{"id":42090,"date":"2023-11-25T09:24:23","date_gmt":"2023-11-25T14:24:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=42090"},"modified":"2023-11-25T09:24:24","modified_gmt":"2023-11-25T14:24:24","slug":"what-to-do-holiday-events-go-into-high-gear","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=42090","title":{"rendered":"What To Do: Holiday events go into high gear"},"content":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff<\/strong>, Entertainment Editor, The Times<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"

Santa on a fire truck in West Chester<\/p><\/div>\n

Thanksgiving has passed and Halloween 2023 is ancient history. That that means the Christmas season is in full swing \u2013 the all-encompassing holiday season with Christmas carols providing the audio background and an endless barrage of Christmas sales and ads in full assault mode.<\/p>\n

Fortunately, there are many non-commercial holiday activities celebrating Christmas along with Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Winter Solstice.<\/p>\n

\u201cChester County Hospital Lights Up Holiday Weekends in West Chester\u201d (greaterwestchester.com\/events\/featured-events\/holiday-weekends-west-chester<\/a>) will begin on November 24 and run through January 2.<\/p>\n

Transformed into a winter wonderland, the streets of historic West Chester are bathed in the glow of thousands of holiday lights every evening in November and December. Each weekend features holiday festivities, shopping and dining.<\/p>\n

On Saturdays from 2-3 p.m., the \u201cMaking Spirits Bright Holiday Music Series\u201d will feature local choirs and performances singing favorite holidays songs every Saturday on the steps of the historic courthouse on High Street. The schedule features the St. Agnes Parish Combined Choirs on November 25, The Uptown Singers on December 2, West Chester Music Academy on December 9 and Bishop Shanahan Liturgical Choir on December 16.<\/p>\n

Dressed in Victorian attire, The West Chester Borough Balladeer Carolers will roam around downtown West Chester and perform throughout the holiday season.<\/p>\n

Performance dates are November 24 and 25 and December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16.<\/p>\n

On November 25 and December 2 and 16, it will be time for \u201cSanta on The Fire Truck.\u201d \u00a0Santa will be escorted through the streets of downtown West Chester by the First West Chester Fire Company.<\/p>\n

The fabulous holiday light display \u201cWest Chester Griswolds\u201d (304 Dutton Mill Rd, West Chester, www.westchestergriswolds.com<\/a>) opened on Thanksgiving night and will run through January 2.<\/p>\n

This year\u2019s display features more than 135,000 lights and 800 smart pixels.<\/p>\n

Also featured is a Cosmic Color Ribbon Tree (CCR) to our display.\u00a0It is an exciting piece of technology with the ability to create any color of the rainbow. The exhibit will be playing throughout the night and \u201csinging\u201d with the bulbs.<\/p>\n

Lights will be on now through January 2 — Monday through Thursday from 4:45-9:45 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 4:45-10:15 p.m.<\/p>\n

\"\"

Downingtown Good Neighbor Christmas<\/p><\/div>\n

Downingtown Good Neighbor Christmas will hold its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 25\u00a0at 6 p.m.\u00a0 The event takes place in Kerr Park at the Log House field below the Christmas Tree.<\/p>\n

There will be holiday music provided at the concert gazebo, a face painter, small crafts and games for the kids, along with cookies and hot chocolate.\u00a0 Of course, the evening would not be complete without Santa arriving by firetruck at 6:45 p.m. to help light the Christmas Tree!<\/p>\n

Downingtown Good Neighbor Christmas will feature a 20-foot artificial lighted Giant Everest Christmas Tree with a three-foot lighted star on top.\u00a0 The tree, which is professionally decorated, sits next to the Log House on Lancaster Avenue and at the entrance to Kerr Park.<\/p>\n

The annual Downingtown Christmas Parade will be held on December 9\u00a0at 3 p.m. \u00a0The parade will feature marching bands, floats, walking and marching groups, and the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus to end the parade.<\/p>\n

The \u201cKennett Square Holiday Light Parade & Small Business Saturday\u201d will be held on November 25.<\/p>\n

\"\"

Kennett Square Holiday Light Parade & Small Business Saturday<\/p><\/div>\n

The \u201cHoliday Light Parade,\u201d which has been a popular southern Chester County event for more than a decade, has been moved to the Saturday after Thanksgiving to coincide with \u201cSmall Business Saturday.\u201d<\/p>\n

Visitors can park at the community garage for free from 10 a.m.-11 p.m. and then support small businesses throughout Kennett Square — delightful cafes, bakeries, and restaurants, as well as a diverse array of independently owned shops, boutiques, and art galleries, which will be packed to the brim with the most beautiful and highest quality gifts for everyone on your list.<\/p>\n

The \u201cHoliday Light Parade,\u201d which starts at 6 p.m., features music, dance, community groups, and an assortment of vehicles — including classic cars, tractors, wagons, fire engines, and school buses — all decked with lights.<\/p>\n

The parade starts at the intersection of Cypress and South Broad Street, turns and continuing along State Street and concludes with the entrance of Santa and Mrs. Claus lighting the town tree. Right after the parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be ready for a meet & greet and photos at the Work2gether porch.<\/p>\n

\"\"

Yuletide at Devon<\/p><\/div>\n

\u201cYuletide at Devon\u201d (Devon Horse Show, 23 Dorset Road, Devon<\/a>, www.yuletidedevon.com<\/a>) opens this weekend and runs through December 31.<\/p>\n

The special holiday event features a\u00a0European Christmas market, a gourmet farm-to-table dining experience, a series of live music concerts and a community carnival.<\/p>\n

There is a giant 65-foot Ferris Wheel that provides the opportunity for aerial views of the twinkling lights \u2013 and there are unlimited free rides. The list of featured attractions also includes a fun house, an exciting Himalayan rides and opportunities for Santa photos.<\/p>\n

Renowned Chef Chris Nguyen of the\u00a0Philadelphia\u00a0catering group Strothers will be providing farm-to-table food offerings. The craft drinks menu features fresh pour coffee, signature holiday drinks, gourmet hot chocolate, and homemade Gluhwein.<\/p>\n

More than 35 high-end market shops will also be open five days a week, offering a wide array of unique gifts and keepsakes. Whether you\u2019re looking for a special present for a loved one or a memento for yourself, you\u2019re sure to find something special at these shops.<\/p>\n

\u201cYuletide at Devon\u201d occurs weekly from Wednesday through Sunday, promising endless opportunities for fun, food, and frolic.<\/p>\n

The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center (100 Station Ave., Oaks, 484-754-3976, http:\/\/www.phillyexpocenter.com<\/a>) is hosting several very diverse events this weekend.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re a music fan that is looking for hard-to-find collectibles such as out-of-print CDs, rare 45s, vintage music posters or albums that have been deleted from record company catalogs years ago, you don\u2019t have to rely on online auction sites. There is an alternative.<\/p>\n

That alternative is the annual \u201cNot Just\u2019 Rock Record Expo\u201d which is celebrating its 37th anniversary this year. The event will take place on November 24 and 25 at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center.<\/p>\n

There will also be a variety of autograph guests including Michael Kelly Smith (Cinderella) and Richie Ranno (Starz).<\/p>\n

Tickets for the special holiday weekend event are $5 for either day. Show hours are from noon-6 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday.<\/p>\n

