The Pocono Mountains are a magical place to celebrate the holidays, with snowy landscapes, charming small towns, and festive seasonal events. Traveling solo, with a partner or with friends, there is something for everyone this time of year in the Poconos. Here’s our guide to the best holiday events in the Poconos!
1. Holiday Lights Spectaculars and Festive Displays
Let the Poconos light up your holiday spirit with spectacular displays starting in November and continuing through the end of December!
Kick off your holiday season in Downtown Stroudsburg with their Christmas Tree Lighting at the end of November. Free for all, this event is a favorite with live music, refreshments and Santa himself! Another beautiful tree lighting event is in Jim Thorpe at Josiah White Park in early December with live music from the high school band and Santa. Camelback also hosts a tree lighting with Santa outside their main lobby with live music and a hot cocoa bar. This event is free to the public and also happens in early December.
If you’re looking for a new holiday tradition in the Poconos, the Pocono Lights at Poconos Park hosts a drive through holiday lights display in November and December, Thursday-Sundays. This stunning display is a combination of holiday splendor and imagination transforming Poconos Park into a must-see holiday drive through experience!
2. Christmas Markets and Seasonal Shopping
Tis the season to find great deals and holiday markets throughout the Poconos. The Swiftwater is conveniently located five minutes from the Crossing Premium Outlets, the perfect spot to start or finish your holiday shopping!
Stop by downtown Stroudsburg to shop for seasonal goodies, holiday gifts or a stroll down main street. Jim Thorpe is also an idyllic spot for holiday shopping with small shops and beautiful scenery. They also host an Olde Time Christmas festival on weekends in December.
3. Outdoor Adventures in the Snow
Hiking, Skiing, Tubing or Snow shoeing, the outdoors are the perfect playground this holiday season for any traveler to the Pocono Mountains. Check out our blog on the Best Winter Activities in the Pocono Mountains to learn more!
4. Santa Encounters and Classic Christmas Events
All board the Christmas Tram at Shawnee Golf Course on weekends in December. This fun holiday event features Santa’s workshop, hot cocoa, s’mores and holiday cheer!
Looking to embrace holiday traditions from the past? Check out Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm for the 34th Annual Old Time Christmas, happening two weekends in December. The event features luminaries, complimentary hot cocoa and cookies.
Do you love the classic Christmas movie, It’s a Wonderful Life? Then you won’t want to miss the Shawnee Playhouse’s Musical on Weekends in late November and December. It’s a fun rendition of this holiday favorite! They update their holiday show each year so check their page for future listings.
5. Holiday Dining and Cozy Firesides
The holidays are the perfect time to indulge in a festive meal and the Poconos is the perfect spot to celebrate the season! The Olivet offers a delectable seasonal menu with holiday add-ons to make any meal a special occasion. New firepits at The Swiftwater offer a cozy way to end the day with s’mores or a crafted cocktail. Ready to heat things up? Don’t miss the hibachi show at Desaki where fire and fun fill the menu.
Holiday magic is everywhere you look in the Poconos. Experience it for yourself and plan a memorable getaway at The Swiftwater. There’s no better way to warm up after a cold day than taking a dip in one of our plunge pool suites! Guests of the plunge pool suites and concierge level rooms have access to our concierge lounge which features continuous complimentary culinary offerings throughout the day, beautiful forest views and a gorgeous fireplace. Pack your bags and head to the Pocono Mountains for seasonal fun and holiday cheer!
