Pennsylvania is home to 2 of America’s favorite Christmas destinations. Here’s why

Searching for a last-minute holiday getaway before Christmas arrives in a few short days? You might not need to leave Pennsylvania to find a great option this season.

Two Keystone State places recently landed on a list of the top 75 most “Christmassy” towns in America. The rankings come courtesy of photo book retailer Mixbook, which surveyed roughly 3,000 families to determine this year’s top picks.

Here’s a look at Pennsylvania’s representatives on the list, including a glimpse at their offerings this holiday season.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

This eastern Pennsylvania city checked in as the No. 9 most “Christmassy” town in the country, according to Mixbook’s survey. Bethlehem, split between Northampton and Lehigh counties, has adopted the nickname “Christmas City USA” since the 1930s and claims to be the first U.S. city to feature a decorated Christmas tree.

There’s plenty to do and see in Bethlehem each holiday season. That includes a “live” advent calendar in the downtown district and a holiday display at the historic Hotel Bethlehem, which features more than 35,000 Christmas lights, dozens of wreaths, life-sized toy soldiers and an oversized gingerbread house lodge.

The Christkindlmarkt is another highlight in Bethlehem each Christmas. The acclaimed holiday market features hand-crafted goods from local artisans, plus live music and plenty of decorations to get guests in a festive mood.

Those visiting Bethlehem this holiday season might also consider touring the city’s Christmas trees, going for a carriage ride, taking pictures with Santa Claus and perusing light displays. Bethlehem’s Main Street offers live entertainment, including trombone ensembles and carolers, according to Discover Lehigh Valley, the region’s tourism bureau. Other seasonal offerings include a holiday pub tour and nighttime motorcoach rides through the city.

“This combination of historical significance, cultural festivities, and a warm, inviting atmosphere makes Bethlehem a captivating destination for experiencing the joy and traditions of the Christmas season,” Mixbook wrote online.

Mixbook is among the latest to give a holiday accolade to Bethlehem. In November, the city was recognized as a top Christmas destination worldwide by Condé Nast Traveler. It was joined on that list by places like Dublin, Ireland and Hong Kong, China.

Visit historicbethlehem.org/visit-us/series-category/christmas for a full list of Bethlehem’s coming Christmas events throughout the holiday season.

Hershey, Pennsylvania

Sitting just east of Harrisburg in central Pennsylvania, Hershey is home to the Hershey Company and Hersheypark, annually recognized as one of the country’s best amusement parks. Hershey earned the No. 19 spot among Mixbook’s most “Christmassy” towns.

Arguably the most popular holiday event in Hershey is Hersheypark’s Christmas Candylane. It invites guests to the amusement park on select evenings for Christmas-themed fun and rides on select roller coasters and attractions. Key offerings include meet-and-greets with Santa, festive tree and light trails and access to Wildcat’s Revenge, the park’s new hybrid coaster that features a slick steel track that adds inversions and high-speed thrills to one of Hersheypark’s historic wooden frames. The ride, which formally opened June 2, received Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Award for Best New Roller Coaster of 2023.

Hersheypark’s Christmas Candylane is offered on select dates through Jan. 1, though the park is closed Christmas Day. Single-day, dated tickets for the park start at $39.99 online, though children 2 years old and younger get in for free.

Hershey Sweet Lights, billed as a “drive-through spectacular,” is another popular offering near Hersheypark. The 2-mile stretch of wooded trails features roughly 5 million lights spread across 600 illuminated, animated light displays visible from the comfort of your car. Tickets start at $24.95 per car online. Those who want a more unique viewing of the lights might consider seeing them by trolley.

Outside of Hersheypark, guests visiting for Christmas might opt for a festive dinner at The Hotel Hershey or the Hershey Lodge. Both offer signature chocolate martinis made with vanilla vodka, chocolate vodka and crème de cacao.

To learn more about events and offerings in Hershey this holiday season, visit hersheypa.com/things-to-do/seasonal-events/christmas.php.

America’s most ‘Christmassy’ towns

In its report, Mixbook says the most “Christmassy” towns in the U.S. “embody the essence of the holiday season,” particularly through traditions and seasonal offerings that make them popular among tourists.

Here’s a look at the top 20 picks in this year’s survey, according to Mixbook:

1. Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

2. Durango, Colo.

3. Lake Placid, N.Y.

4. Stowe, Vt.

5. Alexandria, Va.

6. Old Saybrook, Conn.

7. Stockbridge, Mass.

8. Holland, Mich.

9. Bethlehem, Pa.

10. North Pole, Alaska

11. Truckee, Calif.

12. Taos, N.M.

13. Foley, Ala.

14. Kennebunkport, Maine

15. Ashland, Ore.

16. Mammoth Lakes, Calif.

17. Sun Valley, Idaho

18. Santa Claus, Ind.

19. Hershey, Pa.

20. Frankenmuth, Mich.

Visit mixbook.com/inspiration/most-christmassy-towns-2023 online to view this year’s full list of America’s most “Christmassy” towns.