{"id":14049,"date":"2018-01-05T10:51:23","date_gmt":"2018-01-05T15:51:23","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/?p=14049"},"modified":"2018-01-05T10:51:28","modified_gmt":"2018-01-05T15:51:28","slug":"what-to-do-warm-up-with-fun-winter-options","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/?p=14049","title":{"rendered":"What To Do: Warm up with fun winter options"},"content":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff<\/strong>, Staff Writer, The Times<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>If you\u2019re able to block out the winter weather and want to get out of the house and do something fun this weekend, you do have some interesting options.<\/p>\n

The first Friday of the month is a good time to spend an evening in Kennett Square or Lancaster \u2013 a time to enjoy special First Friday activities.<\/p>\n

Kennett Square will celebrate First Friday with its Art Stroll (downtown Kennett Square, http:\/\/historickennettsquare.com<\/a>) from 6-9 p.m. on January 5.<\/p>\n

The event celebrates the local art scene with special activities in the galleries, shops and restaurants throughout town.\u00a0 Many of the town\u2019s businesses and galleries will stay open late for First Friday.<\/p>\n

Kennett Square\u2019s Art Stroll is a monthly celebration of the local art scene as it is showcased in the galleries, shops and restaurants throughout town.\u00a0 Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to wander along the tree-lined streets and browse the many businesses that stay open late.<\/p>\n

Lancaster also has a lively First Friday celebration very month. This month\u2019s edition of First Friday Lancaster (http:\/\/www.firstfridaylancaster.com\/<\/a>) will run from 5-9 p.m. on January 5 in downtown Lancaster.<\/p>\n

The event will feature attractive exhibitions at art galleries, artisan studios and museums. There will also be live performances presented in a variety of genres \u2014 professional theater, symphony orchestra and performing groups.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>Every Friday and Saturday in January, the Chaddsford Winery (632 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221, http:\/\/www.chaddsford.com<\/a>) will present \u201cWild West Murder Mystery Nights\u201d from 6:30-9 p.m. each night.<\/p>\n

Here is the scenario.<\/p>\n

The year\u2019s 1880, and there\u2019s an effort underway to resurrect the once-booming Chaddsford Saloon.\u00a0 A series of murders from a decade back sent the town of Chadds Ford into disrepair, but a certain cowboy reckons the time has finally come to get the town back on its feet.<\/p>\n

Guests are invited to head on down to the \u201cGrand Reopenin\u2019\u201d to see what all the fuss is about. The event is billed as \u201csure to be a gun-slingin\u2019 good time.\u201d<\/p>\n

Along with an exciting evening of mystery and suspense, visitors can enjoy heavy hors d\u2019oeuvres and an array of Chaddsford Winery wines.<\/p>\n

The \u201cMenu and Pairing Lineup\u201d features Texan Picnic Charcuterie Board with Proprietors Reserve White and Barrel Select Chardonnay, Mushroom Tart with Artisan Series Traminette and Chaddsford White, Steak & Ale Chili with Corn Bread with Artisan Series Fusion Chaddsford Red, Rigatoni in a\u00a0Spicy Sherry Cream Sauce with Sunset Blush \u00a0Pinot Grigio, Pulled Pork Sliders with Horseradish Slaw with Proprietors Reserve Red and Sangria, Pecan Pie Tart and Banana Cream Parfait with Spiced Apple wine and Coffee.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $60 and reservations are required.<\/p>\n

The \u201cWine, Cheese & Honey Pairings at Penns Woods\u201d at Penns Wood Winery (124 Beaver Valley Road, Chadds Ford, 610-459-0808, http:\/\/www.pennswoodsevents.com<\/a>) provide a nice way for visitors to enjoy a winter weekend day.<\/p>\n

Penns Woods Winery is joining forces with local cheese makers and local honey artisans to present exclusive pairings of wine, cheese and honey. The tastings will feature five premium Penns Woods wines, each paired with various cheeses and honey from local farms.<\/p>\n

