7 Ways to Spend the Holidays in the Pocono Mountains

Winter in the Poconos is truly one of the most enchanting times of the year; the towns are lit up with lights, decorations and merry spirit. And with a variety of winter events and activities, spending the holidays there is a decision you won’t regret. Whether you’re a snow bunny or prefer to hunker down in front of the fire, the Pocono Mountains has something for you.

Santa Express
Date: November 24-December 23, 2018 at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m.
Location: The Stourbridge Line
Price: $15/adult (13 and up), $10/junior (12 and under), free for children 2 and under (lap seat)

Choo-choo! All aboard the Stourbridge Line for the Santa Express, a scenic train ride through the Pocono Mountains. Enjoy the panoramic scenery as you ride the rails through Wayne County’s Winter Wonderland, as Santa makes his way through the train greeting children aboard the Santa Express. Pictures can be taken with Santa and a special gift will be given to the kids as holiday sing-a-longs and laughter fill the train cars. What better way to bring in the holidays in the Pocono Mountains? Reservations are suggested for this event, as there are limited trains available.

Jim Thorpe’s Olde Time Christmas
Date: November 30-December 16, 2018
Location: Downtown Jim Thorpe
Price: Free, fees apply to some activities

Kick off the holiday season in downtown Jim Thorpe, decked out in Victorian style in anticipation of special events held over three weekends in December. Festivities begin with the tree lighting ceremony in Josiah White Park on November 30, followed by numerous holiday events and fun things to do. From strolling carolers and musicians to a Christmas decoration and display contest, you’ll find a holiday event that suits your fancy. There will be plenty of holiday shopping at over forty boutiques and even a cocktails and cookies event; adults can visit participating locations throughout town to sample delicious Christmas cookies and holiday cocktails. Fees apply to some of these events, with proceeds benefiting local charities. Visit the website for more details on the events and updates on weather conditions.

28th Annual Old Time Christmas
Date: Saturdays and Sundays, December 1-December 9, 2018, 3-7 p.m.
Location: Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm
Price: $10/adult; $5/child (3-12)

Start December off by getting into the holiday spirit at the 28^th Annual Old Time Christmas celebration at Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm. You’ll be transported back in time to observe Christmas customs of the past. Enjoy cookies and hot chocolate while watching a Victorian family prepare for an 1890’s holiday, see the live barnyard Nativity and sing along with the schoolhouse carolers. Finish your visit at the holiday gift shop with local hand-crafted treasures. Reservations are recommended on weekends.

Breakfast With Santa
Date: Saturdays, December 1-15, 2018 9-11 a.m.
Location: The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort River Room Gastropub
Price: $18.95/Adults; $10.95/Children 3-11; under 2 free. Tax and gratuity not included.

Santa Claus is coming to the historic Shawnee Inn! Join him for a holiday buffet, holiday activities and stories. Don’t forget to bring your wish lists! It’s sure to be a memorable event for the whole family.

holidays in the poconos — Fireworks at the annual Tree Lighting Celebration at Stroudsmoor Country Inn.

Tree Lighting Celebration
Date: December 2, 2018
Location: Stroudsmoor Country Inn
Price: Free

The tree lighting celebration at Stroudsmoor Country Inn has been a holiday tradition in the Pocono Mountains for over three decades. On December 2, Stroudsmoor will be lit up with over 150,000 whimsical lights and an awe-inspiring firework display. Come out and celebrate the meaning of the holidays with the spirit of community and kinship with seasonal entertainment and family-friendly activities. Expect live music, fun workshops and an appearance from the one and only Santa Claus.

Hawley Winterfest
Date: December 7-December 9, 2018
Location: Downtown Hawley
Price: Free, fees apply to some activities

For just one weekend, the Hawley Winterfest will be in full effect in charming downtown Hawley. Don’t miss out on a plethora of over fifty holiday-themed events during the second weekend of December. This tradition has been in effect since 1999 and has been a beloved custom among locals and visitors alike. Take a guided tour of the historic homes decorated for the holiday season, enjoy memorable culinary experiences and jazz performances, see ice carving demonstrations, shop around town or take the beer tour. If you want to relax, sit by the Christmas campfire and listen to carols by the internationally-acclaimed Virgin Consort. There’s so much to enjoy at this annual celebration!

Gingerbread House Workshop
Date: December 9, 2018 at 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: Blue Mountain Resort, Vista Ballroom at the Summit Lodge
Price: $5 per person and $25 per house

Nothing says family fun more than a good old gingerbread house! Head up to Vista Ballroom at the Summit Lodge and enjoy sweet treats with live acoustic Christmas music while you build your edible abode. Santa Claus will also make an appearance, so be on your best behavior; children twelve and under will receive a gift from Santa and will be able to snap a picture. Get your tickets before this event is sold out!

Have you ever spent the holidays in the Pocono Mountains? Tell us in the comments.

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