24 min read
The 2025 Guide to Christmas Activities in Lancaster
By: Amanda Witherow | November 12, 2025
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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?
Bright Lights
Christmas Spirit Light Show at Clipper Magazine Stadium
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.
- Open November 28–December 31
- Sunday–Thursday; 5:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m.
- Friday–Saturday; 5:30 p.m.–10:30p.m.
Koziar’s Christmas Village
Help Koziar celebrate their 78th season! Step inside Koziar’s Christmas Village and bask in the beauty of a valley glowing with over a million Christmas lights.
- Open November 1–January 3
- Check website for times as they change as the season progresses
A Christmas Light Winter Wonderland at Refreshing Mountain
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!
- November 21–January 3
- 4:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Hershey Sweet Lights presented by PPL at Hersheypark
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.
- Select dates November 14–January 4
- Hours vary depending on the day, so be sure to check the website for more information.
Christmas Light Drive-Thru at Stone Gables Estate
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.
- Select dates November 21–January 3
- Monday–Thursday; 5:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
- Friday–Saturday; 5:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Herr's Christmas Lights Display
Don’t miss the Herr’s Holiday Lights Display in Nottingham — a free, dazzling drive-through experience featuring over 600,000 lights across the Herr’s campus. Cars enter at dusk and delight in the glow until early morning hours. While the dates for 2025 aren’t confirmed yet, in recent years the display ran nightly through the holiday season. Stay tuned for this year’s schedule!
Mayor's Tree Lighting
Visit downtown Lancaster for the tree lighting! Enjoy live entertainment, see the arrival of Santa, and view the magical tree lighting.
- November 28
- 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Messick’s Christmas Light Show
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.
- December 4–December 29
- 6:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Santa Sightings
Santa Express at Stone Gables Estate
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.
- Pre-Registration ONLY: All tickets must be purchased online before visiting.
- Friday,s November 21 and 28
- Saturdays, November 22 and December 6, 13, 20
- Wednesday–Saturday December 17–20
- Monday, December 22 and Tuesday, December 23
Breakfast with Santa at Country Barn
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!
- November 29, 30
- December 6, 7, 13, and 14
- Seating Times: 9:00 a.m., 9:45 a.m., 10:30 a.m.
- All tickets must be purchased in advance.
Santa's Jolly Lodge at Dutch Wonderland
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.
- Select Nights November 15–December 23
Santa's Trains at Strasburg Railroad
The Strasburg Railroad offers many Christmas-themed trains during the holiday season. You have TWO opportunities to see Santa!
Santa Claus Limited
This is their regular 45-minute steam excursion, but with Santa Claus on board! The property is decorated for Christmas.
- December 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19
Santa’s Paradise Express
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!)
- Weekends, November 15-30
- Saturdays & Sundays, December 6-21
- December 22, 23 and 24
Santa in the City
The Lancaster City Bureaus of Fire and Police will escort Santa through Lancaster City as he visits downtown and the neighborhoods.
- December 5, 6, 13, and 20
Breakfast with Santa at Hershey
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.
- Saturdays & Sundays and select Fridays, November 28 - December 21 and December 24
- 8:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
Holiday Cookie Experience at Dutch Wonderland
Add-on events! *The Holiday Cookie Experience is a separate add-on purchase that is NOT included with a Dutch Winter Wonderland admission
NEW! Snowflake Cookies with PBS KIDS Daniel Tiger
Join PBS KIDS Daniel Tiger for Snowflake Day at Enchanted Eats
- Cookie Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Cookies with Santa
Eat cookies with Santa in Enchanted Eats before your visit to Dutch Wonderland!
- Cookie Time: 2:00pm
Cookies with Santa Duke & Silly Elves
After enjoying delicious cookies with Santa Duke at Enchanted Eats, stick around to be entertained by Silly Elves Story time.
- Cookies & Story Times: 3:30pm
Elizabeth Farms
Visit Elizabeth Farms in Lititz this holiday season for a special visit with Santa during select hours. It’s not just pictures with Santa — you’ll enjoy tree cutting, wagon rides, a barnyard setting and plenty of seasonal cheer in Lancaster County.
- Black Friday, November 28
- Saturdays and Sunday, November 29-December 14
Festive Fun
Stone Gables
National Christmas Center
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.
- Mondays–Saturdays, starting November 21–January 3
- 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Christmas Dinner and a Show at The Star Barn (Stone Gables)
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.