Mega Treasure Market, which is billed as a three-day \u201cBlack Friday Extravaganza,\u201d will be held from November 24-26.<\/p>\n

This is a huge indoor new and used sale featuring more than 75,000 square feet of exhibition space.<\/p>\n

The event will have hundreds of vendors and live auctions.<\/p>\n

There will be onsite appraisals. Patrons can bring their special treasures for appraisal or come to buy, sell or trade with guests and vendors.<\/p>\n

Some of the featured categories are coins, antiques and estate jewelry.<\/p>\n

Show hours are from noon-5 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $8 for one day, $11 for two days and $15 for three days.<\/p>\n

More activity is scheduled for this weekend at the Expo Center.<\/p>\n

LuminoCity (www.luminocityfestival.com<\/a>) opens on November 17 and runs through January 15 in the parking lot of the Expo Center.<\/p>\n

This holiday season, LuminoCity brings you a world of magical light installations that come to life in Pennsylvania.<\/p>\n

This year\u2019s theme, \u201cGolden Holiday\u201d will deliver state-of-the-art production featuring art, light, and color in remarkable displays.<\/p>\n

Visitors will enjoy the entire 45-minute walk and narrative journey while seeing the towering and twinkling LED sculptures. This Christmas light<\/a>\u00a0show is a celebration of the world and cultures around us.<\/p>\n

LuminoCity was imagined through a desire to create unforgettable experiences. Using light and imagination, it explores concepts of transforming creative thoughts, inspired by the world around us, into illuminating works of light and color.<\/p>\n

One of the highlights is a giant 50-feet lighted Christmas tree.<\/p>\n

Ticket prices start at $29.<\/p>\n

The annual staging of \u201cHolidays at Hagley\u201d is an event that is always one of the most eagerly anticipated holiday attractions in this area every year.<\/p>\n

The popular Brandywine Valley exhibit, which is included with regular admission, is running now through January 1 at Hagley Museum and Library (Route 141, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-658-2400, www.hagley.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

\u201cHolidays at Hagley\u201d returns with the theme, \u201cTreasures and Traditions,” and will feature Holiday Home and Garden Tours, the sixth-annual Gingerbread House Contest, Santa Day, Holiday Nights Tours, and more.<\/p>\n

This year\u2019s edition of \u201cHolidays at Hagley\u201d features tours of Eleutherian Mills, which is the first du Pont family home built in America. The tours, which will be presented each day from 10a.m.-4:30 p.m., feature decorations in a combination of styles from both the 19th and 20th centuries.<\/p>\n

During the Victorian years when candle-lit tabletop Christmas trees were the norm, hand-made gifts were attached to tree branches, and winter scenes were displayed underneath the tree. The upstairs Victorian Library shows how magical that looked with its mid- to late-nineteenth-century toys, games and dolls. The upstairs Parlor features a case filled with small ceramic animals well-loved by some of the du Pont family children.<\/p>\n

Early du Pont family French holiday traditions are remembered with a display of gifts that were given to E. I. du Pont\u2019s children on New Year\u2019s Day as well as the Twelfth Night party illustrated by the ornate French dessert service in the Dining Room.<\/p>\n

Well-loved displays returning include the elaborate Twelfth Night celebration in the dining room and the Victorian library\u2019s Christmas for children with its table-top tree surrounded by toys and games. Of course, there will be warm glowing lights and poinsettias.<\/p>\n

Admission is $20 for adults, $16 for seniors and students and $10 for children (ages 6-14).<\/p>\n

One of the best holiday events in the area is the annual \u201cYuletide at Winterthur.\u201d This year\u2019s 40th annual staging of the event, which runs through January 7 at Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library (Route 52, Wilmington, Delaware, www.winterthur.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Visitors can revel in the beauty and warmth of the holidays and explore treasures of Christmases past with displays of holiday traditions from the 1800s to the early 20th century, including displays of: the earliest types of colorful lights decorating house exteriors; the du Pont family holiday celebrations; and the evolution of Christmas trees over the decades from the 1880s to 1960s.<\/p>\n

This year\u2019s\u00a0Yuletide Tour\u00a0features custom fashion by local designers Shawn Pinckney and Asata Mais\u00e9 Beeks, whose creations reflect the history of Winterthur and the design sensibilities of Henry Francis du Pont and Ann Lowe. The house will be\u00a0decorated in all its finery with our signature traditions, including the show-stopping Dried-Flower Tree, plus artistic Christmas trees inspired by Ann Lowe gowns.<\/p>\n

New this year is\u00a0a large-scale gingerbread version of\u00a0Enchanted Woods,\u00a0made by Bredenbeck\u2019s Bakery of Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania.\u00a0Visitors will also enjoy an outdoor light display, including a 15-foot decorated Christmas tree. The miniature doll house and other holiday favorites will also return.
\nOne of visitors\u2019 favorites every year is the 18-room dollhouse mansion created by designer and philanthropist Nancy McDaniel over a period of 30 ears. It features amazing intricate details in each room and is even decorated for the holidays.<\/p>\n

As always, the rooms will be enhanced with the floral displays so essential to du Pont\u2019s decorating, and with special Christmas trees inspired by the beauty of Winterthur\u2019s gardens — including the\u00a0popular Dried Flower Tree in the Conservatory.<\/p>\n

Returning this year is a toy train display, featuring Standard Gauge toy trains. The display is presented by the Standard Gauge Module Association, whose members will construct the display at Winterthur. The display is open from 10:00 am\u20134:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, and Wednesday evenings in December, 5:00\u20138:00 pm.<\/p>\n

Special holiday programs throughout the season include\u00a0\u201cWonderful Wednesdays<\/a>\u201d\u00a0in December,\u00a0evening\u00a0events featuring live\u00a0jazz performances, caroling,\u00a0and workshops. In addition to the Wednesday evening festivities, visitors can enjoy a live one-man performance of\u00a0\u201cA Christmas Carol<\/a>\u201d\u00a0by\u00a0Gerald Charles Dickens, the great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens,\u00a0wine and cocktail tastings,\u00a0and family events\u00a0with\u00a0Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.<\/p>\n

Timed Yuletide Tour reservations are required.<\/p>\n

There will be a special \u201cCandlelight Concert\u201d at Winterthur on December 9 from 6-7 p.m. Surrounded by hundreds of candles, OperaDelaware will perform seasonal classics such as \u201cOh Holy Night\u201d and \u201cWhite Christmas,\u201d as well as popular\u00a0standards such as \u201cStrangers in the Night\u201d and \u201cSome Enchanted Evening.\u201d<\/p>\n

It will be an evening of ambience by candlelight, featuring angelic music by People-to-People International musicians Olivia Geiser and No\u00eblle Gr\u00fcebler of Winterthur, Switzerland.<\/p>\n

The Winterthur estate, now known as Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library, was named by Swiss-born Jacques-Antoine Bidermann, husband of Evelina Gabrielle du Pont, to honor his ancestral home.<\/p>\n

No\u00eblle Gr\u00fcebler (violin) and Olivia Geiser (piano), dedicated their project, Winterthur and Music, to various composers linked to Winterthur, Switzerland, providing insight into the vibrant musical scene of this town on the outskirts of Zurich. Join us for a Yuletide evening as we bring the two Winterthurs together through music.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $15.<\/p>\n

