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Wayfaring Wednesday
A Quick Detour Story — Just for Fun
Sandra Burkholder
December 03, 2025
Lancaster County Christmas Traditions and Historical Christmas Stories
Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, Lancaster County offers a rich blend of traditions that reflect its deep historical roots and vibrant community spirit. From the timeless customs of the Pennsylvania Dutch to festive celebrations in bustling towns, Lancaster County is a magical place to experience the holiday season. Let’s explore the cherished Christmas traditions and delve into some historical Christmas stories that make this area unique.
Pennsylvania Dutch Christmas Traditions
The Pennsylvania Dutch, a group of German-speaking settlers who arrived in the 18th century, brought many holiday customs that have since become synonymous with Lancaster County’s Christmas celebrations.
1. The Moravian Star: This iconic symbol, often displayed in windows or as part of holiday decor, represents the Star of Bethlehem. The star is not just an ornament but a meaningful expression of faith and hope.
2. Belsnickeling: A playful and somewhat mischievous tradition, Belsnickeling involves a costumed visitor (often a neighbor or family friend) who quizzes children about their behavior over the past year. This practice, which predates the modern Santa Claus, continues to charm local families.
3. Candle Lighting Ceremonies: Many churches in Lancaster County hold candlelight services, a tradition that brings communities together to celebrate the season in a serene and meaningful way.
4. Christmas Markets: Inspired by German Christkindlmarkts, local markets in Lancaster County offer handmade crafts, baked goods, and seasonal delights. These markets are perfect for finding unique gifts and enjoying warm mulled cider or hot chocolate.
Iconic Locations for Holiday Cheer
1. Strasburg Rail Road’s Christmas Train: A journey aboard the Christmas-themed steam train is a must. Children can meet Santa, and the whole family can enjoy the beautifully decorated rail cars while rolling through Lancaster’s scenic countryside.
2. Kitchen Kettle Village: This charming destination transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, carolers, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Visitors can savor festive treats and shop for locally made goods.
3. Landis Valley Museum’s “Country Christmas”: This living history museum offers a glimpse into how early Pennsylvania Dutch settlers celebrated Christmas. Visitors can enjoy demonstrations of traditional crafts and storytelling sessions.
Historical Christmas Stories of Lancaster County
1. The First Christmas Tree in Lancaster: It is said that one of the first Christmas trees in the United States was displayed in Lancaster. German settlers introduced the custom of decorating evergreen trees, a tradition that quickly gained popularity across the country.
2. Charles Dickens in Lancaster: While Charles Dickens never directly visited Lancaster, his iconic work A Christmas Carol had a profound impact on holiday celebrations in the area. Local theaters often perform the classic tale, blending historical storytelling with modern performances.
3. The Giving Spirit of the Amish Community: The Amish are known for their simple yet meaningful holiday observances. Historically, their focus has been on faith, family, and community, often involving acts of kindness, such as delivering baked goods or handmade gifts to neighbors in need.
Modern Festivities Rooted in History
Today, Lancaster County balances its historical roots with contemporary celebrations. Towns like Lititz, Ephrata, and Lancaster City host tree lighting ceremonies, holiday parades, and Christmas tours of historic homes. Seasonal events like the “Christmas Spirit Light Show” at Clipper Magazine Stadium add a touch of modern sparkle.
Lancaster County’s Christmas traditions offer a blend of old-world charm and new-world festivity. Whether you’re admiring the Moravian Star, shopping at a Christmas market, or learning about the region’s historical ties to the season, there’s something truly special about celebrating Christmas in this corner of Pennsylvania. Come and experience the magic, where the past and present unite to create a holiday season you’ll never forget.
I joke that if there’s a detour sign, it’s probably pointing me in circles.
Recently, I followed a “simple” detour that was supposed to add two minutes to my drive. Twenty minutes later, I had passed the same dairy farm twice, ended up on a narrow road with two buggies, and listened to a very confused GPS insist that I “turn left”… on a road that clearly did not exist. Then came the dreaded “Rerouting.”
It made me laugh later, but in the moment it felt exactly like those times when you’re trying to make sense of real estate advice. Everyone has an opinion, the information feels contradictory, and suddenly you're looping around the same questions instead of making progress.
That’s when it helps to have someone who knows the area, understands the market, and can point you toward the right road the first time.
Whether you're buying, selling, or just trying to understand your options, I’m here to help you get out of the detours and onto a clearer path.
Sometimes the most unique homes simply need more time — and that’s okay. Custom layouts, acreage, historic charm, or high-end finishes often mean waiting for the right buyer, not just the first buyer.
But when a listing lingers, it can feel discouraging. That’s why I keep your marketing fresh so your home stays top-of-mind:
New photos or seasonal updates
Rotating headlines to highlight different features
Strategic re-posting across platforms
Quiet check-ins with agents who toured
Smart repositioning if needed
The goal is simple: keep your home relevant without feeling stale.
If your property has been sitting longer than expected, I can bring fresh energy and a quiet, strategic reset. Just reply back — we can talk about what’s working and what needs a new approach.
Sandra Burkholder, EXP Realty
Licensed Real Estate Agent since 2000
Serving Lancaster, Chester, Berks, and York County, PA
Connecting you to your dream home and the heart of the community with a professional yet approachable touch.
Not intended to solicit any properties already listed for sale with another real estate agent. If your home is already for sale, then please disregard this message.
