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Photo: Ligonier Holiday Horse Carriage Rides
Imagine a charming snow-covered town decked out with perfectly trimmed evergreens, Christmas carolers, and homemade hot cocoa. Sounds straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie, right? Put down the remote and look no further than these movie-esque Pennsylvania holiday wonderlands.
1. Ligonier
Often compared to Stars Hollow, the fictional town where the “Gilmore Girls” TV show was set, Ligonier has even played the role of Christmas town on the big screen. “Love the Coopers,” a 2015 holiday film starring John Goodman and Diane Keaton, shot snowy scenes in The Diamond, Ligonier’s iconic park, which includes a gazebo bandstand. Reservations.com ranked Ligonier as the fourth-best Hallmark Christmas Town in the U.S. thanks to its combination of wintry scenery, friendliness, walkability, Christmas cheer, and its number of small businesses. Discover the small-town holiday charm this season if you find yourself over in western PA.
2. Canonsburg
Old Fashioned Christmas CelebrationEnjoy a stroll through downtown Canonsburg during the town’s Old Fashioned Christmas Celebration, Dec. 6-7. Surround yourself with sparkling white lights and festive holiday window displays and shop for the perfect Christmas gift at the Christmas Market. There are so many fun events over the two-day celebration, you may find it hard to choose!
3. Jim Thorpe
Olde Time Christmas WeekendsNestled in the breathtaking Lehigh Gorge, Jim Thorpe offers visitors a unique and family-friendly way to revel in winter’s splendor. At Christmastime, the historic Victorian architecture, cheerful music, and brisk mountain air burst with holiday spirit. Their annual Olde Time Christmas, held the first three weekends in December, has become a beloved tradition for generations of holiday revelers with horse-drawn carriage rides, special community holiday events, live entertainment throughout the town, and, of course, Santa Claus!
4. New Hope
Peddler’s VillageEmbark on a winter adventure as you explore the beautifully decorated 18th-century-style buildings and winding brick walkways of Peddler’s Village that light up with a million colorful lights to embrace the holiday spirit. December is a seasonal celebration with holiday shopping, festive light displays, and the annual Gingerbread Competition and Display, which includes more than 100 creative and whimsical entries crafted by the public in different categories!
Next up, Shady Brook Farm is where the season’s magic is on full display amid a variety of holiday activities and 3 million lights at their Holiday Light Show. You can enjoy their spectacular lights covering acres of farmland staying warm and cozy in your own car or aboard an open-air wagon, singing along to holiday tunes and immersed in holiday magic. The farm’s holiday magic continues with the opportunity to enjoy a delicious breakfast with Santa or opt for visiting with Old Saint Nick and his elves at Santa’s village.
5. Bethlehem
Historic BethlehemStroll along the charming streets of Historic Bethlehem trimmed in twinkling lights and brimming with holiday cheer. Wander through the beautiful downtown or ride in style on festively decorated and serene horse-drawn carriages. The festive atmosphere full of lights, sights, and sounds of the Christmas City is truly a scene straight from a Hallmark classic. Not to mention, Christkindlmarkt at SteelStacks nearby has been recognized as one of the best holiday markets in the U.S. by both Travel + Leisure and Martha Stewart Magazine.
6. Gettysburg
Lincoln SquareThe Christmas tree shines bright in Lincoln Square, wreaths hang on every lamppost, and beautiful decorations grace Gettysburg’s streets and storefronts with Christmas lights, gorgeous greenery, and shiny wrapped presents donning their windowsills and doorways. Quaint, whimsical seasonal events including A Gettysburg Christmas Festival that’s always on the first weekend of December and the Christmas Tastes and Traditions Food Tour on Dec. 15 keep spirits high all season long.
7. Indiana
Downtown IndianaIndiana, the Christmas Tree Capital of the World, also happens to be the hometown of Jimmy Stewart, star of the beloved holiday classic, “It's A Wonderful Life.” Enjoy this Christmas classic with showings daily during the holiday season at The Jimmy Stewart Museum. Then, venture into downtown Indiana transformed into a modern-day Bedford Falls complete with twinkling lights and a 30-foot live Christmas tree in the center of town. Spend your holiday weekends during the annual “It’s A Wonderful Life Festival,” on Saturdays until Dec. 21 with visits from Santa and enjoy loads of fun activities, holiday treats, and beautiful vintage decorations.
