Thanksgiving is behind us, and the winter holiday season is here! Chester County is decking its streets with garland and lights, towns are celebrating their unique history and culture, and Santa is making the rounds. With traditional town Santa parades this weekend and regional events throughout the month, there is plenty of holiday cheer wherever you are in the county!
Old Fashioned Christmas
For as long as most people can remember, the seat of Chester County has boasted a truly high-style Christmas celebration in the classical tradition of the area. This year, the tradition returns with 6 weekends of decorations and activities around town. The marquee Old Fashioned Christmas Parade, founded in 1980 by the Chamber of Commerce, is Friday, December 2, following the tree lighting at 6:30pm. The rout this year wraps around Market and Gay streets, with the eateries and drinking holes open for holiday celebrations, with free hot chocolate and cookies for parade goers at the S&T Bank on Church Street. A few blocks further down Gay Street, the Christkindlmarkt features local craft goods perfect for holiday gifting. Check out the festivities this weekend, and the next several, in West Chester for everything on your holiday list!
A Very Longwood Christmas
It must be that time of year again, as Longwood Gardens is decking their halls and gardens in classic holiday style. Come out with a timed ticket between 11/18/22 – 1/8/23 to experience the Longwood Christmas. With fountain displays, botanical wonders, and live music twinkling across pond and ballroom, this faerie land of classical European splendor brings the best of that tradition to our backyard.
To truly experience all the magic, try to arrive just before sundown or later. The twinkling lights, holographic projections, floating luminaries, and fountain displays are at their best after dark. Families with little ones may be interested in the indoor activities at the Exhibition Hall, while older crowds may be interested in the Beer Garden or fine dining at 1906.
Brandywine River Conservancy Celebrations
A winter tradition in the heart of the Brandywine Valley, the beauty and history of the area are proudly on display at the Brandywine River Museum. A central multi-story tree decorates the museum and acts as a centerpiece for the Critter Sale, which features holiday ornaments crafted from locally sourced natural materials. The history of the train lines is proudly honored with the Brandywine Railroad and train-themed events for the little ones.
Coatesville Pavilion of Trees
This weekend, Coatesville ushers in the holiday season with several historic celebrations. Friday night, they celebrate with the Pavilion of Trees with lights, festivities, contests, and community events. The next day, come out for their Christmas Parade at 10am to participate in a tradition harkening back to the 1950s.
Pottstown's Wild Christmas
Santa crosses the Schuylkill River at the head of dragon boat to kick off their Holiday Stroll and Tree Lighting this weekend. Next weekend, Santa will be greeted at the Carousel by a scaly friend. The holidays are wild in Pottstown this year!
Phoenixville Firebird Festival
The town of Phoenixville celebrates the coming of the winter in a style all their own. While they deck their streets with lights and holiday flair in the regional tradition, the grand festival of the town celebrates the fire bird and rejuvenation of the region. Come to this community celebration known as the Firebird Festival with live music, festivities, and a bonfire on 12/10/22!
Mushroom Drop in Kennett Square
Time Square may have the Ball Drop, but Kennett Square has the Mushroom Drop. For the past 8 years, southern Chester County has been turning out to celebrate “in the circle” and welcome the new year with their Mushroom Drop. With live bands, a laser light show, and more, this is an event for revelers of all ages. While the Mushroom Drop is streamed, there’s nothing like seeing it in person.
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