As the holiday season approaches, Bucks County, Pennsylvania, transforms into a winter wonderland with events and activities that embrace the holiday spirit. From enchanting light displays to cozy holiday markets and timeless traditions, there’s no shortage of festive activities. Check out our guide to the top holiday events that make this area a great destination for families, friends, and enthusiasts.
Holiday Light Displays and Festive Tours
One of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit is by going to see the dazzling light displays. Bucks County has some fantastic locations to take in twinkling lights and festive decor.
1. Shady Brook Farm’s Holiday Light Show
Shady Brook Farm in Yardley offers one of the most popular holiday light shows in the area. This drive-through display features over three million lights across the farm’s expansive grounds. Visitors can expect beautifully crafted displays, holiday-themed characters, and a mesmerizing tunnel of lights. You can also park your car and explore the festive farm market with holiday treats and warm beverages.
If you don’t have a car, you can still experience the drive-through by getting on one of the tractor-drawn wagons. You can even reserve a private wagon to hang out with friends. Finally, the farm has a unique radio frequency that plays holiday tunes.
Dates: Early November through January Tickets: Available for purchase online or at the farm
2. Peddler’s Village – Christmas Festival and Lights
Located in Lahaska, Peddler’s Village is known for its charming shops, restaurants, and year-round events, but it truly shines during the holiday season. With over a million holiday lights decorating the village, visitors can stroll through the beautifully lit pathways, check out the village’s famous Gingerbread House Competition, and shop for books, toys, or clothes.
Dates: Thanksgiving through early January Highlights: Gingerbread displays, weekend visits with Santa, holiday shopping events
3. Washington Crossing Historic Park – 18th Century Christmas
For those looking for a historical holiday experience, Washington Crossing Historic Park hosts a unique event that transports you back to the 18th century. You can watch a reenactment of George Washington’s river crossing, explore the historic Taylorsville, or even visit some gardens.
With candlelit tours and period decorations, the park celebrates the holidays with a nod to the past. Reenactors, music, and other activities make it a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. You can even participate in a few demonstrations.
Date: Mid-December Tickets: Recommended in advance, as this event often sells out
Family-Friendly Holiday Activities
Bucks County offers a range of holiday activities that are perfect for families and children. From meeting Santa to hands-on workshops, there’s something for everyone.
1. Santa’s Workshop at Sesame Place
Sesame Place in Langhorne transforms into a winter wonderland for “A Very Furry Christmas,” where children can enjoy holiday-themed shows, meet-and-greets with their favorite characters like Elmo, and even get a photo with Santa. The theme park is decked out with lights and has plenty of rides.
Dates: Late November through early January Features: Holiday shows, character parades, photos with Santa
2. The North Pole Express Train at New Hope Railroad
Take a magical ride on the North Pole Express, a vintage train experience hosted by the New Hope Railroad. Kids can enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and holiday stories on board. Santa and Mrs. Claus appear to meet children and hand out gifts like sleigh bells, making it a memorable holiday experience for families.
There are also a few gift shops at the train station and an alternative experience with a steam train. You can even listen to live Christmas music from the train’s musicians.
Dates: November through December Highlights: Scenic train ride, festive treats, Santa visit
3. Gingerbread Workshops and Other Events
Many local venues, including the Mercer Museum and various community centers, offer kids gingerbread house-making workshops and holiday craft activities. These hands-on experiences are great for making holiday memories and bringing home festive decorations. Some libraries even host Christmas story times.
Local Workshops to Check Out:
- The Mercer Museum: Holiday ornament-making classes and gingerbread house workshops
- L ocal Libraries: Storytimes
Holiday Shopping and Artisan Markets
Bucks County is filled with holiday markets where you can shop for unique gifts while supporting local artisans. Here are a few must-visit markets this season:
- C hristmas Village at Peddler’s Village: Featuring local vendors with handmade crafts, jewelry, and seasonal items
- Quakertown Holiday Market: A farmers market-style event with holiday decor, baked goods, and artisan crafts
- Newtown Holiday Craft Festival: A craft show featuring local artists, ideal for finding unique gifts and holiday décor
These markets are great for finding gifts and offer festive atmospheres with live music, food vendors, and activities for kids. Be sure to bring cash, as some smaller vendors may not accept cards.
Special Events and Performances
In addition to lights and markets, Bucks County hosts seasonal performances and events that highlight the artistry and culture of the region. Here are some events to add to your holiday calendar:
1. The Nutcracker Ballet by Pennsylvania Youth Ballet
The Nutcracker is a timeless holiday performance, and the Pennsylvania Youth Ballet brings this classic to life every December. Performances will be held at Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts in Harrisburg and Hershey Theater in Hershey. The Youth Ballet has been hosting performances of the Nutcracker since 1965 and is the only school in the world licensed to perform George Balanchine’s version.
Dates: Mid to late December Tickets: Available through the Bucks County Playhouse box office
2. Holiday Music Performances at Local Venues
Local musicians and choirs throughout Bucks County perform holiday concerts at churches, town squares, and small venues. Keep an eye out for caroling events, jazz holiday nights, and classical performances that add to the festive ambiance of the season.
Bucks County’s Holiday Season at a Glance
Whether you’re a longtime resident or just visiting, Bucks County offers an array of holiday events and activities that capture the season’s magic. From sparkling light displays to cozy markets, there are many ways you can spend the holidays with friends or family.