Regarded as the most wonderful time of the year, December is packed with events that celebrate this season of holidays. Community gatherings, music, theatre, family-friendly activities, home tours, open houses, food events and lighting displays fill the calendar.
A Longwood Christmas
November 22-January 12
Longwood Gardens
The wait is over! The gift of Longwood Reimagined has been unwrapped! The ambitious project saw 17 acres be transformed into a horticultural wonderland that is home to the West Conservatory, glasshouses, spectacular gardens and the relocated 1906 Restaurant that overlooks the Main Fountain Garden. And it’s been completed just in time for A Longwood Christmas, which features hundreds of thousands of lights, gorgeous floral displays, creative vignettes and unsurpassed outdoor beauty. Timed tickets are required, and they will go fast! Information: Longwoodgardens.org
Art Aglow
November 23-December 22
Lancaster Museum of Art
Art Aglow is a year-end exhibit that features original artwork by local artists in celebration of the holiday season and our creative community. The month-long event will feature art, special events and holiday shopping at the Art Aglow Gift Shop. Hours vary. 135 N. Lime St., Lancaster. Information: Demuth.org
Herr’s Lighting Display
November 27-January 5
Herr’s Foods
Feel like taking a drive? If so, Herr’s Foods in Chester County invites the community to take in its drive-thru lighting display that features more than 600,000 lights that bathe the corporate campus in holiday cheer. There is a Visitor Center Gift Shop that is open Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (check for holiday hours). Drive-thru hours are 5 p.m.-7 a.m. daily (yes, you read that right). 20 Herr Dr., Nottingham. Information: Herrs.com
Winterfest
November 29-30 & December 1, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15
Nissley Vineyards
Come to the winery for wine, live music, food truck fare, family-friendly events and workshops. In addition, the Lighting of the Vines will be held Friday and Saturday evenings, 5-8 p.m. Hours are Friday, 4-8 p.m., Saturday, 12-8 p.m. and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. 140 Vintage Dr., Bainbridge. Information: Nissleywine.com
Christmas With the Lancaster Stormers
November 29-December 31
Clipper Magazine Stadium
The Christmas Spirit Light Show is back! Enjoy a lighting display from the comfort of your vehicle. As you journey through the mile-long track, you will be immersed and surrounded by hundreds of thousands of color-changing lights, animated and dancing in harmony with your favorite Christmas classics. Dates: November 29-December 31. Sun.-Thur., 5:30-9:30 p.m. Fri. & Sat., 5:30-10:30 p.m.
Christmas Tree Lane is also back. The stadium will be filled with more than 100 beautifully decorated trees sponsored by local nonprofits. Show your support by vo$ing for your favorite(s). Other holiday activities include pictures with Santa (dogs are welcome on Wednesdays), writing letters to the North Pole, an adult scavenger hunt, reindeer (December 12,15, 19), festive treats and much more. Dates: December 6-23, 5:30-9:30 p.m. weekdays and to 10:30 p.m. weekends.
Dashing Through the Lights 5K is also returning. Be a speedster or take a stroll through the twinkling holiday lights of the Christmas Spirit Light Show. Wear your best holiday attire. Date: December 13, 10 p.m.
Clipper is also raising funds for the Santa Stumble. Pre-register to take part in an opening night kick-off party on December 6. On December 10, attend the Christmas Lights & Pinball event that includes free games and live music. On December 12, attend the Grinch Party that will feature green beverages. All events begin at 5:30 p.m.
650 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Information: Lancasterstormers.com
Stone Gables Estate Christmas Events
November 29-January 4
Elizabethtown
Christmas festivities are in full swing at Stone Gables Estate. The schedule includes:
The National Christmas Center is a treasure trove of holiday décor and collections and includes a replica of Downtown Columbia (circa 1950s), Woolworth’s Five & Dime and living rooms decorated for Christmas through the decades. New this year are collections of 5,000 hand-painted soldiers and Anastasia dolls. If you love Christmas, this is a must-see. Dates/times vary. Shuttles leave from 48 Industrial Road in Elizabethtown.
The Santa Express Train transports guests across the estate aboard the festively decorated Harrisburg, Lincoln & Lancaster train. Dates: November. 29-December 23/dates & times vary. On December 27 & 28, the train will welcome special guests the Snow Princess and the Snow Queen.
