Cold weather and warm drinks. Decked halls and trimmed trees. Cheerful music and colorful lights. Christmas time is here again! Whether you want to take your family to visit Santa, participate in Christmas-themed events, or find your perfect tree, Lancaster, PA has it all.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! It can also be one of the more stressful times of the year. Between the shopping, cookie-making, holiday parties, and family gatherings, the holiday season can be over in the blink of an eye—and all of a sudden you realize you never stopped to enjoy it!
Take a break from all the hustle and bustle and enjoy the many merry and bright happenings of Christmas in Lancaster County.
Where can I see Christmas lights?
Where can I take my kids to see Santa?
What are some fun Christmas events?
Where can I get my Christmas tree?
Enjoy this one-of-a-kind Christmas light display from the comfort of your own vehicle. As you journey through their mile-long track, you will be immersed and surrounded by hundreds of thousands of color-changing lights, animated and dancing in harmony with your favorite Christmas classics that you access through their radio station.
Help Koziar celebrate their 77th season! Step inside Koziar’s Christmas Village and bask in the beauty of a valley glowing with over a million Christmas lights.
If you’re looking for more adventurous ways to see lights, make your way to Refreshing Mountain. Zipline or swing your way through the lights or challenge yourself with multiple light-filled obstacles. For your less adventurous family members, climb atop the observation deck, visit the wildlife center, or take a stroll through their newly expanded walk-thru donation area. No matter what, there is a wide variety of ways to see the lights!
A winter wonderland awaits at Hershey Sweet Lights! Enjoy nearly 600 illuminated, animated displays from the comfort of your car as you drive through 2 miles of wooded trails. Hershey Sweet Lights is located at 1183 Sandbeach Road, Hershey, PA.
Celebrate the traditions and true meaning of Christmas with your loved ones from the comfort of your vehicle. Experience a 3-mile Christmas Light Drive-Thru which features over 1 million brilliant LED lights.
This free drive-thru light display is open from dusk to dawn! Drive through their corporate campus and take in the sight of over 600,000 dazzling lights.
Visit downtown Lancaster for the tree lighting! Enjoy live entertainment, see the arrival of Santa, and view the magical tree lighting.
The beloved annual light show at Messick's is back! Enjoy the same park-and-watch experience as previous years, with an added option to skip the line and watch from bleachers. The show runs every 15-20 minutes.
Enjoy a magical and narrated train excursion and Christmas experience through the center of Stone Gables Estate on the Harrisburg, Lincoln & Lancaster Railroad. Sing along with favorite Christmas tunes, light up when Santa makes a surprise visit, and enjoy a stop at the North Pole in the Engine House.
Enjoy a Farm-to-Fork buffet breakfast in an historic barn. Eat a buffet breakfast, pose for photos with Santa and then enjoy our outside activities to continue the Christmas festivities!
Santa will be waiting to say hello in Santa's Jolly Lodge! Grab those photo memories, go over your Christmas Wish List, and make some magical holiday memories to cherish for years to come.
The Strasburg Railroad offers many Christmas-themed trains during the holiday season. You have TWO opportunities to see Santa!
This is their regular 45-minute steam excursion, but with Santa Claus on board! The property is decorated for Christmas.
Santa himself will climb aboard the historic steam train to greet families as they travel down the tracks to Paradise, PA and back. As a special treat, children ages 11 and under will receive a gift from Santa and his helper during this 45-minute steam train ride. (multiple cars to choose from, including a brunch car!)
The Lancaster City Bureaus of Fire and Police will escort Santa through Lancaster City as he visits downtown and the neighborhoods.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet at The Chocolatier with Santa! There is sure to be kids activities, lots of holiday fun, and, of course, chocolate.
Two NEW add-on events! *The Holiday Cookie Experience is a separate add-on purchase that is NOT included with a Dutch Winter Wonderland admission
Eat cookies with Santa in Enchanted Eats before your visit to Dutch Wonderland!
After enjoying delicious cookies with Santa Duke at Enchanted Eats, stick around to be entertained by Silly Elves Story time.
