Holidays in Lancaster

Spend the Holidays in Lancaster County

Q: When is the best time to visit Lancaster for holiday events?

Most events run from mid-November through New Year’s Day, with peak weekends in early to mid-December.

Q: Are holiday shows in Lancaster family-friendly?

Yes! Many shows are perfect for kids. Click here to get the upcoming show schedule.

Experience the magic of the holidays in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. From sparkling lights and Christmas markets to family-friendly shows and cozy inns, Lancaster is the perfect place for a festive weekend getaway. Whether you're shopping for handmade gifts or sipping hot chocolate by the fire, this is where holiday memories are made.

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Events

Shopping

Where to Stay

Get Holiday Ready

Festive Events

From Santa trains to light-filled adventures, Lancaster is full of festive events for all ages:

Ride with Santa on the Strasburg Rail Road
Walk or zipline through thousands of lights at Refreshing Mountain
Christmas Village in Bird-in-Hand
Catch a live holiday show at American Music Theatre
Interact with Amish families during the Amish Farm and House Christmas Cookie Tour
Shop and taste your way through the picturesque Kitchen Kettle Village

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Kitchen Kettle Village

Holiday Gift Shopping

The perfect gift awaits in Lancaster. Our locally owned shops are filled with so many one-of-a-kind items that you can only find in Lancaster.

Handmade goods at Lancaster Central Market
Locally made gifts & decor at Prussian Street Arcade, Bird-in-Hand Artisan Village, or Artisan Mill Co.
Get a long-lasting gift from an Amish handcrafted furniture shop
Shop second-hand this season at one of Lancaster's high-quality thrift stores

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Places to Stay

From cozy inns to family-friendly accommodations, Lancaster offers dozens of places to stay for your holiday getaway. Book early if you plan to visit popular events - rooms fill fast!

Find pet-friendly places to stay
Book your stay at a property with an indoor pool
Discover some of the coolest places to stay
Stay at one of the best family destinations
Cozy up at one of Lancaster's gorgeous bed & breakfasts

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Get Holiday Ready

Whether you’re hosting guests or prepping for holiday meals, Lancaster has what you need:

Bake with fresh ingredients from local farm markets
Cut your own Christmas Tree at one of Lancaster's Christmas Tree farms.
Decorate with greenery from local greenhouses
Stock up on candles, gifts, and tableware at local boutique shops
Get festive holiday apparel for a discount at Tanger Outlets or The Shops @ Rockvale
Pick up delicious baked goods and desserts from Village Farm Market, Bird-in-Hand Bake Shop, Bistro Barberet & Bakery, and more!

Holiday Trip FAQs

When is the best time to visit Lancaster for holiday events?

Most events run from mid-November through New Year’s Day, with peak weekends in early to mid-December.

Are holiday shows in Lancaster family-friendly?

Yes! Many shows, are perfect for kids. Click here to get the upcoming show schedule.

Where can I see Christmas lights in Lancaster?

Many areas of the County will be lit up with Christmas lights for the holidays. Check out of the renowned drive-thru light shows happening this season!

Do the Amish celebrate Christmas?

Yes! The Amish do celebrate Christmas - though it looks a little different than what you may be used to. Take a deeper dive into Amish Christmas traditions.

Spend the Holidays in Lancaster County

Festive Events

Holiday Gift Shopping

Places to Stay

Get Holiday Ready

Holiday Trip FAQs

When is the best time to visit Lancaster for holiday events?

Are holiday shows in Lancaster family-friendly?

Where can I see Christmas lights in Lancaster?

Do the Amish celebrate Christmas?

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