Christmas Events for Kids in Pennsylvania (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

26 min read

Pennsylvania has 29 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Holidays in Franklin Square: Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO in Philadelphia on November 19 to Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden in Pittsburgh, which runs through January 10. 15 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 every state.

The short version

  • 29 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Pennsylvania for 2026, in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Harrisburg
  • First: Holidays in Franklin Square: Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO, Philadelphia, November 19. Runs latest: Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden, Pittsburgh, through January 10
  • Free: Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet, Highmark Light Up Night, Gingerbread Workshop, Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Sensory Fun: Winter Sensory Bins and Holiday Craft, Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho!, Grinchmas! Around the World, Tree Lighting Celebration 2026, Storytime with Mrs. Claus, Elf on Shelf & Winter Paintings: Art with Crafts, Winter Fest, Interactive Movie Night - Elf, Holiday Storytime with Local Author Lydia Cohen, Christmas Storytime and Lolly Hopwood! - Kids Winter Concert!
  • 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.

Pennsylvania Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
29 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Harrisburg
Season
November 19, 2026 to January 10, 2027
Free events
15
Kinds of events
holiday lights, holiday story time, holiday crafts and breakfast with Santa
Last checked

Plan your December

When each Pennsylvania Christmas event for kids happens

The first is Holidays in Franklin Square: Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO in Philadelphia on November 19; the last runs to January 10. 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 Pennsylvania? 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 Philadelphia

14 confirmed events for kids in Philadelphia, including nearby Ardmore, Kennett Square, Paoli, Ridley Park, Southampton, Upper Darby, Wayne and Yeadon, soonest first.

Philadelphia: Holidays in Franklin Square: Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO

Holiday lightsHistoric Philadelphia, Inc. · Philadelphia

Host
Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (opens in a new tab)
Where
Franklin Square, 200 N 6th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
When
Thursday, November 19, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (nightly; closed Nov 26, Dec 25 and Jan 1; closes at 8 pm Dec 24 and Dec 31), 5 to 9 pm
Cost
See host page for attraction pricing
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Each evening from November 19 through January 3, Franklin Square in Old City hosts the Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO, with hundreds of thousands of lights set to classic seasonal music. Shows run every 30 minutes from 5 pm until closing, so families can arrive when it suits them and catch the next one.

The square also offers Chilly Philly Mini Golf, Street Curling and seasonal treats at Frosty's Fireside Lodge in the evenings. The Parx Liberty Carousel and the playgrounds stay open during the day, which makes it easy to pair an afternoon of play with an early evening show. The square is closed November 26, December 25 and January 1, and closes early at 8 pm on December 24 and 31. Pricing for the light show and the other attractions is listed on the host page.

Parent tip: The light show starts at 5 pm and repeats every 30 minutes, so an early show works well for younger kids. Winter Garden area and heated tent open at 3 pm on weekends.

See dates and details from Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (opens in a new tab)

Kennett Square: A Longwood Christmas

Holiday lightsLongwood Gardens · Kennett Square

Host
Longwood Gardens (opens in a new tab)
Where
Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348 (near Philadelphia)
When
Friday, November 20, 2026 to Sunday, January 10, 2027 (daily)
Cost
Timed tickets required, prices on Longwood ticket site
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

A Longwood Christmas runs from November 20, 2026 to January 10, 2027 at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square. The gardens and conservatory are dressed for the holidays with lights and seasonal displays, and the page lists extended event hours into the evening.

For families, miniature model trains run during regular garden hours, weather permitting, and outdoor Christmas musicians play on select dates at no extra cost with admission. Entry is by timed ticket bought in advance, and members reserve through the member portal. The page shows two different sets of hours, so check the hours page before you plan your visit. The gardens are at 1001 Longwood Road in Kennett Square, and the season stretches past New Year's Day into January.

Parent tip: Buy timed tickets ahead of time and confirm hours on the Longwood hours page, since the event page lists both day and evening hours.

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

Philadelphia: Jingle & Mingle with Santa

Holiday lightsHistoric Philadelphia, Inc. · Philadelphia

Host
Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (opens in a new tab)
Where
Franklin Square, 200 N 6th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
When
Fri November 27, Sat November 28, Sat December 5, Sat December 12 and Sat December 19, 2026, 5 to 7 pm
Cost
Not stated
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa makes several evening appearances at Franklin Square during Holidays in Franklin Square. Families can meet him and take a picture on November 27 and 28 and on December 5, 12 and 19, from 5 to 7 pm each night.

