{"id":31719,"date":"2025-12-05T09:43:40","date_gmt":"2025-12-05T14:43:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/?p=31719"},"modified":"2025-12-05T09:43:43","modified_gmt":"2025-12-05T14:43:43","slug":"what-to-do-parades-christmas-tree-lightings-abound-this-weekend","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/?p=31719","title":{"rendered":"What To Do: Parades, Christmas tree lightings abound this weekend"},"content":{"rendered":"
By Denny Dyroff,<\/strong> Entertainment Editor, The Times\u00a0<\/em><\/div>\n
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14th Annual Holiday Home Tour<\/p><\/div>\n

The Christmas holidays have officially arrived.<\/p><\/div>\n

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Thanksgiving was a week ago and the holiday season is now moving full speed ahead with a huge array of special events.<\/div>\n
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On December 6, the West Chester Public Library (https:\/\/www.wcpubliclibrary.org\/holidaydoortour<\/a>) will hold its 14th Annual Holiday Home Tour, featuring eight homes in the Borough decked out for the holidays.<\/div>\n
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Ranging from petite to grand, the homes blend original details with modern updates and display the homeowners\u2019 art, collectibles, and antiques.<\/div>\n

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The perennially popular Holiday Home Tour will take place on\u00a0Saturday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.<\/div>\n
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Tickets for the tour, which runs from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., are $40. Tour tickets will also include admission to the Chester County Art Association.<\/div>\n
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Tour attendees will also be welcomed at Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center for some special holiday events and will receive free admission during the Tour at the Chester County History Center.<\/div>\n
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\u201cChester County Hospital Lights Up Holiday Weekends in West Chester\u201d (greaterwestchester.com\/events\/featured-events\/holiday-weekends-west-chester<\/a>) will run through January 2.<\/div>\n
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Transformed into a winter wonderland, the streets of historic West Chester are bathed in the glow of thousands of holiday lights every evening in December. Each weekend features holiday festivities, shopping and dining.<\/div>\n
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\"\"One of the major events is \u201cParade Night\u201d which features the \u201cAnnual Tree Lighting\u201d and the \u201cHometown Christmas Parade.\u201d<\/div>\n
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The \u201cAnnual Tree Lighting\u201d will take place on December 5 at 6:30 p.m. on the steps of the Historic Courthouse (facing High St.)<\/div>\n
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The ceremony will have dance and musical performances and the lighting of the 28-foot tree.<\/div>\n
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The ceremony will be\u00a0led by returning parade emcees 6ABC meteorologist\u00a0Adam Joseph and B101\u2019s Kathy Romano, host of\u00a0The Kathy Romano Show.<\/div>\n
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The \u201cHometown Christmas Parade\u201d will follow at 7 p.m. in Downtown West Chester.<\/div>\n
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Parade goers can expect Chester County\u2019s favorite performers as well as a variety of notable newcomers.<\/div>\n
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This year, there will be more marching bands by popular demand, as well as award-winning floats, sparkling performances and, obviously, Santa Claus\u2019 eagerly anticipated appearance.<\/div>\n
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\u200bThe 2025 West Chester Christmas Parade will also hold a competition for \u201cBest Commercial Parade Float\u201d and \u201cBest Nonprofit Parade Entry.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Again, the event will be\u00a0led by returning parade emcees Adam Joseph and Kathy Romano.<\/div>\n
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On Saturdays from 2-3 p.m., the \u201cMaking Spirits Bright Holiday Music Series\u201d <\/b>will feature local choirs and performances singing favorite holidays songs every Saturday on the steps of the historic courthouse on High Street.<\/div>\n
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Dressed in Victorian attire, The West Chester Borough Balladeer Carolers will roam around downtown West Chester and perform throughout the holiday season.<\/div>\n
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On December 6 and 20, it will be time for \u201cSanta on The Fire Truck.\u201d <\/b>\u00a0Santa will be escorted through the streets of downtown West Chester by the First West Chester Fire Company.<\/div>\n
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The Coatesville Christmas Parade<\/p><\/div>\n

The Coatesville Christmas Parade (www.coatesvillechristmasparade.com<\/a>), which is Chester County\u2019s largest hometown parade, will move down the historic Lincoln Highway on December 6 starting at 10 a.m. at Strode Avenue and Lincoln Highway.<\/div>\n

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It will conclude at the performing and judging area at 11th Avenue and Lincoln Highway.<\/div>\n
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Automobiles, police and emergency vehicles will be judged in their respective pre-parade line-up areas beginning at 9 a.m. Judging for all other competitions will take place between 10th and 11th Avenues during the parade.<\/div>\n
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Originally a community project in the 1950s, the parade was then taken up by the Jaycees back in the 70s.<\/div>\n
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In the early 1990\u2019s, missing the spectacle and sense of community spirit the parade inspired, this group of former JAYCEES along with other members of the Coatesville community and with the support of the Stewart Huston Charitable Trust and the City of Coatesville, decided it was time to revise the parade tradition.<\/div>\n
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This year, more than 150 entries will participate in the parade including dancers, fleets of tow trucks, police cars and fire trucks and a variety of custom-crafted floats.<\/div>\n
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Bringing up the rear of the parade will be Santa Claus riding on a Coatesville Fire Department truck.<\/div>\n
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On December 5, Oxford (www.downtownoxfordpa.org<\/a> will come alive with its \u201cChristmas in Oxford Soup & Sweet Stroll.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Visitors to the downtown area can sample savory soups and delicious treats from local restaurants and businesses.<\/div>\n
This year\u2019s event includes a tantalizing 10 soups, a visit with Santa Claus, strolling carolers, Cindy Lou Who and the Grinch, children’s craft stations, warming stations and performances from the Oxford Community Schools Choirs.<\/div>\n