Admission to Winterthur is $22 for adults, $20 for seniors and students and $8 for children.<\/p>\n

Chaddsford Winery (Route 1, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221, www.chaddsford.com<\/a>) is presenting \u201cReserve Tastings – Festive Faves\u201d on select Saturdays and Sundays in November and December.<\/p>\n

Guests will join the CFW Crew for an intimate and educational 60-minute experience in the Barrel Room.\u00a0The trained staff will guide them through a pre-selected tasting of five widely diverse and award-winning wines from across our portfolio. The selections will be paired alongside seasonal local cheeses and other accoutrements to enhance your tasting experience.<\/p>\n

The staff will also discuss topics such as grape growing conditions at our partner vineyards and the onsite winemaking process from production to aging and bottling.<\/p>\n

The following is the 2023 Pairing Line Up \u2013 Greeting Wine: 2022 Sparkling White; 2022 Chardonnay with Maine Crisp Buckwheat Crackers (contains nuts), Brie, and Local Smoked Fall Honey; 2021 Pinot Noir with Smoked Gouda and New Jersey Dried Cherries; Spiced Apple with Pumpkin Spice Bon Bon from\u00a0\u00c9clat Chocolate; and Warm Holiday Spirit with Chocolate Cranberry Scone from\u00a0OsoSweet Bakery & Caf\u00e9.<\/p>\n

The holiday season at Herr\u2019s Snack Food Factory (20 Herr Drive,\u00a0Nottingham, 610-932-9330, www.herrs.com<\/a>) has arrived. The area around the factory site will be illuminated with thousands of lights and holiday displays.<\/p>\n

Herr\u2019s \u201cHoliday Light Display,\u201d which is free and open to the public, will be open nightly now through January 2.<\/p>\n

Visitors to the site will be able to drive along a trail that is illuminated with more than 600,000 lights.<\/p>\n

The special light exhibit will be open daily from dusk to dawn.<\/p>\n

The Brandywine River Museum of Art Route 1, Chadds Ford 610-388-2700, www.brandywinemuseum.org<\/a>) is celebrating the 51st anniversary of the Brandywine Railroad holiday train display now through January 8.<\/p>\n

A holiday favorite since 1972, the Brandywine Railroad features trains running on 2,000 feet of track and contains more than 1,000 pieces, including locomotives, passenger and freight trains, and trolleys that pass through a small village, a farm, factories, a drive-in movie theater and even a carnival.<\/p>\n

A dazzling array of both toy and scale model trains can be seen chugging through the varied scenery, including those made by Lionel, Williams, Atlas, Mike\u2019s Train House, K-line and others.\u00a0Interactive components are also incorporated into the display\u00a0to allow for further engagement.<\/p>\n

The Brandywine Railroad holiday train display is included in the cost of general admission.<\/p>\n

One of the most elaborate model train layouts in the Delaware Valley can be found at the Morris Arboretum (100 Northwestern Avenue, Chestnut Hill, 215-247-5777, http:\/\/www.morrisarboretum.org<\/a>). The popular Garden Railway Display that has become a summer fixture at The Gardens at Morris Arboretum returns again for a special holiday display.<\/p>\n

The display, which is open to the public now through December 30 in the winter garden of the Morris Arboretum, has a quarter-mile of track featuring seven loops and tunnels with 15 different rail lines and two cable cars, nine bridges (including a trestle bridge you can walk under) and bustling model trains.<\/p>\n

The buildings and the display are all made of natural materials — bark, leaves, twigs, hollow logs, mosses, acorns, dried flowers, seeds and stones — to form a perfectly proportioned miniature landscape complete with miniature rivers. Philadelphia-area landmarks are all meticulously decorated for the holidays with lights that twinkle.<\/p>\n

Admission to the Morris Arboretum is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors (65 and older) and $10 for students and military.<\/p>\n

A popular Christmas activity every year is taking a train ride with Santa Claus. Fortunately, there are quite a few very good options in our area.<\/p>\n

One of the best train rides with Santa Claus is the one presented by the West Chester Railroad (Market Street Station, West Chester, www.wcrailroad.com<\/a>).<\/p>\n

The special \u201cSanta\u2019s Express\u201d trains (which feature heated cars decorated for the holidays) will run on November 18, 19, 24, 25, 26 and December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 and 17 and 18 at 11 a.m., 1, 3 and 5 p.m.<\/p>\n

The 75-minute journey on the trail line\u2019s heated decorated train travels through the Chester Creek Valley. Santa Claus will be greeting everyone at Market Street Station and then going along for the ride to Glen Mills.<\/p>\n

Adult fare for the West Chester Railroad trips is $35. Tickets for children (ages 2-12) are $25 while toddlers (ages 9-23 months) get to ride for $10.<\/p>\n

The Wilmington & Western Railroad (2201 Newport Gap Pike, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-998-193, www.wwrr.com<\/a>) will run its \u201cSanta Claus Express\u201d on Saturdays and Sundays between Thanksgiving and Christmas.<\/p>\n

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be riding along with passengers on the steam-powered 90-minute round trip to Ashland Station. They will be greeting everyone on board and offering chocolate treats to the youngsters. Santa will also be posing for pictures with his fans.<\/p>\n

Steam locomotion will return to the Wilmington & Western for its annual Santa Claus Express. The rail line\u2019s <\/a>0-6-0 switcher No. 58 has returned to service after a multi-year restoration and will power Santa\u2019s train through the Red Clay Valley this season.<\/p>\n

Tickets for these trains, which run now through December 23, are $19 for adults, $18 for senior citizens and $17 for children.<\/p>\n

The tourist rail line will also be running special \u201cHoliday Night Express Trains,\u201d featuring a peaceful evening ride in the railroad\u2019s 1929 Doodlebug rail car. Tickets for these trains, which are running now through December 30, are $15 for adults, $14 for senior citizens and $13 for children.<\/p>\n

The Strasburg Rail Road (Route 741, Strasburg, 717-687-7522, www.strasburgrailroad.com<\/a>) is running its \u201cSanta\u2019s Paradise Express\u201d now through December 24. Santa will be the featured guest on each ride from Strasburg to Paradise and back.<\/p>\n

The rotund guy in the red suit will be greeting passengers, shaking hands, posing for photos and giving a treat to each child. After the train ride, children are treated to storybook readings of holiday classics. Visitors of all ages can also enjoy a ride aboard the Tinsel Trolley, a self-propelled motor car.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $33 for adults and $26 for children.<\/p>\n

Other \u201cChristmas Experiences\u201d offered by the rail line are \u201cSanta Claus Limited,\u201d \u201cNight Before Christmas,\u201d \u201cChristmas Tree Train\u201d and \u201cBreakfast or Dinner with Mrs. Claus.\u201d<\/p>\n

The New Hope Railroad (32 Bridge Street, New Hope, www.newhoperailroad.com<\/a>) is running its \u201cSanta\u2019s North Pole Express Train — The Magical Journey Begins Here\u201d now through December 30.<\/p>\n

Riders can join Santa and Mrs. Claus as they depart New Hope Station for a train ride through the historic Bucks County countryside on the way to the North Pole.<\/p>\n

