December gives us a chance to decompress after a long year. It’s not just about Christmas, but whatever way you observe the holiday season.
Here are some of the events and activities we’re most looking forward to this holiday season.
The Best Holiday Light Displays in Pennsylvania
Holiday Light Spectacular at Nay Aug Park, Scranton
Enjoy over 100 holiday-themed light displays at the annual Holiday Light Spectacular at Nay Aug Park. The drive-through light show runs nightly from 5-10 p.m. through January 7, 2025. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated.
If you choose to drive through, tune in to holiday jams on 96.7 FM as you navigate through the dazzling lights. Or, take a walk through the display and enjoy the peace and tranquility of a winter light under the holiday glow. Another option is to enjoy the lights on a special horse-drawn carriage ride on select nights with Brookvalley Farm.
Holiday Lights on the Lake at Lakemont Park, Altoona
See more than 1 million lights as you cruise through more than 50 acres of the park. You can also see a model train display and do some last-minute shopping. You can see the lights of the Holiday Lights on the Lake every night from 6 to 10 p.m. through Jan. 5. Visit the Holiday Lights on the Lake event page for more info.
Candy Cane Lane, Duboistown
This suburban street is home to the incredible holiday light displays that Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis toured at the beginning of “Happiest Season.” You can see the lights of Candy Cane Lane every night from 5 to 10 p.m. through New Year’s Eve. Visit the Candy Cane Lane Facebook page for more info.
Lights in the Parkway, Allentown
This long-running Allentown attraction transforms over a mile of Lehigh Parkway into a winter wonderland with thousands of dazzling lights. You can see the lights in the parkway every night from 5:30 to 10 p.m. through Jan. 6. Visit the Lights in the Parkway event page for more info.
Presque Isle Lights, Erie
Enjoy a self-guided driving tour of twinkling holiday light displays at Presque Isle State Park, Fridays through Sundays through December 29. Entry is free, with a suggested donation of $5 to support the park.
Due to recent record-breaking snowfall, there may be some lights out. Teams are working diligently to repair any damages. Also, the donation booth has been relocated to the third lot across from the Stull Interpretive Center.
Koziar’s Christmas Village, Bernville
Shutterstock Photo/Helen89
Located near Lancaster, Koziar’s Christmas Village is a massive — and we mean massive — light display that’s nothing to sneeze at. Featured on the Today Show, this renowned Christmas favorite offers over a million lights, model trains, and holiday scenes. It’s open nightly through December 31 and is celebrating its 77th year bringing holiday joy to families all over PA.
“Koziar’s Christmas Village has grown to a mammoth and extraordinary seasonal attraction drawing visitors from around the world as well as local families who have made Koziar’s part of their Christmas tradition for four generations.”
Shady Brook Farm Holiday Light Show, Morrisville
This farm has more than 3 million lights arranged to form familiar characters and unique displays. Enjoy the light show from your vehicle or a wagon ride. You can see the Shady Brook Farm Holiday Light Show Sunday through Thursday from 5 to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 5 to 11 p.m. through Jan. 5. Visit Shady Brook Farm website for more info.
The Miracle on 13th Street, South Philadelphia
Drive or walk through this neighborhood and see the lights and other displays that decorate about 50 homes. Throughout the season, if you’re lucky enough, you’ll catch an appearance from carolers or Santa. You can see the lights of the Miracle on 13th Street daily from 5 to 10 p.m. through New Year’s Day. Visit the Miracle on 13th Street Facebook page for more info.
Lehigh Valley Zoo Winter Light Spectacular, Schnecksville
Photo courtesy of NEPA Scene
The Winter Light Spectacular features more than 1.2 million lights to celebrate the season. Visitors can wander the paths to admire colorful holiday displays and warm up by a fire pit, and then enjoy photos with Santa. Visit the Lehigh Valley Zoo Winter Light Spectacular event page to check times and to purchase tickets.
