{"id":42250,"date":"2023-12-29T09:41:51","date_gmt":"2023-12-29T14:41:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=42250"},"modified":"2023-12-29T09:41:53","modified_gmt":"2023-12-29T14:41:53","slug":"what-to-do-catch-these-christmas-celebrations-while-they-last","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=42250","title":{"rendered":"What To Do: Catch these Christmas celebrations while they last"},"content":{"rendered":"

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

\"\"

Brandywine River Museum<\/p><\/div>\n

Christmas Day is now in the rear-view mirror but that doesn\u2019t mean that holiday celebrations have drawn to a close for 2023.<\/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

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Longwood Gardens<\/p><\/div>\n

Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, 610-388-1000, www.longwoodgardens.org<\/a>) is heading into the final weeks of \u201cA Longwood Gardens Christmas.\u201d<\/p>\n

The festive holiday display at Longwood Gardens, which is running now through January 7, features spectacular lights, lavish decorations, holiday music and colorful displays featuring thousands of brilliant poinsettias, brightly decorated trees and fragrant flowers — all inside the heated Conservatory.<\/p>\n

This holiday season, experience a radiance of retro, a bevy of bright, and numerous nostalgic moments with us. Marvel at playful trees draped in throwback baubles to shimmering tinsel to childhood-favorite toys. Stroll through a fab, festive holiday party scene decked out in mid-century magic. Reminisce amid a vintage Christmas street scene, make new merry memories amid dazzling, vibrant light displays\u2014including some super-sized surprises\u2014and revel in the retro fun at every turn.<\/p>\n

There will be towering trees adorned in amber to fiery red tones, flickering flame lanterns, and an inviting mountain retreat, complemented by icy-hued plantings, a \u201cfrozen\u201d succulent fountain, and a refreshing alpine waterway that is the ultimate winter wonderland.<\/p>\n

The colorful annual event, which appeals to the entire family, also has a lot of outdoor attractions such as fountain shows and nighttime light displays. Longwood\u2019s Christmas celebration also includes a wide array of seasonal music — holiday concerts, organ sing-alongs and carillon performances.<\/p>\n

When darkness arrives at Longwood, a night-blooming garden of more than a half-million lights strung on close to 100 trees with approximately 40 miles of wire comes to life. A carillon with 62 cast bells plays holiday music every half hour during daylight hours. Longwood\u2019s Open Air Theatre fountains dance to holiday music each half hour — temperature permitting.<\/p>\n

As always, admission by \u201cTimed Ticket\u201d — tickets issued for specific dates and times. Timed ticketing limits the number of people in the Gardens at any given time and allows guests to enjoy minimal lines and a better viewing experience.<\/p>\n

Visitors to \u201cA Longwood Gardens Christmas\u201d can also check out Longwood\u2019s Garden Railway — a whimsical display set into motion with G-scale model trains. This is the 18th year that the railway has delighted visitors with special water features and custom trains traveling in and out of bridges and tunnels.<\/p>\n

Admission to Longwood Gardens is $30 for adults, $27 for seniors (ages 62 and older) and college students, $23 for active and retired military and $16 for youth (ages 5-18).<\/p>\n

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

\u201cYuletide at Devon\u201d (Devon Horse Show, 23 Dorset Road, Devon<\/a>, www.yuletidedevon.com<\/a>) is running now through December 31.<\/p>\n

The special holiday event features a European 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 will run through Sunday, promising endless opportunities for fun, food, and frolic.<\/p>\n

The fabulous holiday light display \u201cWest Chester\u00a0Griswolds\u201d (304 Dutton Mill Rd, West Chester,\u00a0www.westchestergriswolds.com<\/a>) opened on Thanksgiving night and is running 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

The holiday season at Herr\u2019s Snack Food Factory (20 Herr Drive,\u00a0Nottingham, 610-932-9330,\u00a0www.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

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 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

There is also a wide array of attractive family holiday activities just over the state line in northern Delaware.<\/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\u00a0live 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

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

It would be worth the trip to the museum just to check out Hagley\u2019s Sixth Annual Gingerbread House Contest.<\/p>\n

This year’s entries reflect\u00a0the theme, \u201cTreasures and Traditions.\u201d Local amateur bakers\u00a0were challenged to create a gingerbread house that includes a wonderful treasure\u2014maybe an heirloom or traditional decoration that holds special meaning during the holidays. Visitors can see how the entrants used their\u00a0imaginations to capture the spirit of the season.<\/p>\n

Entries will be on display throughout the holiday season in the Hagley Barn and can be viewed during Holidays at Hagley and Holiday Nights at Hagley.<\/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 10 a.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

