{"id":43769,"date":"2024-12-13T09:00:47","date_gmt":"2024-12-13T14:00:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=43769"},"modified":"2024-12-13T10:24:24","modified_gmt":"2024-12-13T15:24:24","slug":"what-to-do-nutcracker-live-events-highlight-this-weekends-holiday-schedule","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=43769","title":{"rendered":"What To Do: Nutcracker, live events highlight this weekend’s holiday schedule"},"content":{"rendered":"
By Denny Dyroff<\/strong>, Entertainment Editor, The Times<\/em><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\"\"It\u2019s less than two weeks until Christmas and the holiday craziness is going on all around you — heavy road traffic, crowded stores, ridiculous lines at checkouts and long waits at restaurants \u2013 and Santa showing up everywhere. And, of course, there are guys with cauldrons ringing bells to solicit a donation everywhere you turn.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
With that in mind, it\u2019s a normal reaction to seek respite.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
One great way to avoid the insanity and find some peaceful moments is to head inside and attend a live show. Whether it\u2019s theater, holiday spectaculars, ballet performances or musical, it\u2019s all good.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
There are many holiday activities which have become yearly rituals for area families \u2013 decorated houses, exchanging presents around the\u00a0Christmas tree, holiday parties with cookies and egg nog, listening to Christmas carols and, of course, shopping at malls (or Amazon).<\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n
Another popular family activity is attending a live performance of the classic ballet, \u201cThe Nutcracker.\u201d<\/div>\n
\u201cThe Nutcracker\u201d has been an annual tradition for the Brandywine Ballet Company (www.brandywineballet.org<\/a>) since 1985.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
It\u2019s back again for another run this weekend from December 13-15 at West Chester University\u2019s Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall (700 South High Street, West Chester).<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Audiences are invited to celebrate the season with Tchaikovsky\u2019s timeless score and be transported to the magical Land of Sweets. There, they can join Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy on the journey of a dream.<\/div>\n
This performance, which is one of Chester County\u2019s signature holiday events, features original, traditional choreography along with new choreographic elements.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Brandywine Ballet\u2019s six-performance run of\u00a0\u201cThe Nutcracker\u201d\u00a0has continued to delight audiences each year for more than four decades with a tour de force of beauty and elegance.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The ballet is based on the timeless tale \u201cThe Nutcracker\u00a0and The Mouse King\u201d and set to a score by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. With its familiar music and energetic dance numbers, \u201cThe Nutcracker\u201d is a show that appeals to audiences of all ages.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The Brandywine Ballet\u2019s \u201cThe Nutcracker\u201d is a professional show that features skilled dancers, lively choreography, colorful costumes and sparkling sets.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Performances of the ballet are scheduled for December 13 at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., December 14 at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. and December 15 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Ticket prices range from $30-$50.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The Grand Opera House (818 North Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-652-5577, www.thegrandwilmington.org<\/a>) is hosting five performances of \u201cThe Nutcracker\u201d by the First State Ballet Theatre on December 14, 15, 22 and 22 in its Copeland Hall.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cThe Nutcracker\u201d is a\u00a0ballet in two acts that had its premiere on December 18, 1892 at the Mariinsky Theatre, St. Petersburg.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The\u00a0First State Ballet\u2019s\u00a0\u201cThe Nutcracker\u201d features music\u00a0by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and choreography by Pasha Kambalov and Kristina Kambalov after Lev Ivanov and Marius Petipa.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
In the ballet, the Stahlbaums and their children Marie and Fritz are hosting their annual Christmas party. The mysterious Herr Drosselmeyer enters and entertains the children.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Drosselmeyer later appears disguised as a magician and presents a puppet show, followed by three life-size dancing dolls, to the delight of the guests.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The children begin to open gifts and Drosselmeyer presents his gift of a beautiful nutcracker\u00a0to Marie. Marie admires it more than all the other toys. Fritz wants to play with the new doll; he pulls it away from Marie and throws it on the floor. Marie is heartbroken, but Drosselmeyer quickly repairs the nutcracker.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
