Christmas Events for Kids in Allentown (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

16 min read

The Allentown area has 17 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem in Bethlehem on November 13 to Trees of Historic Bethlehem in Bethlehem, which runs through January 4. 11 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in Pennsylvania, part of our guide for every state.

The short version

  • 17 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Allentown for 2026, in Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Coplay and Schnecksville
  • First: Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem, Bethlehem, November 13. Runs latest: Trees of Historic Bethlehem, Bethlehem, through January 4
  • Free: Christmas City Tree Lighting Ceremony, Easton Peace Candle Lighting, North Whitehall Tree Lighting Ceremony, Milk and Cookies Storytime with Santa, Forks Township Tree Lighting, Hanover Township Tree Lighting, South Whitehall Tree and Bridge Lighting Ceremony, Downtown Allentown Tree Lighting Celebration, Gingerbread Storytime, Mr. Ben's Holiday Sing-Along Jamboree and Reindeer Ornament Craft
  • Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it
Watercolor illustration: Rally the corgi stands on a red train seat looking out at falling snow, a lit Christmas tree and a white dove. Text: Choo choo! The train starting could be heard. Hello cute white bird!
Rally watching the snow and a lit Christmas tree, from the pages of Rally Takes the Train.

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Pennsylvania Christmas train rides page.

Allentown Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
17 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Coplay and Schnecksville
Season
November 13, 2026 to January 4, 2027
Free events
11
Kinds of events
tree lighting, holiday crafts, holiday story time and Santa visit
Last checked

Plan your December

When each Allentown Christmas event for kids happens

The first is Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem in Bethlehem on November 13; the last runs to January 4. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

Story time with Santa in Allentown? Bring Rally home.

Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

Like it so far? See the full book

25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.

Christmas events for kids in Allentown

2 confirmed events for kids in Allentown, soonest first.

Allentown: South Whitehall Tree and Bridge Lighting Ceremony

Tree lightingFreeSouth Whitehall Township · Allentown

Host
South Whitehall Township (opens in a new tab)
Where
Covered Bridge Park, 2465 Wehr Mill Rd, Allentown, PA 18104
When
Friday, December 4, 2026, 6 pm
Cost
Free admission
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

South Whitehall Township lights up Covered Bridge Park on Friday, December 4, 2026, beginning at 6 pm. Santa arrives by fire truck to help light the park, followed by the lighting of the historic Wehr Mill Covered Bridge.

The park also features holiday light displays, including Adopt-a-Tree trees decorated by local businesses and organizations. The program includes festive dance and vocal performances, local vendors, food trucks, and seasonal drinks and hot chocolate from The Wondering Tavern. Watching Santa roll in on a fire truck is a highlight for young children, so find a spot with a view of the park entrance before 6 pm. Admission is free, while food and drinks are sold by vendors. The lit-up covered bridge also makes a memorable backdrop for family photos.

Parent tip: Get there before 6 pm to see Santa arrive on the fire truck.

See dates and details from South Whitehall Township (opens in a new tab)

Allentown: Downtown Allentown Tree Lighting Celebration

Santa and Mrs. ClausFreeDowntown Allentown (listed by Discover Lehigh Valley) · Allentown

Host
Downtown Allentown (listed by Discover Lehigh Valley) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Arts Park, 24-32 N 5th St, Allentown, PA 18101
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 4 to 6 pm
Cost
Free
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Christmas comes to the 800 block of Hamilton Street with the Downtown Allentown Tree Lighting Celebration on Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 4 to 6 pm, centered at Arts Park on North 5th Street. Festivities include live musical performances, cozy fire pits with s'mores and children's activities.

Santa and Mrs. Claus make a visit, which is the main draw for many families. The event is free and open to the public. The early evening time means children can see the tree lit without a late night, and the two-hour window is manageable for toddlers. Downtown parking can fill up around the event, so give yourself a little extra time to find a spot. Dress warmly, since the celebration is outdoors.

Parent tip: Arrive a little early for parking near Hamilton Street, and bring layers for the outdoor celebration.