\u201cHoliday Magic\u201d is in full swing at Riverfront Wilmington (Christina Riverwalk, Wilmington, Delaware, riverfrontwilm.com<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Riverfront Wilmington has always been one of the centerpieces of the greater Wilmington area during the holiday season with festive events and activities throughout the area.<\/p>\n

The Riverfront Development Corporation of Delaware (RDC) has dramatically increased that presence with the introduction of\u00a0\u201cRiverbright Wilmington,\u201d a full lighting of the Riverwalk and surrounding amenities.<\/p>\n

At the end of November, the Christina Riverwalk was transformed into a walk-through holiday light display, with trees and archways wrapped in holiday lights, holiday d\u00e9cor throughout the area, and holiday-themed events throughout the season. The almost two-mile Riverwalk from Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park to the DuPont Environmental Education Center will be lit, offering guests a chance to stroll along the river and enjoy the festive display.<\/p>\n

The illumination of the Riverwalk, which is running through January 7, creates a magical winter wonderland for all ages to enjoy.<\/p>\n

As a special attraction, there will be a New Year\u2019s Eve fireworks display on December 31 starting at 9 p.m.<\/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 running 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

Historic Odessa is a member of the\u00a0North 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

Nemours Estate (1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington, Delaware, www.nemoursestate.org<\/a>), which is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., is presenting \u201cNo\u00ebl at Nemours\u201d this winter.<\/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 Estate are often inspired by the architecture of the home, the customs of the duPonts or the French influence.<\/p>\n

Nemours Estate, which was the estate of Alfred I. duPont, 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

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

The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center (100 Station Ave., Oaks, 484-754-3976, http:\/\/www.phillyexpocenter.com<\/a>) is presenting LuminoCity (www.luminocityfestival.com<\/a>) now 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\u00a0Christmas 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

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.<\/p>\n

Highlights 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.<\/p>\n

At 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

The Elmwood\u00a0Park Zoo (1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown,\u00a0www.elmwoodparkzoo.org<\/a>) has a variety of special activities coming up.<\/p>\n

Elmwood Park Zoo\u2019s favorite family tradition,\u00a0Wild Lights, is back 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. on December 29 and 30. Wild Lights tickets are valid beginning at 5 p.m. T<\/p>\n

\u201cWild Lights\u201d is held rain or shine. Admission is $21.95 for adults and $18.95 for children (ages 3-12).<\/p>\n

The Zoo\u2019s \u201cDog Days\u201d event will be held on December 29.<\/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

The Lehigh Valley Zoo (5150 Game Preserve Rd, Schnecksville,\u00a0https:\/\/www.lvzoo.org\/<\/a>) is hosting its \u201cWinter Light Spectacular\u201d now through December 31.<\/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

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Philadelphia (500 W Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting,\u00a0Https:\/\/philadelphia.legolanddiscoverycenter.com\/<\/a>) is presenting \u201cHoliday\u00a0Bricktacular!\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

Two 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

The annual Festival of Lights in Rose Tree Park opened on December 1 and runs through January 1 from 5-10 p.m. each night.<\/p>\n

Delaware County\u2019s annual Festival of Lights began more than four decades ago as part of the nation\u2019s bicentennial celebration and became a popular local tradition for residents of all ages.<\/p>\n

Over time, the outdoor displays have grown from 50 decorated trees (one for each municipality and one large one to represent the county) to more than 75 lighted trees and dozens of festive figures, including toy soldiers, a gingerbread family and Santa\u2019s reindeer.<\/p>\n

The 2023 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 December 31.<\/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

The Tinseltown Holiday Spectacular (www.tinseltownholiday.com<\/a>), which is set up in FDR Park (Broad Street and Pattison Avenue, Philadelphia) will be open now through December 31.<\/p>\n

This spectacular outdoor event<\/a>\u00a0invites guests to walk through a winter wonderland of light sculptures and displays with more than one million bulbs, including illuminated recreations of local landmarks like the Liberty Bell.<\/p>\n

Featuring more than 1.2 million lights, an 8000 square foot Ice Rink, a 162-foot-long Ice Slide, photos with Santa, Mistletoe Marketplace and more, Tinseltown has something for everyone in the family.<\/p>\n

Guests are invited to grab a pair of skates and glide through a breathtaking display of holiday lights on Tinseltown\u2019s brand-new ice trail. Guests are encouraged to make skate reservations at the time of ticket purchase with walk-up in-person sales based on availability.<\/p>\n

Popular features this year are Two-lane ice slide, new event layout, skating rink with real ice, expanded vendor village and new seasonal treats and beverages for both adults and kids.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $19.99 for adults and $15.99 for children (ages 4-17).<\/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

Back in 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 featured, 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 in November with the opening of the Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn and the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink and Cabin.<\/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

Two popular attractions are the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market with more than 40 local vendors and Dilworth Park\u2019s Deck the Hall Light Show which illuminates the west fa\u00e7ade of Philadelphia\u2019s historic City Hall.<\/p>\n