As the evening grows late, the guests depart and the Stahlbaum family retires for the evening. Marie comes downstairs to steal one last glance at her nutcracker\u00a0under the Christmas tree. She falls asleep.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
In a dream she sees the drawing room. A mouse scurries out of a hole, and then mice scamper out from everywhere. The mice try to take the nutcracker\u00a0from Marie until the Mouse King enters. Marie is terribly frightened and hides behind a chair.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Suddenly her nutcracker\u00a0appears life-size. Overcoming her fear, she runs up to him. The Nutcracker\u00a0leads a regiment of soldiers to defend Marie. The Mouse King is defeated and disappears with his army.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Drosselmeyer transforms Marie into a lovely maiden and the Nutcracker\u00a0into a handsome prince. Together, they set off on a journey to the Land of Snow where they are welcomed by dancing snowflakes.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
In Act II, Marie and the prince arrive in the Land of Sweets and the festivities begin. First comes Chocolate, then Coffee and Tea, followed by Honey Cake, Marzipan and Gingerbread, Gumdrops and the Waltz of the Flowers. Marie and the prince dance merrily with the rest.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
At last the wonderful dream is over and Marie awakens.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Video link for First State Ballet\u2019s \u201cThe Nutcracker\u201d —\u00a0https:\/\/youtu.be\/FuZ4u4NdXI4<\/a>.<\/div>\n
Performances are scheduled for 2 and 7 p.m. on December 14, 2\u00a0p.m. on December 15, 2 and 7 p.m. on December 21, and 2 p.m. on December 22.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Ticket prices for the shows at Copeland Hall range from $24.99-$67.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
In other Nutcracker action at The Grand, The Playhouse is hosting The Wilmington Ballet\u2019s \u201cThe Nutcracker\u201d from December 13-15.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
History-making Brazilian Ballerina Ingrid Silva and Luis Fernando of The Dance Theatre of Harlem star as The Sugar Plum Fairy and The Nutcracker in The Wilmington Ballet’s The Nutcracker.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The Wilmington Ballet Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Allan R Scott, brings Tchaikovsky’s score to life in this eye-pleasing holiday treat running annually at The Playhouse since 1967.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Performance times are 7:30 p.m. on December 13 and 14 and 2 p.m. on December 14 and 15.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Ticket prices start at $24.99.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\n
\"\"

The Philadelphia Ballet<\/p><\/div>\n

The Philadelphia Ballet\u2019s annual production of \u201cGeorge Balanchine\u2019s The Nutcracker\u201d is one of the most cherished\u2014and longest running\u2014family holiday traditions for families in the region.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/div>\n
For many, a visit to Philadelphia to enjoy the lavish presentation by the world-famous Philadelphia Ballet is an integral part of the holiday season.<\/div>\n
T<\/div>\n
his year\u2019s production, which is running now through December 29 at the Academy of Music (Broad and Locust streets, Philadelphia, 215-893-1999, www.philadelphiaballet.org<\/a>), is in the fifth decade of staging of the classic ballet.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The ballet is based on E.T.A. Hoffman\u2019s tale \u201cThe Nutcracker\u00a0and The Mouse King\u201d and set to a score by Peter Ilych Tchaikovsky.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Featuring lively dances, colorful costumes and elaborate sets, \u201cThe Nutcracker\u201d is a production that appeals to audiences of all ages. The original version of the timeless classic was first presented in Saint Petersburg, Russia in 1892.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The ballet is performed\u00a0under the guidance of artistic director Angel Corella. The ballet is based on the choreography of George Balanchine.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Born in Madrid, Spain, Corella joined American Ballet Theatre in 1995 and was quickly promoted to principal dancer. In his 17-year career with ABT, he established himself as one of the greatest male dancers of his time.<\/div>\n
Corella has also appeared as a guest artist with the Royal Ballet in London, the Kirov Ballet in Russia, and New York City Ballet. From 2008-2014, he served as director for his own company, the Barcelona Ballet.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cI was born in Spain and there is not a tradition of \u2018The Nutcracker\u2019 in that country,\u201d said Corella.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cThe first time I danced in the ballet was with the American Ballet Theater when I was 19. I thought it was the most\u00a0beautiful ballet I had ever seen.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cI still feel that way. Mr. Balanchine said dancers are showing the music. The dancers make the music visible.<\/div>\n
\u201cThe challenge is to keep it fresh. But, no-one would dare to change the choreography.\u201d<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Balanchine\u2019s choreography plays a major role in the Philadelphia Ballet\u2019s annual production of \u201cThe Nutcracker.\u201d The company has been doing both acts by Balanchine for the last 30 years.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
