Celebrate the change in seasons as the cold creeps in and the holiday magic begins with upcoming events across the Keystone State. From wine fests and seasonal train rides to light displays and holiday shows, tis the season for the perfect combination of autumn activities and holiday happenings this November.
1. Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary
Ghoulish good times and Halloween happenings don’t have to stop in October. Always a scary good time, Halloween Nights uses all ten acres of the abandoned Eastern State Penitentiary, the country’s most historic prison, for its Halloween extravaganza. Where else can you find five haunted houses all in the same locale, along with themed bars and lounges, live performances, and historic tours with a super creepy feel! Be sure to stop in the Halloween Tribute, Eastern State Penitentiary, and Tricks & Treats stores where you’ll find great Halloween-themed merch and tasty treats!
When: Now-Nov. 11
Where: Philadelphia
Cost: Price varies
2. Jimmy Buffet’s Escape to Margaritaville
Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre presents Jimmy Buffet’s Escape to Margaritaville — where people go to get away from the hustle and bustle and stay for the laid-back way of life! Enjoy this heartwarmingly funny musical as it tells the story of a part-time bartender/singer who falls for a career-minded tourist. Hear some of the most beloved Jimmy Buffett classics, including "Cheeseburger in Paradise," "Fins," "Volcano," and, of course, "Margaritaville.”
When: Now-Nov. 11 (select dates)
Where: Lancaster
Cost: Price varies
3. Longwood Gardens Chrysanthemum Festival
Longwood Gardens invites you to “fall in love with fall’s favorite flower” at this year’s Chrysanthemum Festival. Cherished for their exquisite beauty and distinct colors, forms, and varieties, chrysanthemums or simply “mums” take center stage in vibrant shades of pinks, oranges, and reds during the autumn season. As you stroll through the gardens, see if you can find chrysanthemums that match each of the flower’s 13 different classifications according to the unique shape of its bloom.
When: Now-Nov. 12
Where: Kennett Square
Cost: Included with admission
4. Keystone College Observatory Fall Sessions
See the stars just outside Scranton at Keystone College’s Thomas G. Cupillari ’60 Astronomical Observatory! Attend free fall sessions on Wednesday and Friday nights to learn from some of Keystone College’s very own shining stars. Observe the moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, the Milky Way, and other out-of-this-world views through telescopes.
When: Now-Nov. 17 (Wednesdays and Fridays)
Where: Fleetville
Cost: Free
5. Koziar’s Christmas Village
Christmas is ushered in early with the annual opening of Koziar's Christmas Village on Saturday, Nov. 4. Celebrating 76 years of holiday magic, Koziar's delivers everything from twinkling lights to fabulous displays to supreme shopping and, of course, visits from Santa himself.
When: Nov. 4-Jan. 1
Where: Bernville
Cost: Price varies
6. Lake Erie Wine Country Harvest Celebration Weekend
Enjoy PA pours at Lake Erie Wine Country’s Harvest Celebration Weekend. Explore 53 miles of unique wineries and gorgeous vineyard vistas nestled along the shoreline of Lake Erie. Taste and try varieties to find a new favorite for your Thanksgiving table as participating wineries pair the finely crafted wines with harvest-inspired foods.
When: Nov. 10-12
Where: North East
Cost: Price varies
7. Smicksburg Old Fashioned Country Christmas Open House
Journey to the Amish community of Indiana County for a truly unique holiday experience at the Smicksburg Old Fashioned Country Christmas Open House. Admire the beautifully adorned storefronts and step inside to peruse the spaces brimming with magical holiday merchandise. You’ll be the toast of the town when giving the creative, one-of-a-kind gifts from the specialty shops of Smicksburg.
When: Nov. 11-12
Where: Smicksburg
Cost: TBD
8. 13th Annual Save Against Fear
Come for the conference and stay for the games at the 13th Annual Save Against Fear event in York County. The conference portion features two days of panels, workshops, and presentations focusing on the benefits of board and role-playing games, as well as inclusion and representation in the gaming world. Bring out your competitive side for the convention portion of the weekend and participate in tabletop gaming, board, and role-playing games, play-to-win games, and special tournaments for your chance to take home a gold medal or two.
When: Nov. 9-12
Where: York (various locations)
Cost: Price varies
9. Curwensville Home for The Holidays
Come to the annual Curwensville Home for The Holidays event to join local merchants for a weekend of exclusive sales, prizes, and festive fun throughout the downtown. Before you go, download the event flyer to record each location’s hidden “Christmas Word” for a chance to win a variety of great gift certificates. Bring your wish list so you can check some items off ahead of the holiday season.
When: Nov. 9-11
Where: Curwensville
Cost: $20 at participating merchants or $25 at the door
10. Anne of Green Gables Show
Based on the beloved novel by L.M. Montgomery, “Anne of Green Gables,” the musical, is coming to The Coolidge Theatre in Wellsboro to present a story for all ages! The delightful family musical follows the precocious and imaginative Anne Shirley as she captures the hearts and minds of her newfound family and neighbors in the small farming community of Avonlea on Canada’s Prince Edward Island, simply by virtue of her own pluck and personality.