8. Kennett Square
Longwood GardensExperience some holiday magic in Kennett Square while enjoying holiday activities like the Holiday Light Parade, Holiday Village Markets, Christmas in Kennett with Longwood Gardens, Tinsel on the Town, and Midnight on the Square. You'll find seasonal planters, cheerful street lighting, and perfect photo opportunities to capture memories with friends and family.
9. Bernville
Koziar's Christmas VillageCelebrating more than 77 years of season's greetings, Koziar's Christmas Village has embodied the holiday spirit for generations. The extraordinary seasonal attraction is filled with delightful displays, a train, a kissing bridge, and a million twinkling lights adorning buildings, gift barns, and the surrounding landscapes.
10. Mifflin
Juniata Valley WineryYou just might feel like you’re starring in your own holiday Hallmark film visiting Juniata Valley Winery. Nestled among towering trees, meandering country roads, a vineyard, and spectacular mountain views, this charming late 19th century venue is the perfect backdrop for a wedding or a taste of fine wine. Visit the winery’s tasting room and cozy up by the fire with a selection of their award-winning dry and sweet wines. Or, check out one of the special events held throughout the holiday season.
11. Conneaut Lake
Conneaut LakeLighting up the lake is a community tradition in this beautiful locale. Locals refer to the celebration as “The Christmas Project,” where hundreds of Trees of Light bedeck Conneaut Lake to spread holiday joy throughout the season starting with Light Up Night on Thanksgiving Day. Hop aboard the Barbara J Cruise to take in the sights from the water. Cruises are available Fridays-Sundays now until Dec. 15.
12. Altoona
Holiday Lights on the LakeExperience one of the most beautiful light displays in the area from the comfort of your own car, van, or bus at Lakemont Park’s annual Holiday Lights on the Lake, happening now until Jan. 5. Prepare to be dazzled by the more than a million twinkling lights illuminating the park. Be on the lookout for Loco's, the Altoona's Curve's mascot, favorite holiday decorations on your journey through the lights. If you can spy them, you’ll be in the running to win $1,000!
13. Johnstown
Central ParkFind that special sparkle of the holiday season in Johnstown‘s downtown. The 40-foot tall animated Christmas tree in Central Park evokes feelings of seasonal cheer as colors change to the tune of all your favorite carols. After soaking in the grandeur of the tree, take a close look at the miniature village lining its base, which is home to more than 30 houses decorated by local businesses.
14. Hanover
Experience the festive charm of Christmas in Hanover in southwest York County. Stroll through downtown to visit Santa’s Cabin, shop holiday specials, and sing Christmas carols. Check out the beautifully decorated neo-classical Warehime-Myers Mansion during one of their Christmas Tree Tours and explore the Hanover Area History Museum, where even more evergreens await. Don’t miss live music and entertainment on select dates from late November to early January.
15. Pittsburgh
All Hallmark heroines get their start in the “big city” and Steel City is the perfect backdrop for the holiday season straight out of the movies. Visit the UPMC Rink at PPG Place, a spectacular outdoor ice skating space that welcomes guests of all ages during the winter season, from now until March 2. Lace up your skates and glide onto the impressive rink that boasts more square footage than the one at Rockefeller Center. Afterwards, discover other holiday happenings in downtown Pittsburgh including Phipps Holiday Magic at the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, where you’ll be greeted by sparkling lights and gorgeous decorations from now until Jan. 4.
16. Hershey
Hersheypark Christmas Candylane | Credit: Hershey Entertainment & ResortsThere’s no sweeter place to spend the holidays than Hershey when the town transforms into a winter wonderland. Enjoy nearly 600 illuminated, animated displays on a two-mile woodland drive at Hershey Sweet Lights, Nov. 15-Jan 1, then ride thrilling coasters and other fun rides, meet Santa and all nine of his reindeer, and enjoy a light show choreographed to music at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, select dates Nov. 15-Jan. 1. Hum some festive holiday tunes while indulging in spa treatments at the Spa At The Hotel Hershey for a moment of much-needed relaxation amid the hustle and bustle of the season. Of course, no Hallmark movie would be complete without a kiss, so don’t miss your opportunity to ride into the night sky at the 330-foot Kissing Tower.
17. Bradford
Nestled in a valley surrounded by snow topped hills, Bradford is the quintessential Hallmark-inspired holiday getaway. In the town’s National Historic District, eclectic architecture from the 1800s and 1900s lines both sides of Main Street, and a decorative gazebo serves as the midpoint for seasonal horse-drawn carriage rides. A full slate of events and activities is practically guaranteed to fill you with the holiday spirit!