The mouth-watering tastings will be held every weekend in January from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturdays and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sundays. As an added attraction, live music will be featured on January 6, 13, 20 and 27 from 2-5 p.m. each day.<\/p>\n

Tickets cost $28 per person in advance and reservations are required. Cancellations must be made within 72 hours or ticket holders will be charged the full amount of the tasting. Reservations are made and kept on the hour.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

The Greater Philadelphia Spring Home Show<\/p><\/div>\n

If you\u2019re interested in repairing, refurbishing or upgrading your home, you should plan a visit to the Greater Philadelphia Spring Home Show this weekend at the Valley Forge Casino Resort (1160 First Avenue, King of Prussia, 888-433-3976, www.acshomeshow.com<\/a>).<\/p>\n

The annual show, which is produced by American Consumer Shows, will open on January 5 and continue through January 7. Hours are from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Saturday and 10a.m.-6p.m. on Sunday. The event features free admission and parking.<\/p>\n

The event is geared for homeowners in all stages of remodeling, landscaping and decorating their homes. Visitors to the show will be able to check out new products and receive expert advice from professionals. The show\u2019s \u201cKitchen Showcase\u201d features the latest styles and trends installed by knowledgeable, professional, local contractors.<\/p>\n

At the popular annual event, homeowners will find a wide array of ideas and inspiration for enhancing their home\u2019s functionality, aesthetic appeal, comfort and overall value. The show offers hundreds of exhibits featuring product demonstrations, sample displays of interior and exterior vignettes and a wide variety of related merchandise.<\/p>\n

There will be exhibitors representing a huge range of categories, including architects, masonry, lighting, painting, roofing, floors, air conditioning, lighting, home theaters, financing, appliances, plumbing, heating, paving, waterproofing, siding and even spas.<\/p>\n

Some of the featured exhibitors will be Acre Window Replacement, A Plus Metal Roofing Specialists, Affordable Weaver, American Kitchen Refacing, AquaGuard Waterproofing Corp., Homespire Windows, Install America, JC Woodworking, Kitchen Solvers of West Chester, Lifetime Metal Roof Systems<\/p>\n

Mid-Atlantic Waterproofing, R.E.M. Sleep Solutions, Sandberg’s Custom Hardwood Floors, Bath Fitter, Closets By Design, Code Green Solar, and Floor And D\u00e9cor.<\/p>\n

Also featured will be Gorgeous Wall Finishes, Granite Transformations, Homespire Windows, Install America, JC Woodworking, Kitchen Solvers of West Chester, Lifetime Metal Roof Systems, Mid-Atlantic Waterproofing, R.E.M. Sleep Solutions, Sandberg’s Custom Hardwood Floors, Solid Wood Cabinet Company, Spa, Hearth and Home Pool Center, USA Insulation and Victory Closets.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Three Kings Day<\/p><\/div>\n

The Kimmel Center (Broad and Spruce streets, Philadelphia, 215-731-3333, www.kimmelcenter.org<\/a>) is teaming up with the Consulate of Mexico and the Mexican Cultural Center to present a special \u201cThree Kings Day\u201d celebration on January 6 at 5 p.m.<\/p>\n

Together, they are offering an invitation to partake in one of the most widely-celebrated holidays among Hispanics and Latinos \u2013 to join in a reenactment of the story of the Three Wise Men.<\/p>\n

Visitors will be able to enjoy an evening of activities, pi\u00f1atas and a piece of traditional \u201cRosca de Reyes\u201d bread, which will be the largest one ever made in Philadelphia.<\/p>\n

Rosca de Reyes, which translates to \u201cKings\u2019 Ring,\u201d is an oval-shaped pastry traditionally eaten to celebrate Epiphany<\/a> on January 6. Epiphany is also known as D\u00eda de Reyes (\u201cKings\u2019 Day\u201d) — a day to commemorate the arrival of the three Magi or Wise Men<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The tradition of placing a figurine of the Christ child<\/a> in the cake goes back centuries. The baby Jesus hidden in the bread represents the flight of the Holy Family, fleeing from King Herod<\/a>\u2019s Massacre of the Innocents<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Whoever finds the baby Jesus figurine is blessed and must take the figurine to the nearest church on February 2 (Candlemas Day<\/a>, D\u00eda de la Candelaria). In the Mexican culture, this person also must host a dinner which includes tamales<\/a> and hot chocolate.<\/p>\n