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The highlight of the evening is a tree lighting at 8 p.m. in Centennial Park. There may be one or two surprises at the event as well.<\/div>\n
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The event kicks off at 4:45 p.m. Soup and sweets will be served until they run out or 7:45 p.m., whichever comes first.<\/div>\n
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Downingtown Good Neighbor Christmas (dtownchristmas.com<\/a>) takes place in Kerr Park at the Log House field below the Christmas Tree.<\/div>\n
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Downingtown Good Neighbor Christmas will feature a 20-foot artificial lighted Giant Everest Christmas Tree with a three-foot lighted star on top.<\/div>\n
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The tree, which is professionally decorated, sits next to the Log House on Lancaster Avenue and at the entrance to Kerr Park.<\/div>\n
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The annual Downingtown Christmas Parade will be held on December 13\u00a0at 3 p.m. \u00a0The parade will feature marching bands, floats, walking and marching groups, and the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus to end the parade.<\/div>\n
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From December 5-7,\u00a0Hibernia\u00a0Mansion (Hibernia\u00a0County Park, off route 340, Wagontown, http:\/\/dsf.chesco.org\/ccparks<\/a>) will host its 42nd Annual Candlelight Tours.<\/div>\n
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The tours will be presented from 5:30-8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2-4 p.m. on Sunday.<\/div>\n
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The event at\u00a0Hibernia\u00a0Mansion features costumed tour guides portraying former mansion owners and their families. The 19th-century mansion will be decked out for the holidays.<\/div>\n
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Live music will be performed in the Ballroom and Santa will entertaining friends each day. Also, the Friends of\u00a0Hibernia\u00a0will greet visitors with refreshments.<\/div>\n
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Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children.<\/div>\n
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The fabulous holiday light display \u201cWest Chester Griswolds\u201d (304 Dutton Mill Rd, West Chester, www.westchestergriswolds.com<\/a>) opened on Thanksgiving night and will run through December 28.<\/div>\n
This year\u2019s display features more than 135,000 lights and 800 smart pixels.<\/div>\n
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Lights will be on now through Christmas week — Monday through Thursday from 4:45-9:45 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 4:45-10:15 p.m.<\/div>\n
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On December 6, Santa Claus will drop in using a totally different method when he visits the American Helicopter Museum and Education Center (1220 American Blvd., West Chester, 610-436-9600, www.helicoptermuseum.org<\/a>) for \u201cSantafest.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Children will be able to stand outside and watch with amazement when Santa arrives in a helicopter.<\/div>\n
Activities get underway at 10 a.m. and then Santa and Mrs. Claus land at 11 a.m. accompanied by one of Santa\u2019s very special elves.<\/div>\n
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Inside the museum, children will also be able to enjoy refreshments and Christmas activities \u2014 including visiting Santa and telling him what items are on their holiday wish list.<\/div>\n
Refreshments will be provided, along with crafts for the kids, holiday movies and special four-legged visitors from\u00a0Paws for People.<\/div>\n
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This year, the museum is introducing its first ever \u201cFamily Recycled Gingerbread Contest.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Families are invited to team up to build cardboard “gingerbread” houses at the museum. The museum will provide supplies. All that guests need to do is to bring their creativity. Judging will take place at 12:30 p.m.<\/div>\n
There will also be some awesome holiday crafts and hands-on STEM activities.<\/div>\n
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Admission is $15 for adults and $14 for children.<\/div>\n
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On December 6, Historic Sugartown (609 Sugartown Road, Malvern, 610-640-2667, www.historicsugartown.org<\/a>) will host \u201cHoliday Craft Market and Biergarten.\u201d<\/div>\n
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The event, which runs from noon- 4 p.m., will feature local crafters and artisans.<\/div>\n
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Locust Lane Craft Brewery,\u00a0Chaddsford Winery, Grace Winery, Dixie\u2019s Down Home Cooking, and Cafe Gourmino\u00a0will offer a festive break where guests can purchase beverages and food to enjoy while shopping or to purchase as gifts.<\/div>\n
Guests can stop by\u00a0food trucks and the site\u2019s\u00a0hot cocoa bar\u00a0to warm up.<\/div>\n
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As an added attraction, Santa\u00a0will be on-hand to greet shoppers.<\/div>\n
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The Craft Market will take place in the field behind Historic Sugartown\u2019s c.1805 William Garrett House at 260 Spring Road in Malvern.<\/div>\n
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Admission is $10 with children (17 and under) admitted free.<\/div>\n
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During the daylight-deprived month of December, Rose Tree Park (1671 North Providence Road, Media, delconew.azurewebsites.net<\/a>) sparkles at night with its annual \u201cFestival of Lights\u201d display.<\/div>\n
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Dozens of illuminated trees and lit displays draw visitors back every year to walk in the winter wonderland and linger in the festive atmosphere.<\/div>\n
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The annual \u201cFestival of Lights\u201d is running now until January 3 from 5-10 p.m. each night.<\/div>\n
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Delaware County\u2019s annual \u201cFestival of Lights\u201d began more than four decades ago as part of the nation\u2019s bicentennial celebration and became a popular local tradition for residents of all ages.<\/div>\n
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Over time, the outdoor displays have grown from 50 decorated trees (one for each municipality and one large one to represent the county) to more than 75 lighted trees and dozens of festive figures, including toy soldiers, a gingerbread family and Santa\u2019s reindeer.<\/div>\n
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For the second year in a row, Philadelphia is one of the host cities of Astra Lumina.<\/div>\n
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Astra Lumina Philadelphia, which is the 24th experience in the Lumina Enchanted Night Walk series, will be held now through December 31 at the Abington Art Center (515 Meetinghouse Road, Jenkintown, astralumina.com<\/a>).<\/div>\n