The visits overlap with the Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO, which runs every 30 minutes starting at 5 pm, so a Santa visit and a light show fit easily into one outing. Chilly Philly Mini Golf, Street Curling and the seasonal treats at Frosty's Fireside Lodge are also running in the evenings. The square is in Old City at 6th and Race Streets, a short walk from the Historic District. Check the host page for any costs before you go, since the listing does not state pricing for the Santa visits.

Parent tip: Santa is only there from 5 to 7 pm on the listed nights, so plan to arrive early in that window.

See dates and details from Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (opens in a new tab)

Ardmore: Sensory Fun: Winter Sensory Bins and Holiday Craft

Holiday craftsFreeArdmore Library, Lower Merion Library System · Ardmore

Host
Ardmore Library, Lower Merion Library System (opens in a new tab)
Where
Ardmore Library, 108 Ardmore Avenue, Ardmore, PA 19003 (near Philadelphia)
When
Friday, December 4, 2026, 11 am to noon
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Preschool and younger
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Ardmore Library's Sensory Fun program on Friday, December 4, from 11 am to noon is built for toddlers and preschoolers, an age when playing with materials matters more than a finished product. This session features a variety of winter themed sensory bins plus a craft that children can give as a holiday gift.

Registration is required, and the library asks families to register the children only, with a separate registration for each child. The program is in person in the Ardmore Program Room. The library notes that the bins include small parts such as uncooked rice and beans that could be a choking hazard, so close supervision is needed. Expect a little mess. The Ardmore Library is part of the Lower Merion Library System on the Main Line, a short drive from the city.

Parent tip: Register each child separately. Bins include small choking hazards like rice and beans, so stay close to very young toddlers.

See dates and details from Ardmore Library, Lower Merion Library System (opens in a new tab)

Philadelphia: Gift-Making Night

Holiday lightsHistoric Philadelphia, Inc. · Philadelphia

Host
Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (opens in a new tab)
Where
Franklin Square, 200 N 6th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 5 to 7 pm
Cost
Not stated
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Gift-Making Night brings The Clay Studio to Franklin Square on Saturday, December 5, from 5 to 7 pm. Children can make gifts for family and friends with guidance from the studio, a nice way to give kids something of their own to wrap and give this season.

The same evening is also one of the Jingle and Mingle with Santa nights, when Santa is in the square from 5 to 7 pm for photos, so families can combine both. The Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO runs every 30 minutes starting at 5 pm. The listing does not give a price for the craft session, so check the host page before you go. Franklin Square is at 6th and Race Streets in Old City.

Parent tip: Santa is also in the square that night from 5 to 7 pm, so you can pair crafting with a Santa photo.

See dates and details from Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (opens in a new tab)

Wayne: Tree Lighting Celebration 2026

Santa and Mrs. ClausFreeTredyffrin Township · Wayne

Host
Tredyffrin Township (opens in a new tab)
Where
Wilson Farm Park, 500 Lee Rd, Wayne, PA 19087 (near Philadelphia)
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 5 to 7 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Tredyffrin Township lights its tree at Wilson Farm Park in Wayne on Saturday evening, December 5, with a rain date of Sunday, December 6. Special guests flip the switch to light the tree while a DJ plays holiday music.

Kids can take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus and drop off letters to Santa at a dedicated spot. The Tredyffrin Parks Foundation hands out sweet treats. The event is free and runs from 5 to 7 pm, so dress warmly for an evening outdoors. Wilson Farm Park is at 500 Lee Road in Wayne, and the celebration lasts two hours.

Parent tip: Bring a finished letter to Santa to drop off, and check the township site for weather updates on the rain date.

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

Philadelphia: Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's Philadelphia

Breakfast with SantaDave & Buster's · Philadelphia

Host
Dave & Buster's (opens in a new tab)
Where
Dave & Buster's Philadelphia, 325 N Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106
When
Sunday, December 6, 2026, 9 to 11 am
Cost
$27.94 food only, $33.01 food plus play, per person
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Dave & Buster's on Columbus Boulevard opens early for a holiday breakfast on Sunday, December 6. The buffet includes pancakes, eggs, bacon and fruit with unlimited soda and juice, and kids can take a photo with Santa, make a holiday craft and write a letter to Santa.

Food only tickets are $27.94 per person. Food plus play tickets are $33.01 and add a $10 Power Card with three hours of unlimited video game play. Prices include tax and gratuity, and tickets are sold through Fever. The breakfast runs from 9 to 11 am, before the restaurant opens to the public. Children must be with an adult.

