Your December Guide to Celebrating the Holidays in Lancaster County
December has a way of making our towns feel a little more magical. From twinkling lights to cheerful markets and cozy small businesses, this time of year reminds us why Lancaster County and its surrounding communities are such special places to call home. Whether you’re new to the area, a long-time local, or exploring neighborhoods as you consider a move, here are some of the best ways to enjoy the season.
Dazzling Light Displays
There’s something magical about December nights in Lancaster County. As the sun sets early and the chill settles in, entire towns begin to glow with twinkling displays that turn ordinary evenings into festive memories. Here are some favorites around the area.
- Koziar’s Christmas Village – A beloved tradition featuring over a million lights.
- Hershey Sweet Lights – A two‑mile drive‑through light experience.
- Stone Gables Estate Events – Seasonal light events in a beautiful estate setting.
- Christmas Spirit Light Show – A dazzling synchronized light display.
- Refreshing Mountain Christmas Lights – Walk‑through and zipline light experiences.
- Messick’s Christmas Light Show – A regional favorite with an impressive display.
- Dutch Winter Wonderland – Holiday lights, rides, and festive fun for families.
Holiday Markets & Festive Shopping
December is the perfect time to slow down, stroll through local markets, and pick out gifts that feel thoughtful and meaningful. Our area is filled with charming spots where artisans, bakers, and small businesses bring the season to life.
- Artisan Mill Co – over 300 local artisans display their wares for unique gifts.
- Prussian Street Arcade – A creative marketplace filled with local artisans.
- Roots Country Market & Auction – A Lancaster County staple with vendors and holiday finds, open Tuesdays.
- Green Dragon Farmer’s Market – A lively Friday market perfect for holiday shopping.
- Lancaster Central Market – America’s oldest farmers’ market with seasonal goods and gifts.
- Kitchen Kettle Village – Shops, treats, and holiday charm in Intercourse, PA.
Support Small Businesses This Season
Our community shines brightest when we support the businesses that give our towns their heart and character. December offers the perfect excuse to explore local shops, sip something warm, and discover hidden gems close to home. Our local shops and eateries are the heartbeat of our communities, and December is the perfect month to show them some love. These small businesses add character to our neighborhoods. Supporting them means strengthening the place we call home.
A few favorites to visit:
- Coffee shops for warm drinks after a lights tour
- Boutiques in Lititz and downtown Lancaster for one-of-a-kind gifts
- Locally owned bakeries offering holiday cookies, pastries, and pies
- Family-owned restaurants with cozy atmospheres perfect for celebrating with loved ones
Many towns also host special late-night holiday shopping hours, giving you extra time to browse, sip a warm drink, and enjoy festive downtown charm. Lancaster, Lititz, and other local communities often shine especially bright during these evenings, turning simple shopping into a magical seasonal outing.
Shows & Live Events
If you’re looking to add a little sparkle to your December, our local theatres and attractions offer inspiring performances and festive productions that make the season unforgettable. Take in a show and let the holidays come to life!
- American Music Theatre – Premier live‑entertainment venue in Lancaster with concerts, theatre shows, and seasonal performances.
- The Fulton Theatre – Historic downtown theatre offering holiday productions and classic performances.
- Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre – Dinner‑and‑a‑show experience featuring musicals and festive seasonal shows.
- Sight & Sound Theatres – Iconic large‑scale productions with stunning sets and impactful storytelling.
- Yuletide at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire – A festive holiday experience with live performances, artisan shopping, and Renaissance‑style cheer.
Local Attractions to Make Your Season Bright
The holiday season is the perfect time to explore the unique experiences that make Lancaster County so special. From festive tours to sweet treats and family traditions, these local attractions bring joy, nostalgia, and a little sparkle to your December.
- Strasburg Rail Road Holiday Train Rides – Enjoy festive rides through Amish Country on beautifully restored steam trains.
- Strasburg Scooters Holiday Tours – Bundle up for a cheerful, light-filled scooter tour through the countryside.
- Amish Christmas Cookie Tour – Visit Amish homes and farms while sampling fresh-baked holiday cookies.
- Breakfast with Santa at Country Barn – A charming family tradition complete with a delicious breakfast and Santa visit.
- Elizabeth Farms Christmas Experience – Cut-your-own trees, walk-through decorations, and holiday fun for all ages.
- Hershey’s Chocolate World – Seasonal treats, festive activities, and the sweetest holiday atmosphere.
Scenic Winter Drives
Sometimes the best way to soak in the season is simply to take a drive. Lancaster County’s rolling hills, historic bridges, and quiet country roads transform into postcard-perfect scenes in winter. Even without snow, our landscape is beautiful this time of year. Add a dusting of white, and it’s breathtaking.
Favorite local routes include:
- Farmland roads in northern and southern Lancaster County where you can see Amish and Mennonite farms.
- The rolling countryside between Lancaster County’s small towns. Watch for farm stands that sell baked goods, winter greenery, and free range eggs.
- The charming small towns of Lancaster County. Explore downtown Lititz, Manheim, Ephrata, Mount Joy, and Elizabethtown for all the charm and nostalgia of the holiday season.
- Lancaster County Covered Bridge Tour – A stunning winter drive through historic bridges and scenic farmland.
Enjoy Delicious Smorgasbords – Don’t Cook!
December is full of gatherings, holiday events, and bustling schedules—so why not treat yourself to a break from cooking? Lancaster County’s smorgasbords offer warm, comforting meals that feel like home without lifting a finger. If the holiday season has you bustling from event to event, give yourself a break from cooking and enjoy some of Lancaster County’s most beloved smorgasbords. These local favorites offer hearty comfort food, homestyle dishes, and all the festive flavors of the season.
- Shady Maple Smorgasbord – A Lancaster County icon with an enormous selection of homestyle favorites.
- Yoder’s Restaurant & Buffet – Classic PA Dutch dishes and warm hospitality.
- Miller’s Smorgasbord – A long-standing favorite known for comfort food done right.
- Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord – A cozy atmosphere with traditional recipes and holiday specials.
- Dienner’s Country Restaurant – A budget-friendly local gem offering hearty meals.
- Hershey Farm Restaurant & Inn – Fresh, delicious dishes in a charming setting.
Why This Matters for Homebuyers and Sellers
All these seasonal moments highlight what truly makes a home valuable: community, connection, and comfort. For buyers, these holiday events offer a glimpse into neighborhood spirit, the kind of warmth you can’t capture in a listing. For sellers, December is a great opportunity to showcase curb appeal, cozy interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere. And having wonderful holiday events all around the area only makes a home more appealing.
Wishing You a Warm and Joyful December
Whether you’re out enjoying the lights, browsing a holiday market, or simply taking a scenic drive, I hope this season fills your home, and your heart, with joy. If you’re thinking about making a move in the new year, I’d love to help you explore your options in this beautiful area we get to call home.