Also, this weekend, Kimmel Center Presents \u201cDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: King for a Day!\u201d on January 5 and 6 at the Merriam Theater (250 South Broad Street, Philadelphia).<\/p>\n

The \u201cgrr-ific\u201d musical for little tigers and grown-ups alike is back with an all-new show for 2017-2018. The hugely-popular \u201cDaniel Tiger\u2019s Neighborhood LIVE!\u201d based on the PBS KIDS TV series, has delighted live audiences on stages across the country.<\/p>\n

Daniel and all of his friends invite fans to join in a brand-new adventure in Neighborhood of Make-Believe where Daniel learns just what it takes to be King. The beloved characters come alive on stage to captivate young audiences with new songs to sing along to, magical moments, and surprise guests.<\/p>\n

Show times are 6 p.m. on January 5, and 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on January 6. Ticket prices range from $29.50-$80.<\/p>\n

On January 5 from 3-5 p.m., there will also be a free \u201cThree Kings Day Celebration\u201d at Taller Puertorrique\u00f1o (2557 North Fifth Street, Philadelphia, 215-423-6320,tallerpr.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

The celebration will feature a musical procession filled with song and merriment. After the performance,\u00a0children will receive gifts in tradition of the holiday. In keeping with the tradition, the children must bring a small box with grass. Because this activity is for children, the child must be present to receive the gift.<\/p>\n

January 6 is a special day in the Latin world \u2013 not just Mexico. It is the height of Christmas season when the three Magi — Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthasar — parade into town bearing gifts for the children.\u00a0 Taller Puertorrique\u00f1o\u2019s El D\u00eda de Reyes comes to el Barrio on January 5 with live music, gift giving, and a parade. It is mandatory that children pre-register.<\/p>\n

After a highly-successful debut last year, \u201cPhiladelphia Loves Bowie Week<\/a>\u201d (https:\/\/phillylovesbowie.wordpress.com\/<\/a>) is back.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>From January 5-14, Philadelphia once again shows its love for David Bowie\u00a0night after night after glorious night. More than a dozen activities will be happening across the city to celebrate and remember a man who changed the world.<\/p>\n

There has always been a connection between Bowie and Philadelphia because Philly embraced him from the very first tour.\u00a0Ziggy Stardust\u2019s shows at the Tower Theater sold out in record time.<\/p>\n

Bowie recorded three albums \u2013 \u201cDavid Live,\u201d \u201cYoung Americans,\u201d and \u201cStage\u201d and filmed the video for \u201cModern Love\u201d in the City of Brotherly Love.<\/p>\n

The organizers of \u201cPhiladelphia Loves Bowie Week<\/a>\u201d also use this week as a portal to raise awareness and funds to help benefit cancer research in Bowie\u2019s memory — to benefit the children at the Children\u2019s Hospital of Philadelphia.<\/p>\n

On January 6, the Lancaster County Park Environmental Center (1 Nature\u2019s Way, Lancaster, https:\/\/apm.activecommunities.com\/LancasterCountyParks<\/a>, 717-295-2055) will present a special program titled \u201cAnimal Survival During Winter.\u201d<\/p>\n

Visitors to the site will be able to join Naturalist Nate Alter to learn how animals survive the harsh conditions of winter \u2013 conditions such as they are experiencing right now.<\/p>\n

After a brief PowerPoint presentation, participants will explore Lancaster County Central Park trails and look for signs of wildlife and winter food sources.<\/p>\n

Attendees are urged to dress for the weather — and to wear comfortable walking shoes.<\/p>\n

The event will run from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Tickets are $2.<\/p>\n

