Christmas Magic & More: A Holiday Itinerary in York County
York County transforms into a festive wonderland for the holidays, with magical events and traditions to delight all ages.
While Christmas Magic: A Festival of Lights is a must-see, we’ve put together an itinerary of additional attractions to help you celebrate.
Christmas Magic in York
Your journey begins at Rocky Ridge County Park, the site of Christmas Magic: A Festival of Lights, a York County tradition for more than four decades. Stroll down a trail through a million sparkling lights arranged in fantastical scenes. Then, warm up with cookies and hot chocolate. This half-mile path is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, and open seven days a week from the day after Thanksgiving through the end of December (closed December 24 and 25). Admission is by online reservation only. Book your spot in advance (last-minute reservations allowed while available).
Bright Nights York
If you’re in the mood for more lights, head to WellSpan Park for Bright Nights York, another walk-through light display, open Thursday through Sunday evenings through the end of December. Experience the ballpark like you’ve never seen it before, transformed into a twinkling winter wonderland. Tickets must be purchased online and include exclusive offers from dining and retail partners in Downtown York.
More Holiday Fun
While in downtown York City, don’t miss Light Up York on the first Friday of December, which includes the Continental Square tree lighting and a visit from Santa at Martin Library. The Festival of Trees display returns to the Goodridge Freedom Center on select dates in December.
Hanover kicks off Christmas in late November with a tree lighting and Santa Parade. Santa takes up residence in Hanover for much of December at his Santa Cabin on the square.
You can also visit Santa on a holiday train ride. Choose from
- Christmas City Express, courtesy of Ma & Pa Railroad Heritage Village
- Northern Central Railway of York’s Santa Express
- Stewartstown Railroad Company’s Candy Cane Express
- Strasburg Rail Road in neighboring Lancaster County also has holiday options for train buffs.
Adults can enjoy some festive fun of their own at Downtown York’s Jingle Bell Crawl, which includes samples and specials at more than a dozen bars and restaurants. Costumes are highly recommended! Or take the whole family on Hanover’s Cookie & Hot Chocolate Stroll, featuring sweet treats and festive entertainment.
Get a start on your Christmas shopping at some of the charming holiday markets taking place all around York County.
No holiday season would be complete without a Christmas performance, and York County has several to choose from:
- York Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Pops Spectacular”
- A screening of “White Christmas”
- Pennsylvania Ballet Academy’s “Nutcracker Sweets”
- “Elf the Musical Jr”
- “Ringing in the Holidays” with the Westminster Ringers
- Broadway-inspired “Christmas in the Air”
Visit our online calendar for even more entertainment options.
Winter Tips for Visitors
York takes on a special glow in winter, when festive lights, outdoor markets, and community traditions draw visitors from near and far. While the season is enchanting, it also brings chilly temperatures and occasional snow or ice. Many activities, including Christmas Magic, take place outdoors, so dress in warm layers and sturdy footwear appropriate for walking in potentially slippery conditions. If inclement weather strikes, check an attraction’s website or social media for information on cancellations.
Your visit to Christmas Magic and other seasonal events will be festive, fun, and filled with unique things to do. We can help you plan your visit, with our official York County travel guide and our twice-monthly Getaway Guide, so you don’t miss out on the best York holiday attractions!
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