Holiday events are back in a big way across the Delaware River Towns, with many popular events returning from a pandemic hiatus. To help you get your traditions back on track, or start new ones, here’s a rundown of the most family-oriented attractions.
Holly Jolly Weekend at Peddler’s Village| December 4 and 5
You can criticize the Peddler’s Village experience for feeling too formulaic. But if you’re a parent of young kids (or an adult child of old parents), it’s hard not to appreciate the convenience of that package. This particular weekend kicks off both days at 1:30 PM with a Christmas parade, featuring Mr. and Mrs. Claus, of course. There’s also going to be an assortment of food trucks, along with the ongoing gingerbread house display, and plenty of opportunities for shopping to help you and your family while away the hours until the sun goes down and the holidays lights turn on.
Yardley Olde Fashioned Christmas Parade | Dec. 4
This is the epitome of a small-town Christmas parade, and we love it. Think high school marching bands, fire trucks wrapped in colored lights, and peacocking Mummers. It’ll start at 3:30 p.m. Grab a seat anywhere along Main Street and then follow the parade to Buttonwood Park for a tree lighting and pics with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Washington Crossing Historic Park First Crossing | Dec. 12
The Christmas-day reenactment gets all the attention, and understandably so, but the “First Crossing,” as the dress rehearsal’s been dubbed, is the same show, right down to the reenactors crossing the Delaware in replica Durham boats, plus a bunch of bonus perks.
In an effort to make the dress rehearsal more attractive in recent years, the park’s made a day out of it, adding a bunch of family-friendly, colonial-era activities and demonstrations. They’ll occur in the historic village, which will be decked out for the holidays, from 10 AM to 4 PM. (The crossing will begin at 1 PM.) Of course, with that comes an admission fee (tickets are required), while the Christmas-day reenactment remains free. Still, it’s totally worth it.
Holiday Light Show at Shady Brook Farm | Through January 29
Three million lights sound like a lot. And yet, slowly snaking your way through the different displays and acres of farmland, it feels like way more. But we’re not telling you anything you don’t already know for yourself. Shady Brook’s holiday events are always a huge draw. However, last year, when it was one of the holiday attractions around, it became even more popular. To avoid the lines (as much as possible, at least), buy your ticket online and arrive early in the evening. And maybe pack a few snacks, just in case.
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