Downtown Holiday Displays, Pittsburgh
Downtown Pittsburgh has no shortage of holiday fun, including stunning decorations and light displays. Market Square features more than 150,000 LED lights and an incredible 35-foot tall, illuminated Sphere Tree, as well as the People Gas Holiday Market. The 65-foot-tall PPG Place Christmas Tree, located in the center of the ice rink, is a sensational site to see. Visit the downtown holiday displays event page for more info.
Illumination at Coca-Cola Park, Allentown
Illumination/Lehigh Valley IronPigs
Just because the Lehigh Valley IronPigs are hibernating for the winter doesn’t mean there’s nothing to see at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown. The holiday light experience Illumination has taken over the minor league ballpark, with more than one million lights creating a winter wonderland of themed light displays, synchronized shows, and festive activities. Illumination runs from 6 to 9 p.m. through Jan. 4, except Christmas Day. Check out the Illumination website for more info.
Holiday Lights at Phipps Conservatory and Botanic Gardens, Pittsburgh
Phipps Holiday Magic Winter Light Garden is back for 2024! Inside, enjoy the warm greenhouse gardens. The Winter Flower Show features new displays this year with stunning mystical creatures (including unicorns), glittering holiday trees, and unique floral designs, including 21 varieties of poinsettias. Outside, the Winter Light Garden is lit up with sparkling snowflakes, dazzling lights effects, and more.
Non-members must book their tickets in advance. Members save on all special events. The Winter Light Garden will be available for all guests through January 5, 2025.
READ MORE: 11 incredible holiday light displays to see in Pennsylvania
The Best Christmas Events in Pennsylvania
The Best Christmas Events in Philadelphia
Winter in Franklin Square
Another popular holiday event in Philadelphia is the Light Show at Franklin Square, running through February 23, 2025. This dazzling display features over 200,000 lights choreographed to seasonal classic melodies by your favorite international and local artists including The Philly Specials featuring Jason Kelce.
This show is all-ages approved, and visitors can enjoy the free lights spectacular every 30 minutes from 5 – 9 p.m. The event also includes a winter beer garden, mini golf, street curling, and playgrounds.
Skeletor Karaoke/Gong Show Holiday Extravaganza
Held at World Café Live on December 22, this quirky event combines karaoke and a terrifying talent contest hosted by Skeletor from Masters of the Universe. The Skeletor Karaoke Holiday Spectacular is a Philly cult favorite, and a totally free-of-charge event. Warm up your voice to sing your favorite songs for Skeletor, and fear the wrath of his judgment. If he is not pleased, Skeletor may gong you before you’re through.
Yes, it’s an unconventional way to celebrate the holidays, but sometimes, you just need an escape from wholesome, a great place to eat, drink, and gather with friends, and a lot of embarrassing photos for Instagram. Table seating is limited, so make a reservation!
Christmas Village at LOVE Park
Running until December 24, Christmas Village at LOVE Park, an open-air holiday market, transforms LOVE Park and City Hall Courtyard into a festive German-style Christmas market. Visitors can shop for unique gifts from local and international vendors, enjoy delicious holiday treats, and experience live music and entertainment.
Due to its central location, it’s easy to access by public transportation, bike, car, or by foot. Here’s a full list of all vendors by date and a map of all the fun foods, activities, and special booths, including photos with Santa.
A John Waters Christmas
Taking place at Union Transfer on December 15, A John Waters Christmas is a one-man show featuring legendary filmmaker John Waters in a witty, holiday-themed comedy performance. Known for his edgy humor, Waters slaps viewers with his irreverent holiday-themed quips that dive into topics like a “non-binary Mrs. Claus” and other offbeat social issues.
This show is for adults ages 18 and up only, and for good reason — this performance is filthier and merrier than ever!
