Are you dreaming of a white Christmas? There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by visiting one of Pennsylvania’s Hallmark Christmas towns! These quaint and charming destinations are like something straight out of a holiday movie, with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a cozy atmosphere that will warm your heart. From the historic streets of Bethlehem to the whimsical boutiques of Skippack, Pennsylvania is home to several towns that know how to celebrate Christmas in style. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, put on your favorite Christmas sweater, and join us as we explore some of the most enchanting Hallmark Christmas towns in PA!
Why Christmas Towns In Pennsylvania Are So Special?
Have you ever wondered why some towns in Pennsylvania are known as Hallmark Christmas towns? While these destinations have always been beloved by locals and visitors alike, they have gained national attention in recent years thanks to the Hallmark Channel. This popular network is known for its heartwarming holiday movies, many of which are set in picturesque towns that perfectly capture the spirit of Christmas. And it turns out that some of the towns in Pennsylvania have served as the real-life inspiration for these movie locations!
Hallmark Christmas Towns In PA: Explore Pennsylvania’s Most Charming Holiday Destinations
What better way to celebrate the most delightful time of the year than by traveling to one of Pennsylvania’s charming Christmas towns? With their dazzling lights, quaint shops, and seasonal activities, these charming locations are like out of a Hallmark movie and will have you feeling as though you’re strolling through a winter wonderland.
Bethlehem, PA: Christmas City USA
Christmas City USA is a nickname for Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and it’s understandable. This small town has a long tradition of celebrating the holidays that dates back to the 1930s when local business owners first began putting Christmas lights in their shops. Today, Bethlehem is one of Pennsylvania’s most well-known Christmas destinations, and people travel from all over the nation to experience its joyous atmosphere.
Pro Tip:
Take a stroll down Main Street at the beginning of your trip to Bethlehem to see all the holiday-decorated stores and restaurants. The Bethlehem Star, a huge lit star that has been positioned atop South Mountain every Christmas since 1937, is a sight not to be missed.
Lititz, PA: A Christmas Wonderland
Another quaint Christmas hamlet that will get you in the holiday spirit is Lititz, Pennsylvania. In the winter, many of the specialty stores and boutiques in this small town are decked out in holiday decorations. The town’s central square is converted into a winter paradise with a nativity scene and a huge Christmas tree.
Pro Tip:
If you love chocolate, stop by the Lititz Wilbur Chocolate Company. It has been in operation since 1884 and is renowned for its delectable chocolates and confections.
Jim Thorpe, PA: A Hidden Gem
Although Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania is a hidden gem of a Christmas town that is definitely worth a visit, it may not be as well-known as Bethlehem or Lititz. The town’s Victorian-style buildings provide a charming setting for holiday celebrations, and the entire downtown area is decked up in glistening lights and seasonal accents.
Pro Tip:
For a special and unforgettable holiday experience, board the Santa Claus Special train on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. On this one-hour train ride, Santa Claus will make an appearance and you’ll pass through the lovely Lehigh Gorge.
Strasburg, PA: A Quaint Christmas Destination
A little town in Lancaster County named Strasburg, Pennsylvania, is known for its historical sites as well as being a quaint Christmas destination. The Main Street of the community is dotted with charming stores and eateries that are all festively decorated for the season, and the Strasburg Rail Road provides special train trips with a Christmas theme.
Pro Tip:
Visit the Choo Choo Barn, a nearby attraction with a miniature model train display that is over 1,700 square feet in size and has scenes that are incredibly detailed. Numerous Christmas-themed components, such as a bustling North Pole village and a ski resort, are included in the display.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania: A Charming Country Christmas
In the center of Amish Country is the lovely town of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The town is converted into a winter wonderland during the holidays, complete with merry lights, carriage rides, and unique Christmas activities. Along with customary holiday activities like decorating gingerbread houses and attending tree lighting ceremonies, visitors can take advantage of a variety of distinctive stores and eateries.
Pro Tip:
Visit the Kitchen Kettle Village, a well-liked neighborhood attraction with over 40 stores and eateries, including a bakery with a holiday motif and a gourmet popcorn shop.
Honesdale, Pennsylvania: A Snowy Christmas Town
A charming village in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains called Honesdale is well-known for its breathtaking scenery and snowy winters. Visitors can take part in a range of festive events and activities as the town comes alive with seasonal lights and decorations over the holiday season. There is something for everyone in Honesdale, from horse-drawn carriage rides to a Christmas market in the Victorian manner.
Pro Tip:
Visit Irving Cliff, a picturesque overlook with breathtaking views of the town and the mountains beyond. The sky turns pink and purple around sunset, which makes for a very lovely view.
Ephrata, PA: A Traditional Christmas Experience
A little town in Pennsylvania called Ephrata is renowned for its lengthy history and old-fashioned holiday celebrations. Visitors can take part in a variety of festive events and activities during the holiday season, including a traditional Moravian Lovefeast, a Christmas performance, and a real Nativity scene. The town is filled with the aroma of pine and cinnamon during this time.
Pro Tip:
Visit the Ephrata Cloister, which was established in the 1700s and is a National Historic Landmark. The Cloister is decked out for the holidays with customary Moravian holiday decorations, and guests can walk the ancient structures by candlelight.
What To Known Before You Go
Following these tips can help ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable visit to Pennsylvania’s Hallmark Christmas towns.
Plan Ahead: Check the town’s website or social media pages for information on holiday events, hours of operation, and parking options.
Dress Warmly: Pennsylvania winters can be cold and snowy, so be sure to dress in layers and wear warm, waterproof boots.
Bring Cash: Many local shops and vendors may not accept credit cards, so it’s a good idea to bring cash with you.
Be Patient: Holiday crowds can be overwhelming, so be prepared to wait in lines and navigate through crowds.
Support Local Businesses: Many of the shops and restaurants in Hallmark Christmas towns are small, locally-owned businesses, so consider supporting them by shopping and dining locally.
Respect The Town’s Traditions: Each Hallmark Christmas town has its own unique traditions and customs, so be respectful and mindful of these while you visit.
Stay Safe: Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking or driving in snowy or icy conditions. Keep an eye on weather updates and road conditions, and stay safe during your visit.