George Balanchine, who was named Giorgi Balanchivadze when he was born in Russia in 1904, was one of the last century\u2019s most celebrated choreographers.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
He was a primary developer of ballet in the United States in his position as co-founder and ballet master of New York City Ballet. Balanchine created his version of \u201cThe Nutcracker\u201d for the New York City Ballet in 1955.<\/div>\n
The Philadelphia Ballet\u2019s production of the ballet features more than 100 performers and has an annual audience attendance of more than 50,000. And it is staged in one of the most beautiful performance halls in the country.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The version of \u201cThe Nutcracker\u201d performed by the Philadelphia Ballet features everything audiences associate with the timeless ballet\u2014a cast of 19th-century families celebrating Christmas Eve, a little girl\u2019s dream of her Nutcracker\u00a0Prince, the Prince\u2019s toy soldiers battling a fleet of mice led by the Mouse King and the crowd-pleasing second act of dances in the land of the Sugar Plum Fairy.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cRight now, we\u2019re still doing Balanchine\u2019s \u2018Nutcracker\u2019 because it works,\u201d said Corella. \u201cBalanchine\u2019s \u2018The Nutcracker\u2019 is one of the best in the world.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cThe whole process makes it feel like it\u2019s Christmas. There is hot chocolate. It\u2019s snowing outside. The whole family is there and time seems to stop. It goes back to a certain place and time that everyone seems to recognize\u2014being able to re-connect and share.\u201d<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Video link for Philadelphia\u00a0Ballet\u2019s \u201cGeorge Balanchine\u2019s The Nutcracker\u201d \u2013 https:\/\/youtu.be\/ypfQQ2duYS0<\/a>.<\/div>\n
Ticket prices start at $27.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\n
\"\"

The Crossing<\/p><\/div>\n

The Crossing (www.crossingchoir.org<\/a>) is an American professional chamber choir based in Philadelphia. The Crossing is conducted by\u00a0Donald\u00a0Nally\u00a0and dedicated to new music.<\/div>\n

<\/div>\n
It is committed to working with creative teams to make and record new, substantial works for choir that explore and expand ways of writing for choir, singing in choir, and listening to music for choir.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Many of its nearly 90 commissioned premieres address social, environmental, and political issues. With a commitment to recording its commissions, The Crossing has issued 19 releases and received two Grammy Awards for Best Choral Performance (2018, 2019), and three Grammy nominations in as many years.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
This year\u2019s \u201cCrossing @ Christmas\u201d presents a reprise of last year\u2019s world premiere of a major new work from David Lang, \u201cpoor hymnal.\u201d<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Shows will be performed on December 20 at Saint Mark\u2019s Church in Philadelphia, December 21 at Alice Tully Hall in New York and December 22 at Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill in Philadelphia.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The concert-length work considers the words of hymnals, which are woven into many varying religions as a catalog of ideals that worshipers agree upon; ideals such as how we treat and care for others, particularly those who are less fortunate.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
In \u201cpoor hymnal,\u201d Lang poses the question: are the hymns we\u2019re singing today truly reflective of a society that feels a responsibility to care for and support one another?<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cpoor hymnal\u201d is co-commissioned for The Crossing and Donald Nally by\u00a0Elizabeth and Justus Schlichting, Jill and Loren Bough, and Peggy and Mark Curchack.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The\u00a0Candlelight\u00a0Theatre (2208 Millers Road, Arden, Delaware,\u00a0302- 475-2313, candlelighttheatredelaware.org<\/a>) is presenting Irving Berlin\u2019s \u201cHoliday Inn\u201d now through December 22.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
A Connecticut farmhouse is transformed into an inn featuring shows to celebrate each holiday from Thanksgiving to the Fourth of July. Inspired by the Academy Award winning film of the same name, \u201cHoliday Inn\u201d is a story of romance with a mix of small-town living, bright lights, and the lure of stardom.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
This joyous musical features thrilling dance numbers, laugh out loud comedy, and nearly two dozen Irving Berlin classics with a book by Gordon Greenberg and Chad Hodge.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings (8 p.m.), Sunday afternoons (3 p.m.) and Wednesdays (11 a.m.)<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Tickets, which include dinner and show, are $70.50 for adults and $35 for children (ages 4-12).<\/div>\n
On December 14, Valley Forge National Historical Park (Route 23, Valley Forge, 610-783-1099, www.nps.gov\/vafo<\/a>) is presenting its annual March-In.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The event, which will run from 6-8 p.m., commemorates a major happening in the American Revolution — the arrival of George Washington and his troops to the area in 1777.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