The Christmas Drive-Thru features more than 1 million LED lights that transform Stone Gables into a Christmas miracle! It’s simply breathtaking. Features include a Moravian Star forest, Candy Cane Lane and a glowing covered bridge. Plus, the birth of Christ is told through a life-sized manger scene. Dates: November 29-January 4/gates open at 5 p.m., closing varies.
Christmas Village at Ironstone Ranch features artisans, food vendors, kid’s activities, train displays, entertainment and more. Dates: November 29-30 and December 14 & 21, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Christmas Dinner & Show, which is held in The Star Barn, features a festive holiday dinner and musical entertainment provided by such vocalists as Reggie & Ladye Love Smith, Servant Stage, Mark Forrest and Perfect Harmony. Dates: December 9-11, 16-20, 4:45 p.m.
1160 N. Market St., Elizabethtown. Information: Stonegablesestate.com
Christmas Light Experience
November 29-January 5
Refreshing Mountain
Experience the magic of Christmas lights in two unique ways: a family-friendly walking tour that takes visitors through beautifully lit trails (includes access to the Wildlife Center) or take a zipline adventure through the light-filled trees. 4:30-8:30 p.m. 455 Camp Rd., Stevens. Information: Refreshingmountain.com
Holiday Family Fun With Santa & Friends
November 30 & December 7, 14, 21
Kitchen Kettle Village
Add some cheer to your holidays with a visit to Kitchen Kettle Village, where you’ll enjoy a delicious meal, go caroling with Elf Angela, take part in a fun scavenger hunt, decorate a gingerbread man cookie and share your holiday wish list and take photos with Santa and a few of his friends. Reservations required. Check-in between 9:30 & 10 a.m. outside The Kling House. 3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse. Information: Kitchenkettle.com
A Christmas Carol
November 30-December 28
Fulton Theatre
The timeless classic has been re-imagined just for the Fulton. A miserly and miserable man, Ebenezer Scrooge greets each Christmas with a “bah humbug.” That is, until he is visited one Christmas Eve by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. The spirits show him happy memories from his past, cruel realities from the present and the grim future should he continue his cantankerous ways. This musical adaptation retains the emotional power and pure joy of the Charles Dickens story, showing us that it is never too late to change. Times vary. 12 N. Prince St., Lancaster. Information: Thefulton.org
Marietta Candlelight Tour
December 1
Marietta
One of the state’s longest-running holiday tour of homes (this will mark the 58th year), Marietta’s tour will feature seven private homes – all decorated for the holidays – as well as several public buildings. Other activities taking place include a Local Artist Showcase. Sponsored by Marietta Restoration Associates, proceeds benefit the care and upkeep of Old Town Hall and the Union Meeting House. Pre-ordered tickets are $25. Day of tickets are $30 and can be purchased at Donegal Intermediate School, Old Town Hall Museum and First National Escape Bank. Tour hours are 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Information: Mariettaresoration.org
Gifts That Give Hope Gift Fair
December 1
Farm & Home Center
Now in its 17th year, the gift fair is a festive, family-friendly event that provides holiday shoppers with the opportunity to find meaning-filled gifts for everyone on their shopping lists! There are also opportunities to support charitable organizations, as well as social enterprises and businesses for good and fair trade that specialize in ethically sourced products. Food trucks and more will also be on hand. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 1383 Arcadia Road, Lancaster. Information: Giftsthatgivehopelancaster.org
Christmas in Perfect Harmony
December 2, 3, 5, 9, 14
Barn at Paradise Station
This original concert experience is half-part musical theater nostalgia and half-part take-it-to-church worship, as performed by Perfect Harmony (Ric Zimmerman, Kat Prickett and Sarah Poague). Hear original arrangements of favorite holiday classics in (of course) three-part “perfect harmony.” The show will also feature a live band, beautiful costumes and even snow. 7:30 p.m. 312 Paradise Lane, Ronks. Information: Barnatparadistation.com
The Train Guys Model Train Display
December 2, 8, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30
Elizabethtown Public Library
Each December, members of The Train Guys build a colossal model train display at the library and invite the public to view it. Nostalgia defines the display, as it showcases sites that no longer exist in E-town. Admission is by donation, with all proceeds benefiting the library. Thursday, 5:30-7 p.m. Friday (12/8), 6-8 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (except 12/21, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.). Private group showings also available. 10 S. Market St., Elizabethtown. Information: Etownpubliclibrary.org
Wreath Workshops
December 4 & 5
Cool Spring Garden
Create your own gorgeous wreath using a variety a beautiful evergreens, eucalyptus, magnolia, berries and other textural elements. The workshop will be led by Mindi Bruckhart. Dress accordingly, as the barn is minimally heated. Light refreshments and hot beverages will be available. Following Mindi’s demo, participants will create their own gorgeous wreaths (Note: BYO clippers). 6:30 p.m. 489 Doe Run Rd., Manheim. Registration required. Information: Coolspringgarden.com
An Evening With Peter Billingsley & A Christmas Story
December 5
Pullo Center/Penn State York
The evening will include a screening of the 1983 film, A Christmas Story, followed by a moderated Q&A through which Peter Billingsley/Ralphie will share stories from the movie set, behind-the-scenes photos and memories from the Christmas classic. The screening will feature a raffle for a signed leg lamp, with all proceeds benefiting Toy for Tots.
