,” this town hosts the annual Olde Time Christmas festival.
- Lititz: Offers charming holiday markets and a festive tree lighting ceremony.
- Lancaster: Home to holiday-themed Amish markets and Christmas shows.
Florida: If you’re dreaming of a warm and festive holiday, check out the top things to do in Florida during Christmas. From magical theme park celebrations to tropical light displays, Florida offers unforgettable holiday experiences for all ages.
Texas: Everything is bigger and brighter in Texas during Christmas! Discover charming holiday markets, sparkling light trails, and unique traditions that showcase the Lone Star State’s festive spirit.
California: For a mix of coastal charm and winter wonderlands, explore the best things to do in California during Christmas. From iconic landmarks to festive parades, the Golden State is full of holiday magic.
Indiana: Experience the heartwarming traditions of the Midwest by exploring the best things to do in Indiana during Christmas. From cozy towns to historic holiday events, Indiana offers a memorable seasonal escape.
Why Spend Christmas in Pennsylvania?
From enchanting light displays to historic towns filled with holiday charm, Pennsylvania offers a variety of experiences for everyone during Christmas. Whether you’re riding a festive train, exploring Christmas markets, or taking in the beauty of illuminated gardens, the Keystone State is a perfect destination to create unforgettable holiday memories.