The Comcast Holiday Spectacular (1701 John F Kennedy Boulevard, Philadelphia) is back for the 2023 season.<\/p>\n

The Comcast Holiday Spectacular\u00a0is a free, interactive experience that brings the spirit of the holiday season to life. The show runs in the lobby of the Comcast Center on\u00a0The Comcast Experience, one of the world\u2019s largest LED continuous video walls.<\/p>\n

Through Comcast\u2019s commitment to accessibility and inclusion, guests can access closed captioning and audio-description devices to delight in this Philadelphia holiday tradition.<\/p>\n

A sensory-friendly version of The Comcast Holiday Spectacular will again be offered for the 2022 season. Guests who are blind or visually impaired may use their own personal mobile devices to access Audio Description (AD) of the show. AD devices will also be available upon request.<\/p>\n

This Philly favorite tradition brings the magic of the holidays to life, featuring classic holiday songs and performances by the Pennsylvania Ballet.<\/p>\n

The Comcast Holiday Spectacular is running now through New Year\u2019s Day every hour, on the hour from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (excluding 5 p.m. on weekdays). The last show will run New Year\u2019s Day at 4 p.m.<\/p>\n

The\u00a0Comcast Center Campus\u00a0has another holiday activity at the Comcast Technology Center (1800 Arch Street), located a half block from the Comcast Center.<\/p>\n

From Steven Spielberg, DreamWorks Animation, Universal Parks & Resorts and Comcast Labs, The Universal Sphere is a free, cinematic experience exploring the power of ideas. Get inspired by stories of creative minds who shaped our world for the better.
\nThe Universal Sphere \u2014 accessible for guests of all ages \u2014 is wheelchair- and service animal-friendly. Descriptive audio and closed-captioning devices are available in English and Spanish, and full audio translations are available in Spanish and Mandarin Chinese.<\/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<\/a>. The show, which has been on view since 1956, runs every two hours during store hours.<\/p>\n

Visitors can also tour\u00a0 the second floor’s vintage Dickens Village<\/a>, 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

Winter has arrived and the Blue Cross\u00a0RiverRink\u00a0(Delaware Avenue at Walnut Street, Philadelphia, 215-925-RINK,\u00a0www.riverrink.com<\/a>) has come back to life.<\/p>\n

Unlike most of the suburban ice rinks,\u00a0RiverRink\u00a0features public skating. Ice skating is the only use of the ice. This winter,\u00a0RiverRink\u00a0takes the ice-skating experience on the Delaware River waterfront to another level by once again transforming the annual rink into a bona fide winter wonderland.<\/p>\n

For 29\u00a0seasons, Winterfest has been Philadelphia’s favorite Winter tradition on the Delaware River Waterfront, inviting\u00a0visitors for a chance to indulge in flights of fancy under\u00a0thousands of sparkling lights in a\u00a0winter wonderland with spectacular views of the Delaware River. Cozy up in comforting warming cabins,\u00a0firepit stations, boardwalk rides and games for the young and young-at-heart, delicious food and hot beverages, the signature holiday tree, and, of course, ice skating on our NHL-sized rink. Winterfest is a\u00a0top destination for anyone looking to rekindle family traditions.<\/p>\n

The Winterfest site is free to enter and open to the public. Amenities such as\u00a0ice skating\u00a0and\u00a0cabin and firepit\u00a0experiences\u00a0can be reserved in advance. Winterfest is open 7 days a week including holidays through March.<\/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

This weekend, the Wilmington & Western Railroad (2201 Newport Gap Pike, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-998-193, www.wwrr.com<\/a>) is running its 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 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 Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad (136 Brown Street, Middletown, 717-944-4435,\u00a0www.mhrailroad.com<\/a>) will be running its \u201cSanta Surprise Trains\u201d and \u201cPolar Bear Express Trains\u201d throughout December 30.<\/p>\n

It is an 11-mile round-trip train ride along the Swatara Creek. Passengers board 1920\u2019s vintage Delaware, Lackawanna & Western coaches at the 1891 Station in Middletown, which was originally built as a freight station and in more recent years converted for use as a passenger station. The Station contains a ticket window, gift shop and modern ADA restrooms.<\/p>\n

Santa Claus will have a special present for all kid riders.<\/p>\n

Founded more than 50 years ago, Choo Choo Barn \u2014 Traintown U.S.A. (Route 741 East, 226 Gap Rd, Strasburg, 717-687-7911,\u00a0www.choochoobarn.com<\/a>) presents a 1,700-square-foot train layout featuring over 150 hand-built animated figures and vehicles and 22 operating trains. The majority of trains that are running in the display are \u201cO Gauge\u201d trains but there are also some HO Gauge trains as well as one N Gauge train.<\/p>\n

