Holiday Road Trip Guide: Festive Destinations Along the PA Turnpike
The holiday season turns many of Pennsylvania’s most beloved towns into festive winter destinations — and the PA Turnpike connects you to the commonwealth’s most iconic celebrations. From dazzling light displays to old-world markets and small-town parades, the PA Turnpike is your easy route to holiday magic.
No matter where your holiday travels take you — east, west or anywhere in between — these festive stops across Pennsylvania are perfect for adding a little extra magic to your seasonal journey.
Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem
Exit: Northeast Extension (I-476), Exit 56, Lehigh Valley
Dates: Mid-November to the weekend before Christmas
The 33rd annual Christkindlmarkt features artisans and craftspeople, performances, delicious food, St. Nicholas and the return of popular German ornament manufacturer Käthe Wohlfahrt. Named one of the top holiday markets in the world by Travel + Leisure and one of the top holiday markets in North America by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice competition, the Bethlehem Christmas market is known for its unique holiday shopping experience featuring thousands of handmade gifts.
Christmas Village in Philadelphia
Exit: 326, Valley Forge, or 351, Bensalem
Dates: Nov. 22 to Dec. 24
Christmas Village in Philadelphia is an outdoor German-style holiday market located in LOVE Park that features international and local vendors, European foods and seasonal attractions like a historic carousel and Ferris wheel. Open annually from mid-November to Christmas Eve, it is a popular free event for shopping, dining and enjoying festive holiday activities.
Shady Brook Farm’s Holiday Light Show
Exit: 351, Bensalem
Dates: Nov. 22 to Jan. 4
Shady Brook Farm’s Holiday Light Show transforms the Yardley farm into a dazzling winter wonderland. The light experience features more than 3 million lights arranged in elaborate, themed displays that delight visitors of all ages. Guests can drive through the trail in their own vehicles or choose an open-air wagon ride for a more immersive experience. Along the way, you'll see animated light displays, glowing tunnels, holiday characters and whimsical scenes spread across the expansive farm property.
Wild Lights at Elmwood Park Zoo
Exit: 333, Norristown
Dates: Late November to late December
Featuring animals and holiday lights, Elmwood Park Zoo’s family tradition Wild Lights is an ideal destination for families. During this walk-through experience, visitors can stroll through themed light zones and watch the zoo sparkle after dark. The event also includes illuminated animal displays and live entertainment.
Peddler’s Village Holiday Lights
Exit: 343, Willow Grove (The light display is a 30- to 40-minute drive from the exit)
Dates: Mid-November to early January
This annual display features more than 1 million twinkling lights that illuminate all of Peddler’s Village, including its shops and colonial-style buildings. Visitors can stroll through 60-plus locally owned shops, enjoy festive flavors, marvel at a magical gingerbread display and take in live performances throughout the season.
Hersheypark Christmas Candylane & Hershey Sweet Lights
Exit: 247, Harrisburg East
Dates: Mid-November to early January
Hersheypark Christmas Candylane is back for another season of holly, jolly fun. Stroll under tree-lined paths glowing with more than 5 million lights, watch a holiday show in the Music Box Theatre, sip hot chocolate and ride more than 40 family rides and select coasters. Before leaving, don’t forget to drive through the Hershey Sweet Lights attraction — two miles of wooded trails decorated with illuminated and animated displays that you can enjoy from the comfort of your car.
Christmas Magic: A Festival of Lights – York County
Exit: 242, Harrisburg West to I-83 South
Dates: Late November to Dec. 30
Each year, Rocky Ridge Park is transformed into a spectacle of lights. Enjoy more than 1 million twinkling LED lights and animated scenes as you venture down the half-mile walking trail surrounded by picturesque woods. Wander along a candy cane-lined walkway and through trees adorned with multicolored lights while spotting characters hiding among nature. Warm up with hot chocolate and cookies while taking advantage of festive photo opportunities. Reservations are required, so be sure to reserve your spot online.
Koziar’s Christmas Village
Exit: 247, Harrisburg East
Dates: November to early January
Tucked away on a winding country road near Bernville in rural Berks County, Koziar’s Christmas Village is a beloved holiday tradition that feels like stepping into a fairytale. As you crest the final hill in darkness, the rolling terrain gives way to a valley aglow with more than 1 million lights shimmering on buildings, trees and a still lake reflecting the festive glow. Once a family dairy farm that began its holiday lights in 1948, the village has grown into a multi-acre display of enchanting scenes.
It’s a Wonderful Life Festival
Exit: 91, Donegal
Dates: Weekends from mid-November to mid-December
It’s a Wonderful Life in Indiana, Pa., the hometown of legendary actor Jimmy Stewart, where holiday charm is alive and well. During the festive season, Philadelphia Street in downtown Indiana glows with vintage Christmas lights, decorated storefronts and Christmas trees adorning every lamppost — creating a nostalgic, small-town atmosphere that delights visitors of all ages.
Peoples Gas Holiday Market
Exit: 57, Pittsburgh
Dates: Nov. 21 to Dec. 24
The Peoples Gas Holiday Market feels like a cozy European Christmas village right in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh’s Cultural District. Nestled among glowing wooden chalets, you’ll find unique handmade gifts, international treats and festive holiday décor perfect for last-minute shopping or simply soaking in the season’s charm. Discover one-of-a-kind wares from local makers alongside beautiful gifts from artisans around the world. Live music and Santa visits round out the festive experience.
Kennywood’s Holiday Lights
Exit: 57, Pittsburgh
Dates: Nov. 14 to Jan. 4