Top Spots for Christmas Lights in Lancaster PA & Nearby Areas in 2025

by Jenna Mendez

12.8 min read

christmas-lights-in-lancaster-pa

Lancaster, Pennsylvania, transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a variety of dazzling Christmas light displays that capture the festive spirit. From twinkling neighborhood homes to grand light shows in parks and attractions, there’s no shortage of places to experience the joy of holiday lights. 

If you’re looking for the full list of places to view Lancaster County Christmas lights in surrounding cities, we have you covered. 

Key Points of This Article:

  • Lancaster, PA and surrounding areas offer a wide variety of Christmas light displays, including drive-thru shows, amusement park events, and charming neighborhood decorations that create a festive winter wonderland.
  • Popular attractions include the Christmas Spirit Light Show at Clipper Magazine Stadium, Dutch Winter Wonderland, and the Meter Buster Christmas Display, each offering unique experiences like decorated trees, rides, and visits from Santa.
  • Other Pennsylvania cities like Hershey, Bethlehem, Philadelphia, and Elizabethtown also host spectacular holiday events, such as Pentatonix’s concert, the Bethlehem Christmas City Stroll, and the Macy’s Light Show in Philadelphia.
  • Many events are pet-friendly, free or ticketed, and run from mid-November through early January, with online booking recommended for popular attractions to ensure entry and avoid crowds.

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Christmas Lights in Lancaster, PA  

Christmas Spirit Light Show at Clipper Magazine Stadium 

The Christmas Spirits Light Show is an annual drive-thru light show that you can view from the comfort of your own vehicle. Journey through a mile-long track of color-changing lights and animated lighting while you listen to Christmas classics.

This lighting display also comes with a walking portion with over 100 decorated trees. You can even vote on your favorite decorated tree for $2. All proceeds from your votes go to non-profit organizations! This walking portion also includes visits from Santa, reindeer, and songs by carolers.  

  • Exact Location: 650 N Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603  
  • Admission: Drive-thru light show: $25-$30. Walking portion: FREE 
  • Schedule: Runs from late November to the first week of January, nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.  
  • Pet Friendly: Yes! 
  • Tickets: Can be booked online in advance. 

Dutch Winter Wonderland 

Dutch Wonderland’s family-friendly amusement park transforms into a magical winter wonderland with lights, festive entertainment, and select rides. Dutch Wonderland’s Christmas lights events (Dutch Winter Wonderland) include access to 10 activities and 20+ rides with stunning holiday lights!  

Entertainment experiences include puppet shows, a holiday sing-along, live music, and eating cookies with Santa! 

  • Exact Location: 2249 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602  
  • Admission: Paid. General admission starts around $25-$30 per person.  
  • Schedule: November 15 through December 31, mainly on weekends. Check their website for specific times. 
  • Tickets: Can be booked online, and booking in advance is recommended due to limited capacity.  

Meter Buster Christmas Display 

Known for its high electricity usage due to the extensive number of lights and decorations, this private display is a local favorite with a charming atmosphere. With hundreds of holiday lights and Christmas surprises, the Meter Buster Christmas Display is a must-see if you’re in the area.  

  • Exact Location: 49 Longfellow Dr, Lancaster, PA 
  • Admission: Free  
  • Pet Friendly: Yes, pets on leashes are welcome.  
  • Tickets: No tickets required.  

Christmas Lights in Ephrata 

This beloved event, a tradition for over 100 years, transforms downtown Ephrata into a magical winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, festive wreaths, and the joyful spirit of the season. 

The evening kicks off with Santa’s grand arrival and the official tree lighting, drawing families from across the region to Main Street. With lit wreaths overhead and trees lining the sidewalks, the atmosphere feels straight out of a Hallmark film.  

When you visit, you’ll enjoy street entertainment, a visit to Santa’s House, and opportunities to support the event by sponsoring a tree or light post banner! 

Christmas Lights in Hershey, PA  

Giant Center Christmas Lights and Show 

For one night only, you won’t want to miss this holiday performance and Christmas magic at the Giant Center in Hershey, PA. Enjoy a dazzling performance as Pentatonix brings their “Christmas in the City” Tour to the heart of Pennsylvania! 