Several of the original pieces and animations are still on the display today, including the ski slope, ski lodge and ice skaters, Dutch Haven, the Willows, the two-lane moving highway (in front of Dutch Haven), the farm with the tobacco barn, the Strasburg Fire House, the church beside Dutch Haven and a few other houses.<\/p>\n

The layout features a special Christmas display now through mid-January. The homes and businesses along the tracks have been decked out with holiday trim. And there are 55 hidden Santas \u2014 one for each year the site has been open \u2014 located around the display for visitors to find.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $10 for adults and $6 for children (ages 3 and under) at Choo Choo Barn \u2014 Traintown U.S.A.<\/p>\n

Berks County Parks and Recreation\u2019s Holiday Lights at Gring\u2019s Mill, which is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, is running now through December 30.<\/p>\n

Visitors can stroll the grounds at Gring\u2019s Mill (2083 Tulpehocken Road, Wyomissing, www.bctv.org<\/a>) and view the light display featured in the park\u2019s historic buildings and landscapes.<\/p>\n

The display is open from 5:30-8:30 p.m. through December 30.<\/p>\n

One of the new displays will be turned on promptly at 5:30 p.m. with special music and Santa\u2019s arrival to ring in the holiday season.<\/p>\n

The other attractions include live music at the outdoor pavilion, a model train display, local food trucks and a Holiday Craft Market.<\/p>\n

Admission and parking are free.<\/p>\n

\u201cChristmas Spirit Light Show<\/a>\u201d\u00a0\u00a0is running now through December 31 (except December 25) at\u00a0Clipper Magazine Stadium<\/a>\u00a0(650 North Prince Street,\u00a0Lancaster,\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

Rock Ford Plantation (881 Rockford Road, Lancaster, 717-392-7223, www.rockfordplantation.org<\/a>), which was the home of plantation owner Edward Hand, presents holiday tours during the days following Christmas. This year, the \u201cYuletide Tours\u201d will be presented on December 29.<\/p>\n

Yuletide was celebrated in the late 1700s during the 12-day period between Christmas (December 25, the day Christ was born) and Twelfth Night\/the Feast of the Magi (January 6, the day the Magi offered their gifts to the infant Christ).<\/p>\n

Visitors are invited to step back to a time when Christmas Day was only the beginning of the season. They can learn about 18th century Yuletide traditions and customs as harpsichord music fills the air and period dancers perform in the hallway of the decorated General Edward Hand Mansion.<\/p>\n

Live entertainment includes harpsichord music by Margaret Marsch and Faith Martin and violin by Mercy Martin, period dancing by members of the Historic Rock Ford Dance Committee.<\/p>\n

There will also be cooking demonstrations by members of the Historic Rock Ford Warm Hearth Committee.<\/p>\n

Yuletide Tours of the Hand Mansion are self-guided. Please note that the Mansion does have steps, and no public restroom facilities are available inside the Mansion. A portable restroom unit located in the main parking lot is available for guests.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors and $12 for youth.<\/p>\n

Another Lancaster County attraction is \u201cMagic Lantern Show: A Victorian Christmas,\u201d which is running through December 31 at the Amish Experience Theater at Plain & Fancy Farm (3121 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand, 717-768-8400, http:\/\/amishexperience.com\/magic-lantern-shows\/christmas-show<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Visitors are taken back in time and become part of a Victorian family\u2019s traditional Christmas Eve celebration. The family is very excited as Grandpa tells fabulous Christmas stories with the help of the amazing Magic Lantern.<\/p>\n

The surprises and joys of the season are brought to visual delight with this collaboration between the Amish Experience and the American Magic Lantern Theater featuring classic Christmas stories and poems.<\/p>\n

The presentation includes sing-alongs and a narrator delivering iconic stories and poems like \u201cThe Night Before Christmas\u201d and \u201cA Christmas Carol\u201d with stunning visual images, heartfelt music and legendary storytelling.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $19.95 for adults and $13.95 for children (ages 4-12).<\/p>\n

A guaranteed way to get into a holiday 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

\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.<\/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","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times Christmas Day is now in the rear-view mirror but that doesn\u2019t mean that holiday celebrations have drawn to a close for 2023. The Brandywine River Museum of Art Route 1, Chadds Ford 610-388-2700, www.brandywinemuseum.org) is celebrating the 51st anniversary of the Brandywine Railroad holiday train display now through […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":42247,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[25],"tags":[562,1588,292,6518,84,14521],"class_list":["post-42250","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","tag-brandywine-river-museum","tag-christmas","tag-events","tag-featured","tag-longwood-gardens","tag-yuletide-at-devon"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42250","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=42250"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42250\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":42251,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42250\/revisions\/42251"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/42247"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=42250"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=42250"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=42250"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}