The weeks leading up to Thanksgiving often see a fierce battle between Halloween and Christmas lovers. While the former are locked in spooky season mode until the end of November, the other side breaks out the tree and lights on the first of the month.
Still, no matter what side you’re on, one thing is certain — the most wonderful time of the year is fast approaching (and Mariah Carey is defrosting as we speak). This means that spots across Bucks County are beginning to announce light shows, festivals and more. Below is a full list of holiday happenings to add to the schedule.
“A Christmas Carol” by Town and Country Players takes place now through Nov. 19. Directed by Janemarie Cloutier, A Christmas Carol tells the classic story of curmudgeonly Ebenezer Scrooge. While the novella has been adapted countless times, Town and Country is using its unique space to immerse its audiences from start to finish.
Festival of the Trees at Pearl S. Buck House & Historic Site takes place Nov. 16 through Jan. 8. The rooms of the iconic stone farmhouse come alive with the glow of holiday decorations. The event showcases the trees and vignettes designed by Bucks County artists, decorators and local community groups to convey the spirit of Pearl S. Buck as an author, humanitarian and activist. Visitors can vote for their favorite display.
Grand Illumination Celebration at Peddler’s Village takes place Nov. 18, at 6:15 p.m. Join to see Santa and his helper flip the switch to illuminate the entire village. Attendees can also enjoy musical and dance performances by local groups. Admission is free.
Million Dollar Quartet Christmas at Bucks County Playhouse takes place Nov. 18 through Jan. 1. Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkis and Elvis Presley come together at Sun Records, now festively decorated with a Christmas tree, garland and mistletoe, and ringing with sounds of the season. The gang is up to their usual antics as they journey through stories of Christmas past, present and future, but jam-packed with rock ‘n roll hits, including “Jingle Bell Rock” and more.
Gingerbread Competition and Display at Peddler’s Village takes place Nov. 18 through Jan. 7. A holiday tradition since 1984, this display features more than 75 creative and whimsical entries in several categories, including “Holiday on Wheels,” “Movie or TV Set,” “Winter Wonderland” and more. Free.
Holidays at Fonthill Castle takes place beginning Nov. 19. One-hour guided tours are offered 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to showcase Henry Chapman Mercer’s home decked out for the holidays. On Saturdays and Sundays in December, the castle is hosting Holiday Lights Meander: 30-Minute “On-Your-Own” Timed Holiday Experiences.
A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place takes place Nov. 19 through Jan. 1. Enjoy a special holiday performance from favorite furry friends, a Christmas Dine with Elmo and other characters, the “1-2-3 Christmas Tree Show” and a Hanukkah & Menorah Light Celebration with Baby Bear.
28th Annual Holiday Light Show at Shady Brook Farm takes place Nov. 19 through Jan. 28. Take a photo with Santa and enjoy a 2-mile car or open-air wagon ride through the light show, featuring 3 million lights illuminating the farm. End the visit by toasting some s’mores at a private or public fire pit.
Holly Nights at Pennsbury Manor take place Dec. 1 and 2. Experience the enchantment of Pennsbury Manor by candlelight. Enjoy crackling bonfires, the merry sound of carolers, candlelit tours of the Manor House, colonial craft demonstrations and a visit from Father Christmas.
Holly Jolly Weekend at Peddler’s Village takes place Dec. 3 and 4. Enjoy a Santa Parade through the village at 1:30 p.m. and more.
The North Pole Express on the New Hope Railroad takes place on weekends, Dec. 3-30. Sip hot chocolate and enjoy a freshly baked cookie while singing along with the railroad’s roaming musicians as they play carols. Gear up in pajamas and experience a ride through historic Bucks County. Rent a private caboose or coach car.
Christmas at Aldie Mansion takes place Dec. 4. With gilded hallways, sparkling decorations, festive music and cuisine, Christmas at Aldie is a magical evening beginning at 5 p.m. Enjoy a holiday-themed cocktail and dinner from Jeffrey A. Miller Catering. Limited capacity to 160 guests. Reservations required.
Gerald Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” Performance at Byers’ Choice takes place Dec. 10 and 11. Stop in the factory, which has been handcrafting Caroler figurines for 40-plus years, to see how they’re made. Performances of A Christmas Carol by Gerald Dickens, the great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens, are held Dec. 10, at 1 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., and Dec. 11, at 1:30 p.m.
Christmas with the Rat Pack – Together Again at Sellersville Theater takes place Dec. 11. This is a recreation of Christmas at the Sands Casino with Sinatra, Martin and Davis. Songs include hits like “My Way” and Christmas classics, such as “White Christmas.”
The Crossing Reenactment at Washington Crossing Historic Park takes place Dec. 11 and 25. Narrated by Peter Hegseth, experience a recreation of George Washington’s treacherous Delaware River crossing. Enjoy colonial-era activities and demonstrations in the Historic Village. The park will be decorated with period wreaths, candles and holiday trees.
Additionally, the Bucks County Wine Trail, Bucks County Ale Trail and area distilleries will have festive offerings throughout the season.
Head to VisitBucksCounty.com/Holidays for more information.