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, you’ll get to enjoy not only great music, but you’ll also get to see holiday lights light up this PA stage. After you enjoy the show, head over to nearby Hershey Park for even more holiday joy. 

  • Location: 550 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033 
  • Admission: Paid | Ranges from $96 – $400+ 
  • Schedule: December 11, 2025 at 7pm 
  • Tickets: Available online in advance, strongly recommended.

Christmas Lights in Hershey PA  

Hershey Sweet Lights Trolley

Hershey Sweet Lights Trolley offers one of Pennsylvania’s most enchanting holiday light displays. This two-mile drive-through experience features more than 600 illuminated, animated displays that wind through wooded trails, creating a dazzling winter wonderland.   

  • Location: 101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey, PA 17033  
  • Admission: Paid | Ranges from $22–$33 per person. 
  • Schedule: Open daily from mid-November through early January, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM.  
  • Pet-Friendly: Pets are not allowed.  
  • Tickets: Available online in advance, strongly recommended for weekends.  

hershey pa christmas lights

Hersheypark Christmas Lights

Looking for Christmas lights at Hershey Park? Hersheypark Christmas Candyland includes family rides & select coasters. Stroll through more than 5 million twinkling lights while sipping a delicious hot chocolate, and enjoy visits from Santa and his live reindeer on select nights. 

  • Location: 100 Hersheypark Drive, Hershey, PA 17033  
  • Admission: Paid; prices range from $44–$58 depending on the day and type of ticket.  
  • Schedule: Schedule: Runs November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026 
  • Pet Friendly: No, pets are not allowed inside the park.  
  • Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online, and advance purchase is recommended to secure entry.  

Christmas Lights in Bethlehem, PA  

Christmas City Tree Lighting Ceremony  

Enjoy cookies, hot chocolate, and visits from Santa at this event, presented by the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. This event features live music, dazzling lights, and the grand illumination of the city’s iconic Christmas tree. 

Known as the “Christmas City,” the Bethlehem Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony isn’t one to miss. 

  • Location: Payrow Plaza, 10 E. Church Street, Bethlehem, PA  
  • Admission: Free  
  • Schedule: Friday, November 28 at 5pm
  • Booking: No need to book in advance, just show up for the event.  

Bethlehem By Night Motorcoach Tour  

Deemed “the best way to see Bethlehem,” the Bethlehem By Night Motorcoach Tour tours the downtown and explains the history of this charming city. This tour includes a visit to the famous Bethlehem Star atop South Mountain. 

  • Location: Historic Hotel Bethlehem, 437 Main St, Bethlehem, PA 
  • Admission: Paid, approximately $20-$25  
  • Schedule: Evenings throughout the holiday season, with specific times available on the website.  
  • Pet Friendly: No  
  • Booking: Tickets can be booked online in advance.  

Christmas City Stroll  

This Christmas lights City Stroll goes through Bethlehem’s historic district. As you explore the beautifully preserved Victorian and colonial architecture, you’ll encounter National Historic Landmarks adorned in festive lights. The tour immerses visitors in the rich history of Bethlehem, also known as “Christmas City,” while highlighting the town’s unique holiday customs. 

  • Location: 501 Main Street, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18018 
  • Admission: Paid, around $9-$20 per person. 
  • Schedule: Various times throughout the end of November, December, and early January. 
  • Pet Friendly: No  
  • Booking: Advance booking is recommended through the Historic Bethlehem website.  

bethelehem pa christmas star

Illumination at Coca-Cola Park 

Illumination at Coca-Cola Park is quickly becoming a must-see holiday tradition in the Lehigh Valley. With nearly 1.5 million lights, synchronized music shows, and a host of festive attractions, this immersive experience transforms the home of the IronPigs into a winter wonderland for all ages. 

  • Location: 1050 Ironpigs Way, Allentown, PA 18109 
  • Admission: $11-$13 
  • Schedule: Lit nightly on select Saturdays in November and December 

Bethlehem PA Christmas Star  

The “Star of Bethlehem” in Bethlehem, PA is a famous holiday symbol. This large illuminated star is located on South Mountain, visible from many parts of the Lehigh Valley, and has been a part of Bethlehem’s rich Christmas tradition since 1937. It represents the Star of Bethlehem, guiding people to the city during the Christmas season, much like the original Star guided the Wise Men.  