See dates and details from Downtown Allentown (listed by Discover Lehigh Valley) (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Bethlehem

9 confirmed events for kids in Bethlehem, soonest first.

Bethlehem: Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem

Santa visitArtsQuest · Bethlehem

Host
ArtsQuest (opens in a new tab)
Where
PNC Plaza at SteelStacks, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem, PA 18015 (near Allentown)
When
Fri November 13, Fri November 20, Fri November 27, Thu December 3, Thu December 10 and Thu December 17, 2026
Cost
$14 to $16.50; kids 5 and under free; free Fridays 5 to 8 pm
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

ArtsQuest's German-inspired Christkindlmarkt fills PNC Plaza at the SteelStacks campus on six weekends from November 13 through December 20, 2026. Hours are 10 am to 6 pm on Thursdays and Sundays and 10 am to 8 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Beyond dozens of artisan vendors and holiday food, the market includes a Winter Wonderland area with St. Nicholas Haus, where family events like ornament making and breakfasts with St. Nick take place.

Admission is $14 on Thursdays and Fridays and $16.50 on Saturdays and Sundays, fees included. Children 5 and under are free, and entry is free for everyone on Fridays from 5 to 8 pm. The market is cashless, accepting cards and mobile pay for admission and food, though some vendors take cash. Free parking is available in lots next to SteelStacks.

Parent tip: Go Friday from 5 to 8 pm for free entry; bring a card since admission and food are cashless.

See dates and details from ArtsQuest (opens in a new tab)

Bethlehem: Trees of Historic Bethlehem

Holiday eventHistoric Bethlehem Museums and Sites · Bethlehem

Host
Historic Bethlehem Museums and Sites (opens in a new tab)
Where
Moravian Museum of Bethlehem and nearby historic sites, 66 W Church St, Bethlehem, PA 18018 (near Allentown)
When
Friday, November 13, 2026 to Monday, January 4, 2027 (select dates; see ticket calendar)
Cost
$25 adults, $14 children, 3 and under free
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Trees of Historic Bethlehem features more than 20 Christmas trees decorated by the Bethlehem Garden Club and spread across three historic sites. The 2026 theme is architectural design, with trees inspired by styles from Victorian and Gothic to Art Nouveau and Brutalism, and visitors can vote for a favorite at the end. The exhibit runs on select dates from November 13, 2026 through January 4, 2027.

The self-guided ticket includes the Moravian Museum of Bethlehem in the 1741 Gemeinhaus, the Kemerer Museum of Decorative Arts and the Moravian putz, a traditional Nativity landscape, at the Single Sisters' House. Plan at least an hour. Tickets are $25 for adults, $14 for children and free for children 3 and under, plus a service fee online. Some original buildings have steep stairs and no elevators.

Parent tip: Allow an hour or more across the three sites; historic buildings have steep stairs, so a carrier may be easier than a stroller.

See dates and details from Historic Bethlehem Museums and Sites (opens in a new tab)

Bethlehem: Breakfast with Bluey and Bingo

Holiday breakfastArtsQuest · Bethlehem

Host
ArtsQuest (opens in a new tab)
Where
Musikfest Café at SteelStacks, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem, PA 18015 (near Allentown)
When
Sunday, November 22, 2026, 9 to 10 am
Cost
$31; all ages need a ticket
Ages
All ages (17 and younger with parent or guardian)
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

ArtsQuest brings Bluey and Bingo back to Christkindlmarkt for a holiday breakfast on Sunday, November 22, 2026, in the Musikfest Café at SteelStacks. Doors and the buffet open at 9 am and the event wraps up at 10 am.

The breakfast buffet from Levy Restaurants includes seasonal fruit, yogurt and granola, scrambled eggs, crispy tots and more. Along with the meal there are activities and photo opportunities with the guests of honor. Tickets are $31, and every attendee, regardless of age, needs a ticket. Guests 17 and younger must come with a parent or guardian. Because the hour is short and Bluey is very popular with preschoolers, expect a lively room and plan to arrive right at 9 am to make the most of the photo time.

Parent tip: Every family member needs a ticket, including little ones; arrive at 9 am since the event ends at 10.

