Pennsylvania in December: A Winter Wonderland of Festivity and Charm

As the crisp winter air settles over the Keystone State, Pennsylvania transforms into a magical destination filled with holiday cheer, festive events, and cozy retreats. From bustling city centers to quaint small towns, December in Pennsylvania offers a diverse array of experiences for visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re seeking historical reenactments, dazzling light displays, or unique shopping opportunities, this guide will help you discover the best that Pennsylvania has to offer during the most wonderful time of the year.

Festive Markets and Holiday Shopping

One of the hallmarks of Pennsylvania’s December landscape is the abundance of Christmas markets and holiday shopping destinations. In Philadelphia, the Christmas Village in LOVE Park stands out as a must-visit attraction. This authentic German-style market features over 80 vendors selling unique crafts, jewelry, and artwork. The aroma of gingerbread and mulled wine fills the air, transporting visitors to a European Christmas wonderland. Open from Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve, this market is best enjoyed on weekdays to avoid the crowds.

For those venturing beyond the city, the Mifflinburg Christkindl Market offers a slice of old-world charm in central Pennsylvania. As the oldest authentic Christkindl Market in the United States, this three-day event in mid-December showcases over 100 huts filled with traditional German treats and gifts. Visitors can partake in unique traditions such as the Lantern Parade and the creation of Zwetschgenmännla (prune men). The market’s popularity means parking can be scarce, so consider using the provided shuttle service.

In Pittsburgh, the Peoples Gas Holiday Market in Market Square runs from November through December 23rd. This festive marketplace not only offers opportunities for unique Christmas shopping but also features entertainment and seasonal fare. Visitors can participate in holiday karaoke contests, take photos with Santa, or even enter a raffle for London trip tickets.

For those seeking indoor shopping experiences, Kraynak’s main store in Hermitage hosts Santa’s Christmas Land. This 300-foot display allows visitors to stroll through a starlight avenue of themed Christmas trees, complete with festive scenery and characters. Open daily (except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day), it’s a perfect option for those looking to escape the cold while still indulging in holiday spirit.

Dazzling Light Displays and Winter Wonderlands

As darkness falls early in December, Pennsylvania comes alive with twinkling lights and illuminated displays. In Schnecksville, the Winter Light Spectacular at the Lehigh Valley Zoo offers a modern twist on holiday lights. Visitors can meander through winter landscapes adorned with themed light-and-musical displays, sipping hot chocolate and capturing photos at their leisure. This wheelchair-accessible attraction runs from November through December, providing a magical experience for all ages.

Hershey, known for its chocolate, also shines bright during the holiday season with its aptly named Sweet Lights. This drive-through spectacle features nearly 600 lighted displays, allowing visitors to enjoy the festive sights from the comfort of their own vehicles. It’s an ideal option for those chilly December evenings when you want to experience the magic of the season without braving the elements.

In the southern Poconos, Jim Thorpe’s Annual Olde Time Christmas transforms the town into a Victorian-era holiday postcard. Visitors can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, photos with Santa, and live entertainment against the backdrop of picturesque architecture and mountain scenery. This event, held on weekends in December, offers a taste of Christmas past that’s sure to kindle the holiday spirit in even the most Scrooge-like visitors.

Historical Reenactments and Traditions

Pennsylvania’s rich history comes to life in December, with several events showcasing the state’s pivotal role in American history. On Christmas Day, Washington Crossing Historic Park hosts its annual reenactment of Washington’s crossing of the Delaware River. This iconic event, which took place on December 25, 1776, is recreated with historical accuracy, complete with reenactors crossing the cold river towards New Jersey. For those unable to attend on Christmas Day, a dress rehearsal known as the First Crossing is held earlier in the month, offering a more extensive program of events.