The journey begins when the Conductor calls \u201cAll Aboard!\u201d<\/p>\n

Passengers will experience the sounds and tastes of the holiday season as they sing along with roaming musicians playing Christmas carols, sip warm cocoa and enjoy a freshly baked cookie.<\/p>\n

Each child will receive his or her own sleigh bell gift from Santa himself.\u00a0Children and adults alike are encouraged to indulge in the season\u2019s spirit by wearing pajamas and settling in for a relaxing ride with family and friends aboard the festive railway cars adorned with holiday decorations.<\/p>\n

Ticket prices start at $66.<\/p>\n

The Northern Central Railway (2 West Main Street, New Freedom, www.northerncentralrailway.com<\/a>)\u00a0 is running its \u201cSanta Express Train\u201d excursions now through December 23.<\/p>\n

On a 45-minute train ride to Glen Rock, passengers can listen to Christmas music while enjoying the scenery of southern York County and Heritage Rail Trail County Park. And Santa Claus to appear with a special gift for each child.<\/p>\n

After the ride, passengers can visit the NCR Engine House for a mini-Winter Wonderland, for magic-filled family photo ops and complimentary hot chocolate and a cookie.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $39.99 for adults and $26.99 for children.<\/p>\n

The Reading Blue Mountain and Northern Railroad (Reading Outer Station, Reading, www.rbmnrr-passenger.com<\/a>) is running its 2022 \u201cSanta Claus Special\u201d Excursions from a variety of locations — Tunkhannock, Tamaqua, Minersville and Reading.<\/p>\n

Santa Claus will be visiting with each of the children and there will be live holiday music performed throughout the ride.<\/p>\n

Tickets start at $20.<\/p>\n

The Colebrookdale Railroad (South Washington Street, Boyertown, www.colebrookdalerailroad.com<\/a>)\u00a0 is running its \u201cSanta\u2019s Polar Bear Express\u201d now through December 23.<\/p>\n

Kids can join Santa on a magical adventure into \u201cChristmas Past\u201d on an exciting train journey. They will be able to sip complimentary hot cocoa or enjoy Christmas cookies and, on some trains,\u00a0sing favorite carols as the Secret Valley passes by the window. Santa will bring a gift for every child, and every child has an opportunity to give their Christmas letter to him.<\/p>\n

The rail line also is running \u201c\u2019Twas the Night Before Christmas\u201d excursions now through December 23.<\/p>\n

These special evening trains bring the storybook magic of the season to life. Kids are invited to wear pajamas and sip complimentary hot cocoa as the train crew reads \u201c’Twas the Night Before Christmas.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ticket prices start at $40.<\/p>\n

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Philadelphia (500 W Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting, H<\/a>ttps:\/\/philadelphia.legolanddiscoverycenter.com\/<\/a>) is presenting \u201cHoliday Bricktacular!\u201d now through January 1.<\/p>\n

Participants can create their own LEGO ornament and display it in on the LEGO tree and check out all the holiday scenes in the Winter Wonderland in Miniland Philadelphia.<\/p>\n

As an added attraction, LEGO Santa will be visiting from the LEGO North Pole.<\/p>\n

Ticket prices start at $23.99.<\/p>\n

Media\u2019s \u201cSanta\u2019s Parade\u201d (http:\/\/www.santaparade.media\/<\/a>) is scheduled for November 27 at 5 p.m.<\/p>\n

This annual free\u00a0parade\u00a0through the streets of Media features Santa (of course) along with fire engines, classic cars, musicians, dancers, drummers and Mummers.<\/p>\n

The four-mile parade route\u00a0starts on East State Street and Monroe Street in downtown Media.<\/p>\n

There will also be a Block Party from 2:30-5 p.m. and a Fun Run\/Walk at 4:15 p.m.<\/p>\n

Three historic sites in Montgomery County have their own holiday celebrations.<\/p>\n

Pennypacker Mills (3 Haldeman Road, Perkiomenville, 610- 287-9349, www.historicsites.montcopa.org<\/a>) is hosting \u201cVictorian Holiday Tours\u201d now through January 7 while \u201cTwelfth Night Tours\u201d at Pottsgrove Manor\u201d (100 West King Street, Pottstown, 610-326-4014, www.historicsites.montcopa.org<\/a>) will be held now through January 7.<\/p>\n

For the next five weeks, Pennypacker Mills will offer free tours of the 18-century mansion used by General George Washington as temporary headquarters during the Revolutionary War. The home will be decorated for an old-fashioned Victorian Christmas and will feature the warm glow of oil lamps, festive decorations, and a candy-making demonstration.<\/p>\n

The event at Pottsgrove Manor features an event based on history.<\/p>\n

Visitors can witness the transformation of Pottsgrove\u00a0Manor for the yuletide season and the traditions of an 18th-century Twelfth\u00a0Night party. Twelfth Night marked the\u00a0end of the Christmastide season,\u00a0celebrated on Epiphany.<\/p>\n

Guided tours of\u00a0the manor explore all aspects of the\u00a0festivities, from the intense preparations\u00a0to the differences between the way elite families like the\u00a0Potts and their household staff experienced the season.<\/p>\n

On December 2 from 3-8 p.m., there will be special Candlelight Tours at the Peter Wentz Farmstead (2030 Shearer Road, Lansdale, 610-584-5104).<\/p>\n

The soft glow of candles will guide visitors throughout the farmstead for tours showcasing colonial music, seasonal entertaining, and a visit from Belsnickel, a Pennsylvania German St. Nicholas in furs.<\/p>\n

The last tour begins at 7:30 p.m. It is an all-ages event with a suggested donation $2 per person.<\/p>\n

\u201cChristmas in the Colonies\u201d will be presented on November 25 at Graeme Park (859 County Line Road, Horsham, www.graemepark.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Christmas in the colonies was celebrated differently, and sometimes not at all, by each ethnic group who settled here, bringing traditions from their homeland. Graeme Park was home to the Scottish Keith and Graeme families, Irish and German servants, enslaved workers, and later the Quaker Penroses.<\/p>\n

As you tour the rooms of the Keith House, costumed actors will present these different traditions to you \u2013 some you will recognize in our modern-day celebrations or maybe you\u2019ll discover something new to incorporate into your own traditions.<\/p>\n

Part of the tour will also feature the Tapestry Historic Dance Ensemble performing traditional parlor dances, Noah Lewis playing Ned Hector and telling you about the life of a free black soldier, and Santa will be on the grounds for selfies with the kids. Cookies, hot chocolate, and adult libations will be available.<\/p>\n

Tours are on November 25 at 3:30, 4, 4:30, and 5 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for children (ages 6-12).<\/p>\n

One of Philly\u2019s premier annual events, Macy\u2019s Christmas Light Show (1300 Market Street, Philadelphia, www.macys.com<\/a>) is running now through December 31<\/p>\n

Set in The Grand Court, the show features a 100,000-light show of twinkling snowflakes, dancing snowmen and more, narrated by Julie Andrews and accompanied by the famed Wanamaker Organ.<\/p>\n

Images of snowmen, reindeer, snowflakes and more dance across the atrium inside of the historic Wanamaker building (now Macy’s Center City) during the ever-popular Macy’s Christmas Light Show. The show, which has been on view since 1956, runs every two hours during store hours.<\/p>\n