Until its permanent home is ready, you can now enjoy seeing over 18,000 square feet of nostalgic Christmas décor in lights, trees, stores, and more at the interim National Christmas Center which is housed a short distance from Stone Gables Estate. Seventeen-foot-tall, real-life buildings with artistic architectural features depict the streets of Columbia, Pennsylvania as they were in the 1950’s.
Add a little more “merry and bright” to the Christmas season and enjoy dinner and live Christmas music in the historic Star Barn. The Star Barn will be festively decorated for the season, showcasing a large Nativity, Christmas trees, and more.
Make it a Christmas to remember at The Christmas Village at Stone Gables Estate. Enjoy the sights, smells, tastes, and sounds of Christmas as you stroll the market and visit historic barns and other structures at Stone Gables Estate, each beautifully decorated for Christmas.
Hop aboard a winter wonderland narrated train excursion through the center of Stone Gables. After your ride, visit the historic Millersburg Barn for a trip back in time as you view steam train replicas and everyone's favorite Snowman!
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, a winter wonderland filled with festive fun for all ages. Stroll through over 5 million twinkling lights, enjoy family-friendly rides and select coasters, and sip hot chocolate while taking in the sights. Meet Santa and his nine live reindeer, explore the cheerful decorations at TREEville, and enjoy the holiday music and light displays. From classic rides to charming holiday decor, it’s the perfect spot to start a new family tradition or enjoy a beloved favorite this Christmas season.
Experience the magic of the season at Dutch Winter Wonderland! This award-winning holiday event offers over 20 rides and more than 10 festive activities, ensuring fun for the whole family. New this year, children can meet PBS KIDS' Daniel Tiger at Wonderland Woods and navigate the Very Merry Maze. Don't miss the chance to visit Santa in his Jolly Lodge, enjoy the enchanting Merlin’s Magical Forest light show, and stroll down the illuminated Illumination Lane. With live entertainment, including the Dutch WonderBand and the Magically Christmas Magic Show, Dutch Winter Wonderland is the perfect place to create lasting holiday memories.
Enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas on the Farm at Barnyard Kingdom! The Country Barn will have giant slides, fire pits, barnyard animals, trikes, a straw pyramid, elf scavenger hunt, hedge maze, and more! Train rides to their Christmas Tree Fields (on a real train!) for U-Cut Trees are included with your admission!
Enjoy a Christmas story train ride. This special train recreates the excitement and anticipation of Christmas Eve. Clement Clarke Moore’s classic poem, ''Twas the Night Before Christmas,” comes alive as the train rolls along.
Hop aboard the Polar Express and take a trip to remember the North Pole. The Conductor shares a special Christmas story with the children. At the North Pole, Santa will board the train with a gift for every child (infant through 11 years). RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED.
Visit Bird-in Hand for two days of good food and family-fun activities to ring in the Christmas season!
On Friday, December 13, join the festive fun at the Bakery & Cafe and Bird-in-Hand Artisan Village! Start your day with holiday activities, including taking photos with reindeer and decorating your own Christmas cookie. Santa arrives at 5 p.m., just in time for the s’mores bonfire! Hayrides begin at 4 p.m. and include hot cider to keep you cozy. At the Artisan Village, enjoy live music by Abigail’s Garden, sample holiday treats like Christmas tea and chocolate-drizzled popcorn, and enter to win one of the 12 Gifts of Christmas. Kids can make a free reindeer craft, and the whole family can shop extended hours with free gift wrapping for any purchase.
On Saturday, December 14, bring the family to the Bakery & Cafe and Bird-in-Hand Artisan Village for a full day of holiday cheer! Start your morning with a festive breakfast featuring holiday-themed pancakes, waffles, and more, and be among the first 75 kids to receive a free gift from the Artisan Village. Capture memories with Santa, enjoy holiday balloons, face painting, and bounce house fun. The WJTL Kids’ Cookie Break will offer music, giveaways, and more, followed by caroling with the cast of The Christmas Candy Caper. At the Artisan Village, kids can make a free popcorn-and-cranberry garland, while everyone can enter to win one of the 12 Gifts of Christmas. Warm up with hot chocolate, Christmas tea, and freshly baked treats, plus samples of chocolate-drizzled popcorn. Shop while taking advantage of free gift wrapping (available on all purchases), making it a perfect day to enjoy holiday shopping and family fun!