In Wellsboro, the Dickens of a Christmas Celebration transforms the town’s Main Street into an early Victorian marketplace during the first weekend of December. Visitors can stroll through streets closed to traffic, experiencing the sights, sounds, and flavors of a 19th-century holiday celebration. This event features costumed reenactors, vendor stands, live music, and even a performance of “A Christmas Carol,” making it a perfect destination for history buffs and holiday enthusiasts alike.

Cultural Events and Performances

December in Pennsylvania is rich with cultural offerings, from traditional concerts to modern entertainment. The Pennsylvania Christmas and Gift Show, held in Harrisburg from late November to early December, is one of the largest Christmas shows in the United States. This event features not only shopping opportunities but also dance performances and other holiday-themed entertainment.

In Philadelphia, the historic Macy’s in Center City continues the tradition of its Light Show and Wanamaker Organ performances. These beloved holiday spectacles have been delighting visitors for generations and offer a nostalgic glimpse into Philadelphia’s past while celebrating the season.

For those interested in model trains, the Western Pennsylvania Model Railroad Museum in Gibsonia hosts its annual Holiday Train Show from mid-November through mid-January. The main attraction is a detailed recreation of the railroad journey from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland, as it appeared in the 1950s. Train enthusiasts should plan their visit for a Friday night to catch the “Steam at Twilight” show, featuring historic steam engines.

Outdoor Adventures and Winter Sports

While many December activities in Pennsylvania focus on holiday celebrations, the state also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor winter fun. Ski resorts across the state, such as those in the Pocono Mountains, typically open for the season in December, offering skiing, snowboarding, and tubing for winter sports enthusiasts.

For those who prefer a more serene outdoor experience, many of Pennsylvania’s state parks remain open year-round, offering winter hiking, ice fishing, and even snowshoeing opportunities. Parks like Ricketts Glen State Park in northeastern Pennsylvania transform into winter wonderlands, with frozen waterfalls creating a spectacular icy landscape for adventurous hikers.

Culinary Delights and Seasonal Treats

Pennsylvania’s food scene shines in December, with many restaurants and markets offering seasonal specialties. In Philadelphia, the Reading Terminal Market is a food lover’s paradise year-round but takes on a special charm during the holiday season. Visitors can sample traditional Pennsylvania Dutch treats, pick up ingredients for holiday meals, or enjoy a warming bowl of soup on a cold December day.

Throughout the state, many towns host cookie walks or gingerbread house competitions, allowing visitors to indulge in sweet treats while getting into the holiday spirit. In Lancaster County, the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country, December is an excellent time to sample traditional cold-weather dishes like chicken pot pie and apple dumplings.

Cozy Accommodations and Festive Stays

After a day of holiday activities, Pennsylvania offers a variety of cozy accommodations to warm up and relax. The state’s numerous bed and breakfasts, many housed in historic buildings, provide intimate and festive lodging options. In Philadelphia, the Thomas Bond House Bed & Breakfast offers a chance to stay in a restored 18th-century home, while properties like the Inn at Bowman’s Hill near New Hope provide a luxurious countryside retreat.

Many inns and hotels across the state offer special holiday packages in December, including festive decorations, seasonal treats, and even visits from Santa. These accommodations can serve as perfect bases for exploring nearby attractions or simply as cozy hibernation spots on cold winter nights.

Conclusion

December in Pennsylvania offers a rich tapestry of experiences, blending historical traditions with modern celebrations, outdoor adventures with cozy retreats, and bustling markets with serene natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the Christmas markets of Philadelphia, witnessing the reenactment of Washington’s crossing, hitting the slopes in the Poconos, or simply enjoying the twinkling lights of a small-town celebration, Pennsylvania in December has something for everyone.

As you plan your winter visit to the Keystone State, remember that while popular attractions can get crowded, especially on weekends, there are always hidden gems and quieter moments to be found. Embrace the crisp air, the festive spirit, and the warm hospitality that Pennsylvania offers during this magical time of year. From its cities to its countryside, Pennsylvania in December is a winter wonderland waiting to be explored, offering memories that will last long after the snow has melted.