  • Exact Location: South Mountain, Bethlehem, PA  
  • Admission: Free to view.  
  • Schedule: Lit nightly from Thanksgiving through early January. It typically turns on at dusk and stays illuminated until midnight.  
  • Pet Friendly: If you’re viewing it from the surrounding parks or streets, pets are generally allowed.  

Christmas Lights in Philadelphia, PA  

The Macy’s Christmas Light Show

The Macy’s Christmas Light Show in Philadelphia is a cherished holiday tradition that has dazzled visitors for over 60 years. Located in the historic Wanamaker Building, this spectacular show features over 100,000 LED lights that illuminate a four-story-high display accompanied by classic holiday music. 

  • Exact Location: Macy’s Center City, 1300 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19107  
  • Admission: Free  
  • Schedule: Runs from late November through December 31, with shows typically running daily at 10:30am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, and 6pm.
  • Pet Friendly: No, pets are not allowed inside Macy’s.  
  • Tickets: No tickets required; it’s a walk-in event.  

philadelphia christmas lights macys

Holiday Garden Railway

The Holiday Garden Railway at the Morris Arboretum in Philadelphia is a whimsical and festive experience that delights visitors of all ages. Set amidst the stunning winter landscape of the arboretum, this unique display features a quarter-mile of model trains chugging along tracks through a miniature village. 

  • Exact Location: Morris Arboretum, 100 E Northwestern Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19118  
  • Schedule: November 24 Saturday, December 30 
  • Pet Friendly: No, pets are not allowed in the arboretum.  
  • Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online or on-site, but booking in advance is recommended for weekends and peak dates.  

Philadelphia Zoo Christmas Lights: Luminature

LumiNature transforms the Philadelphia Zoo into a dazzling winter wonderland with vibrant lights, oversized animal sculptures, and immersive displays. Fun for all ages! This immersive nighttime experience features over a million twinkling lights, large-scale illuminated animal sculptures, and themed displays that light up the zoo grounds. 

  • Exact Location: Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104  
  • Admission: Paid; adults $25–$30, children $20–$23 (prices vary based on date and membership status) with a $17 charge for parking. 
  • Schedule: Runs from November 21 to early January.
  • Pet Friendly: No, pets are not allowed inside the zoo during the event.  
  • Tickets: Tickets must be purchased online in advance, as time slots sell out quickly on weekends and holidays.  

philadelphia christmas lights

Peddler’s Village Grand Illumination Celebration 

Kick off the holiday season in storybook style at Peddler’s Village! The charming village will come alive on November 14 with over a million colorful lights, festive performances, and the magic of Santa and Mrs. Claus flipping the switch at 6:15pm. The event will include live music, late night shopping, and more! 

Also on the same night, Peddler’s Village hosts an annual Gingerbread Competition with more than 100 creative Gingerbread entries. This event is also free, and the displays can be viewed until January 18, 2026. 

  • Location: 2400 Street Road, New Hope, PA 18938 
  • Admission: Free 
  • Schedule: The event is one day only, November 14, but the tree stays lit until January 18, 2026. 
  • Pet Friendly: No, pets are not allowed.  

The Miracle on South 13th Street Holiday Light Display 

If you’re looking for a holiday experience that blends community spirit, dazzling lights, and heartfelt giving, look no further than The Miracle on South 13th Street in South Philadelphia. Running nightly, this beloved neighborhood tradition transforms the 1600 block of South 13th Street into a glowing corridor of festive cheer. 

  • Exact Location: 1600 Block of S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 
  • Admission: Free 
  • Schedule: December 1 – January 1  
  • Pet Friendly: Yes! 

Christmas Lights in Elizabethtown, PA & Other Surrounding Cities  

Christmas Light Drive-Thru at Stone Gables Estate (Elizabethtown, PA) 

This 3-mile-long drive-thru features stunning holiday light displays, including over 600,000 lights set to music. The Christmas Lights Drive-Thru at the Stone Gables Estate features storyboards from the 12 days of Christmas, a light motion train, and 18-foot tall trees. 

  • Location: 1 Hollinger Lane, Elizabethtown, PA 17022  
  • Admission: Paid; Price ranges from $30 per vehicle, depending on the night.  
  • Schedule: Runs from late November to early January, 5pm – 9pm.  
  • Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed but must remain in the vehicle.  
  • Tickets: Can be purchased online in advance or on-site.  

