The One Thing to Do in Pennsylvania Before the End of the Year
What are your plans for ‘Twixmas in Pennsylvania? You know those few days of downtime after Christmas and before the start of the new year. The little ones are out of school, and if your family is in town, you’ll probably be searching for ways to keep everyone entertained—I know, I will! The good news? There are plenty of activities in Pennsylvania during this festive time of year. And if you want to prolong your holiday celebrations for one more week, I’ve got the perfect destination for you!
For the ultimate ‘Twixmas experience, a trip to Lancaster is a wonderful place to close out the holiday season and welcome the coming year. With dazzling light displays, holiday shows, kid-friendly adventures, and more, there is something for everyone at this year-end celebration in Pennsylvania. Let’s bundle up to create new memories in Amish Country. Chances are, these family-friendly celebrations could become a yearly tradition.
Make Lancaster Your Year-End Getaway
Lancaster is by far one of our favorite cities in Pennsylvania to visit. Of course, folks can’t get enough of its Amish charm, and it’s one of the reasons millions visit every year. I have been to Lancaster on several occasions, but never during the holiday season. Surprisingly, the city has tons of activities planned that are great for the entire family. If you’re searching for a place to create new memories, make Lancaster your year-end getaway. It’s the one destination to visit in Pennsylvania to experience end-of-year magic.
Dazzling Lights During ‘Twixmas
Just because Christmas is over doesn't mean that the holiday glow should come to an end. And the folks in Lancaster are doing their part to keep the festive spirit alive. As one last year-end treat, families can enjoy the holiday magic of sparkling light displays. At the Refreshing Mountain’s Christmas Lights Experience, stroll or zipline through thousands of pretty twinkling lights. Perfect for all ages, visitors will wind through an illuminated forest into a wildlife area and end the evening with a cup of hot cocoa around a campfire. Be sure to bundle up for this event, which lasts through January 3.
Another light extravaganza? The Christmas Spirit Light Show at Penn Medicine Park, “Central Pennsylvania’s Most Exciting Holiday Experience.” What I adore about this holiday celebration is that it features a drive-thru light display and a walking trail filled with over 100 themed Christmas trees. Not only can you vote for your favorite tree, but Santa and his reindeer will make an appearance on select nights, and there will be scavenger hunts, festive treats, and more. Don’t leave your camera at home when you come to this year-end storybook celebration—you’ll need it for sure!
Experience Live Theater Magic
One of my favorite Christmas activities is watching holiday movies with my family. Miracle on 34th Street is by far my go-to, but I also enjoy other classics like It’s a Wonderful Life. While I could easily watch these movies from my parents’ sofa, there is something about a live musical performance that’s simply magical. If you agree, mark your calendars for December 5 - 28 to sing along to these classic Christmas shows at the iconic Fulton Theater. Experiencing the live performance of Elf, The Nutcracker, and It’s a Wonderful Life might just be the best way to close out the year.
‘Twixmas Fun for the Kids
Some places in Pennsylvania are just synonymous with family-friendly fun, and Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park is one of them. No matter the time of year, the park offers rides, water attractions, and live entertainment for all the little ones. The park truly comes alive with its Dutch Winter Wonderland. Kids will have a blast on the rides and strolling through the sparkling village. A night at the Kingdom for Kids will be one they won’t forget.
If you’ve ever wondered how the Amish celebrate this festive holiday season, you’re in luck! Enjoy an old-fashioned Farmhouse experience, churning butter, riding a horse-drawn sleigh, and eating yummy homemade treats. This three-hour celebration, lasting through December 30, will be both educational and fun for the entire family, especially for the kiddos ages 5 to 12.
As you can see, there is plenty to do in Lancaster after the holidays. So, if you’re searching for ways to keep your loved ones entertained during ‘Twixmas, add these year-end celebrations in Pennsylvania to your list.
Be sure to mark your calendars and visit the Discover Lancaster website to learn more about all the year-end events. And while you’re in town, use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to find more things to do and see near Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Happy Holidays!!!