Over the next few days, Norristown Farm Park (2500 Upper Farm Rd, Norristown, 610-270-0215, https:\/\/www.montcopa.org\/874\/Norristown-Farm-Park<\/a>) is shifting into an aviary vibe.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

The Owls of Pennsylvania<\/p><\/div>\n

On January 7, the educational park site will host an event called \u201cThe Owls of Pennsylvania\u201d at 2 p.m.<\/p>\n

Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the natural history of Pennsylvania owls at this informative indoor program.<\/p>\n

A slide show will be followed by a visit from an educator with Elmwood Park Zoo who will be accompanied by a real owl. This is a great way to see a wild owl at close range. Suggested donation is $3 per person.<\/p>\n

On January 10 at 1 p.m., the park in Norristown will host an event titled \u201cLittle Hoots.\u201d<\/p>\n

Participants will be able to touch an owl feather, examine an owl skull, and look at an owl pellet.<\/p>\n

The program provides guest with a way to learn about these mysterious birds — how they hear, see, call, and hunt. They can also listen to a story, make an owl craft and meet one of Elmwood Park Zoo\u2019s owls. Suggested donation is $5 per person.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>Every year, the Garden State Discovery Museum (2040 Springdale Road, Cherry Hill, New Jersey, 856-424-1233, www.discoverymuseum.com<\/a>) presents a special program called \u201cPassport to Discovery.\u201d<\/p>\n

The opening event is the \u201cPassport to Discovery Kickoff,\u201d which is scheduled for January 6 and 7 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. each day. Children will be able to participate in an array of activities to introduce them to the cultures of other countries.<\/p>\n

On January 27, the event will be \u201cPassport to Discovery: Japan\u201d with an educational look at the customs of the Asian island country.<\/p>\n

Other activities in the series are \u201cPassport to Discovery: A Frosty Weekend\u201d on February 10 and 11, \u201cPassport to Discovery: Africa\u201d on February 17 and 18 and 19, \u201cPassport to Discovery: Ireland\u201d on March 3 and 4, and \u201cPassport to Discovery: Polynesia\u201d on March 17.<\/p>\n

Admission to the Garden State Discovery Museum is $13.95 for adults and children 12 months and over and $12.95 for seniors.<\/p>\n

It is usually rather difficult to find ponds around Chester County that are frozen solidly enough to attempt outdoor skating but that might change this winter. But, skating outdoors means dealing with the elements that make the conditions almost unbearable.<\/p>\n

Fortunately, there are quite a few very good indoor locations for ice skating in the area.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Power Play Rinks<\/p><\/div>\n

One of the best local skating sites is Power Play Rinks (701 Haywood Drive, Exton, 610-458-9160, www.powerplayrinks.com<\/a>). The site offers weekday public skating Mondays through Fridays from noon-1:30 p.m. Added weekend hours are from 8:35-10:05 p.m. on Fridays and 1-2:30 p.m. on Saturdays. Admission is $7.<\/p>\n

Another Chester County site for public skating is Ice Line Quad Rinks (700 Lawrence Drive, West Chester, 610-436-9670, www.iceline.info<\/a>). Hours for public skating are Mondays-Thursdays, 1-2:30 p.m.; Fridays, 1-2:30 p.m. and 8-9:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 2-3:30 p.m. and 8:30-10 p.m. and Sundays, 2-3:30 p.m. Fees are $5 on weekdays and $8 from Friday-Sunday. Skate rental is $2.<\/p>\n

The Horizon Riverfront Rink (308 Justison St., Wilmington, Delaware, 302-425-4890, www.riverfrontwilm.com<\/a>) is entering its sophomore season this year. Hours are 4-9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 4-10 p.m. on Fridays, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. on Saturdays and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. on Sundays. Admission is $8.50 (ages 13 and older) and $.505 (ages 12 and younger). Skate rental is $4.<\/p>\n