Visitors can also tour the second floor’s vintage Dickens Village, where more than 100 intricate animated dolls and sets retell A Christmas Carol. Each free walkthrough ends in a chance to meet and get photos with Santa.<\/p>\n

The 2023 Winter in Franklin Square holiday festival (200 North Sixth Street, Philadelphia, http:\/\/www.historicphiladelphia.org\/franklin-square\/holidays-in-franklin-square\/<\/a>) opens its season this weekend and it will run until February 25.<\/p>\n

It will be open from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily.<\/p>\n

The Electrical Spectacle Holiday Light Show will be open from 4-8 p.m. daily and 4-9 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays and will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.<\/p>\n

Visitors are invited to experience the magic of the holidays and celebrate traditions new and old at the Franklin Square Holiday Festival.<\/p>\n

Inspired by Benjamin Franklin\u2019s electrifying genius, the free\u00a0Electrical Spectacle Holiday Light Show presented by PECO is the key to holiday fun in Franklin Square.<\/p>\n

Attendees can marvel at more than 50,000 lights as they shimmer, dance, and illuminate the Square to a soundtrack of holiday classics, some of which are performed by\u00a0The Philly POPS in two alternating shows every 30 minutes. Every evening, one lucky audience member will be selected to \u201cignite\u2019 the 4:30 p.m. show.<\/p>\n

A popular annual Philly holiday tradition can be found at the Rothman Orthopaedics Institute Ice Rink at Dilworth Park (1 South 15th Street, Philadelphia, http:\/\/ccdparks.org\/dilworth-park<\/a>),<\/p>\n

Beginning this November, some of Philadelphia\u2019s favorite winter traditions return to Dilworth Park. Visitors of all ages can enjoy a dramatic seasonal transformation as fountains are replaced by the Rothman Orthopaedic Institute Ice Rink and reindeer topiaries take up winter residence on the Greenfield Lawn.<\/p>\n

In addition, a full lineup of free entertainment is planned, including the Deck the Hall Light Show, the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market and Rothman Orthopaedic Institute Cabin.<\/p>\n

Dilworth Park\u2019s winter season began on November 3 with the opening of the Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn presented by TD Bank. On November 4, the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink and Cabin made its annual return.<\/p>\n

The Rothman Institute Ice Rink at Dilworth Park is an unparalleled entertainment experience on Philadelphia\u2019s center stage in a wonderfully urban and unique setting. Open seven days a week, the rink offers wintery fun for all ages, with a full slate of programs.<\/p>\n

The Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market runs through January 1 with more than 40 local vendors.<\/p>\n

Now through January 6, the Philadelphia Zoo (3400 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia) will host LumiNature, a gigantic holiday season light experience that turns the entire Zoo into a magical journey of lights, music, sounds and surprises.<\/p>\n

The giant-sized holiday extravaganza will transform the entire Zoo into a nighttime winter wonderland. Guests will experience a magical journey of lights, music, sounds and surprises.\u00a0LumiNature\u00a0will expand to feature 16 illuminated experience zones that will feature lively themed displays, newly enhanced installations and thousands of twinkling lights on a breathtaking journey celebrating the wonder of wildlife and the beauty of our planet.
\nHighlights this year include two brand-new illuminated zones, Shimmer River and LumiNature Lane, along with the return of fan favorites like Penguin Prismatic featuring a 40 ft. tall penguin glimmering with 40,000 lights, our iconic 25 ft. tall tree made entirely of 1,500 lit flamingo lawn ornaments and so much more.
\nAt Shimmer River, take a journey through the jungle and enter a 100 ft. long tunnel filled with 4,000 lights, creating dynamic scenes from growing vines, to blooming flowers, multicolored kaleidoscopes and more.
\nLumiNature will feature more than a million lights and 10+ miles of power cord, 20 ft. tall coral reef and under the sea-inspired holiday tree featuring a giant sea turtle, sparkling waterfall and vine wall featuring 20,000 lights, 150,000 sparkling pink and aquamarine lights, 200,000 lights shining above the Septa PZ Express Train, over 1,500 illuminated flamingos and 200 illuminated penguins, 22 ft. tall butterfly tree covered in 4,000 butterflies, 20 ft. tall snake shimmering with 5,000 lights, 15 ft. tall blue gorilla wearing a glowing lei and 20 giant, floating jellyfish.<\/p>\n

Additionally, seasonal fare, strolling performers, hot chocolate and ever-warming adult beverages promise to additionally spark the holiday spirit.<\/p>\n

Tickets start at $25 for adults and $20 for children.<\/p>\n

Elmwood Park Zoo (Elmwood Park Zoo, 1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown, www.elmwoodparkzoo.org<\/a>)<\/p>\n

The Elmwood\u00a0Park Zoo (1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown, www.elmwoodparkzoo.org<\/a>) has a variety of special activities coming up.<\/p>\n

The Zoo\u2019s \u201cDog Days\u201d event will be held on November 26, 29 and December 1.<\/p>\n

There will also be \u201cDog Nights\u201d on November 26 and December 3, 10 and 17.<\/p>\n

All guests visiting the zoo with a furry friend must complete an\u00a0online waiver\u00a0and submit required documents before visiting the zoo. You must upload a copy of your most recent veterinary visit, including proof of vaccine and heartworm test here. All items will be required for you to attend\u00a0\u201cDog Days.\u201d<\/p>\n

The \u201cDog Days\u201d event is slated to run from 1-5 p.m.<\/p>\n

Pricing is $10.95 per dog with each additional dog at $9.95. Regular zoo admission is required for all humans.<\/p>\n

Elmwood Park Zoo\u2019s favorite family tradition,\u00a0\u201cWild Lights,\u201d returns this November, with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before. During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.<\/p>\n

\u201cWild Lights\u201d operates on select days from 5-9 p.m. now through December 29. \u201cWild Lights\u201d tickets are valid beginning at 5 p.m. The Zoo and \u201cWild Lights\u201d will be closed on Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.\u00a0\u201cWild Lights\u201d will be held rain or shine.<\/p>\n

The Lehigh Valley Zoo (5150 Game Preserve Rd, Schnecksville, https:\/\/www.lvzoo.org\/<\/a>) is hosting its \u201cWinter Light Spectacular\u201d now through January 1.<\/p>\n

This season\u2019s \u201cWinter Light Spectacular,\u201d which runs from 5:30-10 p.m. nightly, will feature more than 30 scheduled event nights.<\/p>\n

Guests are invited to bundle up and enjoy the beauty of nature as they stroll through tree-lined paths illuminated by more than 1.2 million twinkling lights and themed animated displays.<\/p>\n

They also can warm up next to the cozy outdoor fire pits while enjoying hot cocoa and s\u2019mores.<\/p>\n

Children will be delighted when they encounter Santa, Radley the Sea Turtle, The Grinch, Woody, Buzz, Elsa, Princess Belle, Olaf and friends.<\/p>\n

Ticket prices start at $15.<\/p>\n

Nemours Estate (850 Alapocas Drive, Wilmington, Delaware, www.nemoursestate.org<\/a>), which is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., has finished its holiday preparation<\/p>\n

Guests were able to resume visiting when Nemours reopened for \u201cNo\u00ebl at Nemours\u201d on November 14. It will run through December 30.<\/p>\n