See dates and details from ArtsQuest (opens in a new tab)

Bethlehem: Christmas City Tree Lighting Ceremony

Tree lightingFreeCity of Bethlehem · Bethlehem

Host
City of Bethlehem (opens in a new tab)
Where
Payrow Plaza, 10 E Church St, Bethlehem, PA 18018 (near Allentown)
When
Friday, November 27, 2026, 4:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Bethlehem, known as Christmas City USA, kicks off its holiday season with the Christmas City Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 27, 2026, the day after Thanksgiving. Festivities begin at 4:30 pm at Payrow Plaza outside City Hall, with multiple live performances, a community song, free hot chocolate and cookies, and a visit from Santa. The tree is lit at about 5 pm.

Historic Bethlehem Museums and Sites notes that the ceremony is immediately followed by its Wassail Party, a free annual tradition for all ages, making it easy to stay for more of the evening. The lighting falls during the first big weekend of the Christmas City season, when Christkindlmarkt and the Trees of Historic Bethlehem exhibit are also open, so families can plan a full day around it.

Parent tip: Arrive by 4:30 pm for the performances; stay for Historic Bethlehem's free Wassail Party afterward.

See dates and details from City of Bethlehem (opens in a new tab)

Bethlehem: Breakfast with St. Nick

Breakfast with SantaArtsQuest · Bethlehem

Host
ArtsQuest (opens in a new tab)
Where
Volks Haus, Christkindlmarkt Winter Wonderland, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem, PA 18015 (near Allentown)
When
Sat November 28, Sat December 5, Sat December 12, Sun December 13 and Sat December 19, 2026, 9 am
Cost
$31 per ticket, includes market admission
Ages
All ages (17 and younger with parent or guardian)
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

ArtsQuest hosts Breakfast with St. Nicholas in the Volks Haus inside Christkindlmarkt's Winter Wonderland on five mornings: November 28 and December 5, 12, 13 and 19, 2026, starting at 9 am. The hot breakfast includes eggs, pancakes, sausage, potatoes, yogurt, granola, fruit, juice, coffee and milk, all served with Father Christmas himself.

Each child 12 and under gets a complimentary 5x7 photo with St. Nick and a gift bag, and can make crafts in St. Nicholas Haus. Tickets are $31 and include tax, gratuity and free admission to Christkindlmarkt afterward, which opens at 10 am. Guests 17 and younger must attend with a parent or guardian. These breakfasts are a popular tradition, so book early, especially for the December Saturdays.

Parent tip: Tickets include market admission for the rest of the day, so plan to stay after breakfast.

See dates and details from ArtsQuest (opens in a new tab)

Bethlehem: Make Your Own Ornaments at Christkindlmarkt

Holiday craftsArtsQuest · Bethlehem

Host
ArtsQuest (opens in a new tab)
Where
St. Nicholas Haus, Christkindlmarkt Winter Wonderland, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem, PA 18015 (near Allentown)
When
Sat November 28 (4 to 8 pm), Fri December 4 (5 pm), Sat December 5 (4 pm), Fri December 11 (5 pm) and Fri December 18 (5 pm), 2026
Cost
$24.50 to $27, includes market admission and three ornaments
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

ArtsQuest offers drop-in ornament making in St. Nicholas Haus, inside Christkindlmarkt's Winter Wonderland, on several evenings: November 28 and December 4, 5, 11 and 18, 2026. The November 28 session runs from 4 to 8 pm, and the December sessions start at 4 or 5 pm and continue until the festival closes at 8 pm.

Each ticket covers Christkindlmarkt admission for one person on that date plus three ornaments of your choice, made from wood slices and papier-mache in classic shapes. Participants decorate them with paint markers and other supplies and take them home the same day. No experience is needed and the workshop is open to all ages. Tickets range from $24.50 to $27, and walk-up purchases are available while supplies last. Come any time during the session but finish by 8 pm.

Parent tip: Each child who wants to craft needs a ticket; arrive early enough to finish before the 8 pm close.