I Pity the Scrooge: A Mr. T-Inspired Holiday Celebration
If John Waters isn’t for you, but you enjoy nostalgic holiday films, come instead to this whacky nostalgic holiday event on December 14. Hosted at PhilaMOCA, take a nostalgic dive into Mr. T’s career, complete with rare holiday-themed content and memorabilia. Interactive games and prizes add a whimsical touch to this celebration of an unexpected holiday icon.
This screening of the rare TV special “A Christmas Dream” starring Mr. T and Emmanuel Lewis will also include a talk by pop culture enthusiast and owner of one of the largest collections of Mr. T memorabilia, Ben Leach.
The Best Christmas Events in Pittsburgh
The Nutcracker
While there are several Nutcracker performances across Pittsburgh, including Texture Ballet Theater’s stellar performances in Greenfield and The Nutcracker on Ice, Pittsburgh Ballet Theater’s classic rendition of The Nutcracker with special local celebrity appearances at the Benedum is the dressed-up classic with a modern twist that we look forward to year after year.
This year’s special celebrity appearances include former Steeler QB Charlie Batch, musician Frzy, Page Weinstein — the current Miss Pennsylvania, and KDKA’s Boaz Frankel.
Seasons Greetings Saturdays at the National Aviary
Photos with Santa are even better with an African penguin! Santa and his penguin helpers are coming to the National Aviary each Saturday before Christmas. Dress up in your favorite holiday sweater and learn all about these unique penguins while ringing in the season. Fundraising efforts from this event help support this Critically Endangered species.
Letters to Santa, arts and crafts, and a holiday storytime are also offered as part of this annual event.
Christmas on the Moon, Baby
The Moon Baby and Jon David Russel are back for the 10th year in a row! Head down to Spirit on December 19 to enjoy a cabaret of Christmas irreverence, camp glamour, and holiday tradition. This show is for adults only — an escape from forced family fun, if you will.
A delicious holiday buffet will be offered for an additional cost when you buy your tickets ahead or at the door. Come on down, eat, and be merry at this fun and fabulous festive sing-along!
Winter Artists Market
Find the perfect gift for the art-lover in your life or simply enjoy some riveting local art at the annual Winter Artists Market on Dec. 14 at Pittsburgh Center for Arts and Media in Oakland.
Enjoy snacks from Farmer x Baker, and beverages from Jackworth Ginger Beer while you shop from over 30 local artists throughout PCA&M’s studios. PCA&M will be collecting donations of dry goods, canned foods, and hygiene products to donate to Wilkinsburg Community Ministry. The Ministry’s wishlist for needed goods can be found here.
The Best Christmas Events in Erie
Winter Wonderland at Asbury Woods
Everybody’s favorite school trip as a child has lit up for the holidays! Stroll a lighted boardwalk through the beautiful Asbury Woods canopy, view a model train display, and shop for holiday-themed gifts throughout the Nature Center.
This event runs nightly (except December 24-25) through December 31, with free admission and a suggested donation of $5 to support Asbury Woods’ environmental programs.
Station Dinner Theatre’s Christmas Memories
Experience a heartwarming Christmas play about the Harmony Singers, a family singing group stuck in the airport for the holidays. Catch this funny, musical show alongside a specially curated meal by Station Dinner Theater’s own Chef Richard. Performances run through December 22.
If you’re planning on enjoying an enchanting evening of dinner theater at the Station Dinner Theater, be sure to buy your tickets ahead. Some dates are already sold out.
The Best Christmas Events in Harrisburg
Candlelight Mansion Tours at Fort Hunter Mansion
Experience the historic Fort Hunter Mansion beautifully decorated for the holidays during the Candlelight Mansion Tours at Fort Hunter Mansion on December 14 and 21. You’ll learn about 19th-century holiday traditions while enjoying the festive candlelit ambiance. Tickets are $8 per adult and must be purchased in advance.
Upcoming additional events include a visit with Santa’s reindeer and Mrs. Claus and a Christmas tree couture display.