Parent tip: Tickets are per person, adults included, and cover tax and tip.

See dates and details from Dave & Buster's (opens in a new tab)

Ridley Park: Storytime with Mrs. Claus

Story time with Mrs. ClausFreeRidley Park Public Library · Ridley Park

Host
Ridley Park Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Ridley Park Borough Hall, 105 E Ward Street, Ridley Park, PA 19078 (near Philadelphia)
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, 3 to 5 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Children, families, all ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Ridley Park Public Library and the Friends of the Ridley Park Library host Storytime with Mrs. Claus on Saturday, December 12, from 3 to 5 pm. The afternoon includes stories with Mrs. Claus, crafts, snacks and hot chocolate, along with a holiday photo backdrop where families can take their own pictures.

The event is held off site at Ridley Park Borough Hall rather than in the library building. Space is limited, so registration is required, and the library asks for a separate registration for each child attending. The listing is aimed at children and families and is open to all ages. Attendees are expected to follow the library's programming policy and code of behavior. Ridley Park is in Delaware County, southwest of Philadelphia.

Parent tip: Register each child separately, since space is limited. Bring a phone or camera for the photo backdrop.

See dates and details from Ridley Park Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Paoli: Elf on Shelf & Winter Paintings: Art with Crafts

Holiday story timeFreePaoli Library · Paoli

Host
Paoli Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Paoli Library, 18 Darby Road, Paoli, PA 19301 (near Philadelphia)
When
Thursday, December 17, 2026, 5:30 to 6:30 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 4 to 8
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Paoli Library offers a festive art program on Thursday, December 17, from 5:30 to 6:30 pm in the library meeting room. Children follow the Elf on the Shelf on a story journey to the North Pole, discovering famous paintings along the way, then create a winter craft to take home.

The class is taught by artist Svetlana Gazman and is designed for ages 4 to 8. Registration is required, and spaces are limited, so it is worth signing up early. The library notes that food allergens may be present during the program. It is an early evening time slot, which works well for children in school or preschool during the day. Paoli Library is part of the Chester County Library System and sits just off Darby Road.

Parent tip: Register ahead, since seats are limited. Let staff know about allergies, as food allergens may be present.

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

Yeadon: Winter Fest

Holiday craftsFreeYeadon Public Library · Yeadon

Host
Yeadon Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Yeadon Public Library, 809 Longacre Boulevard, Yeadon, PA 19050 (near Philadelphia)
When
Thursday, December 17, 2026, 6 to 7:30 pm
Cost
Free library program
Ages
Children, teens, family
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Yeadon Public Library hosts Winter Fest on its Family Night, Thursday, December 17, from 6 to 7:30 pm in the community meeting room. The evening includes arts and crafts activities, games and what the library calls a few special surprises.

The event is listed for children, teens and families, and all are welcome. Registration is not required, but the library asks families to register so staff can prepare for the number of guests. No fee is listed. The early evening schedule makes it easy to stop by after school and work, and the 90 minute window lets families come and go. The library is on Longacre Boulevard in Yeadon, just over the city line from West Philadelphia, so it is an easy trip from many city neighborhoods.

Parent tip: Registration is optional but helps the library plan supplies.

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

Upper Darby: Interactive Movie Night - Elf

Holiday showFreeUpper Darby Township & Sellers Library · Upper Darby

Host
Upper Darby Township & Sellers Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Sellers Memorial Library, 76 S State Road, Upper Darby, PA 19082 (near Philadelphia)
When
Friday, December 18, 2026, 5:30 to 8:30 pm
Cost
Free library program
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Upper Darby's Sellers Memorial Library closes out its interactive movie series with Elf on Friday, December 18. The program runs from 5:30 to 8:30 pm in the programming room. Rather than sitting quietly, attendees follow along with a provided script full of prompts and callbacks and join in at key moments in the film.

Elf is rated PG and runs 97 minutes. It follows Buddy, who was raised among Santa's elves at the North Pole and travels to New York to find his father. The series is listed for all ages, including children, teens and adults, so it suits a family night out. No fee is listed, and seating in the room is limited. Sellers Memorial Library is on South State Road in Upper Darby, close to the 69th Street Transportation Center.

Parent tip: The film is rated PG; seating is limited, so arrive early.