See dates and details from ArtsQuest (opens in a new tab)

Bethlehem: Hanover Township Tree Lighting

Tree lightingFreeHanover Township · Bethlehem

Host
Hanover Township (opens in a new tab)
Where
Hanover Township Community Center grounds, 3660 Jacksonville Rd, Bethlehem, PA 18017 (near Allentown)
When
Friday, December 4, 2026, 6 to 8 pm
Cost
Free
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Hanover Township's tree lighting takes place on Friday, December 4, 2026, from 6 to 8 pm at 3660 Jacksonville Road on the Bethlehem side of the Lehigh Valley. Discover Lehigh Valley highlights it as one of the most activity-filled community lightings in the area.

The evening includes Santa, a hot chocolate bar, live reindeer, horse-drawn carriage rides through an illuminated path, arts and crafts, choirs and an indoor snowball fight. The ceremony is free to attend. With crafts and an indoor activity in addition to the outdoor lighting, it is a good choice for families with younger children who may need a break from the cold. Carriage rides and Santa visits tend to draw lines, so arriving near the start time gives you the best chance to do everything.

Parent tip: Arrive near 6 pm to beat lines for Santa and the carriage rides, and dress warmly for the outdoor portion.

See dates and details from Hanover Township (opens in a new tab)

Bethlehem: Mr. Ben's Holiday Sing-Along Jamboree

Holiday showFreeBethlehem Area Public Library · Bethlehem

Host
Bethlehem Area Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bethlehem Area Public Library, Main Branch, 11 W Church St, Bethlehem, PA 18018 (near Allentown)
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026, 2 to 3 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Families and children of all ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Bethlehem Area Public Library invites families and children of all ages to a holiday jamboree with Mr. Ben on Saturday, December 19, 2026, from 2 to 3 pm in the Youth Services meeting room at the Main Library on West Church Street.

Mr. Ben brings his guitar and a collection of musical toys to perform holiday classics in a fun, interactive setting, and kids are invited to dance, sing along and have a festive time. The library lists it for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, elementary students and families, so siblings of different ages can enjoy it together. It is free and no registration is listed. The Main Library sits in the historic district, a short walk from the Moravian Museum and Main Street shops decorated for the Christmas City season.

Parent tip: Pair it with a walk along historic Main Street, a few blocks away.

See dates and details from Bethlehem Area Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Bethlehem: Reindeer Ornament Craft

Holiday craftsFreeBethlehem Area Public Library · Bethlehem

Host
Bethlehem Area Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bethlehem Area Public Library, South Side Branch, 400 Webster St, Bethlehem, PA 18015 (near Allentown)
When
Monday, December 21, 2026, 5 to 6 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 2 to 4 and grades K to 5
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The South Side Branch of the Bethlehem Area Public Library hosts a Reindeer Ornament Craft on Monday, December 21, 2026, from 5 to 6 pm. Children make their own popsicle stick reindeer ornament using glue and paint, ready to hang on the tree in time for Christmas.

The program is for ages 2 to 4 and elementary students in kindergarten through fifth grade. It is free, but registration is required, and sign-up opens on November 22, 2026. The library asks that an adult attend and stay engaged with the child for the whole program, and drop-offs are not permitted. Note that the program space is reachable only by stairs, which matters if you are bringing a stroller or anyone with limited mobility.

Parent tip: Register once sign-up opens Nov 22; the room is up a flight of stairs and an adult must stay.

See dates and details from Bethlehem Area Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Easton

4 confirmed events for kids in Easton, soonest first.

Easton: Easton Peace Candle Lighting

Tree lightingFreeCity of Easton · Easton

Host
City of Easton (opens in a new tab)
Where
Centre Square, Centre Square, Easton, PA 18042 (near Allentown)
When
Saturday, November 28, 2026, 6:30 pm
Cost
Free
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Downtown Easton celebrates the lighting of its Peace Candle in Centre Square on Saturday, November 28, 2026, beginning at 6:30 pm. The tradition includes live music, carriage rides, strolling street performers and ice carvers, and the crowd traditionally joins in singing Let There Be Peace on Earth as the candle is lit.