Ice Works Twin Rinks of Aston (701 West Dutton Mill Road, Aston, 610-497-2200, www.iceworks.net<\/a>) is open to the public every day. Hours for public skating sessions are Mondays-Thursdays, noon-1:30 p.m.; Fridays, noon-1:30 p.m. and 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 2-4 p.m. and 7-9:30 p.m.; and Sundays, 2-4 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and free for children (four and under) while the skate rental fee is $2.<\/p>\n

Haverford Skatium (1004 Darby Road, Havertown, 610-853-2226, www.havtwpparksandrec.com<\/a>) offers public sessions Mondays through Thursdays from 10 a.m.-noon, Fridays from 10 a.m.-noon and 7-8:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 1:15-3:15 p.m. and 8:45-10:45 p.m. Regular admission is $8 while admission for children under six is $6 and for seniors is $3. Skate rental is $2.<\/p>\n

Oaks Center Ice (87 Brower Avenue, Oaks, 610-650-9690, www.oakscenterice.com<\/a>) has public skating on weekdays from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Fridays from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Saturdays from 2-4 p.m. and 7:30-9:30 p.m. and Sundays from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Skating sessions cost $7 and skate rental is $2.<\/p>\n

Wintersport Ice Sports Arena (551 North York Road, Willow Grove, 215-659-4253, www.wintersporticearena.com<\/a>) features public skating Monday through Friday from 12-1:30 p.m. Weekend sessions are 8:30-10:10 p.m. on Fridays, 5:50-7:40 p.m. on Saturdays and 12:50-2:30 p.m. on Sundays. Fees are $10 and include skate rental.<\/p>\n

Unlike most of the suburban ice rinks, RiverRink (Delaware Avenue at Walnut Street, Philadelphia, 215-925-RINK, www.riverrink.com<\/a>) features public skating and that\u2019s all. At RiverRink, ice skating is the featured attraction — and the only use of the ice.<\/p>\n

The outdoor rink\u2019s hours are 1-11 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 1 p.m.-1 a.m. on Fridays, 11 a.m.-1 a.m. on Saturdays and 11 a.m.-11 p.m. on Sundays. Skating admission prices are $3 and skate rental is $10.<\/p>\n

Rizzo Ice Rink (1101 S. Front Street, Philadelphia, 215-685-1593, www.rizzorink.com<\/a>), which is located along the banks of the Delaware River, offers public skating times from 3:30-5 p.m. every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. There are also weekend sessions on Friday from 6:30-8 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Admission is free and skate rental is $4.<\/p>\n

Wissahickon Skating Club (650 W. Willow Grove Avenue, Philadelphia, 215-247-1759, www.wissskating.com<\/a>) is a private club that has guest member sessions each Friday from 8:30-10:30 p.m. and every Saturday from 12:45-2:15 p.m. Admission is $9. Skates can be rented for $3.<\/p>\n

Class of 1923 Ice Arena Ice Skating Rink (3130 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, 215-898-1923, http:\/\/www.business-services.upenn.edu\/icerink<\/a>) is open for public skating on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 12:30-2 p.m. and Saturdays from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Fees are $6 while skate rental is $3.<\/p>\n

The Rink at Old York Road (8116 Church Road, Elkins Park, 215-635-0331, http:\/\/www.rinkoyr.com<\/a>) hosts public sessions on Fridays from 8:30-10 p.m., Saturdays from noon-2 p.m. and 8-10 p.m. and Sundays from noon-2 p.m. Fees are $8 and the cost to rent skates is $2.<\/p>\n

Peddler\u2019s Village (Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, 215-794-4000, http:\/\/peddlersvillage.com<\/a>) started its holiday celebrations in November and will wrap them up this weekend.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Gingerbread House Competition and Display<\/p><\/div>\n

November 18 marked the start of Peddler\u2019s Village \u201cGingerbread House Competition and Display.\u201d<\/p>\n

The \u201cGingerbread House Competition\u201d features over $2,000 in cash prizes in such categories as Traditional and Authentic Reproduction of a Significant Building.<\/p>\n