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Astra Lumina Philadelphia welcomes visitors to an extraordinary place — a garden right here on earth that shares a special connection with the sky above. Come nightfall, the garden sets the stage for a phenomenal event — a visit from the stars.<\/div>\n
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Astra Lumina Philadelphia is a one-mile-long enchanted night walk through a wooded sculpture park of varying terrain that guides visitors on a journey to discover the wonder of visiting stars.<\/div>\n
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Through the magic of projections, lighting, and music, astral energy transforms the garden into a celestial pathway, connecting visitors to the stars and the vast world around them.<\/div>\n
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The stars are descending from the night sky. Set off across mysterious grounds to discover a celestial pathway of lustrous light, cosmic visions, and astral song.<\/div>\n
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Participants can immerse themselves in illuminating encounters of lighting, projection and sound, and connect with the stars before they return to the sky above.<\/div>\n
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Located on a historic 27-acre campus, just 10 miles from Center City Philadelphia, Abington Art Center is a beautiful setting for the enchanting Astra Lumina. The campus has been transformed to create a magical journey.<\/div>\n
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Weapons (including off duty officers), flash photography, outside food or alcohol, light-up accessories that distract from the experience, or anything that may disturb other patrons are prohibited.<\/div>\n
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All guests must pass through handheld metal detector wands and bag check before entering the experience.<\/div>\n
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Video link for Astra Lumina — https:\/\/youtu.be\/2mPra01OgCM<\/a>.<\/div>\n
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The event will run now through December 31. Ticket prices start at $29.<\/div>\n
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The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center (100 Station Ave., Oaks, 484-754-3976, http:\/\/www.phillyexpocenter.com<\/a>) is hosting one of its most popular events this weekend — Winter Blast Dog Shows.<\/div>\n
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Now through December 7, the Expo Center is going to the dogs with an All-breed conformation show.<\/div>\n
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Other activities include National Owner-Handled Series, 4\u20136-month Beginner Puppy Competition, Open FSS Show, Junior Showmanship and Obedience Trial (open to All-American dogs).<\/div>\n
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Also featured will be TWO Rally Trials, Scent Work Trial, and Health Clinics.<\/div>\n
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Friday\u2019s event will have up to 1,200 dogs of over 150 breeds and plenty of chances to mix and mingle with the competitors.<\/div>\n
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There will be beginner puppy competitions, all-breed conformation shows, junior showmanship and pee wee competitions for kids 5-18 years old, and obedience trials.<\/div>\n
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On Friday, admission is free.<\/div>\n
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The show is open now through December 7 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. each day.<\/div>\n
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On Saturday and Sunday, the shows will be hosted by Valley Forge Kennel Club.<\/div>\n
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The fun-filled family experience will have close to 2,000 canines from a large number of breeds.<\/div>\n
Each day, there will be an array of competitions, shows and exhibits.<\/div>\n
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Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children.<\/div>\n
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Another event this weekend at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center is the Oaks Christmas Market.<\/div>\n
The Second Annual Oaks Christmas Market will be held on December 6 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and December 7 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Expo Center.<\/div>\n
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This year\u2019s event will host nearly 300 crafters and vendors in Hall C.<\/div>\n
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Admission is free thanks to the event\u2019s generous sponsors.<\/div>\n
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Visitors are requested to bring a non-perishable food item to benefit the Phoenixville Area Community Services in exchange for the chance to win a $10 shopping voucher to use with one of the vendors. Monetary donations at the show will also be entered into the shopping voucher giveaway.<\/div>\n
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The show will include a Kid\u2019s Korner with activities including Christmas coloring ages,\u00a0postcards for Santa and a Bring Your Own Camera photo station.<\/div>\n
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In the photo station, show attendees can visit with featured guests Santa Claus and Anna & Elsa.<\/div>\n
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Chaddsford Winery (Route 1, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221, www.chaddsford.com<\/a>) is presenting \u201cReserve Tastings — Festive Faves\u201d on Saturdays and Sundays in November and December.<\/div>\n
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Guests will join the CFW Crew for an intimate and educational 60-minute experience in the Barrel Room.\u00a0The trained staff will guide them through a pre-selected tasting of five widely diverse and award-winning wines from across its portfolio.<\/div>\n
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The selections will be paired alongside seasonal local cheeses and other accoutrements to enhance your tasting experience.<\/div>\n
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The staff will also discuss topics such as grape growing conditions at our partner vineyards and the onsite winemaking process from production to aging and bottling.<\/div>\n
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Tickets are $35 per person.<\/div>\n
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The holiday season at Herr\u2019s Snack Food Factory (20 Herr Drive,\u00a0Nottingham, 610-932-9330, www.herrs.com<\/a>) has arrived. The area around the factory site will be illuminated with thousands of lights and holiday displays.<\/div>\n
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Herr\u2019s \u201cHoliday Light Display,\u201d which is free and open to the public, will be open nightly now through January 5.<\/div>\n
Visitors to the site will be able to drive along a trail that is illuminated with more than 600,000 lights.<\/div>\n
The special light exhibit will be open daily from dusk to dawn.<\/div>\n