Third in the Burg: Holiday Edition
Explore Harrisburg’s arts and cultural scene during this holiday-themed edition of Third in the Burg on December 20. Local galleries, shops, and restaurants participate with special events, live music, and seasonal treats. Shop local and sustainable gifts while supporting your community.
Midtown Scholar Bookstore is a popular stop during this event since it offers a free cup of hot chocolate with every purchase!
The Best Christmas Event in Hershey
Hersheypark Christmas Candylane
Running select dates through early January, Hersheypark Christmas Candylane features over 5 million twinkling lights, holiday-themed rides, and Santa with all nine of his reindeer. Families with kids of all ages are welcome to enjoy the iconic NOEL light show, the Kissmas Tree display, and holiday-themed treats throughout the park. Other events at Hersheypark include the Hershey Sweet Lights and Breakfast with Santa.
Hershey Sweet Lights features over 2 miles of holiday light displays, providing a magical experience from the comfort of your car. Trolley tours are also available, starting from Hershey’s Chocolate World.
Breakfast with Santa, hosted at The Chocolatier Restaurant, includes a delicious breakfast, kids’ activities, and a chance to meet Santa. It runs on weekends and select weekdays through December 24.
The Best Christmas Event in Lancaster
Dutch Winter Wonderland
Dutch Wonderland transforms into a Dutch Winter Wonderland with light displays, live holiday shows, music, games, and seasonal attractions. It’s an excellent destination for families, running select evenings through December 31.
Take the kids to visit Santa or Daniel Tiger at this kid-friendly winter event. Or take in the holiday cookie experience. Better loosen your belt for all the goodies!
The Best Christmas Event in Scranton
Festival of Trees
View unique Christmas trees on the Lackawanna County Courthouse Square in Scranton at the annual Festival of Trees. This event features several creatively decorated trees specially designed by a number of local organizations. Find your Martha Stewart or eclectic artist-style holiday decoration inspiration right here!
Admission and donations benefit Toys for Tots. This event runs until January 12.
The Best Hanukkah Events in Pennsylvania
The Best Hanukkah Events in Philadelphia
Shine a Light Family Day
Perfect for children ages 3 and older, Shine a Light Family Day at the Weitzman National Museum teaches children about the history of Hanukkah with free activities including storytime, crafts, scavenger hunts, and a festive menorah lighting to highlight the significance of the Festival of Lights.
Manayunk Hanukkah Candle Lighting
Celebrate with candles, latkes (yay!), sufganiyot, hot drinks, and community spirit in Manayunk. The Manayunk Hanukkah Candle Lighting will take place on Thursday, December 26 at Canal View Park.
Here, people of all ages can gather to light the menorah, celebrating the second night of Hanukkah with traditional blessings and songs. This free event offers folks from all backgrounds the opportunity to enjoy the holiday spirit alongside neighbors and friends.
The candle lighting ceremony is part of the bigger Eight Crazy Nights of Hanukkah celebration kicking off on Wednesday, December 25, and running through January 1 complete with ‘Eight Crazy Nights’ of Instagram giveaways with prizes from local Manayunk restaurants, stores, and specialty shops.
Hanukkah Celebration at Sesame Place
It’s all about the kids at The Hanukkah Celebration at Sesame Place in Langhorne. Each day of fun and games also features a daily menorah lighting, dreidel games, and special Sesame Street performances.
This Hanukkah for kids event starts on December 26 and runs through January 1, 2025. Each day, festivities include a Menorah lighting ceremony at 4:30 p.m., accompanied by a local cantor. Visitors can also enjoy Hanukkah-themed activities such as playing dreidel, dancing to festive music, crafting at the Hanukkah Activity Station, and participating in a special Hanukkah storytime with beloved Sesame Street characters like Baby Bear and Grover.
This family-friendly event offers a joyful way to celebrate the Festival of Lights while learning about Hanukkah traditions with interactive and engaging activities. For more details, visit Sesame Place’s website .