The Gingerbread Competition & Display is a feast for the eyes with more than 50 creative and whimsical entries on exhibit in the Village Gazebo. Admission is free and the display will be open during shopping hours through January 6.<\/p>\n

Now that we\u2019re well into January, most people are ready to close the curtain on the 2017 Christmas holiday.<\/p>\n

But, there are also some people who love the holiday season so much that they want to cling to it for as long as they can before having to say good-bye. Fortunately for them, there are still a few holiday activities still running through this weekend.<\/p>\n

One of the best holiday events in the area every year is \u201cYuletide at Winterthur.\u201d This year\u2019s 39th annual staging of the event, which runs now through January 7 at Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library (Route 52, Wilmington, Delaware,800-448-3883, www.winterthur.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Revel in the beauty and warmth of the holidays as Winterthur explores treasures of Christmases past with displays of holiday traditions from the 1800s to the early 20th century, including displays of: the earliest types of colorful lights decorating house exteriors; a full-room scene of Clement Moore\u2019s Christmas classic \u201cA Visit from St. Nicholas;\u201d the du Pont family holiday celebrations; and the evolution of Christmas trees over the decades from the 1880s to 1960s.<\/p>\n

In celebration of the exhibit \u201cRoyal Splendor: The Coronation Gown from The Crown,\u201d which showcases the magnificent coronation gown worn on the popular Netflix series \u201cThe Crown,\u201d the Yuletide Tour will re-create trees enjoyed by Queen Victoria\u2019s family at Windsor Castle, inspired by a painting depicting the queen\u2019s celebration in 1851.<\/p>\n

One of visitors\u2019 favorites every year is the 18-room dollhouse mansion created by designer and philanthropist Nancy McDaniel over a period of 30 years. It features amazing intricate details in each room and is even decorated for the holidays! A tree decorated with 458 needlework ornaments, all crafted by Nancy McDaniel will also be on display.<\/p>\n

In addition, two of Winterthur\u2019s own iconic rooms designed by H. F. du Pont will be on display in miniature form\u2014the Cecil Bedroom and the Queen Anne Dining Room. These rooms were created by the renowned miniature artists Eugene J. Kupjack.<\/p>\n

As always, the rooms will be enhanced with the floral displays so essential to du Pont\u2019s decorating, and with special Christmas trees inspired by the beauty of the Winterthur garden \u2013 including the popular Dried Flower Tree in the Conservatory.<\/p>\n

Timed Yuletide Tour reservations are required. Admission to Yuletide at Winterthur is $22 for adults, $20 for seniors (age 62 and older) and $5 for children (ages 2-11).<\/p>\n

Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, 610-388-1000, www.longwoodgardens.org<\/a>) is down to the final weekend of its 2017 edition of \u201cA Longwood Gardens Christmas.\u201d<\/p>\n

The festive annual event, which is running through January 7, features spectacular lights, lavish decorations, holiday music and colorful displays featuring thousands of brilliant poinsettias, brightly-decorated trees and fragrant flowers \u2014 all inside the heated Conservatory.<\/p>\n

The colorful annual event, which appeals to the entire family, also has a lot of outdoor attractions such as fountain shows and nighttime light displays. Longwood\u2019s Christmas celebration also includes a wide array of seasonal music \u2014 holiday concerts, organ sing-alongs and carillon performances.<\/p>\n

The organ sing-alongs will be featured in the Ballroom either three or six times a day. There will also be performances by choirs and musicians almost every evening throughout December.<\/p>\n

When darkness arrives at Longwood, a night-blooming garden of more than a half-million lights strung on close to 100 trees with approximately 40 miles of wire comes to life. A carillon with 62 cast bells plays holiday music every half hour during daylight hours. Longwood\u2019s Open Air Theatre fountains dance to holiday music each half hour \u2014 temperature permitting.<\/p>\n

As always, admission by \u201cTimed Ticket\u201d \u2014 tickets issued for specific dates and times. Timed ticketing limits the number of people in the Gardens at any given time and allows guests to enjoy minimal lines and a better viewing experience. There are different prices for \u201cPeak\u201d and \u201cOff Peak\u201d times.<\/p>\n