See dates and details from Upper Darby Township & Sellers Library (opens in a new tab)

Philadelphia: Stories, Cookies, & Milk with Santa

Story time with SantaHistoric Philadelphia, Inc. · Philadelphia

Host
Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (opens in a new tab)
Where
Frosty's Fireside Lodge, Franklin Square, 200 N 6th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026, 11 am to 1 pm
Cost
Tickets required, price not stated
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

On Saturday, December 19, Santa settles into Frosty's Fireside Lodge in Franklin Square to visit with families and tell stories. The event runs from 11 am to 1 pm and includes hot chocolate, festive snacks and time to pose for photos.

Tickets are required, so this is one to book ahead rather than drop in on. Because it is a daytime event, families can also enjoy the Parx Liberty Carousel, the playgrounds and Chilly Philly Mini Golf in the square, which are open during the day. If you stay into the evening, the Electrical Spectacle Light Show begins at 5 pm and repeats every 30 minutes. Franklin Square is at 6th and Race Streets in Old City. It is a cozy, indoor way to see Santa.

Parent tip: Tickets are required; book through the host page. Bring a camera for photos with Santa.

See dates and details from Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (opens in a new tab)

Kennett Square: Holiday Storytime with Local Author Lydia Cohen

Holiday story timeFreeKennett Library · Kennett Square

Host
Kennett Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Kennett Library, 320 N Union Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348 (near Philadelphia)
When
Monday, December 21, 2026, 10 to 11 am
Cost
Free library program
Ages
Preschool, school age, family
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Kennett Library hosts a holiday storytime with local author Lydia Cohen on Monday, December 21, from 10 to 11 am in the Children's Area. The story follows a little boy who meets a lost elf on Christmas Eve and wonders whether the elf will ever make it back to Santa and the North Pole.

After the reading, kids can stay for color crafts. The program is listed for preschoolers, school age children and families, which makes it a good fit for siblings of different ages during the first days of winter break. The author will have copies available for purchase at the event. No fee is listed for the storytime. Kennett Library is in the center of Kennett Square, close to shops and cafes for an easy morning out.

Parent tip: This falls during many school breaks, so it may be busy; arriving a few minutes early helps with seating in the Children's Area.

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

Southampton: Lolly Hopwood! - Kids Winter Concert!

Holiday showFreeSouthampton Free Library · Southampton

Host
Southampton Free Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Southampton Free Library, 947 Street Road, Southampton, PA 18966 (near Philadelphia)
When
Tuesday, December 22, 2026, 10:30 to 11:15 am
Cost
Free library program, register children
Ages
Best for ages 3 and up, siblings welcome
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Southampton Free Library welcomes children's performer Lolly Hopwood for a winter concert on Tuesday, December 22, from 10:30 to 11:15 am in the Large Meeting Room. Kids are invited to sing and dance along through the show, which makes it a lively outing for little ones home on winter break.

The concert is listed as best for ages 3 and up, and siblings are welcome. The library asks families to register only the children, not the adults coming with them. No fee is listed. At about 45 minutes, the program is a manageable length for preschoolers and early elementary kids, and the morning time leaves the rest of the day free. Southampton Free Library is part of the Bucks County Free Library system on Street Road.

Parent tip: Register the children only; adults do not need their own registration.

See dates and details from Southampton Free Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Pittsburgh

14 confirmed events for kids in Pittsburgh, including nearby Bethel Park, Bridgeville, Glenshaw, Monroeville and Sewickley, soonest first.

Sewickley: Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet

Holiday story timeFreeSewickley Public Library · Sewickley

Host
Sewickley Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Sewickley Public Library, Community Room, 500 Thorn St, Sewickley, PA 15143 (near Pittsburgh)
When
Friday, November 20, 2026, 3 to 4 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 4 to 8
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Sewickley Public Library teams up with West Point Ballet for a special Nutcracker Storytime that blends the classic holiday tale with movement and dance. Kids hear the enchanting story of the Nutcracker and then get up and move, with the chance to meet and dance with Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy as the story comes to life.

The program is designed for ages 4 to 8 and runs for an hour on a Friday afternoon in the library's Community Room. The library asks families to register in advance and to dress kids in clothes they can move in. It is a lovely introduction to the ballet for young children before the holiday performance season, and a great pick for kids who love to dance.

Parent tip: Registration is requested; dress kids to move.