The event is free to attend. Families can also explore the Easton Winter Village for holiday shopping and browse downtown boutiques before or after the lighting. Ice carvers and carriage rides are usually the big draws for children, so arriving a little before 6:30 pm gives kids time to watch the carving and get a spot near the square. Expect a crowd and dress warmly, as the event is entirely outdoors.

Parent tip: Arrive before 6:30 pm to see the ice carvers and get a good view of the candle.

See dates and details from City of Easton (opens in a new tab)

Easton: Milk and Cookies Storytime with Santa

Story time with Mrs. ClausFreeEaston Area Public Library · Easton

Host
Easton Area Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Easton Area Public Library, Main Library, 515 Church St, Easton, PA 18042 (near Allentown)
When
Thursday, December 3, 2026, 6 to 7:30 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 2 to 5
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Easton Area Public Library hosts a special Milk and Cookies Storytime with Santa on Thursday, December 3, 2026, from 6 to 7:30 pm at the Main Library on Church Street. Children are invited to come in their pajamas and join Santa and Mrs. Claus for Christmas stories, a round of Jingle Bells and milk and cookies with Santa.

The program is for ages 2 to 5 and is free, but registration is required, so sign up through the library's online calendar. It is sponsored by Easton Baking Co. and the Friends of the Library. The evening timing and pajama theme make it an easy bedtime outing for preschoolers. Bring a camera or phone if you would like a picture of your child with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Parent tip: Register early, come in pajamas, and bring a phone or camera for photos with Santa.

See dates and details from Easton Area Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Easton: Forks Township Tree Lighting

Holiday story timeFreeForks Township Parks and Recreation · Easton

Host
Forks Township Parks and Recreation (opens in a new tab)
Where
Forks Township Community Park, 500 Zucksville Rd, Easton, PA 18040 (near Allentown)
When
Friday, December 4, 2026, 5:30 to 8 pm
Cost
Free
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Forks Township Parks and Recreation hosts its tree lighting at Forks Township Community Park on Friday, December 4, 2026, from 5:30 to 8 pm. Families can enjoy s'mores around a bonfire, make ornaments and grab comfort food from food trucks.

One highlight for young children is a campfire storytime hosted by In2You Arts. There is also an interactive holiday train display to explore, and families can watch the judging of the annual community Gingerbread House Contest. The event is free to attend, though food truck purchases are extra. With a story, a craft, a train display and the lighting itself, it covers a lot of the season's favorite activities in one evening. Dress warmly for the outdoor portions, and bring flashlights or headlamps if your kids like to explore the park after dark.

Parent tip: Bring cash or a card for the food trucks, and plan to catch the campfire storytime early in the evening.

See dates and details from Forks Township Parks and Recreation (opens in a new tab)

Easton: Gingerbread Storytime

Holiday story timeFreeEaston Area Public Library · Easton

Host
Easton Area Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Easton Area Public Library, Main Library, 515 Church St, Easton, PA 18042 (near Allentown)
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11 am to noon
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 2 to 6
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Easton Area Public Library offers a sweet Gingerbread Storytime on Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 11 am to noon at the Main Library. Children will hear a gingerbread story, make a gingerbread craft and decorate their very own gingerbread cookie, with silly songs and dancing mixed in.

The program is for ages 2 to 6 and is free, but registration is required, so reserve a spot through the library's online calendar. It is sponsored by the Friends of the Library. The Saturday morning time makes it easy for working parents to attend. Downtown Easton's Centre Square, where the Peace Candle is lit the weekend before, is a few blocks away if you want to see the holiday decorations afterward.

Parent tip: Registration is required; Centre Square's holiday displays are a short walk away.

See dates and details from Easton Area Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Coplay

1 confirmed event for kids in Coplay, soonest first.