The Best Hanukkah Events in Pittsburgh
Chabad of Squirrel Hill’s Grand Menorah Parade and Menorah Lighting Festival
Get ready for menorah-topped cars, music, games, and a grand procession at this year’s Grand Menorah Parade. This year’s entertainment lineup and starting point in Squirrel Hill will be announced closer to the date of the event, December 29.
This year’s Menorah Lighting Festival on December 30 will look a little different than last year’s festivities. This free and family-friendly event will include dreidel dancers, a hot donut station, latkes, stilt walkers, and even more fun and entertainment. Join friends and family on the corner of Beacon St. and Murray Ave. at 4 p.m. when the festivities begin, or wait for the menorah lighting at dusk.
Latkepalooza
Who doesn’t love latkes? If you’re gearing up for the season with freshly made goodies, join J-JEP Religious School’s annual community Hanukkah celebration, Latkepalooza, at Congregation Beth Shalom on December 15 from 10 a.m.– 12:00 p.m.
The school promises plenty of fun games, crafts, prizes, donuts, and latkes! Everyone is welcome to join, and the cost is $5 per person or $20 per family cash at the door.
The Best Hanukkah Event in Erie
Evening Storytime: Happy Hanukkah!
Like all storytimes at the Blasco Memorial Library, Evening Storytime: Happy Hanukkah! is a family-friendly interactive storytime designed to educate and empower young people. Featuring Hanukkah-themed stories, crafts, and activities, this event is supported by Temple Anshe Hesed and is open to anyone interested in learning about Jewish traditions.
Come on December 16 from 6-7 p.m. to join in on some Hanukkah special arts and crafts, activities, and stay for the Blizzard of Books event!
The Best Hanukkah Event in Harrisburg
Hanukkah Festival of Lights
All Harrisburg and surrounding area residents are welcome to join in the festivities and celebrate the Hanukkah Festival of Lights with Beth El Temple, Chisuk Emuna Congregation, and Gesher. First-time visitors and long-time friends are encouraged to bring a buddy to experience the fun.
Activities include the Sisterhood Hanukkah Sale, latkes and sufganiyot tastings, music, a bounce house, crafts and games, and a Gesher Hanukkah party. This event will take place on December 15 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Beth El Temple.
The Best Hanukkah Event in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre
NEPA Hanukkah Festival
This is no ordinary celebration! On December 29 from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m., bring the whole family to the North East PA Hanukkah Festival and enjoy the thrill of a live musical performance by Jewish pop superstar Eli Marcus. Then, celebrate the holiday at the grand menorah lighting.
During the concert, feel free to browse local vendors with hand-crafted kosher sweets, gifts & Judaica. Have some fun at the arcade, or get into some family-friendly crafts. There will also be a variety of delicious bites including latkes, sliders, Asian specialties, and hot pretzels and donuts straight from New York City.
The Best New Year’s Eve Events in Pennsylvania
The Best New Year’s Eve Events in Philadelphia
Noon Year’s Eve Paint Party
For parents of young kids, there’s no better way to ring in the new year than with some creativity. This daytime event features arts, games, and a festive NYE balloon drop at 12:00 … noon.
The Noon Year’s Even Paint Party at ARTrageous Brush & Flow is specially designed for kids, so they can have a safe, delightful daytime blast! They’ll create beautiful artwork, participate in games, and enjoy a sparkling NA cider toast. Parents only pay if they choose to paint alongside their kiddos.
Early Family Fireworks Dinner at Keatings
Long gone are the days of tucking in the kids and celebrating without them. (This, however, is still an option, albeit not a very inclusive one.) Now, you can celebrate in style, kids in tow, and enjoy a scrumptious dinner and a dazzling fireworks display over the Deleware River, at the Early Family Fireworks Dinner at Keatings.
