Have holiday fun in Bucks County with these events through the season
The holiday season is here and Bucks County is merry and bright with a full calendar of winter and holiday celebrations this year.
As you bring out the puffy jackets and hot cocoa, embrace the holidays with festive events around the county.
Here's a list of holiday events and some of favorite festive activities in an around Bucks County:
Shady Brook Farms Holiday Light Show
When: Nov. 18, 2023 - Jan 8, 2024
Where: Shady Brook Farm, 931 Stony Hill Rd. Yardley (use Morrisville for GPS)
Shady Brook Farm's Holiday Light Show features 3 million lights on expansive farmland. Drive through whimsical displays or take an open-air wagon ride.
The attraction runs from Nov. 18 to Jan 8, 2024. Sunday to Thursday: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday & Saturday: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year's Eve, New Year's Day.
Tune your radio to 90.7 FM for festive tunes during the drive-through experience. For tickets and details, visit shadybrookfarm.com.
Shady Brook Farms Holiday Light Show Tickets and more information
15th annual Dickens Night in Langhorne
When: Dec. 1, 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: Corner of Maple and South Bellevue avenues.
Come out for a festive street party and watch Santa light the borough's Christmas tree at 7:30 p.m.
South Bellevue Avenue between Maple Avenue and Richardson Avenue will be closed from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday evening. Parking will not be allowed on the street during this time. Follow the direction of the officers and fire police volunteers who are working at the barricades as safety is the largest concern.
Sesame Place Philadelphia
When: Nov. 17, 2023 - Jan. 7, 2023
Where: Sesame Place Philadelphia, 100 Sesame Rd, Langhorne
Enjoy a Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place® this holiday season from Nov. 17 to Jan. 7. to see the park, transform into a winter wonderland. Enjoy parades with fun floats, holiday performances from special furry guests, and an illuminating light show at the 30-foot, 1-2-3 Christmas tree. Take photos with furry friends in their Christmas get up, enjoy special Christmas menus, shop for gifts, and even visit Santa in his furry workshop.
Join Sesame Place for the grand illumination to kick of the Very Furry Christmas. There will be a holiday performance followed by Santa's grand entrance on a sleigh drawn by horses. Santa will light up the park with millions of holiday lights and Christmas decorations. Information: sesameplace.com/philadelphia/events/a-very-furry-christmas/
Holly Nights, Pennsbury Manor
When: Dec.7 to Dec. 8 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Pennsbury Manor State Park, 400 Pennsbury Memorial Road Morrisville
Visit historic Pennsbury Manor lit by candlelight, at their "Holly Nights" celebration on Dec. 7 and 8. Enjoy crackling bonfires, the merry sound of carolers, candlelit tours of the Manor House, colonial craft demonstrations, and a visit from Father Christmas himself.
Tickets are $14/adults, $12/seniors, & $6/children age 4+ and will be available at the door for purchase, visit eventbrite.com to purchase your tickets now.
Pearl S. Buck House & Historic Site
When: Nov.15, 2023 - Jan. 7, 2024
Where: Pearl S. Buck House, 520 Dublin Road, Perkasie
Pearl S. Buck House & Historic Site presents the annual Festival of Trees, running from Nov.15 to Jan. 7, 2024, in the rooms of Pearl S. Buck's stone farmhouse.
The trees and vignettes were designed by some of Bucks County's finest artists, decorators, and local community groups and created in light of Pearl S. Buck's legacy as an author, humanitarian, and activist.
More information visit here pearlsbuck.org/events/holiday-events/.
Bucks County Driving Tours
Take a self-guided driving tour through Bucks County to explore the winter beauty. Check out some of the routes on Visit Bucks County's website at visitbuckscounty.com
Washington Crossing Historic Park
When: Dec. 10, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Dec. 25, noon to 3 p.m.
Where: Washington Crossing Historic Park, 1112 River Rd, Washington Crossing
Washington Crossing Historic Park hosts the annual reenactment of George Washington’s daring 1776 Christmas night river crossing each December. Enjoy holiday decorations, colonial-era activities, and demonstrations in the Historic Village.