Billingsley began his acting career at the age of 3, appearing in some of the ’70s most memorable television commercials. He became a pop-culture icon when he played Ralphie in A Christmas Story. He went on to produce such films as the first Iron Man, The Break-Up, Four Christmases. He directed Couples Retreat, which starred Vince Vaughn. In 2022, he co-wrote, produced and starred in A Christmas Story Christmas for Warner Bros. Billingsley has been nominated for three Emmys, a Tony Award and is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. 7:30 p.m. 1031 Edgecomb Ave., York. Information: Pullocenter.york.psu.edu
Best Kept Secrets Christmas Tour
December 5-14
Lancaster County
This year’s holiday tour will be centered in northwest Lancaster County and will feature 13 shops, 3 cafes and 1 winery. Ticketholders will be treated to such perks as discounts, coupons, refreshments, treats, take-and-make projects and small gifts. Collect a stamp at each location and be eligible to win one of two shopping sprees. This year, $1 from each $12 ticket will benefit Communities in School. Information: Bestkeptsecretstour.com
Ken’s Gardens Christmas Open House & Ladies Night
December 5-7
Smoketown & Intercourse
The open house will feature Ken’s expansive selection of poinsettias and other seasonal blooms, as well as holiday décor. Homemade cookies and refreshments will be served. Door prizes will be awarded. The annual Ladies Night will be held December 6 (4-7 p.m.) and will feature a workshop, shopping, door prizes and a coffee bar (free but reservations suggested.) 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 2467 Old Philadelphia Pike, Smoketown, and 3552 W. Newport Rd., Intercourse. Information: KensGardens.com
Christmas in the Park
December 6
Lititz Springs Park
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Christmas in the Park! This outdoor event will feature local performers, a carol sing with candle lighting and the lighting of the Community Christmas Tree. Food vendors will be onsite. 6:30 p.m. 18 N. Broad St., Lititz. (Note: rain date is December 7.) Information: Facebook.com/lititzspringspark
Holiday Celebration
December 6 & 7
Intercourse
Experience Christmas in the village of Intercourse, where a holiday extravaganza awaits! Events will include a Christmas Cookie Tour (Dec. 7, 1-4 p.m.) sponsored by the Merchants Association that will take ticketholders into lodging properties (Osceola Mill House, AmishView Inn & Suites, Best Western Plus Intercourse Village Inn & Suites, The Inn at Kitchen Kettle Village and the Inn & Spa at Intercourse Village), where cookies will be on the menu. Other festivities include a German-style Christmas market, horse-drawn carriage rides, food trucks and vendor stands, a cookie-baking contest, a workshop at Ken’s Gardens, Candy Cane Lane (lights!), ice carving, German dancing, caroling, a tree lighting and a visit from Santa. The festivities kick off Friday at 9 a.m. and continue through 7 p.m. on Saturday. Information: Villageofintercourse.com
The Nutcracker
December 6-8
Viktor Yeliohin Ballet
Be delighted by this holiday tradition featuring professional dancers from around the world, as well as nearly 100 students from Lancaster County and beyond. Directed by Viktor Yeliohin, follow along with the beloved music and dancing as Clara travels on a magical journey, battling an evil rat king, through a snowy forest and into the Land of Sweets. Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker dates to 1892, when it was performed for the first time the week before Christmas in St. Petersburg, Russia. The ballet then traveled to England in 1934 followed by the United States in 1944. Last year marked Viktor Yeliohin’s 30th time for directing The Nutcracker. Friday, 6:30 p.m. Saturday, 1 & 6 p.m. Sunday, 2 p.m. 2176 Lincoln Highway East., Lancaster (Lancaster Mennonite High School). Information: Vyballet.com
Servant Stage Company’s Christmas Crooners
