Pennsylvania shines during the holiday season with festive towns, twinkling lights, Christmas markets and winter getaways that feel straight out of a storybook. Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend escape, family outing or holiday road trip, you'll find plenty of seasonal events and experiences to plan around in PA.
Skip the long flight and find old‑world charm in Pennsylvania’s holiday markets, from handcrafted ornaments to flaky strudel.
Train Rides
Your track to magic
Holiday trains are kind of our thing. Hop aboard a vintage coach for cookies with Santa, sip cocoa to a retelling of a classic tale or break out your ugliest sweater for a grown-up ales on rails excursion. You can even take a train ride out to a farm and cut down your own Christmas tree. Wherever you roll, look out for scenic views of the Pennsylvania countryside.
Ever seen a 400‑pound marshmallow drop at midnight? That’s how Pennsylvania rings in the new year—sometimes with a giant mushroom, wrench or even yellow pants instead.
What to Know About Celebrating the Holidays in Pennsylvania
Where can I see holiday lights across Pennsylvania?
In Berks County, Gring’s Mill Recreation Area provides a walk-through holiday light display throughout the park and around its historic buildings. Pair these stops with other exciting winter attractions to build a full seasonal itinerary.
Where can I find Christmas markets and holiday shopping in Pennsylvania?
Shopping districts like Chestnut Hill in Philadelphia or downtown York offer festive streets lined with boutiques, bakeries and seasonal pop-ups.
What are the best holiday towns in Pennsylvania?
Some towns in Pennsylvania seem especially built for the holiday twinkle. Of course, Bethlehem, known as Christmas City, is one of the most festive destinations in the state.
Over in Jim Thorpe, Victorian architecture, mountain scenery and old-fashioned decorations create that Hallmark movie-esque atmosphere visitors crave.
What holiday events in Pennsylvania are worth planning a trip around?
Across the state, holiday festivals and New Year’s celebrations bring communities together with cheer. Hersheypark Christmas Candylane fills Hersheypark with more than five million lights, select rides and coasters, and seasonal entertainment from November into January. For history lovers, Washington Crossing Historic Park in Bucks County hosts reenactments and seasonal programs that make the holidays feel timeless.
Holiday train rides in PA offer another festive way to experience the season and can easily be paired with events and attractions around the state.
Check local information before planning your route and explore our events calendar for holiday and New Year’s adventures.