- December 9 and 10 - Servant Stage Cabaret
- December 15-17 - Bill Gaither Band Members, Reggie & Ladye Love Smith
- December 18 and 19 - World-Renowned Soloist, Mark Forrest
- Visit website for information about times
The Christmas Village at Ironstone Ranch
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.
- November 28 and 29
- December 13 and 20
- 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Winter Wonderland Train Excursion with Special Guests
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!
- December 26 and 27
- January 3
- Varying departure times
Christmas Candylane at Hersheypark
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, 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.
- Select dates November 14–January 4
- 5:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
Winter Wonderland at Dutch Wondeland
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.
- Select dates November 15–December 31
- 3:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Christmas on the Farm at The Country Barn
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!
- November 29, 30
- December 6, 7, 13, and 14
Night Before Christmas at Strasburg Railroad
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.
- Varying dates from November 29 to December 23
Polar Bear Express at Middletown and Hummelstown Railroad
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.
- November 28 and 29
- Select Dates from December 5–23
Christmas Shopping Bus Tours
Hop aboard for a fun morning of holiday shopping made easy! This exclusive bus tour launches from the Bird-in-Hand Family Inn and will take you through several charming Lancaster County destinations—starting in the village of Bird-in-Hand and moving on to nearby Leola, Intercourse, and more. (Stops showcase Amish- and Mennonite-crafted home décor, specialty foods, candles, soaps and other gifts.)
- Three Saturdays — Nov 29, Dec 6 & Dec 13.
- 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The 2025 Christmas Show: Deck the Halls
Make your holiday season unforgettable with the 2025 Christmas Show: Deck the Halls at the American Music Theatre in Lancaster. This festive musical adventure invites families, friends and holiday lovers to experience dazzling dancers, joyful music and a guest appearance by Santa in a show designed to capture hearts of all ages. With easy access from Lancaster County and multiple show times available, it’s the perfect outing for your holiday calendar.
- Varying dates and times, Now-December 30
Holiday Inn at Dutch Apple Dinner Theater
Holiday Inn
Experience the charm of Lancaster County this holiday as you head to Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre for ‘Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn.’ With a full spread of festive tunes, tap dance magic and a delicious dinner option, this show offers a delightful mix of nostalgia and entertainment ideal for your family or friends’ holiday outing.
- November 7–January 28, selected lunch and dinner shows
Rudolph the Red-Nose Reindeer, Jr.
Bring the whole family to Lancaster’s Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre for Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Jr. With the story of Rudolph’s journey from misfit to hero, this children’s theatre production offers heart, laughs and holiday magic — and it’s perfect for a festive day trip in Lancaster County.
- November 21–December 27
Holiday Shows at Fulton Theatre
Elf
Celebrate the season in Lancaster with the lively stage adaptation of Elf: The Musical at the Fulton Theatre. Follow Buddy the Elf on his hilarious and heart-warming quest — a holiday outing the whole family will remember.
- November 21–December 28
It's a Wonderful Life
Celebrate the season in Lancaster with It’s a Wonderful Life – A Live Radio Play at the Fulton Theatre. Experience the classic story of George Bailey in a vintage radio broadcast format — an unforgettable holiday tradition for your entire family.
- December 5–December 28
The Nutcracker
Celebrate the season in Lancaster with The Nutcracker – The Musical at the Fulton Theatre. A charming re-imagining of the classic tale, this festive production invites kids and adults alike into a world where toys come to life and dreams take flight. Perfect for a holiday outing that’s equal parts wonder and warmth.
- December 6–December 27
Kitchen Kettle Village
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.
- November 28 and 29
- Saturdays, December 6 to December 20
Visit their website for a more detailed schedule of their special holiday events.
Elizabeth Farms
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!!
- November 28–December 14
Visit their website for a more detailed schedule of their special holiday events.
Amish Christmas Cookie Tour—Amish Farm and House
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.
- Fridays and Saturdays, November 21-December 20
- Departures at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
- Reservations are required
Best Kept Secret Holiday Tour
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
- December 4–December 13
Cookie Trail in Bird-in-Hand
Kick off the holiday season with a sweet stroll through the Artisan Village! Starting December 6, pick up a Cookie Trail map at any participating shop and enjoy a complimentary Christmas cookie at each stop. With every $5 you spend at the shops between December 6 and December 20, you’ll receive a stamp on your map. Collect 12 stamps and submit your complete map by December 20 to be entered into the drawing for a festive gift basket filled with merchandise from across the shops. Participating stores include Bird-in-Hand Artisan Village, Creative Rustic Furniture, Creative Home Shop, Downingtown Vintage at Bird-in-Hand, and Modish. This event makes holiday shopping extra fun—cookies, stamps and a chance to win!