General George Washington brought his ill-supplied Continental Army to Valley Forge in 1777 in order to establish a winter encampment.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
At this event, Valley Forge National Historical Park will commemorate the 247th anniversary of the arrival of the Continental Army to Valley Forge in 1777 with family-friendly programs, demonstrations, reenactors, and hands-on activities.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Activities are spread across the park with programming taking place at the visitor center, Muhlenberg\u2019s Brigade, and the Washington\u2019s Headquarters area.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cCourt-Martial of a Civilian,\u201d a 25-minute dramatic presentation in the park theater, is scheduled for 6:30 and 7:30 p.m.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The annual Downingtown Christmas Parade will be held on December 14\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The Brandywine Zoo (1001 North Park Drive, Wilmington, Delaware, brandywinezoo.org<\/a>) is hosting \u201cRed Panda Animal Encounter\u201d on six days in December.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Led by the zoo\u2019s dedicated zookeepers, guests will gain fascinating insights on zoo residents and possibly participate in feeding sessions or training activities.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
These special, up-close encounters serve as essential forms of animal enrichment; just like when working with the keepers, the animals have the choice to participate in feeding and training opportunities.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The event will be held on December 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29. It will begin at 10:30 a.m. each day.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Tickets are $45.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
During the daylight-deprived month of December, Rose Tree Park (1671 North Providence Road, Media, delconew.azurewebsites.net<\/a>) sparkles at night with its annual \u201cFestival of Lights\u201d display.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Dozens of illuminated trees and lit displays draw visitors back every year to walk in the winter wonderland and linger in the festive atmosphere.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The annual \u201cFestival of Lights\u201d is running now until January 4 from 5-10 p.m. each night.<\/div>\n
Delaware County\u2019s annual \u201cFestival of Lights\u201d 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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
This is a free event.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cChristmas Around The Farm\u201d converts a summertime destination for home-grown produce into a sparkling winter wonderland. The popular annual event at Linvilla Orchards (137 West Knowlton Road, Media, 610-876-7116, www.linvilla.com<\/a>) is running now through December 23.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Visitors will be able to cut their own Christmas trees, or, if not so inspired, purchase them at the shop\u00a0— which also features other decorations, including holiday wreaths. Christmasland features freshly cut trees, greens and holly, poinsettias, hand-made wreaths and a large variety of children\u2019s toys and collectables.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Santa and his elves will be stopping by every Saturday and Sunday to visit his friends in Christmasland from 1-3 p.m. And there will be Caroling Hayrides on Saturday evenings in December that include the ancient tradition of Wassailing, singing Christmas Carols around a campfire and roasting marshmallows.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cA Twisted Christmas\u00a0at Lincoln Mill Haunted House\u201d is scheduled for December 13 and 14 at Lincoln Mill Haunted House (4100 Main Street, Philadelphia, lincolnmillhaunt.com<\/a>)<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Have yourself a scary little Christmas at Philly\u2019s first-ever holiday haunted house<\/a>. Featuring more than 30 scare actors, this one-night-only walk-through experience follows the story of Viktor Kane, the fictional former owner of Lincoln Mill who punished naughty workers by trapping them in the mill\u2019s dungeon-like basement.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Christmas has always been the season of joy, even during the darkest of times. While the town was distracted by the holiday festivities, Viktor Kane knew this was the best time to lure his naughty workers down to the mill\u2019s basement.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
After the basement was decorated for Christmas, the workers were lured into the chamber to see the display. One by one, they were trapped and then programmed into Viktor\u2019s little helpers. Before they realized what was happening, it was already too late.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Viktor\u2019s version of Christmas was more twisted than anyone could imagine.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The event will run from 6-10 p.m. Tickets are $35.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