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

Pittsburgh: Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden

Holiday lightsPhipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens · Pittsburgh

Host
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (opens in a new tab)
Where
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
When
Friday, November 20, 2026 to Sunday, January 10, 2027 (daily run; timed tickets)
Cost
Admission; advance reservations required
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Phipps Holiday Magic runs from November 20, 2026 to January 10, 2027, with a theme called Botanical Brilliance. Inside the glasshouse, poinsettias, amaryllis and narcissus share space with sparkling metallic décor, a 10 foot poinsettia tree, an anthurium tree with an animated starburst topper, a gnome decorated garden tree and trees inspired by ice skating and ugly sweaters.

Kids tend to love the motion activated ice skating animal topiaries on a frozen pond beneath snowflake lights. Outside, the Winter Light Garden glows with a color changing snowflake tree, glowing orbs and a lit gazebo. The new Garden Railroad: Fairies and Gnomes display, with miniature villages and trains winding through greenery, is on view too. All tickets, for members and nonmembers, must be reserved in advance, and valet parking is $15 for nonmembers during peak times.

Parent tip: Reserve timed tickets ahead; the outdoor light garden may close temporarily in heavy rain or bad weather.

See dates and details from Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (opens in a new tab)

Pittsburgh: Highmark Light Up Night

Tree lightingFreePittsburgh Downtown Partnership · Pittsburgh

Host
Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (opens in a new tab)
Where
Downtown Pittsburgh (Penn Ave and Stanwix St), Penn Ave and Stanwix St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
When
Saturday, November 21, 2026
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Highmark Light Up Night returns to Downtown Pittsburgh on Saturday, November 21, 2026, as part of a larger 65th anniversary celebration. Visit Pittsburgh describes it as the official kickoff to the city's holiday season, combining long standing traditions with new holiday experiences and a supersized fireworks finale.

The full 2026 schedule had not been posted when we checked. In past years, the evening has included the City of Pittsburgh tree lighting at the City-County Building, the Highmark Christmas Tree lighting at Penn Avenue and Stanwix Street with rooftop fireworks, the lighting of the Three Sisters bridges, music stages across downtown and the Peoples Gas Holiday Market in the Cultural District. Kids have also had holiday crafts and selfie backdrops nearby. Expect big crowds, so plan transit and a meeting spot in advance and check back for this year's times.

Parent tip: The 2026 schedule was still to come when we checked, so confirm tree lighting and fireworks times before heading downtown.

See dates and details from Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (opens in a new tab)

Pittsburgh: Santa at the History Center

Santa visitSenator John Heinz History Center · Pittsburgh

Host
Senator John Heinz History Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Heinz History Center, Great Hall, 1212 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
When
Friday, November 27, 2026, 10:30 am to 1:30 pm
Cost
Included with museum admission; kids 17 and under free
Ages
Kids 17 and under get free admission
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa settles into the Great Hall of the Heinz History Center on the day after Thanksgiving, sitting in a replica of the Santaland chair from the old Kaufmann's department store. Kids can share their wish lists and families can take a holiday photo.

The visit is included with regular museum admission, and kids 17 and under always get in free through the Kamin Free for Kids Initiative. The museum says Santa will be in on select days this season, with November 27 the first date listed, so check the events calendar for more dates. The museum is at 1212 Smallman Street in Pittsburgh, and Santa's hours run from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm.

Parent tip: Kids are free, so only adults need admission. Bring your own camera for the photo.

See dates and details from Senator John Heinz History Center (opens in a new tab)

Pittsburgh: Zoo Lights Drive-Thru

Holiday lightsPittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium · Pittsburgh

Host
Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium (opens in a new tab)
Where
Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, 7370 Baker St, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
When
Friday, November 27, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (select nights; closed Nov 30, Dec 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 24, 25, 31 and Jan 1), 5 to 10 pm
Cost
$45 per vehicle ($40 members, $65 flex)
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Zoo Lights Drive-Thru returns to the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium on select nights from November 27, 2026 through January 3, 2027, from 5 to 10 pm. It is closed November 30, December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 24, 25 and 31, and January 1. Families stay in their vehicles as they wind through thousands of eco friendly lights, twinkling illuminated animals, yuletide scenes, familiar Pittsburgh icons and an area celebrating the zoo's recent babies.

Pricing is per vehicle, not per person: $45 for nonmembers, $40 for members and $65 for a flex ticket, covering everyone who can be safely buckled in. Each ticket is for a set date and arrival time, and the drive takes about 30 minutes. The entrance plaza is open for seasonal food, drinks and restroom breaks. It is a good choice for families with babies or toddlers, since no one has to brave the cold for long.