This year, the public has two opportunities to view the reenactment:
First Crossing: Dec. 10, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the actual crossing at 1 p.m. After the event, join a wreath-laying ceremony at 3:30 in front of the visitor's center. Enjoy fresh bread from Justin Cherry of Half Crown Bakehouse and a book signing and discussion by author Friederike Baer, Ph.D., in the Visitor Center Auditorium at 11:30.
Second Crossing: Dec. 25, noon to 3 p.m., with the actual crossing at 1 p.m. Several hundred Continental military dressed actors row across the river in Durham boat replicas following a speech from General Washington.
For tickets and details, visit washingtoncrossingpark.org.
Christmas Crossing: Christmas tradition returns to Washington Crossing Historic Park
Bucks County Wine Trail
When: Dec. 9 - Dec. 10, 2023
Enjoy special wine pairings including Christmas cookies and artisanal cheese while relaxing to holiday music with the Bucks County Wine Trail on Dec. 9 and 10. Get a head start on Christmas shopping with the wineries various discounted wine gift packs, unique wine accessories, and gift baskets.
To explore the unique plans of each winery for the Holiday Celebration, and see what they have individually planned, reach out to them directly or visit websites buckscountywinetrail.com.
Kringle Christmas Shoppe
When: Dec. 1 - Dec. 3, 2023
Where: The Haycock Community Center, 1014 Old Bethlehem Rd. Quakertown
Join the Kringle Christmas shop sponsored by the Haycock Historical Society at the Haycock Township community center in Quakertown.
Shop creations made by local artists, craftsmen, and hand workers while enjoying musical holiday performances and a quick lunch. The shop is open on Dec. 2.
Visit the kringlechristmasshoppe.org for more details.
Perkasie Christmas Tree Lighting
When: Dec. 2 at the Perkasie Town Center from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m
Where: Borough Hall, 620 West Chestnut Street Perkasie
Perkasie's 115th annual Christmas Tree Lighting will be held on Dec. 2 at the Perkasie Town Center from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Clause will arrive at 7 p.m. on a Perkasie Electric Truck to light the Christmas tree with one lucky child.
Event includes live holiday music, Pennridge school groups, games, food, live dioramas, horse & carriage rides, food trucks, performances and more.
Guests are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for Pennridge FISH. A donation will enter you into the drawing which will take place at 6:30 p.m. For more details, visit the perkasieborough.org.
Peddler's Village at the holidays
When: Nov.17, 2023 - Jan. 14 2024 Holiday Kickoff Weekend
Where: Peddler's Village, 100 Peddlers Village, Lahaska
Explore Peddler's Village, including 65 specialty shops, fine dining, a 1920s carousel, arcade, and gingerbread houses, at the holidays.
Don't miss holiday events like the Grand Illumination Celebration on Nov .17. The festive spirit continues all season with family-friendly events, including the Holly Jolly Weekend on Dec. 2 & 3, featuring a Santa parade, photos, holiday tunes, and more.
Enjoy free admission and parking for the light and gingerbread displays. More information: peddlersvillage.com.
New Hope Railroad
When: Nov. 11 - Dec. 24
Where: New Hope Train Station, New Hope
Embark on the Santa’s North Pole Express Train, a unique experience drawn by vintage diesel locomotives. Depart from New Hope Station with Santa and Mrs. Claus for a memorable journey through the historical landscapes of Bucks County, leading to the North Pole.
Fare rate categories include value days, off-peak days, peak days, and Christmas Eve, each with different dynamic fares and fare level designations.
Reservations can be made through the newhoperailroad.com.
Fonthill Castle
When: Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Mercer Museum, 84 S Pine St, Doylestown
Starting on Saturday, Nov. 18, Fonthill Castle hosts daily one-hour guided tours throughout the holiday season.
Explore Henry Mercer’s home decked for the holidays, learning about Mercer and the property's construction. The guided tours showcase the interior featuring Mercer's handcrafted ceramic tiles from the Arts and Crafts movement.