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\u201cClaymont Christmas Parade and Holiday Happenings\u201d (www.claymontchristmasparade.com<\/a>) are slated for December 6 in nearby Claymont, Delaware from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.<\/div>\n
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Visitors can see Santa arrive on a fire truck, hear high school bands, see Mounted Police horses, and look at lots of fire trucks, floats and more. And they are invited to help decorate the infamous \u201cClaymont Christmas Weed.\u201d<\/div>\n
Video link for Christmas Weed story — https:\/\/youtu.be\/F4p4Nq3qvCI<\/a>.<\/div>\n
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The parade route is along Philadelphia Pike from Maple Lane to Darley Road in Claymont.<\/div>\n
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Ascension Church (3717 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont) will host \u201cThe Blessing of the Christmas Weed Ceremony\u201d after the parade.<\/div>\n
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Hot chocolate and cookies will be served, and craft items will be for sale.<\/div>\n
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From 11 a.m-12:30 p.m., the 14th annual Gingerbread House Contest will be held at Claymont Stone School (3611 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont).<\/div>\n
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The Brandywine Zoo (1001 North Park Drive, Wilmington, Delaware, brandywinezoo.org<\/a>) is hosting \u201cSanta at the Zoo\u201d on December 6 and 7.<\/div>\n
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Kids can meet and take a photo with Santa and enjoy fun holiday activities at this winter wonderland tradition at the Zoo.<\/div>\n
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Visitors can enjoy holiday activities, check out fun educational tables and shop at participating vendors.<\/div>\n
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Special guest Bryan Scar Music will perform at the Wildlife Amphitheater on Sunday from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.<\/div>\n
All guests must be registered for the event. Tickets are available at the door and online. Online purchase is recommended.<\/div>\n
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There are two churches in the area that are presenting interesting Lucia Fest pageants this weekend. Both have the same name \u2014 Gloria Dei Old Swedes\u2019 Church.<\/div>\n
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At Gloria Dei Old Swedes\u2019 Church (606 Church Street, Wilmington Delaware, 302- 652-5629, www.oldswedes.org<\/a>), the Sankta Lucia Celebration is scheduled for December 7.<\/div>\n
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Sankta Lucia is a Swedish festival that features a Lucia procession with traditional songs and dances. Lucia, wearing a white gown and a crown of candles, leads the procession, followed by girls dressed in gowns who act as her attendants. Boys also join the festivities as starboys.<\/div>\n
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Gloria Dei Old Swedes\u2019 Church in Delaware will present its traditional celebration of the Feast Day of Sankta Lucia on Sunday at 1 p.m.<\/div>\n
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The Delaware Swedish Colonial Society, which sponsors the annual December celebration, will also have its Hendrickson House Museum open to the public. The museum, which has been decorated for a Swedish Christmas will be open for tours and shopping from noon-3:30 p.m.<\/div>\n
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Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students (ages 6-17) and free for children (5 and under).<\/div>\n
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At Philadelphia\u2019s Gloria Dei Old Swedes\u2019 Church (916 South Swanson Street, Philadelphia, www.old-swedes.org<\/a>), the Lucia Fest is scheduled for December 6 and 7.<\/div>\n
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Visitors will be able to celebrate a beautiful Swedish tradition in its 88th year!<\/div>\n
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Lucia Fest is a colorful, musical pageant, representative of St. Lucia, the bearer of light during the dark Swedish winters.<\/div>\n
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This is a unique opportunity to witness this authentic holiday tradition, performed in a 300-year-old church built by Swedish settlers.<\/div>\n
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A Scandinavian Christmas bazaar — St. Eric’s Fair — will be open before and after each showtime, with imported goods, food & drink available for purchase.<\/div>\n
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Showtimes are 2, 3:30 and 5 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 youths (12 and under).<\/div>\n
There is a third Swedish event honoring St. Lucia this weekend.<\/div>\n
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The American Swedish Historical Museum (1900 Pattison Avenue, Philadelphia, www.americanswedish.org<\/a>) will present its Lucia Celebration and Julmarknad (Christmas Bazaar) on December 6 and 7 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. each day.<\/div>\n
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Light, warmth and Christmas songs have been hallmarks of the Lucia celebration at ASHM since 1939. Each year families pour through the magnificent bronze doors of the museum to be greeted by the aroma of freshly baked pastries, meatball dishes and strong Swedish coffee.<\/div>\n
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Guests can stroll through the Christmas Market, or Julmarknad, where Swedish delicacies, crafts, decorations, and imported gifts may be purchased, before the musical entertainment begins.<\/div>\n
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The Swedish Christmas Caf\u00e9 will be selling favorite sweet and savory holiday foods and the SWEA bakery tables will be open all day.<\/div>\n
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At 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., the lights will dim, and the doors will close for the duration of a performance of Swedish Christmas songs and dances.<\/div>\n
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Children from toddlers to teens dressed in costume entertain the crowds, culminating with the procession of Lucia, wearing her crown of candles, surrounded by her white gowned attendants and star boys.<\/div>\n
Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children.<\/div>\n
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On December 5 and 6, Rockwood Park (4651 Washington Street Extension, Wilmington, Delaware, www.nccde.org\/431\/Rockwood-Park-Museum<\/a>) is hosting its annual \u201cWinter Nights at Rockwood.\u201d<\/div>\n
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The popular family event, which runs from 5-8 p.m. each night includes tours of the holiday display in the museum and a joyous light display in the gardens surrounding the Mansion and Carriage House.<\/div>\n
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Holiday Open House features exceptional entertainment, fun festive crafts, costumed characters, refreshments, food trucks and free photos with Santa.<\/div>\n
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The event also includes the Holiday Shoppe selling gifts for the whole family.<\/div>\n