Ever since 1910, when Mr. and Mrs. duPont began living in their newly built mansion, the holiday season has been a festive time at Nemours. The Christmas decorations at the Nemours Mansion are often inspired by the architecture of the home, the customs of the duPonts or the French influence.<\/p>\n

The Mansion is also decorated by some of the duPonts\u2019 original decorations, including a German cr\u00e8che, which dates from the late 19th century. The figures are soft ceramic, unglazed and hand colored.<\/p>\n

Visitors can enjoy Christmas trees, wreaths, and hundreds of feet of garland on grand display in the Visitor Center, Chauffer\u2019s Garage, Mansion and grounds.<\/p>\n

All three floors of the Mansion will be decorated as well as the Chauffeur\u2019s Garage and select areas of the gardens. Decorations will coincide with the story of the Estate along with a festive Versailles-inspired motif.<\/p>\n

Live music performances will be held in the Mansion throughout the season.<\/p>\n

Nemours Estate features an exquisite, 77-room Mansion, the largest formal French gardens in North America, a Chauffeur’s Garage housing a collection of vintage automobiles, and 200 acres of scenic woodlands, meadows and lawns.<\/p>\n

Nemours was the estate of Alfred I. duPont.<\/p>\n

Alfred named the estate Nemours, after the French town that his great-great-grandfather represented in the French Estates General. While looking to the past and his ancestors for inspiration, Alfred also ensured that his new home was thoroughly modern by incorporating the latest technology and many of his own inventions.<\/p>\n

Admission to Nemours is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and $10 for children.<\/p>\n

The Historic Odessa Foundation\u2019s 2023 Christmas Holiday Tour is a bicentennial event.<\/p>\n

To commemorate the 200th\u00a0anniversary of the enduring Christmas poem \u201cAccount of a Visit from St. Nicholas,\u201d\u00a0the\u00a0Historic Odessa Foundation\u00a0is making it the centerpiece of its 2023 Holiday Exhibit and Tours, which is tunning now through December 31 in the foundation\u2019s 249-year-old National Historic Landmark Corbit-Sharp House.<\/p>\n

This year marks the 35th\u00a0anniversary of Historic Odessa\u2019s unique holiday tradition of celebrating classic literature through festive scenes and interpretive vignettes throughout one of the foundations historic homes.<\/p>\n

\u201cAccount of a Visit from St. Nicholas,\u201d or\u00a0commonly known as \u201cThe Night Before Christmas\u201d and \u201cTwas the Night Before Christmas,\u201d\u00a0was written by\u00a0Clement Clark Moore,\u00a0and first published anonymously in December 1823. Historic Odessa\u2019s holiday tradition began with the iconic poem in 1988. This year\u2019s exhibit will feature vintage Christmas decorations on loan from members of The Golden Glow of Christmas Past organization.<\/p>\n

All of Historic Odessa\u2019s museum properties will be adorned with thousands of lights, and on full festive display for the 2023 holiday season.<\/p>\n

Special school and public tours and events will celebrate \u201cA Visit from St. Nicholas,\u201d and its accompanying exhibit in the Corbit-Sharp House, including the\u00a0Storybook Trees\u00a0exhibit created by community members,\u00a0Storybook Time\u00a0for children, a\u00a0Colonial Dance\u00a0with the\u00a0Dover English Country Dancers, as well as regularly scheduled\u00a0Candlelight Tours\u00a0and\u00a0Festive Food\u00a0demonstrations.<\/p>\n

On December 1, Historic Odessa will host a presentation and book signing by\u00a0Pamela McCool author of \u201cTwas The Night: The Art and History of the Classic Christmas Poem\u201d\u00a0(2023)\u00a0which traces the evolution of\u00a0the holiday, presents how the historic figure of Saint Nicholas evolves into the central character in the story, and how characteristics of today\u2019s Santa Claus originated with Clement Clark Moore.<\/p>\n

McCool uses dozens of vintage illustrations from the thousands of editions published over the last 200 years in her lively and informative presentation. As a bonus to the evening\u2019s presentation, McCool will be introduced by the enthusiastic\u00a0Benjamin Bradley, known as\u00a0\u201cMr. Christmas,\u201d\u00a0from the\u00a0Netflix\u00a0original series\u00a0\u201cHoliday Home Makeover.\u201d<\/p>\n

Historic Odessa is a member of the North American Reciprocal Museum Association<\/a>\u00a0(NARM), and is open to the public March through December, Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday 1 to 4:30 p.m. Monday by reservation.\u00a0General Admission: Adults, $10; Groups, Seniors, Students, $8; and Children under six are free. Member discounts are available.<\/p>\n

\u201cChristmas Candylane,\u201d which is the annual holiday event at Hersheypark (100 West Hersheypark Drive, Hershey, 800-HERSHEY, www.hersheypark.com<\/a>), is running now through January 1.<\/p>\n

Visitors to Hershey can also experience the winter wonderland called \u201cHershey Sweet Lights, A Holiday Drive-Thru Spectacular.\u201d The attraction is a two-mile drive through wooded trails featuring approximately 600 illuminated, animated displays.<\/p>\n

Admission prices for \u201cChristmas Candylane\u201d start at $39.99.<\/p>\n

\u201cA Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place\u201d (100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, www.sesameplace.com<\/a>) is a festive, family-friendly celebration with everyone\u2019s favorite Sesame Street friends live and in-person at the amusement park in Langhorne.<\/p>\n

The annual event, which runs through January 7, offers a wide array of family holiday activities.<\/p>\n

Visitors to the park can sing along at three special Christmas shows and a spectacular music and light show at our giant 1-2-3 Christmas Tree, take a train ride tour through the Twiddlebugs\u2019 Gingerbread Cookie Factory on the Sesame Place Furry Express, take part in the Neighborhood Street Party Christmas Parade, and have the opportunity to meet Lightning, the adorable reindeer from the movie \u201cElmo Saves Christmas.\u201d<\/p>\n

As an added attraction this year, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is spending the holiday season at Sesame Place. The lovable reindeer along with his friends Clarice and Bumble, will be available for photos with guests.<\/p>\n

Tickets for \u201cA Very Furry Christmas\u201d start at $39.99.<\/p>\n

Dutch Wonderland\u00a0Family Amusement Park (2249 Route 30 East, Lancaster, 866-386-2389, www.dutchwonderland.com<\/a>) is hosting its \u201cDutch Winter Wonderland\u201d now through January 1 on Saturdays, Sundays and select weekdays.<\/p>\n

Visitors are invited to celebrate the magic of the season at Dutch Winter Wonderland with rides, entertainment, and the Royal Light Show, a spectacular display of thousands of twinkling lights dancing to music.<\/p>\n

Ticket prices start at $29.99 at the gate. Children ages two and under are admitted free.<\/p>\n

Christmas Underwater at Adventure Aquarium (1 Riverside Drive, Camden, New Jersey, www.adventureaquarium.com<\/a>) opens this weekend.<\/p>\n

At Christmas Underwater, which is running now through December 24, visitors can discover an incredible world of seasonal under-the-sea fun.<\/p>\n

Scuba Santa is back in Ocean Realm, sharing Christmas cheer with kids (and animals) of all ages. The event features more holiday decor than ever before, including underwater light displays, and festive new shows.<\/p>\n