Send Your Letters to Santa! November 25–December 14.
Look for Santa’s Mail Drops at both the Bakery & Cafe and Artisan Village.
American Music Theatre’s 2022 Christmas Show: Joy to the World takes on a journey through nostalgia of hometown America. Watch the stage transform into a small town winter carnival filled with family, friends, and elves right before your eyes.
Based on the beloved movie and holiday classic. “Veterans turned song-and-dance men Bob and Phil meet a sister duo and follow them to a Vermont inn. Here, they discover the inn is owned by their old Army General who fell on hard times. The foursome decide to put on a show in an effort to save the inn. Hear your favorites “Blue Skies,” “Sisters,” “Happy Holidays,” and “White Christmas,” and more!”
The enchanting story we know and love; Frozen. Step into a magical winter realm where the air sparkles with icy wonder and the warmth of sisterly love shines through. Experience a heartwarming journey that celebrates the power of love, the beauty of letting go, and the joy of a truly magical adventure.
The Fulton has reimagined this timeless classic. Coldhearted Ebenezer Scrooge encounters spirits of Christmases past, present, and future to discover loves and lives he has neglected.
*This is not a kid-friendly show.
This adults-only comedy tells the story of Cindy Lou Who as she recalls that Christmas Eve she first met the Grinch and the twisted turn of events her life has now taken.
Whether you venture out and brave the cold or prefer the warmth of indoors, winter at Kitchen Kettle Village is a great place to experience the holiday season. Take in the aromas of freshly baked seasonal treats, wander through the Village to see the decorations, and pick up a few Christmas gifts along the way.
Visit their website for a more detailed schedule of their special holiday events.
Visit Elizabeth Farms for all sorts of holiday fun. You can cut down your own tree, take wagon rides, have fun in the interactive animal area, enjoy the junkyard playground, eat delicious homemade desserts, shop the gift shop, snap a photo with Santa, and so much more!!
Visit their website for a more detailed schedule of their special holiday events.
Experience the warmth of Amish Country during the holidays when you visit Amish homes, savor homemade cookies and learn about their rich heritage during the holidays. Gather recipes, make new friends, and take home memories that will last forever.
This is unique shopping, food, and fun adventure.! Explore a curated selection of off-the-beaten-path businesses, including charming gift shops, cozy cafes, artisan studios, and more. Each tour offers new destinations, ensuring a fresh experience every time. Your ticket includes a tour guide booklet, a map, valuable coupons, and entry forms for prize drawings. Travel at your own pace, visiting each location in your own vehicle, and explore as many places as you'd like in a day—or take several days to soak it all in
Back for its 11th season, The Jingle Bell Tour in Ephrata! They offer two nights, Family Night and Adult Night. The Family Night Trolley Tour begins and ends at Ephrata Church of the Brethren at 201 Crescent Ave, Ephrata. Arrive 30 minutes before your tour for light refreshments, small crafts, face painting, and a visit with Santa & Rudolph! The Adult Night Tour begins and ends at Old Republic Distillery Tavern, 3 Dutchland Ave, Ephrata PA 17522. You’ll receive one complimentary drink (per trolley ticket). Additional food & drinks are available for purchase.
The Strasburg Heritage Society invites you to its 13th annual Holiday Home Tour. Stroll through approximately 10 beautifully decorated homes at your own pace, with three local churches also open for visits. Tickets are $20 in advance at local businesses and online, or $25 on the day of the tour at Strasburg First Presbyterian Church. There, you’ll find holiday greens for sale, Girl Scouts offering breakfast and lunch items, craft vendors, and a silent auction. All proceeds support the society’s mission to preserve, educate, and restore Strasburg’s historic heritage.