Visitors to \u201cA Longwood Gardens Christmas\u201d can also check out Longwood\u2019s Garden Railway \u2014 a whimsical display set into motion with G-scale model trains. This is the 16th year that the railway has delighted visitors with special water features and custom trains traveling in and out of bridges and tunnels.<\/p>\n

Admission to Longwood Gardens is $23 (non-peak), $30 (peak) for adults, $20\/$27 for seniors (ages 62 and older) and $12\/$16 for students (ages 5-18).<\/p>\n

\u201cA Brandywine Christmas\u201d, which runs now through January 7 at the Brandywine River Museum (Route 1, Chadds Ford 610-388-2700, www.brandywinemuseum.org<\/a>), is an annual event that is fun for the entire family.<\/p>\n

The museum\u2019s ever-popular \u201ccritter\u201d ornaments will be used to decorate holiday trees, wreaths and diorama settings throughout the museum. The intricately designed ornaments are made from all-natural materials by museum volunteers and have found homes on trees at the White House and the Smithsonian Institution.<\/p>\n

\u201cA Brandywine Christmas\u201d also features an extensive O-gauge model. Five moving trains operate at all times and include a 60-car freight train winding past a village, stone quarry, oil refinery, mountains, Herr Foods plant, running waterfall and animated skating scene.<\/p>\n

As always, the museum will host \u201cCarols Concerts\u201d throughout December.<\/p>\n

Admission is $18 for adults, $15 for seniors (65 and older) and $6 for children.<\/p>\n

Several of Montgomery County\u2019s scenic historic sites are great places to visit for the 2017 Christmas holiday season.<\/p>\n

Pennypacker Mills (3 Haldeman Road, Perkiomenville, 610- 287-9349, www.historicsites.montcopa.org<\/a>) is hosting \u201cVictorian Holiday Tours\u201d now through January 7 while \u201cTwelfth Night Tours at Pottsgrove Manor\u201d (100 West King Street, Pottstown, 610-326-4014, www.historicsites.montcopa.org<\/a>) is also running now through January 7.<\/p>\n

For the next six weeks, Pennypacker Mills will offer free tours of the 18-century mansion used by General George Washington as temporary headquarters during the Revolutionary War. The home will be decorated for an old-fashioned Victorian Christmas and will feature the warm glow of oil lamps, festive decorations and a candy-making demonstration.<\/p>\n

The event at Pottsgrove Manor features guided tours through an elegant 18th-century Georgian mansion that is decked out in period holiday decorations. Tour guides will discuss Twelfth Night celebrations and Christmastide traditions.<\/p>\n

Visitors will be able to view the parlor and kitchen as it would have been during colonial times when the Potts family prepared for their holiday guests. They will also be able to check out the servants\u2019 quarters and see the rustic holiday celebrations as enjoyed by the household staff.<\/p>\n

Suggested donations for these events is $2.<\/p>\n

The Glencairn Museum (1001 Cathedral Road, Bryn Athyn, 267-502-2600, www.glenca\u201cirnmuseum.org<\/a>) is a Bucks County museum featuring religious art and area history museum.<\/p>\n

The museum, which was formerly the home of the fabled Pitcairn family, is presenting its \u201cChristmas at Glencairn\u201d holiday celebration now through January 7.<\/p>\n

Glencairn was built almost a century ago for the family of Raymond and Mildred Pitcairn, members of a congregation of a Christian denomination known as the New Church. Bryn Athyn was founded in the late 19th century as a New Church religious community.<\/p>\n

\u201cChristmas at Glencairn\u201d features special exhibitions, a \u201cChristmas in the Castle\u201d tour, a Christmas concert and other holiday activities. The \u201cWorld Nativities\u201d exhibition is on display in Glencairn\u2019s North Porch, Great Hall, Upper Hall and Bird Room.<\/p>\n

