If you’re looking for things to do in December, consider Lancaster County. Whether you live locally or are visiting or vacationing, you’ll find lots of Christmas activities near Bird-in-Hand to help you create lasting holiday memories. Here is a list of our Top 5 favorites for the holiday season.

1. See a Live Stage Show

You don’t have to navigate subway schedules or deal with big-city crowds in order to enjoy high-quality Broadway-style live entertainment. Enjoy live, entertainment in the heart of Lancaster County at the Bird-in-Hand Stage. Skip the big-city crowds and experience high-quality musicals and plays that captivate audiences of all ages. Discover heartwarming stories, inspiring music, and family-friendly performances that celebrate tradition and joy.

Located just west of the Bird-in-Hand Stage, American Music Theatre is a premier live entertainment venue in Lancaster County. Known for its spectacular original productions and concerts, the theater features talented performers, stunning sets, and unforgettable music. With a variety of shows throughout the year, it’s the perfect destination for an evening of exceptional entertainment. Visit American Music Theatre for an unforgettable live performance experience!

Located just 10 minutes from the Bird-in-Hand Stage on US Route 30, Magic & Wonder Theater offers a unique live entertainment experience. Known for its captivating performances featuring masterful illusions, comedy, music, and dazzling costumes, this family-friendly venue brings magic to life. Discover an unforgettable show that inspires wonder and joy for audiences of all ages.

For the latest shows and performance schedules in Bird-in-Hand, visit the Bird-in-Hand Stage or check the Events Calendar for updates and upcoming events. Make your Lancaster experience unforgettable!

2. Ride Strasburg Railroad’s Christmas Train

If your favorite holiday memories involve model trains under the tree, imagine how magical a ride on a real Christmas train would be! The Strasburg Railroad is just 5 miles from our Bird-in-Hand Family Inn, and it offers a variety of unique experiences for the holidays. Santa’s Christmas Trolley is an exclusive 45-minute ride through Pennsylvania Dutch Country aboard the historic, one-of-a-kind self-propelled Lancaster, Oxford & Southern Motorcar. Children ages 11 and under can sit with Santa Claus and have their pictures taken.

Since 1959, Strasburg Railroad has offered Santa’s Paradise Express Coach rides aboard its steam train. Youngsters receive a gift from Santa and his helpers. They can also drop off letters to Santa in the North Pole Express mailbox, along with a self-addressed stamped envelope for a reply. And all ages will love the Night Before Christmas Train Coach while remembering Clement Clarke Moore’s classic poem, “The Night Before Christmas,” as the train wheels clickety-clack. Passengers can choose between the lounge car with swiveling captain’s seats or the authentically restored Victorian coach car.

To check availability and make reservations, visit the Strasburg Railroad website.

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3. Visit Kitchen Kettle Village

 

Santa and friends at Kitchen Kettle Village

With more than 40 unique stores, two restaurants and a full calendar of seasonal special events, Kitchen Kettle Village draws visitors from near and far. Located within walking distance of Travelers Rest Motel, this charming shopping destination began as a home-based canning business in 1954.

Today it is one of Lancaster County’s most popular attractions. It still has a working canning kitchen, and if you drop by The Jam & Relish Kitchen, you can sample their homemade jams, and browse a variety of Pennsylvania Dutch canned and baked goods, relish, salsa, pickles and more. Retailers offer a wide variety of wares from local artisans as well as nationally known brands, and you’ll find delicious goodies at Aged and Cured, Mom’s Pretzels, The Roasted Rooster and many others.

Are you traveling with the kids? Don’t miss Holiday Family Fun with Santa & Friends on Saturdays through Dec. 21. Tickets include a voucher for lunch at the Harvest Cafe, a homemade cookie from the Bake Shop, a stocking for children under 10, photo opportunities with Santa and a treasure map with offers for each adult. For tickets, call (800) 732-3538 or book online. If you want to make a mini-vacation weekend out of it, our family-friendly, resort-style Bird-in-Hand Family Inn is just minutes from Kitchen Kettle Village.

4. Spend a Day at Dutch Winter Wonderland

Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster bills itself as “A Kingdom for Kids with dozens of rides and attractions.” On Saturdays, Sundays and select weekdays through Dec. 31 its Dutch Winter Wonderland event features themed rides, special entertainment and thousands of dazzling twinkle lights.  Dutch Winter Wonderland also has visits with Santa and Duke’s Diamond New Year’s, an exclusive kids’ party on New Year’s Eve.

5. Explore the Bird-in-Hand Artisan Village

Explore the Bird-in-Hand Artisan Village

For a unique holiday experience, visit the Bird-in-Hand Artisan Village. This charming village features a variety of specialty shops showcasing handcrafted items, locally made goods, and artisan creations. Stroll through the village and discover one-of-a-kind gifts, from handmade pottery and jewelry to custom leather goods and home décor.

Many holiday events and experiences in Lancaster County offer limited availability, so be sure to check each organization’s website for the latest event details and ticket information. While visiting, take advantage of the warm hospitality found at all Bird-in-Hand entertainment, dining, and lodging venues. Don’t forget to explore the Bird-in-Hand Artisan Village for unique, handcrafted gifts and memorable experiences during your stay!