On December 14, there will be \u201cChristmas Tours of the Historic Potts Mansion\u201d in Elverson (St. Mary of Providence Center, 227 Isabella Road, Elverson, stmaryprov.org<\/a>).<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The mansion was built in the 1890s by the Potts Family and features marble staircases, beautiful fireplaces, and more.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
This is a one-day opportunity to visit the mansion and see it decorated for the holidays.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Local businesses, artists and groups will be decorating multiple rooms in the mansion in a Christmas holiday theme. The rooms include the Ballroom, the east and west staircases, the east and west foyers, Mrs. Pott\u2019s bedroom, the Green Room, and more.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
In addition to touring the mansion, visitors can learn about the history of the mansion, and have questions answered by expert guides.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The day includes visits with Santa, prize baskets, and Christmas treats at the “Gingerbread House!”<\/div>\n
Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for children 6-13, and free for children under 6.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
On December 13 and 14, Rockwood Park (4651 Washington Street Extension, Wilmington, Delaware, www.nccde.org\/431\/Rockwood-Park-Museum<\/a>) is hosting its annual \u201cWinter Lights: Music and Joy.\u201d<\/div>\n
The popular family event, which runs from 5-8 p.m. each night includes tours of the holiday display in the museum and a joyous light display in the gardens surrounding the Mansion and Carriage House.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Holiday Open House features exceptional entertainment, fun festive crafts, costumed characters, refreshments, food trucks and free photos with Santa.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The event also includes the Holiday Shoppe selling gifts for the whole family.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
This is a free event and is open to all ages.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cHoliday Magic\u201d is in full swing at Riverfront Wilmington (Christina Riverwalk, Wilmington, Delaware, riverfrontwilm.com<\/a>).<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The illumination of the Riverwalk will create a magical winter wonderland for all ages to enjoy.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center (100 Station Ave., Oaks, 484-754-3976, http:\/\/www.phillyexpocenter.com<\/a>) is hosting the Philly Show Sports Card and\u00a0Memorabilia\u00a0Show this weekend.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The show is the nation\u2019s longest-running sports\u00a0memorabilia\u00a0show, established in 1975. It features more than 200 dealer booths in all areas of sports collectibles including cards, uniforms, photos,\u00a0memorabilia.<\/div>\n
More than 20 professional athletes, including Phillies, Eagles and Flyers players, as well as other sports celebrities will appearing at the show for autograph signings and personal photo opportunities and meet-and-greets.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Show hours are 3-8 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sunday.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
General admission tickets are $15.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center will also host the Philly Vintage Flea on December 15.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Picture the Philly Vintage Flea as a next-level flea market, with each vendor transforming their space into a personal pop-up shop. The diversity of the second-hand and vintage community ensures every booth offers something unique, reflecting the vendor\u2019s individual curation and interests.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The Philly Vintage Flea is a one-day event celebrating vintage clothing spanning the \u201970s to the 2000s. Over 100 top-tier vintage vendors come together to showcase their curated selections in a \u201cbuy-sell-trade\u201d marketplace.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The show will run from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets are $15.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Another fun way to get away from mainstream Christmas activity is taking a train ride with Santa Claus. Fortunately, there are quite a few very good options in our area.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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>).<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The special \u201cSanta\u2019s Express\u201d trains (which feature heated cars decorated for the holidays) will run on December 14, 15, 21 and 22.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The 75-minute journey on the trail line\u2019s heated decorated train travels through Chester Creek Valley. Santa Claus will be greeting everyone at Market Street Station and then going along for the ride to Glen Mills.<\/div>\n