Grab a seat starting at 4 p.m. and get your hands on some free party favors. Adults can enjoy a feast with Roasted Pumpkin Bisque, Dry Rub Sirloin with Wild Mushroom Ragout, Roasted Garlic Heirloom Potatoes, and more delicious bits. Meanwhile, the kiddos can enjoy some mac and cheese and chicken tenders, raviolis, tots, and a huge selection of mini desserts.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront
On December 31, the Delaware River Waterfront will host two spectacular fireworks displays, one at 6 p.m. and another at midnight, to welcome 2025. This family-friendly event offers great views from multiple locations, including Penn’s Landing and the surrounding area. Pair it with skating at the Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest to complete the evening in glittering NYE style.
Pier Pressure™ Philadelphia — Under The Fireworks NYE Yacht Party 2025
For Philly residents who are planning a high-class evening of New Year’s revelry, the Pier Pressure™ Philadelphia — Under The Fireworks NYE Yacht Party features a four-hour open bar, a live DJ, dancing, and 360-degree views of the fireworks over the Delaware River. The Ben Franklin Yacht is an upscale, 250+ person, fully-heated luxury yacht with multiple levels and decks. Good news — you can bring the whole crew and save with a group rate.
Guests will receive party favors, enjoy climate-controlled decks, and have the best backdrop for commemorative photos: Philly’s skyline! This is a 21+ event, and all sales are final. Just don’t miss the boat…
Philadelphia NYE Bar Crawl
Visit multiple venues with drink specials and a lively atmosphere throughout Center City. Gather all your friends (over the age of 21) for a hop around to some of the city’s best bars. Partygoers who choose Philadelphia’s NYE Bar Crawl can enjoy the festivities at seven different locations with no cover charge. Plus, ticketholders get to enjoy great drink specials until midnight. This event is strictly 21+ with proper ID required. Pulse Nightclub is the check-in location. Other participants include Drinkers Pub Rittenhouse, Raven Lounge, and 1518 Bar and Grill.
The Best New Year’s Eve Events in Pittsburgh
Highmark First Night Pittsburgh 2025
A family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration in Pittsburgh’s Cultural District, Highmark First Night 2025 features live performances, art installations, and a grand fireworks display at midnight. Did we mention that Frzy is the featured performer? Because Frzy is going to bring down the house.
Other activities and performances include an ice maze, Zuzu Acrobats, Kierra Darshell’s Drag Show, a New Year’s Eve Parade circling the Cultural District, a free family zone, the comedy of Ed & Day in the ‘Burgh at the Byham, and so much more.
Monroeville Mall NYE Ball Drop at Noon
Whether you’re an early bird or a parent with young kids, if you can’t stay up until midnight on New Year’s Eve, The Monroeville Public Library will present a ball drop at noon inside the Monroeville Mall on New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, December 31.
This is a free event for all ages, inside the lower mall level, in front of Dick’s Sporting Goods beginning at 11:30 a.m. Mirroring a midnight ball drop at noon, the giant disco ball will be lowered with a fun countdown. This event will include party favors (while supplies last).
Gateway Clipper New Year’s Eve Cruises
If you’ve never experienced a holiday celebration on the Gateway Clipper before, you should! Enjoy a night on the water with dinner, hors d’oeuvres, dancing, DJ entertainment, and champagne toasts aboard Pittsburgh’s most iconic riverboats. Options include a dinner cruise or a lively dance cruise (for ages 21+ only). All cruises offer stunning views of the city skyline.
Don’t forget to get a commemorative photo aboard with your friends or family. And if you forget to purchase one while celebrating, you can opt to buy it later.
Pittsburgh Bollywood Grandeur NYE 2025
Celebrate the dawning of a new year in fashion — with a cultural twist — at Avalon Social. Pittsburgh Bollywood Grandeur features Bollywood music by top-rated Bollywood DJ Tamasha Nights, dancing, and a vibrant atmosphere. Partygoers can step into a glass-enclosed, climate-controlled rooftop nightclub with an LED dance floor, that kicks the party mood.