Parent tip: One timed ticket covers the whole vehicle; arrive at your selected time, since early or late entry is not permitted. Restrooms are at the entrance plaza.

See dates and details from Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium (opens in a new tab)

Bethel Park: Gingerbread Workshop

Holiday craftsFreeBethel Park Public Library · Bethel Park

Host
Bethel Park Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bethel Park Public Library, 5100 West Library Ave, Bethel Park, PA 15102 (near Pittsburgh)
When
Saturday, November 28, 2026, 1 to 3 pm
Cost
Free, registration required (bring a bag of candy to share)
Ages
All ages (registrants up to 17)
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The tradition continues at Bethel Park Public Library with its festive Gingerbread Workshop on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Whether your kids are beginners or master decorators, the library's set up provides everything needed to build and decorate a mostly edible gingerbread masterpiece.

The library asks each family to bring a bag of candy, cereal, marshmallows, pretzels or similar toppings to share with the group, along with plenty of holiday spirit. The workshop runs from 1 to 3 pm and is billed for all ages, with registration open to children and teens up to 17 and their families. Registration is required; it opens November 1 and closes at 1 pm on the day of the event. Library staff may take photos at programs, so let them know before the event begins if you prefer not to be photographed.

Parent tip: Register in advance and bring a bag of candy or cereal to share for decorating.

See dates and details from Bethel Park Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Pittsburgh: Santa Family Fun Cruise

Santa visitGateway Clipper Fleet · Pittsburgh

Host
Gateway Clipper Fleet (opens in a new tab)
Where
Gateway Clipper Fleet, Station Square Dock, 350 W Station Square Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
When
Sat November 28, Sat December 5 and Sun December 6, 2026, 10:30 am to 3:30 pm
Cost
$36.66 adults, $26.19 children, $5.24 infants (all in)
Ages
Kids and families; 16 and under with an adult
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Gateway Clipper's Santa Family Fun Cruise takes families out on the Three Rivers for a two hour holiday sailing aimed squarely at kids. Santa and his friends come aboard, there is a DJ dance party, and every child gets a special treat from Santa, so the cruise line suggests kids get their Christmas lists in order before boarding.

The cruise sails on weekends from Thanksgiving weekend through December, starting Saturday, November 28, then December 5 and 6 and more dates on the live booking calendar. Each day has two sailings: boarding at 9:45 am for 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, or boarding at 12:45 pm for 1:30 to 3:30 pm. All in prices are $36.66 for adults, $26.19 for children and $5.24 for infants. A snack bar with kid favorites like mac and cheese and hot dogs, plus a full bar, are available at extra cost.

Parent tip: Board 45 minutes before sailing. Snacks are not included in the ticket price; children 16 and under must be with an adult.

See dates and details from Gateway Clipper Fleet (opens in a new tab)

Pittsburgh: Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time

Story time with SantaSenator John Heinz History Center · Pittsburgh

Host
Senator John Heinz History Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
When
Saturday, November 28, 2026, 10 am to 2 pm
Cost
Included with admission; kids 17 and under free; tickets required
Ages
Family friendly; kids 17 and under free
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

This family day at the Heinz History Center ties into the Planet Ice: Mysteries of the Ice Ages exhibition. Kids can join a campfire story time, sip hot cocoa, learn about mastodons and short-faced bears, and watch World Atlatl Association champions demonstrate a prehistoric spear thrower. The Disney film Ice Age is also on the schedule.

Santa stops by for visits and photos, so it doubles as a holiday outing. The program is included with general admission, kids 17 and under are free, and every guest needs a ticket. The museum strongly recommends reserving online in advance. Santa also visits the Great Hall the day before, on November 27, from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm.

Parent tip: Reserve tickets online ahead of time, even for kids, since tickets are required for all guests.

See dates and details from Senator John Heinz History Center (opens in a new tab)

Bridgeville: Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre

Holiday story timeFreeBridgeville Public Library · Bridgeville

Host
Bridgeville Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bridgeville Public Library, Community Room, 505 McMillen St, Bridgeville, PA 15017 (near Pittsburgh)
When
Monday, November 30, 2026, 11 am to noon
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 4 to 10
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Bridgeville Public Library hosts Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre for Dance the Story, an interactive program that explores a story through movement and dance. This session features The Nutcracker. Kids ages 4 to 10 hear the story, get to see a real costume and learn a dance set to music from the ballet.