The World’s Tallest Underwater Christmas Tree returns — stretching 18 feet tall and decorated with colorful, custom-sculpted corals.<\/p>\n

More than 15,000 incredible animals are getting in on the festive fun with eight underwater light displays spread throughout the exhibits.<\/p>\n

Admission fees start at $27.99 for adults.<\/p>\n

Peddler\u2019s Village (Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, 215-794-4000, www.peddlersvillage.com<\/a>) will<\/p>\n

Now that Christmas activities have begun, Peddler\u2019s Village (Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, 215-794-4000, http:\/\/peddlersvillage.com<\/a>) is starting its celebration and that means there will be a lot of activity at the site over the next few weeks.<\/p>\n

Visitors to the Village can join special guest Mrs. Claus for festive fun and mini-lightings in a different Village neighborhood each night leading up to the Village-wide\u00a0Grand Illumination Celebration. Village shops will be open until 9 p.m. with a distinctive assortment of merchandise, special promotions and refreshments.<\/p>\n

The 23rd Annual Grand Illumination will showcase thousands of tiny white lights outlining the Village\u2019s buildings, colorful lights with less-than-common colors (teal, peach, and fuscia) adorning the trees and shrubs and a landscaped backdrop featuring a group of reindeer glowing in white light. Santa will arrive to turn on the lights and officially mark the beginning of the event. After the lights go on, visitors will be treated to free cider and toasted marshmallows.<\/p>\n

November 15 marked the start of Peddler\u2019s Village \u201cGingerbread House Competition and Display.\u201d Slated to run through January 5, the \u201cGingerbread House Competition\u201d features over $2,000 in cash prizes in such categories as Traditional and Authentic Reproduction of a Significant Building.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bethlehem, which is known as the \u201cChristmas City,\u201d presents Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem (PNC Plaza at SteelStacks, 645 East First Street, Bethlehem, 610-332-1300, http:\/\/www.christmascity.org<\/a>) every Friday, Saturday and Sunday now through December 17.<\/p>\n

Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem showcases aisles of exquisite handmade works by the nation\u2019s finest artisans. The market also features live performances of Christmas music and vendors with an amazing variety of tasty food items.<\/p>\n

Other special attractions include ice carving, glassblowing demonstrations, \u201cBreakfast with St. Nicholas,\u201d outdoor artisan huts, fire pits and igloos in the Outdoor Village, and K\u00e4the Wohlfarht with handmade ornaments, nutcrackers and collectibles from Germany.<\/p>\n

A guaranteed way to get into a Christmas mood is by visiting Koziar\u2019s Christmas Village (782 Christmas Village Road, Bernville, 610-488-1110, www.koziarschristmasvillage.com<\/a>) which began its 76th season on November 5.<\/p>\n

Koziar\u2019s Christmas Village is truly a holiday wonderland — a wintertime spectacle that delights young and old alike with a huge amount of holiday displays and special attractions. It will remain open every night through January 1 — including Christmas Eve, Christmas Night, New Year\u2019s Eve and New Year\u2019s Night.<\/p>\n

The tours of \u201cChristmas Village\u201d feature visits to a variety of displays and exhibits, including \u201cSanta\u2019s Post Office,\u201d \u201cChristmas in the Jungle,\u201d \u201cManger Scene,\u201d \u201cChristmas Beneath the Sea,\u201d \u201c\u2019Twas the Night Before Christmas,\u201d \u201cOlde Fashioned Bakery Shop,\u201d \u201cToy Maker and his Toy Shop,\u201d \u201cChristmas in Other Lands\u201d and \u201cThe Olde Church\u201d.<\/p>\n

Other attractions at Koziar\u2019s Christmas Village include a huge model train display, a toy shop, a country kitchen, indoor and outdoor Christmas displays and a place to visit with Santa and even get pictures taken with the old guy in the red suit. Admission to Christmas Village is $12 for adults, $11 for seniors (65 and older) and $10 for children (ages 4-10).<\/p>\n

In addition to Koziar\u2019s Christmas Village, several other Christmas events are already underway.<\/p>\n

A popular Bucks County attraction is the \u201cHoliday Light Show\u201d at Shady Brook Farm (931 Stony Hill Road, Yardley, www.shadybrookfarm.com<\/a>)<\/p>\n

The farm features a three–million-light\u00a0Holiday Light Show\u00a0with\u00a0\u201cDashin\u2019 Through the \u2026 Lights,\u201d a family-friendly two-mile drive-through on Thursday and Friday nights.<\/p>\n

The main display allows visitors to drive or (if weather permits) ride in wagons past post-sundown displays including illuminated tunnels.<\/p>\n

The \u201cHoliday Light Show\u201d is open now through January 27.<\/p>\n

Timed tickets, which start at $40, are required.<\/p>\n

\u201cChristmas Spirit Light Show<\/a>\u201d\u00a0\u00a0is running now through December 31 (except December 25) at Clipper Magazine Stadium<\/a>\u00a0(650 North Prince Street, Lancaster,\u00a0christmasspiritlightshows.com<\/a>).<\/p>\n

\u201cChristmas Spirit Light Show\u201d is an exciting, one-of-a-kind Christmas light display that families can enjoy from the comfort of their vehicles.<\/p>\n

As participants make the journey through the mile-long track, they get immersed and surrounded by hundreds of thousands of color-changing lights that are animated and dancing in harmony with favorite Christmas classics.<\/p>\n

The drive-through event is billed as a \u201cbreathtaking holiday experience that you and your loved ones will never forget.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ticket prices start at $25 per car.<\/p>\n

The American Music Theatre (2425 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, 800-648-4102, www.AMTshows.com<\/a>) has its holiday show running now through December 30.<\/p>\n

The AMT\u2019s 2023 show, \u201cThe First Noel,\u201d is an all-new presentation of favorite sacred and secular holiday songs performed by professional artists from across the country. The show will feature spectacular vocal harmonies, lively musical arrangements, impressive dancing and the music of the AMT Orchestra.<\/p>\n

Also featured will be elaborate scenery, elegant costumes and a theater decked out with holiday decorations.<\/p>\n

Patrons can witness the magic and splendor of the holiday celebration as AMT presents \u201cThe First Noel\u201d featuring incredible singers, astonishing dancers, wondrous costumes, breathtaking sets, and all the endearment of a perfect fireside family moment.<\/p>\n

Audience members will be able to bask in the beauty of the season and cherish the stories of spirit and love. 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.<\/p>\n

The show will have both matinee and evening performances each week with the addition of 10:30 a.m. performances on Saturdays throughout December. Ticket prices start at $25.<\/p>\n

On November 24, Laurel Hill Cemetery (3822\u00a0Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, 215-228-8200, www.thelaurelhillcemetery.org<\/a>) will present \u201cHot Spots and Storied Plots\u201d walking tour at noon.<\/p>\n

In life and in death, we all have stories to tell, and what better place to hear tales of wonder than Philadelphia\u2019s most famous home of the dead?<\/p>\n

This tour provides an informative overview of Laurel Hill\u2019s long history, which includes many of the marble masterpieces, stunning views, and legendary stories about Laurel Hill.<\/p>\n

\u201cHot Spots and Storied Plots\u201d is the perfect introduction for anyone who enjoys beautiful art, scenic nature, and fascinating history. An experienced graveyard guide will offer a unique perspective.<\/p>\n