Refreshing Mountain Christmas Lights (Stevens, PA)  

Refreshing Mountain offers a scenic Christmas light display featuring thousands of twinkling lights across the campgrounds. You can experience this event in two ways: you can take in the sights of these Christmas lights through a walking tour, or by ZIP LINE! The Winter Walk Experience also includes access to Refreshing Mountain’s Wildlife Center. 

  • Exact Location: 455 Camp Rd, Stevens, PA 17578  
  • Admission: Paid; $14 for the walking experience and $49 – $69 for the zipline experience. 
  • Schedule: Runs from late November through the first week of January with varying times based on the day and activities chosen.  
  • Pet Friendly: Pets are allowed during the walk-through event, but not in ziplining or outdoor activity areas.   
  • Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online, and booking in advance is recommended.  

Koziar’s Christmas Village (Bernville, PA)  

Koziar’s Christmas Village in Bernville, PA, is a dazzling holiday destination that has enchanted visitors for over 70 years. Nestled on a picturesque hillside, this magical village features over a million twinkling lights adorning charming buildings, trees, and displays that transport guests into a winter wonderland.  

  • Location: 782 Christmas Village Road, Bernville, PA 19506  
  • Admission: Paid | $11–$13.  
  • Schedule: Open first Saturday in November to early January, 5pm – 9pm
  • Pet-Friendly: Pets are not allowed.  
  • Tickets: No need to book in advance; tickets available on-site.  

Christmas Magic at Rocky Ridge (York, PA) 

Christmas Magic at Rocky Ridge in York, PA, is a delightful holiday event that transforms the beautiful Rocky Ridge County Park into a festive wonderland. This enchanting celebration features a captivating display of holiday lights that illuminate the park’s trails, creating a magical atmosphere for families and friends to enjoy. 

  • Exact Location: 3699 Deininger Rd, York, PA 17406  
  • Pet Friendly: No, pets are not allowed.  
  • Tickets: Tickets must be purchased online in advance.  

The Herr’s Holiday Lights Display (Nottingham, PA)  

The Herr’s Holiday Lights Display in Nottingham, PA, is a dazzling seasonal attraction that captivates visitors with its stunning array of lights and festive decorations. Spanning over a mile, this enchanting drive-through experience features more than 600,000 twinkling lights synchronized to holiday music, creating a magical atmosphere for families and friends. 

Exact Location: 20 Herr Drive Nottingham, PA 19362  

  • Admission: FREE!  
  • Schedule: 5pm-7am November through January  
  • Pet Friendly: Yes! This is a drive through experience.  
  • Tickets: Not required.  

Guidelines for Visiting Public Light Displays  

For those visiting neighborhood light displays open to the public, please keep the following in mind: 

Respect the privacy rights of neighbors and stay off their property.  

  • Don’t block or turn around in driveways.  
  • Don’t block traffic.  
  • Please don’t play loud music.  
  • Please don’t touch the light displays themselves.  

As the holiday season approaches, the charm of Christmas lights displays across Pennsylvania offers a wonderful way to celebrate with family and friends. So bundle up, grab a warm drink, and embark on a magical journey through Pennsylvania’s twinkling holiday landscapes—creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. 

 

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We love our Lancaster County, P.A. customers! Santanna Energy Services has been proudly providing easy home electricity and gas plans to our Pennsylvania customers for over 35 years! We’re proud to offer a wide range of renewable energy solutions and products tailored to meet the unique needs of our customers. Our mission is to provide innovative and cost-effective energy solutions that will help our customers achieve their energy goals and help the environment along the way

Jenna Mendez

Jenna Mendez is a Midwest native with lifelong roots in Illinois and time spent in Ohio during college, giving her a deep understanding of the Midwest region’s people, climate, and energy needs. She brings firsthand experience and local insight to topics that matter to Midwest homeowners, especially energy efficiency, sustainability, and home living. Jenna specializes in writing about eco-friendly living, all things Midwest, renewable energy, and practical ways to reduce energy costs. Jenna brings a trusted, and local hometown voice to every article she writes, helping readers live well, and sustainably, right where they are.

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