The library calls it a perfect way to kick off the holiday season on a day off from school, and it runs for one hour on Monday morning, November 30, in the library's Community Room. Registration is required because space is limited, so sign up early through the library calendar. It is a nice choice for families planning to see the Nutcracker later in the season, since kids will recognize the story and music.

Parent tip: Registration is required and space is limited.

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

Pittsburgh: Brunch with Santa

Breakfast with SantaPittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium · Pittsburgh

Host
Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium (opens in a new tab)
Where
Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, Education Complex Lecture Hall, 7370 Baker St, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
When
Sat December 5 (11 am to 12:30 pm), Sun December 6 (11 am to 12:30 pm), Sat December 12 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm), Sun December 13 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm), Sat December 19 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm) and Sun December 20 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm), 2026
Cost
$45 nonmembers, $40 members, $10 under 24 months; includes zoo admission
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa Claus is coming to the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium for a series of December meals in the Education Complex Lecture Hall. On December 5 and 6, families enjoy a brunch from 11 am to 12:30 pm. On December 12, 13, 19 and 20, there are two sessions each day, breakfast from 9:30 to 11 am and lunch from noon to 1:30 pm.

After the buffet, kids can write letters to the North Pole, do holiday themed activities and crafts, visit with the zoo's ambassador animals and pose for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Tickets are $45 for nonmembers, $40 for members and $10 for children under 24 months, and they include zoo admission, so families can explore the zoo afterward. The zoo noted limited tickets for December 5, and it says tickets book quickly.

Parent tip: Tickets include zoo admission for the day, so plan time to visit afterward. Book early; the zoo says these sell quickly.

See dates and details from Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium (opens in a new tab)

Glenshaw: Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho!

Holiday craftsFreeShaler North Hills Library · Glenshaw

Host
Shaler North Hills Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Shaler North Hills Library, Community Room, 1822 Mount Royal Blvd, Glenshaw, PA 15116 (near Pittsburgh)
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11:30 am to 2 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Children and families
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Shaler North Hills Library invites families to decorate their own graham cracker gingerbread houses, either for display at home or for nibbling. The library provides all of the fixings, and families bring the imagination.

There are two one hour sessions on Saturday, December 5, a morning session at 11:30 am and an afternoon session at 1 pm, both in the library's Community Room. Space is limited, so the library asks each family to sign up for just one session. Bring a shoebox so your creations make it home in one piece. The program is listed for children, and it is a good hands on activity for families with kids of different ages working together on the same house. Choose the session that best fits nap or lunch schedules.

Parent tip: Register the family for one session only, and bring a shoebox to carry your house home.

See dates and details from Shaler North Hills Library (opens in a new tab)

Monroeville: Grinchmas! Around the World

Holiday craftsFreeMonroeville Public Library · Monroeville

Host
Monroeville Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Monroeville Public Library, Children's Room, 4000 Gateway Campus Blvd, Monroeville, PA 15146 (near Pittsburgh)
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 1 to 2:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Monroeville Public Library's fan favorite Grinchmas party is back for another year, this time with a travel theme. Kids journey around the world with the Grinch, collecting passport stamps as they move between Grinchy activities.

Along the way there is a craft to make and a treat to enjoy. The event runs for an hour and a half on a Saturday afternoon in the library's Children's Room and is listed for all ages, from preschoolers and school age kids to the adults bringing them. The library calendar shows no registration requirement, which makes it easy to drop in for part of the afternoon. It is a good fit for families who want something playful and a little silly rather than a traditional Santa visit.

Parent tip: Plan about 90 minutes to collect all the passport stamps.

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

Pittsburgh: Breakfast with Santa

Breakfast with SantaCarnegie Museums of Pittsburgh · Pittsburgh

Host
Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh (opens in a new tab)
Where
Carnegie Music Hall Foyer, 4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026, 9 am to noon
Cost
$60 adults, $40 ages 3 to 17, $10 ages 0 to 2
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Carnegie Museums hosts its Breakfast with Santa in the private, historic Music Hall Foyer in Oakland on the Saturday before Christmas. The morning includes a breakfast buffet and a photo opportunity with Santa.

The ticket also covers free admission to Carnegie Museum of Art and Carnegie Museum of Natural History from 10 am to 5 pm that day, plus 15 percent off in the museum stores, so families can turn breakfast into a full day of dinosaurs and art. The museums suggest checking out the Carnegie Trees, decorated each year by the Women's Committee of Carnegie Museum of Art. Tickets are $60 for adults, $40 for children 3 to 17 and $10 for children 0 to 2. The museum notes that it cannot offer menu substitutions because of the nature of the breakfast.

