Keystone Crossroads brings together three iconic Pennsylvania destinations for a great group travel adventure into American history, culture, and food. Hershey/Harrisburg, Lancaster, and Gettysburg each offer unique group experiences, but when grouped together, they make for a truly memorable itinerary. Even better, Central Pennsylvania is a picture-perfect destination for celebrating the holiday season, and the Keystone Crossroads region sparkles with holiday cheer through events, exhibits, and celebrations. As you plan your group’s holiday itinerary, consider treating travelers to this magical destination.
Credit: Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Co.
Hershey/Harrisburg
Enjoy the iconic Hersheypark theme park decked out in more than 5 million twinkling holiday lights at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane®! Celebrate the season and get in the holiday spirit with character visits, shopping, and dining in Hershey’s Chocolatetown, and don’t miss an appearance by Santa and his reindeer! Afterward, make a stop at Hershey’s Chocolate World, another group favorite!
Credit: Keystone Crossroads
Gettysburg
Pulled straight out of a Hallmark movie, the Gettysburg Christmas Festival is an annual celebration held in early December that includes several free events and activities. Bundle up and enjoy the magic while strolling the downtown streets. Enjoy the decorations and lights, and don’t miss activities, entertainment, and specials from local shops and restaurants.
Ring in the New Year with Gettysburg’s New Year’s Eve celebrations in downtown Lincoln Square. At the stroke of midnight, Abraham Lincoln’s iconic stovepipe hat will be raised in celebration, followed by a fireworks display! Prior to the start of the New Year, festival attendees can enjoy delicious food from area restaurants or food trucks, plus dancing, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Live performances and a pub crawl are also on the agenda.
Credit: Keystone Crossroads
Lancaster
The young and young at heart will be filled with awe and wonder at the sight of the incredible collection of Christmas decorations and novelties housed at The National Christmas Center at Stone Gables Estate. Featuring centuries of historic figurines and likenesses, more than 1,250 nativities, and 17-foot-tall storefronts meant to resemble the small river town of Columbia in Lancaster County, this world-class exhibit aims to tell the real story of Christmas through time. Group tours are welcome year-round, but the holidays make for a truly magical visit! Enjoy other activities at Stone Gables Estate, including a drive-thru light show or holiday train ride.
There is always something on stage in Lancaster County, and a festive production is the best way to get your group into the holiday spirit! Merriment flows from actors to audiences during renditions of popular and classic holiday productions executed by Broadway-caliber performers. Check your favorite theater’s schedule or visit a new theater in the area to find some holiday cheer!
Lead image:
Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre production
Credit: Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