The Tour Guides will be\u00a0Tom and Pattye Stringer.<\/p>\n

\u201cSacred Spaces & Storied Places\u201d is the perfect introductory tour that provides an overview of Laurel Hill West including its architectural artistry, stunning trees and horticulture, and the stories of residents that encompass diverse and fascinating Philadelphia history. Experienced tour guides offer visitors a unique perspective as no two tours are the same.<\/p>\n

The Tour Guide will be Linda Blowney.<\/p>\n

A good location for a nature walk is Tyler Arboretum (515 Painter Road, Media, 610-566-9134, www.tylerarboretum.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

The arboretum\u2019s schedule for this weekend features a \u201cSaturday Wildflower\u00a0Walk\u201d on November 25.<\/p>\n

With 650 protected acres of beautiful woodland, seasonally charming meadows, and a lively program of seasonal events and activities, Tyler Arboretum is a delight for nature lovers, birders, botanists, and those who want rediscover the natural world.<\/p>\n

Dating to 1681, making it one of the oldest public gardens in the United States, and home to eight generations of three families, Tyler Arboretum connects visitors to the region\u2019s rich culture and history while preserving, developing, sharing, and celebrating Pennsylvania\u2019s priceless horticultural heritage.<\/p>\n

\u201cSaturday Wildflower\u00a0Walk,\u201d which runs from 1-3 p.m., features wildflower\u00a0expert\u00a0Dick Cloud\u00a0on an informative two-hour hike that will take guests through meadows, woods, and occasionally streamside. These walks are for those who have a love of plants, their role in ecology, or for those who want to learn more.<\/p>\n

Although the focus is on plants, Cloud will also talk about whatever else is seen on the tour. Walkers should wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a camera and\/or a wildflower\u00a0guide, for this botanical-filled walk.<\/p>\n

Admission to Tyler Arboretum\u00a0is $18 for adults and $10 for children (ages 12-17).<\/p>\n

\u201cTreeTrails Adventures Trevose\u201d (301 West Bristol Pike, Trevose, treetrails.com\/trevose-pa<\/a>) is an adventure park\u00a0full of fun challenges for outdoor adventurers of all ages.<\/p>\n

Participants can experience the rush of TreeTrails Adventures\u00a0as they swing through the trees of the new\u00a0adventure park.\u00a0They will be able to discover the excitement of climbing and zip lining above the forest floor\u00a0with family, friends, co-workers, or teammates.<\/p>\n

The park, which is based at Phoenix Sport Club in Bucks County, offers two ways to experience climbing \u2013 TreeTrails Adventure Park and KidTrails Park. Young explorers can enjoy miniaturized courses in the adjacent KidTrails Park.<\/p>\n

General Park Admission prices are: Main Park Adult Tickets (Ages 12+), $59; Main Park Youth Tickets (Ages 7\u201311), $51; KidTrails Tickets (Ages 4\u20137), $12.<\/p>\n

Wonderspaces\u00a0at the Fashion District (27 North 11th Street, Philadelphia, philadelphia.wonderspaces.com<\/a>) is an experiential, interactive arts venue.<\/p>\n

Building on the success of annual pop-up shows in San Diego, and its first permanent location in Scottsdale, Arizona,\u00a0Wonderspaces\u00a0opened a 24,000 square foot gallery space in Philly two years ago.<\/p>\n

Wonderspaces\u00a0features 14 art installations that all play with the idea of perspective.\u00a0 The artwork ranges from award-winning virtual reality short film about a dinner party-turned-alien abduction, to a room where visitors digitally paint the walls with the movement of their bodies.<\/p>\n

New artworks rotate in and out every few months, creating an ever-evolving, year-round show.<\/p>\n

Tickets are for entry at a specific date and time. Visitors are welcome to stay as long as they please during operating hours.\u00a0The average time spent experiencing the show is 90 minutes.<\/p>\n

A few installations contain flashing lights, images, and patterns that may trigger seizures for people with photosensitive epilepsy. All visitors must sign a waiver prior to being admitted into the space. Adult supervision is required for visitors under 16.<\/p>\n

Halloween events are finally over for 2023 but a few \u201cscary\u201d attractions are calendar staples.<\/p>\n

Grim\u00a0Philly\u2019s \u201cDark Philly History Tour\u201d (www.grimphilly.com<\/a>) will be held every evening throughout the fall.<\/p>\n

Participants can walk with tour guides from the grounds of America’s first White House, Congress, and Liberty Bell to homes and sites of Hamilton, Washington, Franklin, Adams, Jefferson, Madison, Monroe, and more than 10 other Founding-Fathers. The surprising dirt of espionage, murder, sexual license and blackmail highlight the secrets of 1776 with a ghost story or two along the way. This tour is highly researched. And your guide is a historian.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $35.<\/p>\n

Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Philadelphia (215-413-1997, www.ghosttour.com<\/a>),\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Lancaster (717-687-6687, www.ghosttour.com<\/a>) and\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Strasburg (717-687-6687, www.ghosttour.com<\/a>) operate throughout the winter and offer an eerily entertaining evening of true\u00a0ghost\u00a0stories and real haunted houses.<\/p>\n

The Ghost Tour of Philadelphia, which is based on the book, \u201cGhost Stories of Philadelphia, PA.,\u201d is a candlelight walking\u00a0tour\u00a0along the back streets and secret gardens of Independence Park, Society Hill, and Old City, where\u00a0ghostly spirits, haunted houses, and eerie graveyards abound.<\/p>\n

Participants can discover the ghost lore of America\u2019s most historic and most haunted city with stories from the founding of William Penn\u2019s colony to present-day hauntings.<\/p>\n

The activity is open year-round \u2013 weekends, December-February; every night, March-November. Tickets are $24.<\/p>\n

The Ghost Tour of Lancaster and the Ghost Tour of Strasburg are based on the book, \u201cGhost Stories of Lancaster, PA.\u201d<\/p>\n

Participants in the\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Lancaster explore the long-forgotten mysteries of one of America\u2019s oldest cities, with haunting tales of otherworldly vigils, fatal curses, and star-crossed lovers. The\u00a0tour\u00a0provides the opportunity to experience 300 years of haunted history from the Red Rose City\u2019s thorny past. Tickets are $20.<\/p>\n

The\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Strasburg is a candlelight walking\u00a0tour\u00a0of the quaint and historic town of Strasburg in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Visitors will experience an entertaining evening with a costumed\u00a0tour\u00a0guide spinning tales of haunted mansions, eerie graveyards, and spirits that roam the night \u2026 in a town lost in time. Tickets are $20.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times Thanksgiving has passed and Halloween 2023 is ancient history. That that means the Christmas season is in full swing \u2013 the all-encompassing holiday season with Christmas carols providing the audio background and an endless barrage of Christmas sales and ads in full assault mode. Fortunately, there are many […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":42086,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[25],"tags":[14493,6895,6518,10780,14494],"class_list":["post-42090","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","tag-christmas-in-west-chester","tag-downingtown-good-neighbor-christmas","tag-featured","tag-kennett-holiday-parade","tag-yule-at-devon"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42090","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=42090"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42090\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":42091,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42090\/revisions\/42091"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/42086"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=42090"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=42090"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=42090"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}