Coplay: North Whitehall Tree Lighting Ceremony

Tree lightingFreeNorth Whitehall Township · Coplay

Host
North Whitehall Township (opens in a new tab)
Where
Kolapechka Park, 4075 Coffeetown Rd, Coplay, PA 18037 (near Allentown)
When
Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 5:30 to 7:30 pm
Cost
Free admission; Santa photos complimentary
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

North Whitehall Township holds its 6th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Wednesday, December 2, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at Kolapechka Park on Coffeetown Road. The celebration features live reindeer, hot chocolate, food trucks and complimentary photos with Santa.

Dancers from Innovative Arts Academy perform before Santa arrives at 6:45 pm for the official tree lighting. Admission is free, and food truck purchases are extra. The free Santa photos and live reindeer make this a strong pick for families with toddlers and preschoolers, and the weeknight timing tends to mean smaller crowds than the big weekend lightings. Neighboring Whitehall Township holds its own free tree lighting the same evening at 6:30 pm at its municipal complex on MacArthur Road.

Parent tip: Plan to be there by 6:45 pm for Santa's arrival; Santa photos are free.

See dates and details from North Whitehall Township (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Schnecksville

1 confirmed event for kids in Schnecksville, soonest first.

Schnecksville: Winter Light Spectacular

Holiday lightsLehigh Valley Zoo · Schnecksville

Host
Lehigh Valley Zoo (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lehigh Valley Zoo, 5150 Game Preserve Rd, Schnecksville, PA 18078 (near Allentown)
When
Friday, November 13, 2026 to Saturday, January 2, 2027 (37 select nights; Santa photos on select dates through Dec 23)
Cost
$14 to $18 general admission; under 2 free
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Lehigh Valley Zoo's 13th annual Winter Light Spectacular runs on 37 dates from Friday, November 13, 2026 through Saturday, January 2, 2027. The walk-through event features 1.7 million lights, classic holiday scenes, photo spots, fire pits, hot chocolate and treats. Popular princesses such as Elsa, Anna, Ariel and Rapunzel perform every night, and Dan's Camera City offers Santa photo packages on select dates through December 23. New for 2026 are Candy Land, Gingerbread Junction and an enhanced Whoville.

Advance online tickets are $16 for adults and $14 for children 2 to 11; at the gate they are $18 and $16. Infants up to age 1 are free, and parking is free. Opening night, November 13, tickets are $13. VIP tickets add lounge access and treats. The zoo expects sold-out dates and recommends buying online.

Parent tip: Buy online in advance since dates sell out; check the zoo's calendar for which nights Santa is there.

See dates and details from Lehigh Valley Zoo (opens in a new tab)

Looking further afield? Our Pennsylvania Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state, and we have city guides for Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.

A story for the drive home

A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Allentown Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Allentown in 2026?