The 45-minute \u201cChristmas in the Castle\u201d guided tours focus on the way Christmas was celebrated at Glencairn during the Pitcairn couple\u2019s 4o years in the house. Guided tours cost $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. The suggested donation for self-guided tours is $5.<\/p>\n

Founded more than 50 years ago, Choo Choo Barn \u2014 Traintown U.S.A. (Route 741 East, 226 Gap Rd, Strasburg, 717-687-7911, www.choochoobarn.com<\/a>) presents a 1,700-square-foot train layout featuring over 150 hand-built animated figures and vehicles and 22 operating trains. The majority of trains that are running in the display are \u201cO Gauge\u201d trains but there are also some HO Gauge trains as well as one N Gauge train.<\/p>\n

Several of the original pieces and animations are still on the display today, including the ski slope, ski lodge and ice skaters, Dutch Haven, the Willows, the two-lane moving highway (in front of Dutch Haven), the farm with the tobacco barn, the Strasburg Fire House, the church beside Dutch Haven and a few other houses.<\/p>\n

The layout features a special Christmas display now through January 16. The homes and businesses along the tracks have been decked out with holiday trim. And, there are 55 hidden Santas \u2014 one for each year the site has been open \u2014 located around the display for visitors to find.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $7.50 for adults and $4.50 for children Ages 3 and under) at Choo Choo Barn \u2014 Traintown U.S.A.<\/p>\n

A popular holiday attraction is America\u2019s Garden Capital Maze at Dilworth Park (1 South 15th Street, Philadelphia, http:\/\/ccdparks.org\/dilworth-park<\/a>), a holiday-inspired Garden that was created in partnership with Greater Philadelphia Gardens and is part of the Center City Parks District.<\/p>\n

Located on the Greenfield Lawn, the maze features vibrant plantings, topiaries, twinkling lights, and d\u00e9cor that showcases all of the public gardens, arboreta, and historic landscapes that are located within 30 miles of Philadelphia. A \u201cWelcoming gazebo\u201d will be at the center of the maze.<\/p>\n

The Wintergarden and Maze is billed as \u201ca way to celebrate in William Penn\u2019s original center square and the 32 regional gardens and arboreta that make this region America\u2019s Garden Capital.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dilworth Park Wintergarden participants are Shofuso Japanese House & Garden, Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden, The Barton Arboretum & Nature Preserve of Medford Leas, The Gardens at Mill Fleurs, The Highlands Mansion & Garden, The Philadelphia Zoo, The Woodlands, Tyler Arboretum, Tyler Formal Gardens at Bucks County Community College, Welkinweir, Winterthur, and Wyck.<\/p>\n

The roster also includes Ambler Arboretum, Arboretum at the Barnes Foundation, Awbury Arboretum, Bartram\u2019s Garden, Bowman\u2019s Hill Wildflower Preserve, Brandywine River Museum of Art, Camden Children\u2019s Garden, Chanticleer, Hagley Museum and Library, Haverford College Arboretum, Henry Botanic Garden, Henry Schmieder Arboretum, Hortulus Farm Garden & Nursery, Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, Longwood Gardens, Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania, Mount Cuba Center, Nemours Estate, PHS Meadowbrook Farm, and Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College.<\/p>\n

America\u2019s Garden Capital Maze will be open now through February 25 \u2013 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-11 p.m., Fridays and Saturday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff, Staff Writer, The Times If you\u2019re able to block out the winter weather and want to get out of the house and do something fun this weekend, you do have some interesting options. The first Friday of the month is a good time to spend an evening in Kennett Square or Lancaster […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":14051,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[2653,5151,3162,6352,6574,2215,6576,6575,5153],"class_list":["post-14049","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","tag-chaddsford-winery","tag-david-bowie","tag-featured","tag-garden-state-museum","tag-kennett-square-first-friday-art-stroll","tag-peddlers-village","tag-power-play-rink","tag-the-greater-philadelphia-spring-home-show","tag-three-kings-day"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14049","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=14049"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14049\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14050,"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14049\/revisions\/14050"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/14051"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=14049"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=14049"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=14049"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}