Adult fare for the West Chester Railroad trips is $40. Tickets for children (ages 2-12) are $30 while toddlers (ages 9-23 months) get to ride for $15.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Tickets for these trains, which run now through December 23, are $27 for adults, $26 for senior citizens and $25 for children.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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 $19 for adults, $18 for senior citizens and $17 for children.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Tickets start at $29.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Other \u201cChristmas Experiences\u201d offered by the rail line are \u201cSanta Claus Limited,\u201d \u201cNight Before Christmas,\u201d and \u201cBreakfast or Dinner with Mrs. Claus.\u201d<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The journey begins when the Conductor calls \u201cAll Aboard!\u201d<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Ticket prices start at $66.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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 22.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Tickets are $39.99 for adults and $26.99 for children.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The Reading Blue Mountain and Northern Railroad (Reading Outer Station, Reading, www.rbmnrr-passenger.com<\/a>) is running its 2024 \u201cSanta Claus Special\u201d Excursions from a variety of locations — Tunkhannock, Tamaqua, Minersville and Reading.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Santa Claus will be visiting with each of the children and there will be live holiday music performed throughout the ride.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Tickets start at $20.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The rail line also is running \u201c\u2019Twas the Night Before Christmas\u201d excursions now through December 23.<\/div>\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<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Ticket prices start at $40.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The Allentown and Auburn Railroad (35 Railroad Street, Kutztown, 570-778-7531, https:\/\/allentown-and-auburn-railroad.square.site\/<\/a>) is running special \u201cSanta Claus Train Rides\u201d on December 14 and 15.<\/div>\n
Guests will be able to visit with Santa during the scenic train ride and have some pictures done.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The train will make a brief stop at the railroad\u2019s picnic grove where riders will have the option to purchase \u201choliday evergreens with a sprinkle of Christmas magic.\u201d<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
When they get back to the Kutztown Train Station, visitors can also do some holiday shopping in the Allentown & Auburn Gift Shop, which features handmade and antique items.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Trains depart at 10 a.m., noon and 2 and 4 p.m. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors, $12 for children and $.01 for toddlers.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
The Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad (136 Brown Street, Middletown, 717-944-4435, www.mhrailroad.com<\/a>) will be running its \u201cSanta Surprise Trains\u201d and \u201cPolar Bear Express Trains\u201d throughout December.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\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.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Santa Claus will have a special present for all kid riders.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
On December 7 and 14, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania (Route 741, Strasburg, 717- 687-8628, www.rrmuseumpa.org<\/a>) is hosting its annual \u201cHome for the Holidays\u201d event from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.<\/div>\n
Costumed interpreters \u2014 engineers, conductors, ticket agents, and railroad passengers \u2013will recreate scenes of holiday travel from the past. Visitors will also be able to ride the Museum\u2019s Cab Simulator.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Children will be able to send a message to Santa Claus with the help of a railroad telegrapher who will send their personal telegrams from Steinman Station to the North Pole. And they can visit Santa in person at the Steinman Station passenger depot.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Cookies and hot chocolate will be offered in the Museum lobby.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Tickets are $10 for adults, $9 for seniors and $8 for youth (ages 3-11).<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times It\u2019s less than two weeks until Christmas and the holiday craziness is going on all around you — heavy road traffic, crowded stores, ridiculous lines at checkouts and long waits at restaurants \u2013 and Santa showing up everywhere. And, of course, there are guys with cauldrons ringing bells […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":43766,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[25],"tags":[4550,6518,12429,13982],"class_list":["post-43769","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","tag-brandywine-ballet","tag-featured","tag-the-crossing","tag-the-philadelphia-ballet"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43769","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=43769"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43769\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":43770,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43769\/revisions\/43770"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/43766"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=43769"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=43769"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=43769"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}