December 6-22
Various Venues
Get ready to be enchanted by a heartwarming and nostalgic revue show that will transport you to the golden age of holiday classics. From timeless renditions of beloved carols to modern twists on traditional favorites, Christmas Crooners promises an unforgettable journey through the joys and wonders of the holiday season, leaving you with memories to cherish long after the final note fades into the crisp winter night. Venues include The Junction Center in Manheim (December 6-8), Lancaster Alliance Church (December 12-15) and the Ware Center in Downtown Lancaster (December 19-22). Information: Servantstage.org
Amish Christmas Cookie Tour
December 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-28
Lancaster County
Hosted by the Amish Farm & House, the tour enables guests to step away from the stress of the holidays and enjoy a relaxing and festive journey. You’ll visit three authentic Amish homes, where you’ll interact with family members, learn about the Amish culture and sample homemade Christmas cookies. You’ll not only leave with an appreciation of another culture, but you’ll receive recipes and cookies to take home and enjoy. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Shuttle buses leave from the Amish Farm & House, 2395 Covered Bridge Dr., Lancaster. Information: Amishfarmandhouse.com
Elf Jr. The Musical
December 6-8, 13-15, 20-22
EPAC
Based on the beloved film, this delightful musical brings the magic of Christmas to life on stage. Follow Buddy, a cheerful and oversized elf, as he leaves the North Pole in search of his true identity in bustling New York City. Along the way, he spreads joy, love and a bit of chaos, teaching us all the true meaning of Christmas. With catchy songs, energetic dance numbers and a heartwarming story, Elf, Jr. is the perfect show for kids and adults alike. Times vary. 320 Cocalico St., Ephrata. Information: Epactheatre.org
Christmas in the Park
December 6-8 and 13-15
Terre Hill
This fun-filled event features 100+ handmade lighted displays set up along the signature Christmas-themed walking trail, visits with Santa, craft vendors, kids’ activities, ice sculpture carving, live music and more! Bring your appetite and enjoy a variety of tasty treats from our food pavilion and local vendors. Stop by each night for special events and visit with other community organizations from the area. Parking and admission are free, some activities require a small fee. Proceeds benefit the Terre Hill Park. Transportation through the trail is available at no cost for those in need. 5-8:30 p.m. 201 Lancaster Ave., Terre Hill. Information: Terrehilldays.com
Lancaster City for the Holidays
December 6-31
Lancaster City
Now that the tree’s been lit in Penn Square, it’s time to celebrate the holiday season!
Ewell Plaza will be the scene of a Holiday Arts Market through which local artisans will display and sell their work. December 6, 5-8 p.m.
Once the market wraps up, the unique sound of Tuba Christmas will resonate in Ewell Plaza. December 6, 8 p.m.
Santa in the City will see jolly old Saint Nick greet children in Ewell Plaza and then set off to visit Lancaster’s various neighborhoods. December 6, 7, 14, Time TBA.
Light Up Southeast will see South Duke Street Mall come alive with lights, creativity and unity on December 6, 6-9 p.m.
Lancaster Shops Late will help shoppers get a start on or finish their holiday shopping, as stores will remain open until at least 8 p.m. on December 13.
The spirit of Hanukkah will be display from December 25-January 1, when the Jewish Community Alliance of Lancaster celebrates the tradition of Menorah Lightings each evening of the eight-day observance of the Festival of Lights. Penn Square.
Spend New Year’s Eve at Clipper Magazine Stadium, where the family-friendly festivities will include music, entertainment, food and a new take on the Red Rose Drop, followed by fireworks. December 31, 8 p.m. -midnight.