This annual celebration has been called Pittsburgh’s sexiest Bollywood NYE party. With over 300 guests last year, you may want to get your tickets ahead of time! A VIP experience is also available so you can skip the lines and relax on one of the luxurious couches and enjoy tableside service.
Rooftop Party at Il Tetto
A semi-sophisticated gathering with specialty cocktails, live music, and a celebratory ambiance, Sienna Mercato is hosting its annual New Year’s Eve party at its rooftop beer garden, Il Tetto. Doors open at 5 p.m. on December 31, and the party will keep going until 2 a.m. Tickets are first come, first serve at the door and are $25, credit card payments only.
Partygoers can expect a balloon drop at midnight, a photo booth, bottle specials a live DJ, and much more. The first 75 people through the door get a special treat, and pizza will be available for purchase.
The Best New Year’s Eve Events in Harrisburg
New Year’s Eve Celebration in Downtown Harrisburg
The capital city will host its annual New Year’s Eve celebration with family-friendly activities including a Kid’s Glow Party, a balloon drop, face painting, balloon animals, crafts, and a special blacklight area. The event is free, and even the snacks are free! Kids are encouraged to wear their brightest neon and white to glow under the blacklights!
This all-ages welcome event also features live entertainment and a countdown to the traditional strawberry drop at midnight. Fireworks will sound off at the start of the new year.
Karma New Year’s Eve
Drag yourself into 2025 quite literally! Karma is pulling out the stops to bring you this year’s biggest New Year’s party: Karma’s New Year’s Eve Celebration with Trinity and Loosey masquerade ball featuring some of your favorite queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race. Joining the cast will be some local talent that you won’t want to miss!
VIP tickets include a champagne toast, light snacks, a private bar, and more! This is a 21+ event only, henny.
New Year’s Evil at Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center (HMAC)
So you’re not into dressing to the nines, celebratory hugs, midnight kisses, mistletoe, or anything sweet. That’s okay. There’s a place you can celebrate the New Year your own way. At 1110 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA, step into New Year’s Evil. That’s right, it’s a party just for you, punk.
This is not your mom’s New Year’s bash with sauerkraut and guilt. It’s a live music event featuring local and touring artists. It offers a mix of rock, punk, and alternative vibes from D-LOC THE GILL GOD and BMD, also featuring performances by Niagra, Jerzey F-Dash, Eli Rell, Spitz Da OG, and more.
Midnight Blues: Denim and Black Cabaret
Are we middle-aged, YES! But boy do we know how to have a good time! For New Year’s Eve, this stylish blues and line dancing event, Midnight Blues, features live performances, a DJ, and a dress code of denim and black. This party is known for its amazing desserts, and the good times culminate in a midnight toast.
The Best New Year’s Eve Events in Erie
Boogie on the Bay
The Boogie on the Bay New Year’s Eve Party, conveniently located at the Bayfront Convention Center with access to the Sheraton and Marriott hotels, is a lively celebration featuring live entertainment, dancing, and refreshments for people ages 21 + who want to ring in the New Year in style (without having to drive anywhere).
The event kicks off at 9 PM on December 31. Tickets include 4 free drinks, hors d’oeurves, a champagne toast, live music, and a fun photo booth to commemorate the occasion.
New Year’s Eve Medieval Party at Splash Lagoon
For a unique family-friendly New Year’s celebration, you won’t want to miss the New Year’s Eve Medieval Party at Splash Lagoon on Tuesday, December 31 from 10 a.m. – midnight.
Kids of all ages and adventurous adults can become submerged — literally — in the magic of the Middle Ages. Aside from the indoor water park attractions, partygoers can also enjoy an animal show, face painting, arts and crafts, fun characters, a duck race, lily pad jousting, and the special midnight ball drop!
