Experience the Magic! Lancaster City for the Holidays
Experience the magic of the holidays in Lancaster City! Enjoy treasured traditions, explore our fabulous small business community, and more!
Special Events, Unique Traditions, and Superb Shopping!
November 28, 2025 • 5:00–8:00PM
Mayor’s Tree Lighting
Revel in the magic of the season as the Mayor’s Tree Lighting, a cherished holiday tradition, makes its triumphant return. Gather with excitement as Santa himself graces the event, illuminating the hearts of young and old alike. Delight in the enchantment of the tree lighting ceremony and savor the captivating live entertainment that adds a symphony of joy to this festive occasion.
November 29, 2025 • All Day
Throughout Lancaster City
Small Business Saturday
Enjoy the spirit of community and holiday cheer on Small Business Saturday, as you delve into the delightful tapestry of Lancaster City’s vibrant small business community. Discover a world of unique treasures and heartfelt gifts that reflect the essence of the city’s local artisans and entrepreneurs. By choosing to shop small, you’re not only finding exceptional items but also nurturing the very heartbeat of Lancaster’s diverse and captivating business landscape.
December 1, 2025 • All Day
Cyber Monday
On Cyber Monday, seize the opportunity to champion local, small businesses while enjoying the ease of online shopping. Embrace the array of unique, eclectic gifts waiting to be discovered within Lancaster City’s shops, boutiques, galleries, and more. From the comfort of your own space, embark on a digital adventure, unearthing the ideal presents that resonate with the city’s lively essence and multifaceted artistry.
December 5, 2025 • 5:00–8:00PM
Ewell Plaza
Holiday Arts Market
Experience the enchantment of Ewell Plaza’s outdoor holiday arts market, a festive haven where local artisans converge to showcase their exquisite crafts. Amidst a backdrop of twinkling lights and joyful melodies, discover unique handmade treasures that embody the spirit of the season. Delight in the opportunity to support the community while finding one-of-a-kind gifts that radiate both creativity and holiday cheer.
December 5, 2025 • 6:00–9:00PM
Crispus Attucks Community Center • 407 Howard Avenue
Light Up Southeast
Immerse yourself in the vibrant celebration of Light Up Southeast, where Lancaster’s Southeast neighborhoods come together to unveil a captivating array of colorful displays that transform the South Duke Street Mall into a dazzling wonderland. Witness the brilliance as the area comes alive with sparkling lights that shimmer and dance, radiating the holiday spirit throughout the neighborhood. This event captures the essence of unity and creativity, inviting all to experience the magic of the season in a truly unique way.
December 5, 6, 13, 2024
Downtown Lancaster and Surrounding Neighborhoods
Santa in the City
Feel the festive spirit of the holiday season and create special memories with your family with visits from Santa to Lancaster City! Meet Santa Claus himself at Ewell Plaza, or join the excitement as Santa is escorted through the bustling streets of downtown Lancaster and its surrounding neighborhoods by the Lancaster City Bureaus of Fire and Police, creating moments of holiday cheer for residents of all ages.
December 12, 2025 • 5:00–8:00PM
Downtown Lancaster
Lancaster Shops Late
Lancaster comes alive with festive enchantment during Lancaster Shops Late, the eagerly awaited annual holiday shopping extravaganza. As twilight descends, the heart of the city transforms into a bustling wonderland, with local businesses extending their hours into the night. Stroll through charming streets adorned with twinkling lights, revel in the joyful ambiance, and explore a curated selection of shops, each offering unique treasures that make for perfect holiday gifts.
December 14–21, 2025
Penn Square
Menorah Lightings
5:30 p.m. daily (except Friday at 4:30 p.m.)
Gather in the heart of Penn Square for a cherished annual tradition as the Jewish Community Alliance of Lancaster illuminates the spirit of Hanukkah through vibrant menorah lightings. Against the backdrop of the historic square, families and friends come together to kindle the lights, symbolizing hope and unity. Join in the joyous celebrations, embrace the rich cultural heritage, and share in the warmth of this communal event that honors the Festival of Lights.
December 31, 2025 • 8:00PM–Midnight
Clipper Magazine Stadium
New Year’s Eve
Join the City of Lancaster and the Lancaster Stormers for a vibrant family friendly New Year’s Eve celebration filled with music, delicious food, and festive entertainment including a new take on the iconic Red Rose Drop. The event culminates with a dazzling fireworks display, lighting up the sky as the community rings in the new year together.
Lancaster City for the Holidays is brought to you by
With Additional Support From
Community Action Partnership
Jewish Community Alliance of Lancaster
Goodthree
Lancaster City Alliance
Lancaster Downtown Investment District
Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square
Lancaster Parking Authority
LEADS
LNP + LancasterOnline
Zamagias Properties
