Top Christmas Towns in PA for a Magical Holiday Season
When the holiday season rolls around, I love exploring charming towns filled with festive lights, holiday markets, and warm, cheerful vibes. Pennsylvania truly shines during Christmas, and I’ve enjoyed visiting some of the best places to soak in the holiday spirit. Here are my top picks for Christmas towns in Pennsylvania that will make your holiday season magical.
Importance of Small Towns During the Holidays
Small towns have a unique way of capturing the essence of the holiday season. Their close-knit communities lend themselves to heartfelt celebrations that larger cities often struggle to match. The quaint streets become lined with sparkling lights, homes are adorned with wreaths and garlands, and every corner seems to hum with carols that echo the joy of the season.
What makes these towns truly shine is their dedication to local traditions. Whether it’s an annual tree lighting ceremony or a festive parade, these events foster a sense of community that warms even the coldest winter nights. These celebrations aren’t just about holiday cheer; they’re about bringing people together. It’s this spirit of togetherness that allows small towns to embody the holiday spirit so deeply.
Key elements to expect in small-town Christmas celebrations include:
- Local Markets: Often featuring handmade crafts, baked goods, and unique gifts.
- Community Events: From caroling nights to holiday-themed plays and concerts.
- Decorations Galore: Streets and homes aglow with twinkling lights and seasonal decor.
- Family Traditions: Generations participating in time-honored holiday activities.
These elements combined create a tapestry of memories that many cherish for a lifetime.
What Makes a Town a ‘Christmas Town’?
Not every town can be dubbed a “Christmas Town,” and there are specific characteristics that earn this festive title:
- Spectacular Festivals: Holiday festivals that attract visitors from far and wide are essential. These events often feature parades, gingerbread house contests, and tree lighting ceremonies that keep the holiday spirit alive.
- Stunning Decorations: A “Christmas Town” isn’t complete without eye-catching decorations. From intricate light displays to community-decorated trees, the visual allure is a key component.
- Community Involvement: The spirit of a “Christmas Town” is fueled by its people. When communities come together to celebrate, it transforms the town into a magical place. Volunteering, donating to local causes, and supporting small businesses are all ways townspeople contribute to this transformation.
- Special Attractions: Some towns boast unique attractions, such as historic sites dressed for the holidays, model train displays, or even live nativity scenes. These special touches offer something truly memorable.
Pennsylvania’s Christmas towns hold a rich tapestry of traditions and joyous celebrations, drawing from a history of community spirit that dates back centuries. Whether you’re a long-time resident or first-time visitor, the chance to experience these towns during the holidays is nothing short of magical.
1) Bethlehem: The Christmas City
Bethlehem, known as “Christmas City, USA,” is one of my favorite spots to visit during the holidays. The town is transformed into a winter wonderland with festive lights, decorations, and holiday cheer. I always make it a point to stop by the Christkindlmarkt, a traditional German-style Christmas market where you can find everything from handmade gifts to delicious holiday treats. Walking through the historic Moravian district, beautifully lit up for the season, is like stepping back in time.
Top Attractions:
- Christkindlmarkt
- Historic Moravian District
- Bethlehem by Night Bus Tour
2) Jim Thorpe: The Little Switzerland of America
Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, Jim Thorpe is another must-see during the holidays. This town’s Victorian architecture and cobblestone streets set the perfect backdrop for the Olde Time Christmas festival. I love the horse-drawn carriage rides, the festive concerts, and the cozy holiday markets. The mountain scenery makes it feel like a true winter escape.
Top Attractions:
- Olde Time Christmas Festival
- Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway Santa Train
- Downtown Jim Thorpe Christmas lights
3) Canonsburg: A Small Town with Big Holiday Spirit
Canonsburg may be a small town, but it has a big heart when it comes to Christmas. The annual Old-Fashioned Christmas celebration is full of charm, featuring a lighted parade, carolers, and even a live nativity. I always enjoy walking through the town square, sipping on hot cocoa, and taking in the festive atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to experience a classic Christmas.