We confirmed 17 Christmas events for kids in Allentown for 2026 on each host’s own page: Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem in Bethlehem (November 13), Trees of Historic Bethlehem in Bethlehem (November 13), Winter Light Spectacular in Schnecksville (November 13), Breakfast with Bluey and Bingo in Bethlehem (November 22), Christmas City Tree Lighting Ceremony in Bethlehem (November 27), Breakfast with St. Nick in Bethlehem (November 28), Easton Peace Candle Lighting in Easton (November 28), Make Your Own Ornaments at Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem (November 28), North Whitehall Tree Lighting Ceremony in Coplay (December 2), Milk and Cookies Storytime with Santa in Easton (December 3), Forks Township Tree Lighting in Easton (December 4), Hanover Township Tree Lighting in Bethlehem (December 4), South Whitehall Tree and Bridge Lighting Ceremony in Allentown (December 4), Downtown Allentown Tree Lighting Celebration in Allentown (December 5), Gingerbread Storytime in Easton (December 5), Mr. Ben's Holiday Sing-Along Jamboree in Bethlehem (December 19) and Reindeer Ornament Craft in Bethlehem (December 21). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Allentown, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Allentown, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: South Whitehall Tree and Bridge Lighting Ceremony (Fri, Dec 4, from 6 pm, free admission); Downtown Allentown Tree Lighting Celebration (Sat, Dec 5, 4 to 6 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Allentown section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Bethlehem, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem (Weekends, Nov 13 to Dec 20, $14 to $16.50; kids 5 and under free; free fridays 5 to 8 pm); Trees of Historic Bethlehem (Select dates, Nov 13 to Jan 4, $25 adults, $14 children, 3 and under free); Breakfast with Bluey and Bingo (Sun, Nov 22, 9 to 10 am, $31; all ages need a ticket); Christmas City Tree Lighting Ceremony (Fri, Nov 27, from 4:30 pm, free); Breakfast with St. Nick (Sat, Nov 28; Sat, Dec 5, 12, 19; Sun, Dec 13; 9 am, $31 per ticket, includes market admission); Make Your Own Ornaments at Christkindlmarkt (Sat, Nov 28; Fri, Dec 4; Sat, Dec 5; Fri, Dec 11 and 18; late afternoon to 8 pm, $24.50 to $27, includes market admission and three ornaments); Hanover Township Tree Lighting (Fri, Dec 4, 6 to 8 pm, free); Mr. Ben's Holiday Sing-Along Jamboree (Sat, Dec 19, 2 to 3 pm, free); Reindeer Ornament Craft (Mon, Dec 21, 5 to 6 pm, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Bethlehem section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Easton, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Easton, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Easton Peace Candle Lighting (Sat, Nov 28, from 6:30 pm, free); Milk and Cookies Storytime with Santa (Thu, Dec 3, 6 to 7:30 pm, free, registration required); Forks Township Tree Lighting (Fri, Dec 4, 5:30 to 8 pm, free); Gingerbread Storytime (Sat, Dec 5, 11 am to noon, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Easton section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Coplay, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Coplay, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: North Whitehall Tree Lighting Ceremony (Wed, Dec 2, 5:30 to 7:30 pm; Santa at 6:45 pm, free admission; santa photos complimentary). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Coplay section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Schnecksville, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Winter Light Spectacular (37 select nights, Nov 13 to Jan 2, $14 to $18 general admission; under 2 free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Schnecksville section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Allentown?

Yes. 11 of the 17 events here are free: Christmas City Tree Lighting Ceremony in Bethlehem, Easton Peace Candle Lighting in Easton, North Whitehall Tree Lighting Ceremony in Coplay, Milk and Cookies Storytime with Santa in Easton, Forks Township Tree Lighting in Easton, Hanover Township Tree Lighting in Bethlehem, South Whitehall Tree and Bridge Lighting Ceremony in Allentown, Downtown Allentown Tree Lighting Celebration in Allentown, Gingerbread Storytime in Easton, Mr. Ben's Holiday Sing-Along Jamboree in Bethlehem and Reindeer Ornament Craft in Bethlehem. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Allentown this December?

Santa appears at Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem in Bethlehem (November 13), Winter Light Spectacular in Schnecksville (November 13), Christmas City Tree Lighting Ceremony in Bethlehem (November 27), Breakfast with St. Nick in Bethlehem (November 28), North Whitehall Tree Lighting Ceremony in Coplay (December 2), Milk and Cookies Storytime with Santa in Easton (December 3), Hanover Township Tree Lighting in Bethlehem (December 4), South Whitehall Tree and Bridge Lighting Ceremony in Allentown (December 4) and Downtown Allentown Tree Lighting Celebration in Allentown (December 5). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Allentown?

Holiday story times on this page: Milk and Cookies Storytime with Santa in Easton, Forks Township Tree Lighting in Easton and Gingerbread Storytime in Easton. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.

Where can we have breakfast or a meal with Santa in Allentown?

Meals with Santa confirmed for 2026: Breakfast with Bluey and Bingo in Bethlehem (Sun, Nov 22, 9 to 10 am) and Breakfast with St. Nick in Bethlehem (Sat, Nov 28; Sat, Dec 5, 12, 19; Sun, Dec 13; 9 am). These usually sell out, so book as soon as you pick a date.

Which Allentown Christmas events are best for toddlers?

These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Milk and Cookies Storytime with Santa in Easton (Ages 2 to 5) and Gingerbread Storytime in Easton (Ages 2 to 6).

Are there kids' Christmas events in Allentown on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?

