Christmas is a magical time of the year in PA. No matter where we live, we’re likely surrounded by sparkling lights, decorated trees, and twinkling light displays, making it easy to embrace the holiday spirit. These six small towns in Pennsylvania are among the many charming spots that honor Christmas in the most magical way. Welcome to the best Christmas towns in Pennsylvania.
Before you head to any of the following small towns for specific events or activities, remember to check to make sure the event is still running this year and to confirm days and times.
1. Indiana
Step straight into a scene from It’s A Wonderful Life when you arrive in the adorable small town of Indiana. As you drive along Philadelphia Street, in fact, you may feel as though you’re in Bedford Falls as you pass buildings aglow in Christmas lights, a massive twinkling Christmas tree, and a sign declaring "You Are Now In Bedford Falls." Indiana usually hosts the annual It’s A Wonderful Life Festival, which features a parade, appearances by Santa, and the chance to get your holiday shopping started or finished. Learn more on the official website of Downtown Indiana.
2. Bernville
Bernville is perhaps best known for Koziar’s Christmas Village, a Christmastime tradition that dates back more than 70 years. Bundle up for your stroll through the enchanting village that is awash in more than one million lights. You’ll find no shortage of picture-perfect moments for selfies and photos. The Christmas Village also features such breathtaking spots as Santa’s Post Office, Christmas in Other Lands, and an Old-Fashioned Bakery Shop. Stop by the official website of Koziar’s Christmas Village for more information.
3. Jim Thorpe
Jim Thorpe, known as the Switzerland of America, looks like it’s stepped straight off of an old-fashioned postcard. With its many quaint shops and restaurants, Jim Thorpe is an enchanting Christmastime destination. The charming town also hosts the annual Olde Time Christmas, magical weekends filled with holiday activities, including strolling carolers, horse and carriage rides, and appearances by Santa. That’s just the beginning of the fun that awaits. Find more information on the official website of Jim Thorpe.
4. Bellefonte
Bellefonte traditionally transforms into a Victorian Christmas wonderland with its Victorian Christmas celebration that features a full menu of events: breakfast with Santa, a gingerbread house contest, a festival of trees, and horse and carriage rides. Learn more on the official website of Bellefonte Victorian Christmas.
5. Wellsboro
Wellsboro looks like an old-fashioned Christmas painting come to life, and it’s one of the most enchanting Christmas towns in the state. It also hosts two popular Christmas celebrations each year. The Dickens of a Christmas Celebration transforms the town into a Victorian wonderland with a full menu of activities, including a Victorian marketplace. It also hosts Christmas on Main Street, which features fun activities and the opportunity to get your holiday shopping done. Start planning your trip to Wellsboro.
6. Bethlehem
Bethlehem isn’t exactly a small town; it’s more of a big city. However, you can’t talk about towns that honor Christmas in the most magical way without mentioning PA’s very own Christmas City. Bethlehem is known for its annual Christkindlmarkt, an authentic German market; for hosting horse and carriage rides, and for the exquisitely decorated Historic Hotel Bethlehem. You can either book a stay at the hotel or make a reservation for a tour of the hotel to see the decorations. Learn more on the website of Historic Bethlehem.
What are your favorite small towns in Pennsylvania that are perfect for a Christmastime visit? Join the conversation in the comments! For an enchanting holiday experience in the charming town of West Chester, hop aboard the Santa Express.
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