7 Christmas Towns In Pennsylvania That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
Christmastime in Pennsylvania promises magical moments at every turn – from Christmas lights glowing under freshly fallen snow to hearing the jolly “ho, ho, ho” from Santa as we wander in and out of stores while we Christmas shop. With so much to do all season long, we tend to forget to stop and take it all in every now and then. When you can squeeze in some time, make your way to one of these enchanting Christmas towns in Pennsylvania.
1. Bethlehem
Bethlehem, PA, USA
Perhaps the Christmas capital of Pennsylvania, Bethlehem, Christmas City itself, transforms into a wonderland during the holiday season. Do a bit of shopping and dig into delicious food at Christkindlmarkt, explore Christmas City Village and Christmas Huts on Main, and marvel at the elaborate decorations at the Historic Hotel Bethlehem. Even if you don't have a lot of time, you're sure to get in the Christmas spirit with a stroll through downtown.
2. Jim Thorpe
Jim Thorpe, PA, USA
Beloved as the Switzerland of Pennsylvania, Jim Thorpe hosts an Olde Time Christmas, one of the best Christmas festivals in Pennsylvania. From the annual lighting of the town Christmas tree to appearances by Santa, the Christmas festival promises a ton of fun for the whole family. Go on a horse-drawn carriage ride through the quaint downtown, or join other holiday revelers on a train ride with Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. (Santa may even join in on the fun.)
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3. Ligonier
Ligonier, PA 15658, USA
A little over an hour from downtown Pittsburgh, the quaint town of Ligonier is one of the best places to go at Christmas in Pennsylvania if you want an old-fashioned holiday experience. One of the highlights of the Christmas season, usually held at the beginning of December, is the Festival of Lights. Twinkling in Christmas lights and boasting a shimmering tree at The Diamond downtown, Ligonier looks as though it's leaped straight from an old-fashioned Christmas card. You don't need all day to explore the charming shops and restaurants and to admire the decorations.
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4. Bellefonte
Bellefonte, PA 16823, USA
Journey back to Victorian times when you visit the darling town of Bellefonte at Christmastime. The quaint town hosts the Bellefonte Victorian Christmas, one of the best Christmas festivals in Pennsylvania. Usually held at the beginning of December, the festival features a full menu of festive fun, including horse-drawn carriage rides, a festival of trees, and events with Santa.
5. Lititz
Lititz, PA 17543, USA
A trip to the always-enchanting town of Lititz is one of the best things to do at Christmas in Pennsylvania. Stroll through the twinkling downtown, where store windows are decked out for the holidays. You'll have the perfect opportunity to do a bit of Christmas shopping and sample from the eclectic collection of restaurants in Lititz. December is jam-packed with Christmas fun - from Christmas in the Park at Lititz Springs Park to the Annual Christmas Carol Sing.
6. Indiana
Indiana, PA, USA
Meander along Philadelphia Street in the darling town of Indiana, the home of George Bailey's Jimmy Stewart. The town hosts the It's A Wonderful Life Festival, one of the best Christmas festivals in Pennsylvania, on select days throughout November and December. Snap a photo next to the "You Are Now In Bedford Falls" sign; roast marshmallows over an open fire; meet Santa, and stop by the Jimmy Stewart Museum.
7. Wellsboro
Wellsboro, PA 16901, USA
Don't let the season pass by without a visit to the adorable town of Wellsboro, one of the most charming places to go for Christmas in Pennsylvania. Plan your visit to coincide with A Dickens of A Christmas at the beginning of December and Christmas on Main Street the following week. Stroll through downtown to shop, grab a bite to eat, and admire the Christmas decorations.
What are your favorite Christmas towns in Pennsylvania? Let us know in the comments! Have you been to the snowiest town in Pennsylvania yet? Add it to your must-visit list this winter.
Keep that holiday spirit burning bright by adding more jolly Christmas decor to your collection.
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