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This is a free event.<\/div>\n
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One of the most elaborate model train layouts in the Delaware Valley can be found at the Morris Arboretum (100 Northwestern Avenue, Chestnut Hill, 215-247-5777, http:\/\/www.morrisarboretum.org<\/a>). The popular Garden Railway Display that has become a summer fixture at The Gardens at Morris Arboretum returns again for a special holiday display.<\/div>\n
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The display, which is open to the public now through December 30 in the winter garden of the Morris Arboretum, has a quarter-mile of track featuring seven loops and tunnels with 15 different rail lines and two cable cars, nine bridges (including a trestle bridge you can walk under) and bustling model trains.<\/div>\n
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The buildings and the display are all made of natural materials — bark, leaves, twigs, hollow logs, mosses, acorns, dried flowers, seeds and stones — to form a perfectly proportioned miniature landscape complete with miniature rivers. Philadelphia-area landmarks are all meticulously decorated for the holidays with lights that twinkle.<\/div>\n
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Admission to the Morris Arboretum is $22 for adults, $20 for seniors (65 and older) and $12 for students and military.<\/div>\n
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LEGOLAND Discovery Center Philadelphia (500 W Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting, H<\/a>ttps:\/\/philadelphia.legolanddiscoverycenter.com\/<\/a>) is presenting \u201cHoliday Bricktacular!\u201d now through January 4.<\/div>\n
Participants can create their own LEGO ornament and display it in on the LEGO tree and check out all the holiday scenes in the Winter Wonderland in Miniland Philadelphia.<\/div>\n
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As an added attraction, LEGO Santa will be visiting from the LEGO North Pole.<\/div>\n
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Ticket prices start at $21.99.<\/div>\n
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One of Philly\u2019s premier annual events, Macy\u2019s Christmas Light Show (1300 Market Street, Philadelphia, www.macys.com<\/a>) is running now through December 24.<\/div>\n
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Set in The Grand Court, the show features a 100,000-light show of twinkling snowflakes, dancing snowmen and more, narrated by Julie Andrews and accompanied by the famed Wanamaker Organ.<\/div>\n
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Images of snowmen, reindeer, snowflakes and more dance across the atrium inside of the historic Wanamaker building (now Macy’s Center City) during the ever-popular Macy’s Christmas Light Show. The show, which has been on view since 1956, runs every two hours during store hours.<\/div>\n
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Visitors can also tour the second floor’s vintage Dickens Village, where more than 100 intricate animated dolls and sets retell A Christmas Carol<\/i>. Each free walkthrough ends in a chance to meet and get photos with Santa.<\/div>\n
The 2025 Winter in Franklin Square holiday festival (200 North Sixth Street, Philadelphia, http:\/\/www.historicphiladelphia.org\/franklin-square\/holidays-in-franklin-square\/<\/a>) opens its season on November 20 runs until is running now through February 28.<\/div>\n
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It will be open from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily.<\/div>\n
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The Electrical Spectacle Holiday Light Show will be open from 5-9 p.m. daily and will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.<\/div>\n
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Visitors are invited to experience the magic of the holidays and celebrate traditions — new and old — at the Franklin Square Holiday Festival.<\/div>\n
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Inspired by Benjamin Franklin\u2019s electrifying genius, the free\u00a0Electrical Spectacle Holiday Light Show presented by PECO is the key to holiday fun in Franklin Square.<\/div>\n
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Attendees can marvel at more than 50,000 lights as they shimmer, dance, and illuminate the Square to a soundtrack of holiday classics, some of which are performed by\u00a0The Philly POPS in two alternating shows every 30 minutes.<\/div>\n
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A popular annual Philly holiday tradition can be found at the Rothman Orthopaedics Institute Ice Rink at Dilworth Park (1 South 15th Street, Philadelphia, http:\/\/ccdparks.org\/dilworth-park<\/a>),<\/div>\n
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Beginning this November, some of Philadelphia\u2019s favorite winter traditions return to Dilworth Park. Visitors of all ages can enjoy a dramatic seasonal transformation as fountains are replaced by the Rothman Orthopaedic Institute Ice Rink and reindeer topiaries take up winter residence on the Greenfield Lawn.<\/div>\n
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In addition, a full lineup of free entertainment is planned, including the Deck the Hall Light Show, the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market and Rothman Orthopaedic Institute Cabin.<\/div>\n
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Dilworth Park\u2019s winter season is running now through March 14.<\/div>\n
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The Rothman Institute Ice Rink at Dilworth Park is an unparalleled entertainment experience on Philadelphia\u2019s center stage in a wonderfully urban and unique setting. Open seven days a week, the rink offers wintery fun for all ages, with a full slate of programs.<\/div>\n
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The Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market runs through January 1 with more than 40 local vendors.<\/div>\n
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Now through January 1, the Philadelphia Zoo (3400 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, www.philadelphiazoo.org<\/a>) will host LumiNature, a gigantic holiday season light experience that turns the entire Zoo into a magical journey of lights, music, sounds and surprises.<\/div>\n
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The giant-sized holiday extravaganza will transform the entire Zoo into a nighttime winter wonderland. Guests will experience a magical journey of lights, music, sounds and surprises.<\/div>\n
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New this year will be the Philly Zoo\u00a0Pherris\u00a0Wheel, a new observation wheel ferris wheel with breathtaking scenes of the lights and overlooking the city where the former Zoo balloon was.<\/div>\n
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LumiNature\u00a0will expand to feature illuminated experience zones that will feature lively themed displays, newly enhanced installations and thousands of twinkling lights on a breathtaking journey celebrating the wonder of wildlife and the beauty of our planet.<\/div>\n
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LumiNature will feature more than a million lights and 10+ miles of power cord.<\/div>\n
