Written by Elisabeth Kauffman
As the chilly winter months begin to approach and earth’s natural colors begin to lose their vibrance, the feeling of Christmas begins to take shape. The cheery anticipation of snow and the reintroduction of coats and hats cause for a wonderful new array of activities. For both family and friends alike, Christmas time invites thoughts of gift-giving and tree lightings. Here, you can find a list of 10 memorable activities to do in Lancaster Country this Christmas season.
Gingerbread Houses
Whether you pick up a kit from your local store or handmake your own dough, gingerbread house decorating is always a fun activity for the whole family. From architects to sweet teeth, this activity is perfect for those of all ages. You can let your artistic stye fly as you top your house with gummies and chocolate to sweet vanilla frosting. Or online you can find an abundance of inspiration to choose from. Plus, as a bonus, it’s all edible!
Refreshing Mountain: Christmas Light Experience
Refreshing Mountain’s Christmas creates a world filled with Christmas lights and outdoor activities all in one place! The experience is filled with thousands of colorful bulbs, allowing you and your family to either zipline or walk through a beautiful light show. This event is from November 29 to January 5 and reservations are required. This is fun for the whole family and is a great way to make some memories this season!
Terri Hill Christmas in the Park
As tens of thousands of light bulbs decorate Terri Hill Park’s floor, you get to experience all the joys of Christmas in one place. From December 6-8 and 13-15 there will be music, vendors, children’s crafts, hayrides, and so much more! You will also discover a beautiful array of Christmas lights you don’t want to miss. From 5-8:30pm, you can come with your family and friends to enjoy a wonderful night in the park.
Christmas Movies
Whether you’re traveling with Buddy the Elf across New York or traveling on the Polar Express, there is always time for a good Christmas movie. For a simple night in, grab some of your favorite treats, your warmest blanket, and relax to any Christmas classic. Movie nights offer a perfect opportunity for you and your family to warm up your home this Christmas.
Garden Spot Village Christmas Market
Garden Spot Village’s Christmas Market, held on December 7 from 10am-3pm, is a perfect event for all ages. There will be a silent auction, Christmas makers market, food and drink, and much more. There are also train houses, where you can explore the thousands of model train tracks. The train room will also have open houses at later dates. Both events are free and open to the public and a fun way to spend your day!
Christmas Cookies
Baking and decorating Christmas cookies is a long-held tradition and a great way to both keep the kids entertained and enjoy a sweet treat! With dozens of cookie cutter options and frosting colors, your cookies can take on any shape and size. This is a simple and delicious way to spend your afternoon with the people you love. Garden Spot Village partnered with Fig Lancaster to host a cookie contest earlier this fall. The winners were announced and their recipes shared in the Winter 2024 issue. You can find the recipes here.
Christmas Show
American Music Theater is putting on Joy to the World as live music and acting takes the stage. Through December 20, family and friends can enjoy this Christmas special by a top-rated theater. Tickets are available on their website or in the Box Office. Go and enjoy live theater as you join in on this fun-filled holiday tradition!
Decorate a Christmas Tree
Join in on the long-loved tradition of cutting down and decorating your very own tree. With handcrafted or store-bought ornaments, you and your family can make the tree special to you. This Christmas, there is a wide variety of options to choose from around Lancaster, Pa., such as Hunts Christmas Trees or Cherry Hill Orchards.
Kitchen Kettle Village
Throughout the holiday season Kitchen Kettle has an exciting calendar full of events for you and your loved ones. From hot chocolate bars to candy making demonstrations, Kitchen Kettle provides non-stop Christmas fun all season long. Enjoy the beautiful Christmas decorations as you shop around or reserve your place in one of the main events. All information can be found on their website.
Exchange Gifts
Whether it’s a silly white elephant gift or a heartfelt present for your loved ones, gift-giving has always been a part of Christmas tradition. From a handmade ornament to a long wished for piece of clothing, everyone loves the feeling of being appreciated and thought of. Take some time this holiday season to show your affection for your friends and family, even something as simple as a card or an act of kindness won’t go unnoticed. Find delightful holiday gifts at The Shops at Garden Spot Village or peruse Fig Lancaster’s Holiday Shopping Guide.