Fonthill Castle, an early example of reinforced concrete architecture, comprises forty-four rooms, two hundred windows, and eighteen fireplaces. For more information, visit the mercermuseum.org.
Montgomery County Winter Concert Series
When: Nov. 22 - Dec. 20
Don't overlook the chance to acquire quality goods at the Montgomery County Winter Concert Series, featuring a complimentary concert series on Nov. 22 to Dec. 20.
Maggie Griffin Smith, a professional singer for over 20 years in musical theater, shares her talents in a spectacular showcase, performs Nov. 22 at noon.
Marcus Chaney, a Broadway and touring performer, uses his dynamic personality and voice to perform a large, diverse repertoire ranging from motown to crooning, performs Dec. 20 at noon.
Explore a diverse range of items, including cut flowers, plants, honey, baked goods, art, jewelry, and more. The free concerts are sponsored by the George and Lillian Berman Fund.
KleinLife Center is at 7763 Old York Road, Elkins Park.
Both events feature live performances, a Viennese table, and a door prize. For additional information, kleinlife.org or contact Gail Korostoff at 215-635-5244 or gkorostoff@kleinlife.org.
Santa's Drive-Through & Tree Lighting - Bensalem Township
When: Dec. 9, 5 p.m
Where: Bensalem Township, 2400 Byberry Rd, Bensalem
Santa Claus joins Bensalem's Annual Township Tree Lighting on Dec. 9, 2023, 5 p.m. at the Municipal Complex on Byberry Road.
Bring non-perishable food items for admission, supporting a holiday charity drive. For more details, visit the bensalempa.gov.
Christmas Tree Lighting Festival - Quakertown Alive
When: Dec. 1, from 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Where: Downtown Quakertown
Quakertown Alive presents the Christmas Tree Lighting Festival on Dec. 1 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. with Santa and Mrs. Claus arriving by Quakertown Fire Truck.
Enjoy strolling Victorian carolers, unique gifts, food vendors, kid's train rides, Harley Hill Farm alpacas, a Live Nativity, carriage rides, and performances by the QCHS Varsity Singers. Information: quakertownalive.com
Quakertown Christmas House Tours
When: Dec. 3, Reception: 2 p.m.,Tours: 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Where: Quakertown
Quakertown Alive presents the Quakertown Christmas House Tours for a glimpse at beautifully decorated homes on Sunday, Dec. 3, starting with a reception featuring light refreshments and holiday vendors at 2 p.m.
The self-guided tour of festive homes in Quakertown runs from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Get your tickets online. Information: quakertownalive.com
Santa Claus is coming to Central Park, Doylestown Township
When: Dec. 9, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Central Park, Doylestown Township, 425 Wells Rd, Doylestown
Save the Date. Santa Claus is visiting Central Park, Doylestown Township on Sat, Dec. 9, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Everyone is welcome to enjoy photos with Santa, hot chocolate, holiday music, crafts, and games. This free event also includes cookies and candy canes for all. For more details, visit the Doylestown Township Facebook page.
Bristol Township 2023 Holiday Parade
When: Nov.18 at 12 p.m.
Where: Bristol Township, 2501 Bath Rd, Bristol
Mark your calendar for the return of the Bristol Township 2023 Holiday Parade, including the Eagles Pep Band, Mummers All Stars, Bristol Township Baton Twirlers, local sports organizations, businesses, nonprofits, dance studios, car clubs, police, fire, Santa, and more on Saturday, Nov.18, at noon.
The parade starts at Brookwood School, travels down Haines Road, and turns on Millcreek Road to Millcreek Elementary. More information, visit Bristol Township Facebook page.
Christmas Songbook at Bristol Riverside Theatre
When: Tuesday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 31
Where: Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe St, Bristol
Bristol Riverside Theatre at 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol presents its seasonal spectacular: A Christmas Story: The Play. For more information, showtimes, and ticket purchases, visit brtstage.org.