Yes: Trees of Historic Bethlehem in Bethlehem (through January 4) and Winter Light Spectacular in Schnecksville (through January 2).

How much is Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem in Bethlehem?

$14 to $16.50; kids 5 and under free; free Fridays 5 to 8 pm. Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem is on Fri November 13, Fri November 20, Fri November 27, Thu December 3, Thu December 10 and Thu December 17, 2026 at PNC Plaza at SteelStacks. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Trees of Historic Bethlehem in Bethlehem?

$25 adults, $14 children, 3 and under free. Trees of Historic Bethlehem is on Friday, November 13, 2026 to Monday, January 4, 2027 (select dates; see ticket calendar) at Moravian Museum of Bethlehem and nearby historic sites. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Winter Light Spectacular in Schnecksville?

$14 to $18 general admission; under 2 free. Winter Light Spectacular is on Friday, November 13, 2026 to Saturday, January 2, 2027 (37 select nights; Santa photos on select dates through Dec 23) at Lehigh Valley Zoo. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Breakfast with Bluey and Bingo in Bethlehem?

$31; all ages need a ticket. Breakfast with Bluey and Bingo is on Sunday, November 22, 2026, 9 to 10 am at Musikfest Café at SteelStacks. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Christmas City Tree Lighting Ceremony in Bethlehem?

Free. Christmas City Tree Lighting Ceremony is on Friday, November 27, 2026, 4:30 pm at Payrow Plaza. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Breakfast with St. Nick in Bethlehem?

$31 per ticket, includes market admission. Breakfast with St. Nick is on Sat November 28, Sat December 5, Sat December 12, Sun December 13 and Sat December 19, 2026, 9 am at Volks Haus, Christkindlmarkt Winter Wonderland. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Easton Peace Candle Lighting in Easton?

Free. Easton Peace Candle Lighting is on Saturday, November 28, 2026, 6:30 pm at Centre Square. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Make Your Own Ornaments at Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem?

$24.50 to $27, includes market admission and three ornaments. Make Your Own Ornaments at Christkindlmarkt is on Sat November 28 (4 to 8 pm), Fri December 4 (5 pm), Sat December 5 (4 pm), Fri December 11 (5 pm) and Fri December 18 (5 pm), 2026 at St. Nicholas Haus, Christkindlmarkt Winter Wonderland. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is North Whitehall Tree Lighting Ceremony in Coplay?

Free admission; Santa photos complimentary. North Whitehall Tree Lighting Ceremony is on Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 5:30 to 7:30 pm at Kolapechka Park. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Milk and Cookies Storytime with Santa in Easton?

Free, registration required. Milk and Cookies Storytime with Santa is on Thursday, December 3, 2026, 6 to 7:30 pm at Easton Area Public Library, Main Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Forks Township Tree Lighting in Easton?

Free. Forks Township Tree Lighting is on Friday, December 4, 2026, 5:30 to 8 pm at Forks Township Community Park. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Hanover Township Tree Lighting in Bethlehem?

Free. Hanover Township Tree Lighting is on Friday, December 4, 2026, 6 to 8 pm at Hanover Township Community Center grounds. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is South Whitehall Tree and Bridge Lighting Ceremony in Allentown?

Free admission. South Whitehall Tree and Bridge Lighting Ceremony is on Friday, December 4, 2026, 6 pm at Covered Bridge Park. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Downtown Allentown Tree Lighting Celebration in Allentown?

Free. Downtown Allentown Tree Lighting Celebration is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 4 to 6 pm at Arts Park. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread Storytime in Easton?

Free, registration required. Gingerbread Storytime is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11 am to noon at Easton Area Public Library, Main Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Mr. Ben's Holiday Sing-Along Jamboree in Bethlehem?

Free. Mr. Ben's Holiday Sing-Along Jamboree is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, 2 to 3 pm at Bethlehem Area Public Library, Main Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Reindeer Ornament Craft in Bethlehem?

Free, registration required. Reindeer Ornament Craft is on Monday, December 21, 2026, 5 to 6 pm at Bethlehem Area Public Library, South Side Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Allentown?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Allentown Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

Kelsey Cecil
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