New Year’s Eve at the Zone Dance Club
Sashay your way down to the Zone Dance Club’s New Year’s Eve Party on Dec. 31 at 133 W. 18th Street. The Zone is the only gay dance and party club in Erie — a supportive and safe space for Erie’s LGBTQ community.
Doors open at 8 p.m., and your ticket includes a complimentary buffet, champagne toast at midnight, and a lively dance party. Entry is $10 and this event is 21+ only.
The Best New Year’s Eve Events in Altoona
New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball with Shallow 9 at the Altoona Grand Hotel
Stay at a hotel, and you won’t have to drive — sound advice unless the party is boring. That’s not the case here! At the New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball, you can enjoy a high-energy live performance by the band Shallow 9, along with a DJ, a midnight champagne toast, and a buffet featuring pork and sauerkraut (because it’s tradition!).
Tickets are only $40 apiece, and room packages for 2 start at just $179 (which is much cheaper than a DUI).
New Year’s Eve Comedy Show at The Comedy Farm
Ring in the new year in tears — of laughter — at this special stand-up comedy event. The New Year’s Eve Special at The Comedy Farm in Altoona won’t break the bank, unlike some other NYE parties. Tickets start at $15 and cost just $20 at the door on December 31. You can reserve your spot ahead by calling, emailing, telekinesis (kidding), or direct messaging The Comedy Farm.
Boozy drinks and snacks are available for purchase. This is an 18+ event, with champagne and cocktails available to visitors ages 21 and over. If you laugh your socks off, The Comedy Farm will not replace them. Open mic starts directly after the comedy showcase.
The Best New Year’s Eve Event in Hershey
Hershey’s Chocolate World New Year’s Eve Celebration
A kiss on New Year’s Eve takes on a whole new meaning at the Hershey’s Chocolate World New Year’s Eve Celebration. First, the family-friendly party from 3:-8:30 p.m. features a live DJ, visits from Hershey’s characters, and sweet surprises. The event takes place at 101 Chocolate World Way and is perfect for families looking for an early celebration.
But if you’re staying up for that perfect midnight kiss, Hershey’s Kiss Raise in Downtown Hershey may be just the ticket. The evening kicks off with a family hour from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. for younger guests who may not make it until midnight, featuring children’s musicians, face painting, and more. At 8:30 p.m., the HERSHEY Characters join in! Then, the main stage entertainment starts at 9 p.m. And just before midnight, MC Denny Logan (WNNK 104.1) and the HERSHEY’s Characters will count down to the HERSHEY’S Kiss raise. Muah!
The Best New Year’s Eve Events in Lancaster
Red Rose Drop at Clipper Magazine Stadium
The Red Rose Drop is back for New Year’s Eve this year! This free, family-friendly event will be hosted by the Lancaster Stormers at Clipper Magazine Stadium to ring in 2025. Come on down and enjoy live music, food vendors, and the iconic Red Rose Drop at midnight, followed by fireworks. More details to come!
Eden Resort & Suites Parties
The Eden Resort & Suites is throwing two separate New Year’s events this year: an Elegant Eve Gala and the Dance the Year Away Party. Whatever way you choose to celebrate, Eden Resort and Suites is offering room specials so you don’t have to drive anywhere!
For a fancier evening, the Elegant Eve Gala offers an enchanted night of formal dining, a live band, and a champagne toast. While the Dance the Year Away Party offers lively DJ entertainment and buffet dinner. Both include a discounted room rate for attendees.
Decades New Year’s Eve Bash
Enjoy retro vibes with arcade games, food, and a midnight champagne toast at Decades. For the third year in a row, this 21+ event takes retro gaming to a whole new level. With over 40 games, a new elevated food buffet, and curated beverages from Deep Eddy vodka, this will be a New Year’s bash to remember!
This is a ticketed event only, walk-ins will not be welcome. Also, guests who purchase tickets are offered a 10% off room rate at the Lancaster Arts Hotel, within walking distance from the party.