18. Rockhill
Rockhill Trolley MuseumRockhill Trolley Museum is brimming with the spirit of the holidays! Enjoy a nostalgic ride aboard a heated, antique electric trolley through a winter wonderland filled with holiday lights and a stop midway for those all important photo ops before returning to more fun and excitement at Santa’s Workshop, weekends now until Dec. 22 . Perfect for kids, grandkids, big kids, kids at heart, and anyone that would enjoy seeing Santa, the separate Santa Trolley takes riders on a magical journey with Santa on board, greeting and giving each child a special treat, Saturdays Dec. 7 and 14.
Santa makes his way to the East Broad Top Railroad to ring in the holiday season in retro style with a historic train ride during Christmas in Coal Country, Fridays through Sundays until Dec. 22 . Heated by authentic coal stoves, the train cars are pulled by a 107-year-old steam locomotive for a magical one-hour ride that departs from the historic and beautifully decorated Orbisonia Station. Santa Claus boards the train along the way to greet and give each child a special “coal-themed” gift and every passenger gets to enjoy a delicious cookie and cup of hot chocolate.
19. Wellsboro
Wellsboro | Credit: Tim McBrideReferred to as “The town that saved Christmas,” Wellsboro is a Tioga County hamlet known for its winter celebrations and downtown shopping experience. Each year, the community hosts the Dickens of a Christmas celebration, and recently began offering Christmas on Main Street events, to encourage visitors to come and see what the downtown shops and pop-up artisan displays have to offer. Main Street is lined with small businesses offering locally made products and other specialty items perfect for gift giving season.
20. Philadelphia
Historic Franklin Square | Credit: J. FuscoHistoric Franklin Square welcomes the season with a bevy of family winter attractions, festive activities, and holiday celebrations in addition to relaxing firepits and a warming tent with hand-crafted cocktails and seasonal treats. The free nightly Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO — inspired by Benjamin Franklin’s kite-and-key electricity experiment — illuminates the square every half hour with hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights choreographed to a soundtrack of seasonal tunes. Find more festive Philly events and spectaculars at some of the city's most well-known holiday attractions. Transport yourself to a German Christmas market at Christmas Village at LOVE Park and City Hall, catch the city’s timeless tradition of Macy’s Christmas Light Show & Dickens Village, and bundle up to enjoy a swinging good time at Chilly Philly Mini Golf.
Neighbors on the 1600 block of S. 13th Street (between Tasker and Morris Streets in East Passyunk) have worked together every year for more than three decades to create elaborate presentations that adorn their neighborhood for the iconic Miracle on South 13th Street Holiday Light Display. Stroll the block and take in each home’s decked-out decor from traditional twinkles to elaborate themed dioramas this holiday season.
21. Mt. Gretna
Credit: Cheyenne TobiasPennsylvania's Chautauqua community in Mt. Gretna is an incredible place to visit in the winter months! A popular mountain small town community in the summer months, the winter brings a quiet and tranquility you can't experience any other time of year. Walk narrow streets among charming cottages, view the oldest open-air theatre in the United States, and enjoy a farm-to-table brunch at the Porch & Pantry. The beauty and serenity of Mt. Gretna in winter is best enjoyed with snow sprinkled on top and in person!
22. Zelienople
Plan your visit to Zelienople when they kick-off their holiday season with Miracle On Main Street on Dec. 5. Visits with Santa, Christmas cookie making with Mrs. Claus, horse-drawn carriage rides, strolling carolers, tree lightings, and a light up parade fill the evening with cheer. Beautiful window displays, festive small shops, cozy restaurants, and more await this holiday season.
23. Skippack Village
Skippack VillageIndulge in your holiday Hallmark dreams at Skippack Village, nestled in between rural PA and the Philadelphia suburbs. Offering a vibrant selection of boutique shops, handcrafted gifts from local artisans, and five-star dining, historic Skippack is a classic American small town that illuminates its charm during the holiday season. Don’t miss Illuminaire Nights, happening each Friday in the winter months, when shops stay open late and luminaries line the sidewalks to warmly welcome the holiday season.
For more holiday ideas in Pennsylvania, check out the VISIT PA website. Follow us on Facebook, X, Pinterest, YouTube, Threads, TikTok, and Instagram to stay up-to-date on even more great ideas and places to visit around our state. Never miss an update by signing up for our monthly PA travel e-newsletter.
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