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New for this year are Santa\u2019s Lodge, a cozy indoor space with the chance to say hello to the big man himself, and Jambi\u2019s Solstice Saloon, the perfect spot to chill along the beaming river.<\/div>\n
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Favorite returning illuminated displays include the high-energy Penguin Prismatic show with a 40 ft. tall penguin shining with 40,000 lights and the famous 25 ft. tall pink flamingo tree, made entirely out of 1,500 lawn ornament flamingos.<\/div>\n
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Additionally, seasonal fare, strolling performers, hot chocolate and ever-warming adult beverages promise to additionally spark the holiday spirit.<\/div>\n
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Tickets start at $22 for adults and $18 for children.<\/div>\n
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Elmwood Park Zoo (Elmwood Park Zoo, 1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown, www.elmwoodparkzoo.org<\/a>) is in holiday mode.<\/div>\n
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Elmwood Park Zoo\u2019s favorite family tradition,\u00a0\u201cWild Lights,\u201d is back with more lights and decorative attractions than ever before. During this walk-through experience, guests will be surrounded by dazzling light displays, illuminated animals and live entertainment.<\/div>\n
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\u201cWild Lights\u201d operates on select days from 5-9 p.m. now through December 30. \u201cWild Lights\u201d tickets are valid beginning at 5 p.m. The Zoo and \u201cWild Lights\u201d will be closed on Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.\u00a0\u201cWild Lights\u201d will be held rain or shine.<\/div>\n
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Winter Light Spectacular will be held at the Lehigh Valley Zoo (5150 Game Preserve Road, Schnecksville, www.lvzoo.org<\/a>) now through January 3.<\/div>\n
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The Lehigh Valley Zoo celebrates the most magical time of the year during the annual Winter Light Spectacular.<\/div>\n
Guests can bundle up and enjoy the beauty of nature as they stroll through tree-lined paths lit up by more than 1.2 million twinkling lights and themed animated displays.<\/div>\n
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They will be able to warm up next to the cozy outdoor fire pits, while enjoying hot cocoa and Stuffed Puffs\u00ae Classic Milk Chocolate Filled Marshmallow s\u2019mores.<\/div>\n
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And there are plenty of photo opportunities to capture the children\u2019s delight when they encounter Santa, Anna, Elsa, Belle, and Cinderella.<\/div>\n
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General admission is $11.<\/div>\n
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\u201cChristmas Candylane,\u201d which is the annual holiday event at Hersheypark (100 West Hersheypark Drive, Hershey, 800-HERSHEY, www.hersheypark.com<\/a>), is running now through January 4.<\/div>\n
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Visitors to Hershey can also experience the winter wonderland called \u201cHershey Sweet Lights, A Holiday Drive-Thru Spectacular.\u201d The attraction is a two-mile drive through wooded trails featuring approximately 600 illuminated, animated displays.<\/div>\n
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Admission prices for \u201cChristmas Candylane\u201d start at $46.99.<\/div>\n
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\u201cA Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place\u201d (100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, www.sesameplace.com<\/a>) is a festive, family-friendly celebration with everyone\u2019s favorite Sesame Street friends live and in-person at the amusement park in Langhorne.<\/div>\n
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The annual event, which runs through January 4, offers a wide array of family holiday activities.<\/div>\n
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Visitors to the park can sing along at three special Christmas shows and a spectacular music and light show at the giant 1-2-3 Christmas Tree,\u00a0t<\/i>ake a train ride tour through the Twiddlebugs\u2019 Gingerbread Cookie Factory\u00a0on the Sesame Place\u00a0<\/i>Furry Express, <\/i>take part in the Neighborhood Street Party Christmas Parade, and have the opportunity to <\/i>meet Lightning, the adorable reindeer from the movie \u201cElmo Saves Christmas.\u201d<\/div>\n
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As an added attraction this year,\u00a0<\/b>Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is spending the holiday season at Sesame Place. The lovable reindeer along with his friends Clarice and Bumble, will be available for photos with guests.<\/div>\n
Tickets for \u201cA Very Furry Christmas\u201d start at $29.99.<\/div>\n
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Dutch Wonderland\u00a0Family Amusement Park (2249 Route 30 East, Lancaster, 866-386-2389, www.dutchwonderland.com<\/a>) is hosting its \u201cDutch Winter Wonderland\u201d now through December 31 on Saturdays, Sundays and select weekdays.<\/div>\n
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Visitors are invited to celebrate the magic of the season at Dutch Winter Wonderland with rides, entertainment, and the Royal Light Show, a spectacular display of thousands of twinkling lights dancing to music.<\/div>\n
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Ticket prices start at $24.99 at the gate. Children ages two and under are admitted free.<\/div>\n
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Christmas Underwater at Adventure Aquarium (1 Riverside Drive, Camden, New Jersey, www.adventureaquarium.com<\/a>) is open through December 31.<\/div>\n
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At Christmas Underwater visitors can discover an incredible world of seasonal under-the-sea fun.<\/div>\n
Scuba Santa is back in Ocean Realm, sharing Christmas cheer with kids (and animals) of all ages. The event features more holiday decor than ever before, including underwater light displays, and festive new shows.<\/div>\n
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The World’s Tallest Underwater Christmas Tree returns — stretching 18 feet tall and decorated with colorful, custom-sculpted corals.<\/div>\n
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More than 15,000 incredible animals are getting in on the festive fun with eight underwater light displays spread throughout the exhibits.<\/div>\n
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Admission fees start at $30.99 for adults.<\/div>\n
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Now that Christmas activities have begun, Peddler\u2019s Village (Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, http:\/\/peddlersvillage.com<\/a>) is starting its celebration and that means there will be a lot of activity at the site over the next few weeks.<\/div>\n
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Visitors to the Village can join special guest Mrs. Claus for festive fun and mini-lightings in a different Village neighborhood each night leading up to the Village-wide\u00a0Grand Illumination Celebration. Village shops will be open until 9 p.m. with a distinctive assortment of merchandise, special promotions and refreshments.<\/div>\n
