What are some popular Christmas traditions in Lancaster, PA?
Lancaster, PA Christmas traditions offer a heartwarming mix of old-fashioned charm and festive fun that make the holiday season truly magical. Whether you’re immersing yourself in historic Pennsylvania Dutch Christmas customs, strolling through festive markets, or ziplining beneath sparkling lights, Lancaster delivers unforgettable holiday moments for families, locals, and visitors alike.
The Christmas season has finally arrived in Lancaster, PA, bringing the chance to embrace some of our favorite holiday traditions! From exploring old-fashioned Pennsylvania Dutch Christmas customs to enjoying festive caroling at the Landis Valley Museum, or even ziplining through stunning Lancaster County Christmas lights, Lancaster offers a wide range of unique experiences for families and communities to enjoy.
With so much to look forward to this time of year, why not make this holiday season extra special by adding a few of these unforgettable holiday traditions to your familyâs holiday bucket list?
Explore These Timeless Lancaster, PA Holiday Traditions
Christkindlmarkt in Lancaster, PA
Kick off the Christmas season this year by gathering your family and friends for a visit to the Christkindl Market this December! This festive event puts a unique twist on the traditional German market, featuring over thirty artisan vendors, authentic German food and drinks, hand-crafted gifts, and live music performances.
With its twinkling lights, cozy atmosphere, and festive holiday spirit, the Christkindl Market is sure to become a favorite part of your Lancaster, PA holiday traditions.
When: Sun, Dec 14. 2025 – 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: 772 S. Chiques Rd Manheim, PA, 17545
Pricing: $10 on-site parking, free admission
Amish Farmhouse Christmas Experience
If youâre looking for a unique way to experience the Pennsylvania Dutch Christmas heritage of our area, donât miss the Amish Farmhouse Christmas Experience! From November 29th to December 30th, step back in time and immerse yourself in the rustic, cozy atmosphere of a traditional Amish kitchen.
Guests can churn fresh butter, make apple cider, and learn how to prepare and bake bread and pumpkin pies. To complete your Christmas experience, a charming horse-drawn sleigh ride is included with admission!
When: November 29th, 2025-December 30th, 2025
Where: 262 Paradise Lane, Ronks, PA 17572
Pricing: 90.00/adults, $78.00/children (ages 5 to 12)
Landis Valley Christmas Village/Bonfire Night
On the evening of December 12th, bundle up and head to the charming, old-fashioned Landis Valley Museum for a festive night of music, caroling, bonfires, and Christmas cheer in Lancaster County!
Explore the gift shop, sip hot cocoa, enjoy cookies in the barn, and join the community around a bonfire for traditional caroling. This free event is a seasonal highlight and a meaningful way to give back through their food drive.
When: December 12, 2026 from 6:00 PM- 8:00 PM
Where: Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
Pricing: Free admission (donations for food drive appreciated)
Strasburg Christmas TrainÂ
If youâre looking to immerse yourself in the magic of the season, the Strasburg Christmas Train offers the perfect holiday experience!
Choose from several themed rides including the Polar Express and the Night Before Christmas Train Ride, complete with a visit from Santa. These family-friendly options offer scenic views of the Lancaster countryside and festive fun for all ages.
When: Select dates from November 15 to December 24, 2025
Where: 301 Gap Road, Strasburg, PA 17579
Pricing: See website for detailed pricing and ticket options
Refreshing Mountain Christmas Light Experience
If youâre looking for a truly unique experience to add to your Lancaster, PA Christmas traditions, donât miss the Christmas Light Experience at Refreshing Mountain! Running from November 21st, 2025 through January 3rd, 2026, this festive celebration offers two magical ways to enjoy the season: the Winter Walk Experience and a variety of Christmas Light Zipline Adventures.
The Walk Experience features beautifully lit trails winding through a forest of dazzling displays that capture the supernatural wonder of Christmas. Itâs a family-friendly event for all ages and includes access to the Wildlife Center and free kidsâ activities. Warm up with hot cocoa around a glowing campfire and take in the peaceful beauty of the lights. Tickets range from $6â$12 for children and adults.
Looking for a bit more adventure? Choose from one of three zipline packages that let you soar through the lights. Each includes elevated obstacles and breathtaking views of the illuminated forest. Zipline packages start at $49, with options for one, two, or three zips. Advanced reservations are required and include one parking pass per booking (extra passes are $10).
With group discounts, festive touches, and over half a million lights, this event has become one of the most beloved holiday experiences in Lancaster Countyâand a tradition families return to year after year.
When: November 21st, 2025 â January 3rd, 2026
Where: 455 Camp Road, Stevens, PA 17578
Pricing: Christmas Light Walk Experience: $6â$12 per person; festive Zipline packages start at $49
Make this Holiday Season Unforgettable đ
Lancaster County is full of hidden holiday treasures, and our area’s rich history comes alive through its many special traditions, especially at Christmastime. Whether you’re visiting from out of town and looking for the best things to do during the holidays, or you’re a local hoping to try something new with your family, we hope these Lancaster, PA Christmas traditions make it onto your list.
No matter which experience you choose, may your Christmas season be merry, bright, and filled with lasting memories.
Lancaster, PA Christmas Traditions: Your Holiday FAQ
What are some traditional Christmas events in Lancaster, PA?
Lancaster offers a wide range of Christmas events including the Christkindlmarkt, Strasburg Christmas Train rides, and festive evenings at Landis Valley Museum. Families can also enjoy Christmas light displays, old-fashioned bonfires, and immersive holiday farm experiences.
What is the âChristmas pickleâ tradition in Lancaster County?
In Lancaster County, descendants of PennsylvaniaâŻDutch families sometimes practice the oldâworld custom of hiding a glass pickle ornament deep in the Christmas tree. The first child (or adult) to find the pickle on Christmas morning receives an extra gift or âgood luckâ for the year.
How do Amish families in Lancaster County celebrate Christmas?
Amish Christmas traditions in the region tend to focus on simple faithâbased gatherings, handmade decorations, family meals, and community. For example, experiences like the âAmish Farmhouse Christmas Experienceâ let participants churn butter, bake pies, and ride sleighs on authentic farms.
Are there historic holiday tours or cookieâsharing traditions unique to Lancaster County?
Yes! There are holiday tours such as the Amish Christmas Cookie Tour, where visitors ride to Amish homes to sample homemade cookies, swap recipes, and learn about local holiday customs firstâhan
What makes the Christmas Light Experience at Refreshing Mountain unique?
The Christmas Light Experience at Refreshing Mountain is a one-of-a-kind holiday attraction in Lancaster County, combining scenic walking trails through beautifully lit forests with thrilling zipline rides over more than half a million lights.
Guests can enjoy a peaceful winter walk, hot cocoa by a campfire, and even explore the on-site Wildlife Center, making it a favorite holiday tradition for both families and adventure seekers.