Family visiting? Feeling festive and looking for an activity to head out to? Check out this list below for where and for things to do this holiday season in Lancaster, PA.
There are more ways than just visiting holiday attractions. You can also start your holiday shopping early by checking out craft markets, outlet centers, and local businesses. Get into the Holiday spirit and pick up gifts early this year by exploring local craft markets and businesses.
The holiday season is a magical time of year, especially for children who dream of meeting Santa Claus. And in Lancaster County, those dreams can become a reality! With multiple opportunities to see Santa throughout the season, your child can experience the joy and wonder of meeting the jolly old man himself.
With so many things to do and places to be during the holiday season, it is nice to take a day to enjoy fresh air and hot cocoa with your loved ones and make unforgettable memories.
Find a list of the top places to go, to cut your own, and find pre-cut trees and Holiday wreaths!
Craving the flavors of Lancaster County? Look no further! Our recipes will bring a taste of Pennsylvania to your kitchen. From Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Pot Pie, Red Beet Eggs, Shoofly Pie, Whoopie Pies, and more!
Christmas Show: The First Noel| American Music Theatre | November 17th - December 30th Witness the magic and splendor of our holiday celebration as AMT presents “The First Noel” featuring incredible singers, astonishing dancers, wondrous costumes, breathtaking sets, and all the endearment of a perfect fireside family moment! Beautiful snowscapes, child-like joy, cherished stories, the spirit of love, and all your favorite things about the holiday season are cast onstage in this glorious celebration of timeless holiday classics.
Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat | Fulton Theatre | November 17th - December 30thAn old testament story told entirely through song, Joseph… follows the story of Jacob’s favorite son, Joseph. After being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph ingratiates himself with Egyptian noble Potiphar but ends up in jail after refusing the amorous advances of Potiphar’s wife. The magical musical is full of catchy songs including the unforgettable classics “Any Dream Will Do” and “Close Every Door.”
Santa Claus: The Musical | Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre | December 1st - December 29th After 1,000 years of faithful service, Santa Claus has decided to retire. But not all the elves in Santa’s Workshop are too thrilled about his chosen replacement – website-designer Nick. With the help of his tech-savvy daughter, Beatrice, Nick is in for the adventure of his life as he prepares to take of the reins in Santa’s sleigh! Jingle jam-packed with a sleigh-full of fun, energetic, and original Christmas music, Santa Claus: The Musical is sure to put you and your entire family in the holiday spirit!
A Christmas Carol: The Musical | Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre | November 17th - December 30th A season favorite! Even for a grumpy old miser like Ebenezer Scrooge, it’s never too late to change. But when he’s visited by three ghosts – Christmas Past, Present, and Future – he discovers his selfish ways and greets Christmas morning with a new found happiness, and through the enduring love of Tiny Tim, learns to spread goodwill and be happy.
The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe | The Trust Performing Arts Center | November 25th - December 16th This amazing 45-minute production was created by renowned Broadway actress Le Clanché du Rand and toured by the Lincoln Center. Join the Pevensie children in their fantastic journey through the wardrobe where they meet all of your favorite characters from Narnia.
Illumination | Prima Theatre | December 1st - 23rd Experience the holiday season like never before with an enchanting theater-in-the-round concert. Let the warm and inviting glow of candlelight surround you as extraordinary musicians and singers perform awe-inspiring renditions of your favorite holiday songs. An elegant piano takes center stage, beckoning you to fully immerse yourself in this magical experience.
Our Christmas Dinner | Bird-in-Hand Stage | November 17th - December 30th It’s Christmas and times are tough for the Davidsons. George lost his job and Jackie has empty boxes under the tree in hopes that his unemployment check arrives in time to buy gifts to fill them. The check doesn’t—but unexpected guests do: a soft-spoken Amish farmer and his outspoken wife whose buggy is stuck outside in a snowdrift. Add to the mix Jackie’s brother and his new fiancée and things really get interesting. This Amish take on Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner serves up plenty of laughs, holiday memories and a whole lot of football.
Winter Wonderland | Magic & Wonder Theatre | November 8th - December 31st Join Brett and his cast in a BRAND NEW FOR 2023 heartwarming Christmas show this November and December. Family and friends of all ages will enjoy the illusions, comedy, costumes, and music in this spectacular production. You'll journey to the wonder of the "North Pole", see toys come to life in "Santa's Magical Workshop", all while remembering the True reason for the season. This one-of-a-kind Christmas show fuses together the fun and wonderment of the Christmas season with comedy, dynamic circus arts, and grand illusions.
Holly Jolly Jukebox| Magic & Wonder Theatre | October 27th - December 23rd Everybody gather around the yuletide jukebox as we put the "rock" around your Christmas tree!! Get ready to tap your toes, clap your hands, and dance down the aisles to the greatest rock and roll renditions of all of your favorite holiday tunes. This high-energy song and dance review is sure to put everyone young and old in the holiday spirit. So grab your quarters and head on down to Shirley's soda shop at the Magic and Wonder Theater this season for Holly Jolly Jukebox!!
Miracle of Christmas | Sight & Sound Theatres | November 17th - December 30th This holiday season, travel back in time to Bethlehem as the original Christmas story unfolds all around you. Journey alongside Mary and Joseph, a flock of surprised shepherds, and three wisemen—along with their camels! There may be no room at the inn, but God has a lowly stable prepared as the angels announce the coming of the Messiah!
Please join us for an evening of music, carols, refreshments, and good cheer
On the First Friday of every month, head downtown to Lancaster City to check out the popular arts extravaganza with street performances, art galleries, music, shopping, and more. Take the kiddos with you to check out over 70 interactive and fun exhibits at the Lancaster Science Factoryfor free from 5-7pm on First Fridays! Looking for a night out without the little ones? While not free, Tiny Town offers Kid's Night Out where you can explore First Friday while the kids enjoy playtime, crafts, pizza, and more.
You can even turn it into a night out on the town by checking out some downtown dining!