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The 25th Annual Grand Illumination celebration will showcase thousands of tiny white lights outlining the Village\u2019s buildings, colorful lights with less-than-common colors (teal, peach, and fuschia) adorning the trees and shrubs and a landscaped backdrop featuring a group of reindeer glowing in white light.<\/div>\n
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Slated to run through January 5, the \u201cGingerbread House Competition\u201d features over $2,000 in cash prizes in such categories as Traditional and Authentic Reproduction of a Significant Building.<\/div>\n
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The holiday lights will be on display every evening through January 18. Shops will be open until 10 p.m. There will be free admission and free parking.<\/div>\n
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If you take a trip to the Lehigh Valley, you can check out three very impressive holiday lights displays.<\/div>\n
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Bethlehem, which is known as the \u201cChristmas City,\u201d presents Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem (PNC Plaza at SteelStacks, 645 East First Street, Bethlehem, 610-332-1300, http:\/\/www.christmascity.org<\/a>) every Friday, Saturday and Sunday now through December 22.<\/div>\n
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Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem showcases aisles of exquisite handmade works by the nation\u2019s finest artisans. The market also features live performances of Christmas music and vendors with an amazing variety of tasty food items.<\/div>\n
Other special attractions include ice carving, glassblowing demonstrations, \u201cBreakfast with St. Nicholas,\u201d outdoor artisan huts, fire pits and igloos in the Outdoor Village, and K\u00e4the Wohlfarht with handmade ornaments, nutcrackers and collectibles from Germany.<\/div>\n
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Admission fee is $14.50.<\/div>\n
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The \u201cIllumination at Coca-Cola Park\u201d opens on November 14 at the Lehigh Valley IronPigs Baseball Stadium \u2013 Coca-Cola Park (1050 IronPigs Way, Allentown, illuminationlv.com<\/a>\u00a0).<\/div>\n
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\u201cIllumination at Coca-Cola Park\u201d will take place nightly from 6-9 p.m. and feature more than one million\u00a0holiday lights. Every 15-20 minutes, a dazzling synchronized music, and light show will take place featuring a breathtaking display where the stadium lights come alive in harmony with the holiday music.<\/div>\n
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Building on a wildly successful debut, \u201cIllumination\u201d has added various new entertainment options in addition to the spectacular lights show to help create the greatest holiday experience in the Lehigh Valley.<\/div>\n
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Guests will now be able to take part in a traditional carousel ride or even take a hayride with Mrs. Claus during their visit. For those with a competitive side, or even those looking for a truly unique experience, curling lanes have been added and are available for rent.<\/div>\n
Joining Mrs. Claus as nightly new characters will be the Grinch and Cousin Eddie. Guests will have even more opportunities to snap the perfect flick for their holiday cards with additional sELFie stations.<\/div>\n
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Building on a successful debut, the food menu at Illumination will also feature new additions with even more holiday treats. Plus, a new large heated dining tent will be available for guests to relax and enjoy their food.<\/div>\n
Admission prices start at $11.<\/div>\n
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Koziar\u2019s Christmas Village (782 Christmas Village Road, Bernville, 610-488-1110, www.koziarschristmasvillage.com<\/a>) began its 77th season on last week.<\/div>\n
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Koziar\u2019s Christmas Village is truly a holiday wonderland — a wintertime spectacle that delights young and old alike with a huge amount of holiday displays and special attractions. It will remain open every night through January 3 — including Christmas Eve, Christmas Night, New Year\u2019s Eve and New Year\u2019s Night.<\/div>\n
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The tours of \u201cChristmas Village\u201d feature visits to a variety of displays and exhibits, including \u201cSanta\u2019s Post Office,\u201d \u201cChristmas in the Jungle,\u201d \u201cManger Scene,\u201d \u201cChristmas Beneath the Sea,\u201d \u201c\u2019Twas the Night Before Christmas,\u201d \u201cOlde Fashioned Bakery Shop,\u201d \u201cToy Maker and his Toy Shop,\u201d \u201cChristmas in Other Lands\u201d and \u201cThe Olde Church\u201d.<\/div>\n
Other attractions at Koziar\u2019s Christmas Village include a huge model train display, a toy shop, a country kitchen, indoor and outdoor Christmas displays and a place to visit with Santa and even get pictures taken with the old guy in the red suit. Admission to Christmas Village is $13 for adults, $12 for seniors (65 and older) and $11 for children (ages 4-10).<\/div>\n
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A popular Bucks County attraction is the \u201cHoliday Light Show\u201d at Shady Brook Farm (931 Stony Hill Road, Yardley, www.shadybrookfarm.com<\/a>)<\/div>\n
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The farm features a three–million-light\u00a0Holiday Light Show\u00a0with\u00a0\u201cDashin\u2019 Through the \u2026 Lights,\u201d a family-friendly two-mile drive-through on Thursday and Friday nights.<\/div>\n
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The main display allows visitors to drive or (if weather permits) ride in wagons past post-sundown displays including illuminated tunnels.<\/div>\n
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The \u201cHoliday Light Show\u201d is open now through January 27.<\/div>\n
Timed tickets, which start at $40, are required.<\/div>\n
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\u201cChristmas Spirit Light Show\u201d\u00a0\u00a0is running now through December 31 (except December 25) at Clipper Magazine Stadium\u00a0(650 North Prince Street, Lancaster,\u00a0christmasspiritlightshows.com<\/a>).<\/div>\n
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\u201cChristmas Spirit Light Show\u201d is an exciting, one-of-a-kind Christmas light display that families can enjoy from the comfort of their vehicles.<\/div>\n
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As participants make the journey through the mile-long track, they get immersed and surrounded by hundreds of thousands of color-changing lights that are animated and dancing in harmony with favorite Christmas classics.<\/div>\n
The drive-through event is billed as a \u201cbreathtaking holiday experience that you and your loved ones will never forget.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Ticket prices start at $25 per car.<\/div>\n