When: Nov. 10-12, 17-18
Where: Wellsboro
Cost: $16 for adults; $8 for ages 18 and under
11. Historic Harmony’s WeihnachtsMarkt
The Harmony Museum’s German Christmas market, WeihnachtsMarkt, returns in 2023 to continue celebrating the culture’s Christmas traditions. Thousands of visitors come each year to peruse the unique and authentic handcrafted German imports from quality artisans and vendors. Visitors can also experience traditional German entertainment, food, and refreshments.
When: Nov. 11-12
Where: Harmony
Cost: $8 for adults; $6 for seniors; $4 for students; Free for children age 6 and under
12. Veterans Day Train Ride
To honor our heroes this Veterans Day, the Northern Central Railway of York is inviting all veterans and activity-duty military to enjoy a Fall Foliage train ride for free all weekend long! You can take in the beauty of fall in southern York County as you travel along one of their scenic train routes powered by the William H. Simpson No. 17, an authentic replica steam locomotive. Veterans and active-duty military must call the railway to book their free excursion. All others can book online.
When: Nov. 11-12
Where: York
Cost: Price varies; Free for veterans and active-duty military who call to book their ticket
13. “It’s A Wonderful Life” Festival
Not only is Indiana County the Christmas Tree Capital of the World, but did you know it’s the birthplace of legendary actor, Jimmy Stewart? Witness holiday magic before your very eyes at the annual “It’s A Wonderful Life” Festival! Get into the spirit during the Light Up Night and Holiday Parade on Friday, Nov. 17 while you watch the lighting of a 30-foot Christmas tree. Then, every Saturday through Dec. 16, return to deck the halls in downtown Indiana during the festival, where they’ll have themed food and drinks inspired by the movie plus plenty of shopping with discounts and deals at participating local businesses.
When: Nov. 17-18-Dec. 16 (Saturdays)
Where: Indiana
Cost: Price varies
14. Civil War Historical Impressions at Children of Gettysburg 1863
The past meshes with the present as you interact with living historians in their Civil War encampments in the side yard of the children’s history museum. The Civil War Historical Impressions at Children of Gettysburg 1863 is an immersive adventure for young history buffs to hear the stories of townspeople that lived in Gettysburg during and after the battle.
When: Nov. 17-19
Where: Gettysburg
Cost: Price varies
15. Philadelphia Marathon Race Weekend
Lace up your running shoes! The Philadelphia Marathon is celebrating its 30th year as one of the fastest courses in the country. See the city’s famous historic sites as you follow the route throughout Fairmount Park and along the Schuylkill River. Experience the excitement of the event by attending the Health & Fitness Expo, Nemours Children’s Run, and more race-related events.
When: Nov. 17-19
Where: Philadelphia
Cost: Price varies
16. Peddler's Village Holiday Kickoff Weekend
The holidays in PA aren’t complete without a visit to Peddler’s Village. Kick off the season at their annual Gingerbread Competition and Grand Illumination Celebration where visitors can vibe along to a variety of live entertainment including carolers, strolling performers, singing Santa, and other seasonal surprises. A holiday tradition since 1984, the gingerbread competition lets you feast your eyes on more than 100 whimsical entries crafted by the public, on display through the new year.
When: Nov. 17-19 (Holiday Kickoff Weekend), Nov. 17-Jan. 13 (Gingerbread Competition & Display)
Where: New Hope
Cost: Free
17. A Longwood Christmas
Have A Very Retro Christmas at Longwood Gardens this holiday season. You’re sure to feel nostalgic while marveling at playful trees draped in throwback baubles, shimmering tinsel, and classic childhood toys. Stroll through a festive party scene decked out in mid-century magic, reminisce amid a vintage Christmas street scene, and make new merry memories as you admire the dazzling, vibrant light displays.
When: Nov. 17-Jan. 7
Where: Kennett Square
Cost: Included with admission
18. Foothills Artists Studio Tour 2023
The Foothills Artists Studio Tour returns for its 16th year, featuring 14 artists whose studios are nestled in beautiful western Adams County. Visitors can spend the day among the thriving community of creators touring and shopping the spaces filled with paintings, pottery, sculpture, woodworking, photography, printmaking, fiber and textile arts, and jewelry inspired by the area’s natural beauty.
When: Nov. 18-19
Where: Various locations
Cost: Free
19. 160th Anniversary of the Gettysburg Address
Spend a weekend getting a glimpse into the American Civil War during Gettysburg’s Remembrance and Dedication Day Celebrations. On Nov. 18, the 69thAnnual Remembrance Day Parade honoring the soldiers and civilians of the war, followed by educational exhibits and the 21stAnnual Illumination Ceremony at the National Cemetery. Stay for the final day as the U.S. commemorates the 160th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address with a dedication ceremony at the Gettysburg National Cemetery and luncheon with guest speaker Susan Eisenhower.