- December 6 to 20
Jingle Bell Trolly
Hop aboard a festive trolley tour through the holiday-decked streets of Ephrata! On Friday, December 5 (“Family Night”) the tour departs at 5:00 p.m. and runs every hour until 8:00 p.m., with light refreshments, crafts, face-painting and visits from Frosty & Rudolph to get the whole family in the spirit. On Saturday, December 6 (“Adult Night”) the trolley begins at 6:00 p.m. and departs every hour through 9:00 p.m., starting and ending at the Old Republic Distillery Tavern. Adult Night includes one complimentary drink per ticket. Tickets are $15 for Family Night and $20 for Adult Night. Pre-purchase is required.
- Family Night: December 5
- Trolley tours start at 5:00 pm and depart every half hour until 8 pm
- Adult Night: December 6
- Trolley tours start at 6pm and depart every hour until 9pm.
The Strasburg Holiday Home Tour
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.
- December 6
- 10:00 a.m.– 4:00 p.m.
Home for the Holidays
Mark your calendars for Home for the Holidays at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in Lancaster County. With historic trains to explore, festive music, story readings and holiday-themed fun, it’s a perfect outing for families looking to celebrate the season in a uniquely local setting. "The Polar Express" holiday movie night on Saturday, December 6.
- December 6 and 13
Christmas Village in Bird-in-Hand
Visit Bird-in Hand for two days of good food and family-fun activities to ring in the Christmas season!
Get into the holiday spirit at the Christmas Village, right in the heart of charming Amish Country. Meet Santa and cuddle goats in their holiday PJs, bounce in a house of fun, sip hot chocolate by the Snowflake Station, take a scenic hayride through the village, enjoy live music and artisan demonstrations — and finish your day with some early holiday shopping. Free gift-wrapping, kid-friendly crafts (like gourd ornament making and sand art), and local food vendors make this a festive outing for all ages.
Whether you’re visiting for the treats at the Bakery & Cafe or browsing the Artisan Village for unique gifts, this event is perfect for families and friends looking to create special memories together. Don’t forget to drop off a canned good and receive a 10% coupon at the bakery — a feel-good way to give back while you celebrate.
- Saturday, December 13; 10:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Send Your Letters to Santa! November 24–December 13.
Look for Santa’s Mail Drops at both the Bakery & Cafe and Artisan Village.
Lancaster City for the Holidays
Small Business Saturday
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.
- November 29
- Throughout Lancaster City
Ewell Plaza Winter Market
Soak in the magic of Ewell Plaza’s open-air holiday market, where local makers share their handcrafted treasures. Surrounded by sparkling lights and cheerful music, it’s the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts that capture the joy of the season.
- November 29 - December 21
- .11:00 am–7:00 p.m.
Lancaster Shops Late
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.
- December 12
- 5:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
- Downtown Lancaster
Menorah Lightings
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.
- December 14–December21
- Penn Square
New Year’s Eve
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.
- December 31
- 8:00 p.m.–Midnight
- Clipper Magazine Stadium
Oh, Christmas Trees
Country Barn
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.
- November 24 and 30
- December 21, 7, 8, 14, 15
Elizabeth Farms
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.
- November 29-December 21
- Hours of operation change day to day, so visit website for more information
- Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Frey's Greenhouse
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.
- Monday–Saturday; 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. through Christmas Eve
Frog Hollow Evergreens
Choose your perfect tree this season at Frog Hollow Evergreens in Lancaster County — open weekends beginning Nov 28 (Fri) through early December. With simple pricing, hand-picked firs, and a true choose-and-cut experience, it’s a festive stop that fits nicely into your holiday adventure list.
- November 29-30
- December 5-7
Heritage Tree Farm
Head to Heritage Tree Farm in Lititz for a festive choose-and-cut Christmas tree experience beginning November 28 2025. With wagon rides, hot cocoa, and expert tree-selection help, it’s a delightful outing for the whole family in Lancaster County.
- Opening Weekend: November 28 and 29
- 9:00 a.m.– 4:00p.m.
- December 5, 6, 12, 13
Hunt’s Christmas Trees
This family-owned and family-run Christmas tree farm has been helping people find that perfect tree in the Lancaster area since 1979. Visit Hunt’s Christmas Trees in Millersville for a fun choose-and-cut experience this holiday season. With a wide variety of firs and pines, free wagon rides and full farm charm, it’s a perfect outing in Lancaster County.
- November 22–December 23
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!
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