Lower Bucks Drive-Thru House Tours
When: Dec. 8 to 31, countywide (sign-ups close Nov.24)
The Lower Bucks County Holiday Tour has been a great way to bring the community together and enjoy each other’s displays. It was born out of a desire to keep safe and have some holiday fun two years ago during the pandemic. A Bucks resident coordinated lists of festively decorated homes and shared the routes on Facebook. There were several routes depending on the part of the county you wanted to visit. The lists are provided free of charge.
Winterfest in Morrisville
Saturday, Dec. 2 at 10 a.m.; Rain Date Dec. 3 at 1 p.m
Parade starts at 10 a.m. Saturday at West Post Road to South Pennsylvania Avenue to Delaware Avenue, Washington Street, East Bridge Street, North Pennsylvania Avenue, West Palmer Street and ends at the high school.
Christmas in Doylestown House Tours
This year’s tour takes place 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 1 and noon. to 3 p.m. Dec. 2. Four homes decorated for the holidays on the tour and there is tea and refreshments at St. Paul's Epsicopal Church parish hall.
Advance tickets are on sale through Nov. 29 for $40 and may be purchased at the parish office, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Doylestown Bookshop at 16 S. Main St. or online at https://www.stpaulsdoylestown.org/cid-2022.
Tickets on tour days are $45 at the church. Tickets are limited and non-refundable. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church is located at 84 E. Oakland Ave., Doylestown. Call 215-348-5511 x 10 for more information.
Temple Judea in Doylestown celebrates Hanukkah
Sunday Dec. 10
Temple Judea Reform Synagogue of Doylestown will host a Hanukkah celebration from 1-3 p.m. at the Doylestown Dreidel at 34 W. State St.
Grinchmas Food Truck Fest & Holiday House at Bolton Mansion
Dec. 2 and 3 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 85 Holly Drive, Bristol Township
View a decorated first floor of the mansion and open hearth cooking. Enjoy photos with Santa and The Grinch, food trucks and children's activities outside. This year features a DJ, beer/cocktail garden and vendors.
For information, visit boltonmansion.org/.
Performance of Gerald Dickens’ A Christmas Carol
Dec. 9, 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., and Dec. 10 1:30 p.m. Byers' Choice Ltd., 4355 County Line Road
Byers’ Choice in New Britain Township has been handcrafting Caroler figurines for more than 40 years. Stop in the factory to see how they are made and tour their Christmas Museum. Open every day.
“A Christmas Carol,” performed by Gerald Dickens, Charles Dickens' great-great-grandson, will return after last year's virtual performance. It is his 19th year delighting audiences in Bucks. Tickets are $28.
For information, visit byerschoice.com/dickens.
Bucks County Choral Society Christmas concert
Saturday, Dec. 9 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 10 at 4 p.m.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel, 235 East State St., Doylestown
"We reimagine the beloved Anglican tradition, Nine Lessons and Carols, which emerged from the late-Victorian desire to bring popular Christmas carols from the home into the cathedral. Original poetry by Susan Carol Scott brings the Christmas Lessons to life. The virtuosic ringing of the 12-member professional handbell ensemble Philadelphia Bronze will celebrate an important anniversary for a Bucks County landmark, Malmark Bellcraftsmen, who are the sponsors of this concert."
Tickets $10-$25 and can be purchased at www.buckschoral.org/
A 'Jazzy Swingin' Christmas'
John Tesh & His Big Band will be on stage at the Sellersville Theater with “A Jazzy Swingin’ Christmas” at 8 p.m. Dec. 13.
Tesh is a Grammy-nominated pianist and composer, Emmy award-winning TV anchor, and host of the nationally-syndicated “Intelligence for Your Life” radio show. He brings his 10-piece band to the Sellersville Theater 1894 to perform big band-style arrangements of memorable Christmas songs such as “Let It Snow,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” “Carol of the Bells,” “Silver Bells,” and “Christmastime Is Here.” As well, songs from his gold-selling album, “A Romantic Christmas.”
The theater is located at 24 W. Temple Ave., Sellersville. Ticket sales and information, 215-257-5808.
This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Holiday events in Bucks County set for 2023 season