When: Nov. 18-19
Where: Gettysburg
Cost: Free
20. Gem Miner’s Holiday Show
Uncover more than one hidden gem at the Gem Miner’s Holiday Show. Join more than 80 vendors from around the country to admire and shop Earth’s treasures. This holiday gem, jewelry, and gift show features an abundance of beads, fine jewelry, gems, minerals, fossils, gifts, and crafts. Best of all, you can win big with hourly and grand door prizes!
When: Nov. 18-19
Where: Lebanon
Cost: $5 for adults ordered online; $6 at the door; Free for children age 12 and under
21. Festival of Trees
At Franklin County’s 5th annual Festival of Trees find yourself strolling through dozens of trees and wreaths all decorated by locals, businesses, and organizations. Vote for your favorite fir before participating in the silent auction to bid on items for your personal holiday collection and gifts for those on your list. Embrace the spirit of giving while supporting Cumberland Valley Breast Care Alliance at this yearly event.
When: Nov. 18-Dec. 2
Where: Chambersburg
Cost: Free
22. Festival of Lights
The Stone Hedge Golf Course in Tunkhannock presents the annual Festival of Lights, an illuminated drive-through Christmas display. Kick off your seasonal celebrations with a tour through millions of twinkling lights on the back nine, then stop by the heated and accessible pavilion for family-friendly food, drink, vendors, and s’mores.
When: Nov. 22-Dec. 31
Where: Tunkhannock
Cost: Price varies
23. Five Christmases at the Shriver House
Ever wonder how Christmas was celebrated in the mid-19th century? Experience it for yourself with a candlelight tour of Five Christmases at the Shriver House. See the decorations, stockings hung on the mantle, the Christmas tree sitting in its place of honor in the holiday greenery room, and the candy and springerle cookies set out in anticipation of a visit from Santa.
When: Nov. 23-Dec. 31 (select dates)
Where: Gettysburg
Cost: $15 for adults, $12 for children ages 7 to 12
24. Light Up Holiday Weekend
‘Tis the season to be jolly once Light Up Holiday Weekend rolls around! Kick off the weekend with your favorite Christmas traditions at Evergreen Park with lights and carolers, then walk up Main Street for the Santa Parade, and, finally, watch the lighting of the tree and fireworks. On Saturday, you can check some loved ones off your list by shopping small with promotional sales and a craft fair.
When: Nov. 24-25
Where: Kane
Cost: Free
25. Christmas at The Expo
Attend Lebanon Valley’s largest holiday gift show and shopping event of the year at Christmas at The Expo. With more than 300 vendors, you’ll discover great finds to get ahead of your holiday shopping. When not browsing the local vendors, enjoy live holiday music, photos with Santa Claus, a canned food drive for the Lebanon Rescue Mission along with prize drawings and kid’s activities.
When: Nov. 24-26
Where: Lebanon
Cost: Free
26. Yuletide at Devon
Enjoy a brand-new holiday spectacular in Brandywine Valley. Yuletide at Devon blends traditional European Christmas markets with the thrill of a top-tier music festival and gourmet farm-to-table food experiences. Enjoy free rides and live music, fresh food offerings, craft drinks, and more than 35 high-end market shops throughout the holiday season.
When: Nov. 24-Dec. 31 (select dates)
Where: Devon
Cost: Free
27. Annual Lighting of the Vineyard
Embrace wines, vines, and holiday happenings at Benigna’s Creek Vineyard and Winery as it presents its Annual Lighting of the Vineyard spectacular. Held rain, snow, or shine, this outdoor event gives you a front row seat to enchanting views of 2.5 acres of grape vines trimmed in holiday lights as the displays dance to holiday music. You’ll also find additional festive displays, live nativity animals, tractor rides through the vineyard, campfires, homemade food, and, of course, wine!
When: Nov. 24-25
Where: Klingerstown
Cost: $10 for adults; $5 for designated drivers; Free for children 12 and under
28. Santa Train Rides
All aboard for festive fun in Tunkhannock! The Reading and Northern Railroad‘s annual Santa Train Rides are returning this season. Departing from Tunkhannock’s Riverside Park, this 80-minute train ride features a very special guest — Old Saint Nick himself! — so be sure to bring your little one’s wish list.
When: Nov. 25-26
Where: Tunkhannock
Cost: $20 for adults; $9 for children ages 3 to 12; Free for children ages 2 and under 2
29. Festival of Ice
Winter is coming to Lewistown for their annual Festival of Ice! Since 1995, the event has been celebrating and displaying dazzling, beautifully carved ice sculptures. You can stroll throughout downtown with a hot cup of cocoa and find the Christmas Island-inspired pieces, listen to Christmas carolers, admire the decorations, and visit with Santa Claus.
When: Nov. 30-Dec. 1
Where: Lewistown
Cost: Free
Looking for more things to do in PA this fall? Explore the visitPA website and find other events to attend this season. Follow us on Facebook, X(Twitter), Pinterest, and Instagram to stay up to date on even more great ideas and places to visit around our state. Don’t forget to never miss an update and sign up for our monthly Happy Thoughts e-newsletter.