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On December 7, Laurel Hill Cemetery (3822\u00a0Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, laurelhillphl.com<\/a>) will present \u201cLaurel Hill Goes to the Movies.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Visitors can take a close-up look at the many ways Laurel Hill East is connected to the celluloid arts.<\/div>\n
They can thrill to the story of the stunt man who adopted Roy Rogers\u2019 horse and be amazed by the founding fathers who sang and danced their way through Independence Hall in living technicolor.<\/div>\n
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Guests can celebrate the industrial film pioneer who broke down gender barriers and discover some of the great tales of the movie age. And they can learn about and visit the locations of contemporary movies filmed at Laurel Hill East!<\/div>\n
The Tour Guide is\u00a0Steve Chawaga.<\/div>\n
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Ticket prices are $17\/General Admission (Ages 13 and up), $15\/Seniors (Ages 65+) and Students with ID and $8.50\/Youth (Ages 6-12).<\/div>\n
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Grim\u00a0Philly\u2019s \u201cDark Philly History Tour\u201d (www.grimphilly.com<\/a>) will be held every evening throughout the summer.<\/div>\n
Participants can walk with tour guides from the grounds of America’s first White House, Congress, and Liberty Bell to homes and sites of Hamilton, Washington, Franklin, Adams, Jefferson, Madison, Monroe, and more than 10 other Founding-Fathers. The surprising dirt of espionage, murder, sexual license and blackmail highlight the secrets of 1776 with a ghost story or two along the way. This tour is highly researched. And your guide is a historian.<\/div>\n
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Tickets are $35.<\/div>\n
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Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Philadelphia (215-413-1997, www.ghosttour.com<\/a>),\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Lancaster (717-687-6687, www.ghosttour.com<\/a>) and\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Strasburg (717-687-6687, www.ghosttour.com<\/a>) operate throughout the winter and offer an eerily entertaining evening of true\u00a0ghost\u00a0stories and real haunted houses.<\/div>\n
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The Ghost Tour of Philadelphia, which is based on the book, \u201cGhost Stories of Philadelphia, PA.,\u201d is a candlelight walking\u00a0tour\u00a0along the back streets and secret gardens of Independence Park, Society Hill, and Old City, where\u00a0ghostly spirits, haunted houses, and eerie graveyards abound.<\/div>\n
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Participants can discover the ghost lore of America\u2019s most historic and most haunted city with stories from the founding of William Penn\u2019s colony to present-day hauntings.<\/div>\n
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The activity is open year-round \u2013 weekends, December-February; every night, March-November. Tickets are $24.<\/div>\n
The Ghost Tour of Lancaster and the Ghost Tour of Strasburg are based on the book, \u201cGhost Stories of Lancaster, PA.\u201d<\/div>\n
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Participants in the\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Lancaster explore the long-forgotten mysteries of one of America\u2019s oldest cities, with haunting tales of otherworldly vigils, fatal curses, and star-crossed lovers. The\u00a0tour\u00a0provides the opportunity to experience 300 years of haunted history from Red Rose City\u2019s thorny past. Tickets are $20.<\/div>\n
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The\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Strasburg is a candlelight walking\u00a0tour\u00a0of the quaint and historic town of Strasburg in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Visitors will experience an entertaining evening with a costumed\u00a0tour\u00a0guide spinning tales of haunted mansions, eerie graveyards, and spirits that roam the night \u2026 in a town lost in time. Tickets are $20.<\/div>\n
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A good location for a nature walk is Tyler Arboretum (515 Painter Road, Media, 610-566-9134, www.tylerarboretum.org<\/a>).<\/div>\n
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The arboretum\u2019s schedule for this weekend features a \u201cSaturday Wildflower\u00a0Walk: Winter Edition\u201d on December 6.<\/div>\n
With 650 protected acres of beautiful woodland, seasonally charming meadows, and a lively program of seasonal events and activities, Tyler Arboretum is a delight for nature lovers, birders, botanists, and those who want rediscover the natural world.<\/div>\n
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Dating to 1681, making it one of the oldest public gardens in the United States, and home to eight generations of three families, Tyler Arboretum connects visitors to the region\u2019s rich culture and history while preserving, developing, sharing, and celebrating Pennsylvania\u2019s priceless horticultural heritage.<\/div>\n
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\u201cSaturday Wildflower\u00a0Walk,\u201d which runs from 1-3 p.m., features wildflower\u00a0expert\u00a0Dick Cloud\u00a0on an informative two-hour hike that will take guests through meadows, woods, and occasionally streamside. These walks are for those who have a love of plants, their role in ecology, or for those who want to learn more.<\/div>\n
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Although the focus is on plants, Cloud will also talk about whatever else is seen on the tour. Walkers should wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a camera and\/or a wildflower\u00a0guide, for this botanical-filled walk.<\/div>\n
Admission to Tyler Arboretum\u00a0is $18 for adults and $10 for children (ages 12-17).<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times\u00a0 The Christmas holidays have officially arrived. Thanksgiving was a week ago and the holiday season is now moving full speed ahead with a huge array of special events. On December 6, the West Chester Public Library (https:\/\/www.wcpubliclibrary.org\/holidaydoortour) will hold its 14th Annual Holiday Home Tour, featuring eight homes […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":31716,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[110,2331,3162,3670,12230],"class_list":["post-31719","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","tag-chester-county","tag-coatesville-christmas-parade","tag-featured","tag-holiday-events","tag-west-chester-public-library-14th-annual-holiday-home-tour"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31719","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=31719"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31719\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":31720,"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31719\/revisions\/31720"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/31716"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=31719"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=31719"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/downingtowntimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=31719"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}