Information: Visitlancastercity.com
Holiday Home Tour
December 7
Strasburg
The Strasburg Heritage Society is hosting its 13th annual tour that will take visitors into seven festively decorated homes that range in style from historic to contemporary. Three local churches will be open as well. Advance tickets ($20) can be ordered online or purchased at Main Street Antiques and Speckled Hen. Tour-day tickets ($25) can be purchased at Strasburg First Presbyterian Church (101 S. Decatur St.), where food, greens and craft items can be purchased. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. A tree lighting will take place December 6 at 5:30 p.m. at the Borough Building. Information: Strasburgheritagesociety.org
Holiday Makers Market
December 7, 14, 21
Greenfield
Creatively Lancaster invites you to experience festive cheer, handmade goods, unique gifts and seasonal treats in celebration of the spirit of the holidays. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 1740 Hempstead Rd., Lancaster. Information: Greenfieldlancaster.com
Winterfest
December 7
Mount Joy
Mount Joy welcomes the holidays with a street fair (portions of Main Street will be closed). New for this year is the Holiday Market at Winterfest, which will feature local vendors specializing in handmade pottery, jewelry, candles and other items. Santa will greet children at the Sheetz Funeral Home. Live music will be on Main Street, while a food court will be on Delta Street. Retail shops will be open for holiday shopping, and various businesses, churches, and non-profit organizations will have tables set up along Main Street. A tree lighting concludes the event. 1-5 p.m. Information: Facebook.com
Christmas in Manheim
December 7 & 8
Manheim
Lots to see and do this weekend, including Crafts, Cookies and Cocoa at the Manheim Community Library (December 7, 2-3 p.m.); Holiday Crossings, sponsored by the Friends of the Manheim Community Library, the event is being held at the Historic Manheim Train Station and will feature book and gift sales, basket giveaways, a model train exhibit and treats from Cozy Café (December 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and December 8, 12-4 p.m.). The Manheim Historical Society will also be hosting an open house at the Fasig and Keath houses and Heritage Center, all of which be honoring the theme “1774: Stories from the Archives” and commemorating the date (December 24, 1774) that Henry William Stiegel was freed from debtor’s prison. The 9th annual Santa 5K Run and Walk gets underway at 8:30 a.m. on December 7 in Market Square (Santa costumes encouraged!). The town’s tree lighting will be held on December 7 (4:30-6:30 p.m.) and will include caroling, food vendors, family-friendly activities and more. The Women’s Club of Manheim’s annual Holiday Home Tour (December 8, 12:30-4:30 p.m.) will take visitors into area homes and historical buildings. Information: Lovemanheim.com
Christmas at the Cloister
December 9 & 10
Historic Ephrata Cloister
Held in the original 1741 Saal or Meetinghouse, the “lessons and carols” style program combines the Christmas story with seasonal music and familiar carols. The program features the talents of the Ephrata Cloister Chorus under the direction of Mark Herr, with guest musicians Randy Kochel and Amanda Wells on hammer dulcimer and guitar. Following the program, participants are invited to enjoy mulled cider and cookies in the Visitor Center. Seating is limited, and advance tickets are required! 6:30 p.m. 632 W. Main St., Ephrata. Information: Ephratacloister.org
Kingdom Choir Holiday Show
December 13
Winter Visual & Performing Arts Show
Earning worldwide acclaim with their show-stopping performance of Stand By Me at the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the London-based choir’s infectious joy and spirit, matched by their powerful Gospel spiritual style, take traditional holiday favorites and modern classics to soaring new heights. 7:30 p.m. 60 W. Cottage Ave., Millersville University. Information: Artsmu.com
Bird-in-Hand Christmas Village
December 13 & 14
Bird-in-Hand
Santa is coming to Bird-in-Hand with fun for young and young-at-heart alike. The festivities will take place at both Bird-in-Hand Bakery & Café and Bird-in-Hand Artisan Village, with reindeer, entertainment, prizes and more. Take a hayride and then warm up with hot chocolate and other goodies from the outdoor Snowflake Station. There will be activities for all ages, including a Frozen-themed Bounce House and food/drink samples. Shop for gifts at Artisan Village. Step inside the bakery/café and decorate your own Christmas cookie. Donations for Conestoga Valley Christian Community Services (canned goods/financial gifts) and Toys for Tots (new/ unwrapped toys) will be accepted. Friday, 3-7 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at the bakery, and 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. at Artisan Village. Route 340 in Bird-in-Hand. Information: Bird-in-Hand.com
Christmas Folk Art Show
December 13 & 14
Manheim Railroad Station
