The holiday season is a time for warmth, wonder, and togetherness, and nowhere embodies that spirit quite like Bellefonte. Nestled in the heart of Central Pennsylvania, our historic town transforms into a festive haven each winter, inviting both residents and travelers to revel in its timeless charm.

The holidays are a magical time, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by finding the perfect, one-of-a-kind gift at the 2024 Holiday Market hosted by the Bellefonte Art Museum!

Join the Pennsylvania Chamber Orchestra and Maestro Gerardo Edelstein for our annual Holiday Concert and celebrate sounds of the holiday season! Experience a dramatic retelling of the Christmas story with the majestic Christmas Oratorio by Camille Saint-Saëns, featuring the State College Area High School Master Singers. Enjoy the familiar sounds of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite and sing along with Handel’s Hallelujah from Messiah, featuring a collaboration with State College Advanced String Orchestra students. Join us for a concert that will fuel your holiday spirit!

When winter transforms Happy Valley into a snowy paradise, it’s the perfect time to explore the region’s breathtaking outdoor spaces. Whether you’re trekking through frost-covered forests or relaxing with a cozy meal after your adventure, Happy Valley offers a quintessential winter escape.

Philipsburg's Mid-Century Christmas event will kick off on Saturday, December 14 at 10 a.m. as merchants open their shops to celebrate the holidays in style. The rest of the day is chock full of special appearances by such seasonal luminaries as the Grinch, Rudy, and Rudolph, and yes, the Jolly Old Elf himself, who will be paraded down Front St. in a 1951 International Harvester firetruck. There will also be special musical performances, wreath and window-decorating contests, vintage cars parked along the street (bring yours if you have one!), a showing of It's a Wonderful Life at the majestic Rowland Theatre, a tree-lighting ceremony, and a mid-century-themed bash with live music by Elvis (you can't get much more mid-century than the King!) at Dead Canary Brewing to cap off the festive day.

Celebrate the season with an open house on Sunday, December 8 between 11:00 and 4:00! Colerain Forges Mansion will be decorated, the piano tuned for carols. Simple Gifts will be playing music at 1 p.m. and festive characters from Adam Swartz Puppets will be our guests. Cut some holly, come in from the cold, hear some history, enjoy some cookies, and maybe buy some gifts.

December is a GREAT month to stay at the Nature Inn at Bald Eagle for many reasons. The popular winter snowshoe and cross-country ski equipment loaner program, evenings in the Great Room around the cozy fireplace, the winter birding opportunities, and the delicious dinners offered at the inn so that you don't have to venture out! If you are looking for some extra fun, bring your sleds or toboggans and check out the awesome sledding hill in the park.

The beloved community celebration, Bellefonte Victorian Christmas returns for its 43rd year this December 13-15, with an exciting new theme: "The Christmas Express." All are invited to partake in Christmas festivities throughout the weekend.

Get into the holiday spirit at Lemont’s Christmas Market! This free event will take place from December 6-7 at the Grain Elevator and Coal Sheds, and it is perfect for festive fun and shopping.