Top Attractions:
- Old-Fashioned Christmas Celebration
- Lighted Christmas Parade
- Caroling and tree lighting ceremony
4) Wellsboro: A Dickens of a Christmas
Wellsboro is straight out of a Christmas postcard, especially during their “Dickens of a Christmas” festival. The town’s gas-lit main street is transformed with Victorian decorations, and actors dressed in period costumes roam the streets, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a Dickens novel. I love how the whole community comes together to create this unique holiday experience.
Top Attractions:
- Dickens of a Christmas Festival
- Gas-lit main street and Victorian decorations
- Holiday crafts and caroling
5) Kennet Square: A Longwood Christmas
Whenever I want to see dazzling lights, I head to Kennet Square for “A Longwood Christmas” at Longwood Gardens. This is one of the most stunning holiday displays I’ve ever seen, with thousands of twinkling lights, beautifully decorated trees, and mesmerizing fountain shows. It’s a magical place that never fails to get me into the holiday spirit.
Top Attractions:
- A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens
- Light displays and illuminated fountains
- Garden Railway for kids
6) Indiana: Home of Jimmy Stewart
Indiana, PA, always makes my list because of its connection to “It’s a Wonderful Life.” The town celebrates with its own “It’s a Wonderful Life” festival, complete with a holiday parade, themed shops, and, of course, tributes to Jimmy Stewart. Walking around downtown Indiana during the festival feels like stepping into the classic Christmas movie.
Top Attractions:
- It’s a Wonderful Life Festival
- Jimmy Stewart Museum
- Christmas Tree Capital of the World celebrations
7) Lititz: A Cozy Winter Wonderland
Lititz may be small, but it bursts with holiday cheer during the annual Lititz Christmas in the Park festival. This beloved event transforms the town into a true winter wonderland, featuring dazzling light displays, live performances, and festive music that fills the air. As you stroll through the park, you’ll be greeted by sparkling decorations and holiday-themed scenes that capture the spirit of the season.
The charm of Lititz extends beyond the festival grounds. The town’s quaint shops are perfect for finding unique gifts and stocking stuffers, with many offering warm drinks and festive treats to enjoy as you browse. With its historic architecture, friendly locals, and warm community spirit, Lititz feels like a holiday hug, making it a must-visit for the season.
Top Attractions:
- Lititz Christmas in the Park Festival
- Festive lights and live performances
- Quaint downtown shops and local treats
- Holiday-themed displays throughout town
8) New Hope: Christmas Along the Delaware
New Hope is another charming spot for Christmas, with its scenic location along the Delaware River. I’ve enjoyed the nostalgic rides on the “North Pole Express” of the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad, and the town’s historic shops are beautifully decorated for the season. Peddler’s Village nearby also has a wonderful Christmas Festival that’s worth a visit.
Top Attractions:
- North Pole Express on New Hope & Ivyland Railroad
- Holiday lights along Main Street
- Peddler’s Village Christmas Festival
9) Hershey: Christmas Candylane
There’s no sweeter place to celebrate Christmas than Hershey. The entire town transforms into “Christmas Candylane,” and Hersheypark is decked out with holiday lights, rides, and shows. I always enjoy stopping by Santa’s Stables to see the reindeer and indulging in hot cocoa while admiring the festive atmosphere.
Top Attractions:
- Hersheypark Christmas Candylane
- Sweet Lights drive-thru display
- Santa’s Stables with real reindeer
10) Strasburg: A Christmas Train Experience
For train enthusiasts (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a Christmas train?), Strasburg is the place to be. The “Santa’s Paradise Express” at Strasburg Rail Road is such a fun, festive ride, and they even have a “Night Before Christmas Train” that’s perfect for families. It’s a tradition I try to keep every holiday season.
Top Attractions:
- Santa’s Paradise Express at Strasburg Rail Road
- The Christmas Tree Train
- Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania holiday events
My final thoughts: Celebrate the Magic of Christmas in PA
No matter what kind of holiday experience you’re looking for, Pennsylvania has a Christmas town that’s sure to capture your heart. I hope this list inspires you to take a holiday road trip and discover the festive magic these charming towns offer. Happy holidays!
Mrs. Kris Kringle