The show will feature local artisans, including Mike Brown (paper mache), Cynthia Baker (hand-woven textiles), Maddie Erickson (German paper stars and feather trees), Lee Pfoutz (wildlife wood carver), Bob and Sally Hughes (River Rat Pottery), Karen Hurd (tinsmith), Jim Murphy (painted furniture, wood carvings), Doug and Sue Shaw (wood carvings), Kelly Gallagher (spun cotton) and Colin Nunemacher (carved and dovetailed hardwood boxes). Friday, 3-7 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 210 S. Charlotte St., Manheim. Information: Facebook.com
Holidays Through the Years
December 14-20
Winters Heritage House Museum
As you walk through the rustic cabins and read about different holiday traditions, you’ll enjoy the smells, sights and sounds of the season provided by the museum staff, the crafters team, quilters, textile and gardening enthusiasts and the kids decorating club. Children’s activities will be available. Admission by donation. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 47 E. High St., Elizabethtown. Information: Elizabethtownhistory.org
Santa & Goats
December 14
Amish Farm & House
It doesn’t get any cuter than this: Santa assisted by his baby goat helpers. Talk about a photo op! But there’s more to do including a festive scavenger hunt (with prizes), hayrides, animal encounters, crafts & games, demos and more. 12-4 p.m. (property hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m.) 2395 Covered Bridge Dr., Lancaster. Information: Amishfarmandhouse.com
Leslie Odom, Jr. – The Christmas Tour
December 17
Hershey Theatre
Leslie Odom Jr., an award-nominated/winning actor, singer, songwriter and entertainer, is best known for his breakout role as ‘Aaron Burr’ in the hit Broadway musical, Hamilton, as well as his critically acclaimed performance as legendary soul singer Sam Cooke in Regina King’s 2020 film One Night in Miami. Most recently, Odom made his long-awaited return to Broadway, starring in and co-producing the new Broadway production of the classic American comedy Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch by the legendary Ossie Davis. His fifth studio album, When A Crooner Dies, was released in November 2023. 7:30 p.m. 15 E. Caracas Ave., Hershey. Information: Hersheyentertainment.com
Winter Solstice Around the World
December 21
Lancaster County Central Park
The winter solstice is one of the oldest winter celebrations in the world and is observed by many different cultures and religions; some eat special meals while others light symbolic fires. Join park naturalist, Stevie Kitching, to learn how and why the winter solstice is celebrated by so many. After the presentation, participants are welcome to join a campfire for a chance to relax and enjoy some hot chocolate. Dress for the weather and bring a lawn chair and flashlight if you plan to stay for the campfire. 6 p.m. Environmental Center. 3 Nature’s Way, Lancaster. Registration required. Information: Co.Lancaster.pa.us
Yuletide at Historic Rock Ford
December 27-29
Historic Rock Ford
Let the celebrating continue! The candlelit Hand Mansion will be bedecked in its holiday grandeur. Period dance demonstrations, open hearth cooking and live music from the harpsichord and violin will also be held. During the 1790s at Rock Ford, Christmas Day marked the beginning of the holiday season, which encompassed 12 days of celebration culminating with Twelfth Night on January 6. Friday, 4-8 p.m. Saturday & Sunday, 2-6 p.m. Information: Historicrockford.org
A Night at the Oscars
December 28 & 29
Gardner Theatre
The Lancaster Symphony Orchestra will perform award-winning film soundtracks, highlighting the best Hollywood has to offer in the realm of music. Relive the magic of your favorite films through their unforgettable scores in a performance guaranteed to entertain and inspire the entire family. 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. each day. 725 Hamilton Rd., Lancaster. Information: Lancastersymphony.org
Ephrata Unexpected
December 31
Ephrata
This community celebration has become the place to ring in the New Year! Now in its third year, the street party (Main and State streets are closed) features live music, food trucks/vendors, breweries/distilleries and more. As the clock approaches 12, a green dragon will ascend skyward, and fireworks will light up the sky to bid adieu to 2024 and welcome 2025. 9:30 p.m.-12 a.m. Information: Mainspringofephrata.org
New Year’s Eve at Dutch Apple
December 31
Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
It’s not the holidays without a little Elvis and More! Dwight Icenhower is back to perform his award-winning, legendary tribute to the king of rock ‘n’ roll, Elvis Presley. Dwight will also pay tribute to artists who have influenced him, including Jerry Lee Lewis, Ricky Nelson, Elton John, Tom Jones, and many others! Event features a festive lunch/dinner, a toast at midnight and some surprises. Two shows are offered at 1 p.m. and 9 p.m. 510 Centerville Rd., Lancaster. Information: Dutchapple.com
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