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Posted: 11/10/2023

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Lancaster, PA for the Holidays

Lancaster County, PA is a magical destination during the holidays!

While Lancaster is an amazing place to live and visit year round, it’s extra special during the holiday season. Experiences, shops, and restaurants get in the holiday spirit, and share in the celebration. Joy and good cheer fill the streets of Downtown Lancaster and our charming towns, while shoppers find the perfect gifts.

1. Holiday Cheer & Community Spirit

Lancaster comes to life during the holiday season with cheer and community spirit! The beautifully decorated shop windows, small town streets, and the community gatherings; from tree lightings to events to ring in the New Year are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

We love how Lancastrians come together to share the spirit of the season, and we want to share the cheer and traditions with you.

Holiday Events

Santa greeting a family on a train in Lancaster, PA.
Lancaster County Christmas & Holiday Events

The holiday season in Lancaster County is full of themed attractions and fun events for young or old to enjoy.

Christmas tree illuminated in green and red lights in Lancaster, PA
Top Drive-Thru Holiday Light Shows in Lancaster, PA

Experience holiday lights and cheer from the comfort of your own vehicle!

Couple having a peaceful weekend at Pheasant Run Bed & Breakfast in Lancaster, PA
Things to do in Lancaster, PA this December

And where to see Santa Claus!
Events Calendar

Find special events and one-of-a-kind things to do in Lancaster County all-year long. Search for seasonal festivals, wine and food events, local music...

2. Special Seasonal Treats

What would the holidays be without sweet treats to share? Whether it’s a homemade whoopie pie or a decadent dessert like shoo fly pie, the holidays are the perfect time to indulge just a little in Lancaster.

We love the bakers and makers whipping up treats for the season, ready to be picked up and shared at your Christmas celebration. Once you've picked up your sweet to-go, plan to sit down at one of the restaurants or bakeries with delicious sweets to enjoy.

Authentic Lancaster Cuisine
Guide to Farm-to-Table Dining in Lancaster, PA

Farm-to-Table cuisine is a way of life here, with homemade and hand-crafted delights filling tables and tummies.

Coffee Spots & Cafes in Lancaster County
Coffee Spots & Cafes in Lancaster County

Check out these top spots for coffee in Lancaster County.

Warm & Hearty PA Dutch Dishes in Lancaster County
Classic PA Dutch Food in Lancaster County

A PA Dutch meal is good for the soul. Enjoy an authentic meal in Lancaster this season.

Macaroon shop window
Photo-worthy Ice Cream & Desserts in Lancaster, PA

Picture-perfect desserts that are worth sharing.

3. Full of Family Time

Quality time together is another one of the reasons we love the holidays in Lancaster - from holiday events to chances to meet Santa Claus himself. Cheerful train rides, holly jolly light displays, and even old-timey horse-drawn carriage rides are just a few of the family-friendly festivities that will put everyone in the holiday spirit. Bond together during your time at the Amish Farmhouse Christmas Experience, on the Old Windmill Farm. Where you'll be able churn butter from fresh cream, bake fresh bread and pumpkin pies, press fresh apples to make cider, and preserve some homemade applesauce.

Festive Family Fun

Family fun at Urban Air Adventure Park. Photo Credit: Discover Lancaster / Gabe McMullen
Things to Do with Family from Out of Town in Lancaster, PA

Lancaster has the perfect thing to do with your out of town visitors. No matter if you are an outdoor adventurer or a...
Things to do with Kids during the Holidays in Lancaster, PA

Experience the holiday spirit with these kid friendly events and adventures!
Free Things to Do in Lancaster, PA

Whether you’re planning some free fun ahead of time or are looking for a quick way to fill a few hours while you’re...
Indoor Things to Do in Lancaster, PA

Indoor adventures to revive your spirit.

4. One-of-a-kind Gifts

The perfect gift is hard to find, but with so many passionate makers and business owners in Lancaster, the possibilities are endless. Makers are creating quality items that can be found in boutiques, farmers markets, and locally owned shops.

Walk the quaint streets of Downtown Lancaster or our many small towns while browsing wares and crossing people off our gift shopping list – all while supporting local business.

Holiday Shopping
Black Friday Shopping & Small Business Saturday in Lancaster, PA

Shop the latest styles, homemade crafts and unique gifts.

Give the Perfect Lancaster County Gift
Lancaster County Gift Guide

Great gifts for all the people on your list!

Friends walking past local shops in the Lancaster county area.
Independent Retailers in Lancaster, PA

Lancaster is home to many indie retailers, between boutique shops and handmade goods you’re sure to find something you’ll love or a great...

Where to Find Hand-Crafted Furniture in Lancaster, PA
Where to Find Hand-Crafted Furniture in Lancaster, PA

Unique and homemade pieces that are perfect for your home.

5. Stunning, snowy scenery

There are few things lovelier than snow-covered farmland. If we’re lucky enough to get a dusting of snow around the holiday season, we love hitting the backroads (once they’re safe to travel) to capture and take in the beauty around us.

The crisp air and surrounding winter wonderland is so refreshing, and is just another reason why we love the holidays here in Lancaster.

When you’re in need of a hefty dose of holiday cheer, come see why we love the holidays in Lancaster for yourself.

Lancaster Countryside

Experience the Outdoors

an illuminated patio with outdoor heaters and enclosed dining spaces in Lancaster
Top 30 Things to Do this Winter in Lancaster

A wonderful mix of holiday cheer and indoor fun for your winter trip to Lancaster.
How do the Amish Celebrate Christmas?

Do they celebrate Christmas like we do?
Outdoor Adventure during the Winter in Lancaster, PA

Getting outside during the winter can be hard, but we know that for outdoor adventurers its a must. Find everything to do this...
Covered Bridges in Lancaster, PA

Tour over 25 covered bridges in Lancaster, PA.

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