Experience the festive charm of the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania's annual "Home for the Holidays.” Enjoy readings of The Polar Express, send a telegram to the North Pole, and meet Santa himself. On December 7, delight in seasonal music from the Lampeter-Strasburg Community Band, and on December 14, enjoy performances by Temple Avenue. Explore the museum's collection of historic locomotives and railroad cars, engage in hands-on activities at Stewart Junction railway education center and TrainWorks, and visit the 1915-era Main Street and Steinman Station passenger depot. Don't miss the Whistle Stop Shop for unique holiday gifts, and consider bringing a toy to donate to Toys for Tots. For an evening treat, purchase tickets on Eventbrite for "The Polar Express" holiday movie night on Saturday, December 7.
Embrace the spirit of community and holiday cheer this Small Business Saturday as you explore the vibrant charm of Lancaster City’s small businesses. Discover unique treasures and thoughtful gifts crafted by local artisans and entrepreneurs, each reflecting the heart and creativity of the city. By choosing to shop small, you’re not only finding one-of-a-kind items but also supporting the diverse and inspiring businesses that make Lancaster so special.
Step into the magic of this outdoor holiday arts market, where local artisans gather to present their finest crafts. Surrounded by sparkling lights and festive music, explore unique handmade treasures that capture the essence of the season. Enjoy supporting the community as you discover one-of-a-kind gifts filled with creativity and holiday spirit.
Lancaster lights up with holiday magic during the much-anticipated Lancaster Shops Late event. As evening falls, the city transforms into a lively wonderland with local shops open late. Wander along beautifully lit streets, soak in the festive atmosphere, and browse an array of unique shops offering special finds perfect for holiday gifting.
Join the annual Hanukkah tradition in Penn Square, where the Jewish Community Alliance of Lancaster celebrates the season with festive menorah lightings. Set against the historic square, families and friends gather to kindle the lights, a symbol of hope and unity. Come be part of the celebration, enjoy the rich cultural heritage, and share in the warmth of this special Festival of Lights event.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with the City of Lancaster and the Lancaster Stormers at a lively, family-friendly event packed with music, tasty food, and festive entertainment—including a fresh twist on the classic Red Rose Drop. The night concludes with a spectacular fireworks display, bringing the community together to welcome the new year in style.
Pick out and cut down your tree! The staff will get it ready for you and assist with transportation and loading it into your car. They do have pre-cut trees if you’re looking for a faster, easier option.
Elizabeth Farms offers a delightful "cut your own" Christmas tree experience. Visitors can select and cut their own trees or choose from their pre-cut options, sizing ranging from 6ft to 9ft. The farm also features a selection of larger trees over 10 feet, individually priced based on size. To enhance the holiday experience, Elizabeth Farms provides horse-drawn rides on Fridays and Saturdays, along with festive activities such as visits with Santa, a gift shop, and food and beverages. Please note that horse rides are not available on Sundays, and the final days of the season, December 20 and 21, will focus solely on tree sales without additional activities
Frey’s Greenhouse has what you need to deck your home for the holidays. You will find freshly-cut Pennsylvania-grown Fraser and Douglas Fir trees, ornaments, wreaths, and lush greens in boxwood, pine, and fir.
Frog Hollow Evergreens is a small Christmas tree farm. Their usual selection of trees includes Canaan Fir, Douglas Fir, and Concolor Fir. All trees are priced the same, regardless of size or variety. The total cost per tree is $70.00. That’s it, no hidden costs!
Experience the festive charm at Heritage Tree Farm this holiday season. Due to a limited number of trees for 2024, they're offering a special choose-and-cut event only on opening weekend. To make it even more memorable, horse-drawn rides to the field will be available! Be sure to register in advance if you plan to cut your own tree. For the rest of the season, fresh-cut trees will be available for purchase. While you’re there, explore their festive gift shop, stocked with garlands, wreaths, and seasonal decorations!
This family-owned and family-run Christmas tree farm has been helping people find that perfect tree in the Lancaster area since 1979. Once you choose your Christmas tree, you can cut it yourself or their team is always happy to help cut it for you! Hunt’s is pet-friendly, so bring the whole family! They also have a wide selection of fresh-cut trees to choose from in their “indoor forest.”
We hope this guide to Christmas activities in Lancaster helps you and your loved ones enjoy a festive, memorable, and joy-filled holiday season! Merry Christmas!