Parent tip: No menu substitutions are available. Your ticket includes museum admission from 10 am to 5 pm the same day.

See dates and details from Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh (opens in a new tab)

Monroeville: Christmas Storytime

Holiday story timeFreeMonroeville Public Library · Monroeville

Host
Monroeville Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Monroeville Public Library, Children's Room, 4000 Gateway Campus Blvd, Monroeville, PA 15146 (near Pittsburgh)
When
Tuesday, December 22, 2026, 10:30 to 11:15 am
Cost
Free
Ages
Children and preschool (birth to 5)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Monroeville Public Library hosts a Christmas Storytime in its Children's Room just a few days before the holiday. The library promises a jolly morning filled with festive Christmas stories, songs and a craft for kids to take home.

The library notes up front that this storytime focuses on secular Christmas traditions. It is aimed at young children, including the preschool crowd from birth to age 5, and lasts about 45 minutes. The event is free and no registration is required, so it is an easy option for families looking for something cozy to do during the first days of winter break. The same Children's Room also hosts a Christmas Music and Movement session on Wednesday, December 16 at 10:30 am.

Parent tip: No registration needed. A Christmas Music and Movement storytime is also offered Wed, Dec 16 at 10:30 am.

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

Christmas events for kids in Harrisburg

1 confirmed event for kids in Harrisburg, including nearby Mechanicsburg, soonest first.

Mechanicsburg: Mrs. Claus Returns Again

Story time with Mrs. ClausMechanicsburg Museum Association · Mechanicsburg

Host
Mechanicsburg Museum Association (opens in a new tab)
Where
The Passenger Station, 2 W Strawberry Alley, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (near Harrisburg)
When
Saturday, December 12, 2026, noon to 3 pm
Cost
Check the host's page
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Mechanicsburg Museum Association welcomes Mrs. Claus back to the historic Passenger Station for an afternoon of stories. She reads from noon to 3 pm, and there are crafts for young visitors to make during the same window.

This is a gentle, small-scale outing that suits preschool and early elementary kids who enjoy being read to. The museum suggests pairing it with the train display at its Freight Station for a full Christmas afternoon, which makes it a nice choice for train fans. Mechanicsburg is a short drive from Harrisburg. The event page does not list a price, ages or registration, and it notes that tickets are not on sale, so it appears to be a drop-in event. Contact the museum if you need to confirm details before you go.

Parent tip: Plan time to see the train display at the Freight Station after story time. The page lists no tickets for sale, so it appears to be drop-in.

See dates and details from Mechanicsburg Museum Association (opens in a new tab)

Near a state line? Our guides to Christmas events for kids in Maryland, Christmas events for kids in Washington, DC and Christmas events for kids in Delaware list more confirmed events, and 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)

Pennsylvania Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Pennsylvania in 2026?

We confirmed 29 Christmas events for kids in Pennsylvania for 2026 on each host’s own page: Holidays in Franklin Square: Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO in Philadelphia (November 19), A Longwood Christmas in Kennett Square (November 20), Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet in Sewickley (November 20), Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden in Pittsburgh (November 20), Highmark Light Up Night in Pittsburgh (November 21), Jingle & Mingle with Santa in Philadelphia (November 27), Santa at the History Center in Pittsburgh (November 27), Zoo Lights Drive-Thru in Pittsburgh (November 27), Gingerbread Workshop in Bethel Park (November 28), Santa Family Fun Cruise in Pittsburgh (November 28), Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time in Pittsburgh (November 28), Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre in Bridgeville (November 30), Sensory Fun: Winter Sensory Bins and Holiday Craft in Ardmore (December 4), Brunch with Santa in Pittsburgh (December 5), Gift-Making Night in Philadelphia (December 5), Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho! in Glenshaw (December 5), Grinchmas! Around the World in Monroeville (December 5), Tree Lighting Celebration 2026 in Wayne (December 5), Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's Philadelphia in Philadelphia (December 6), Mrs. Claus Returns Again in Mechanicsburg (December 12), Storytime with Mrs. Claus in Ridley Park (December 12), Elf on Shelf & Winter Paintings: Art with Crafts in Paoli (December 17), Winter Fest in Yeadon (December 17), Interactive Movie Night - Elf in Upper Darby (December 18), Breakfast with Santa in Pittsburgh (December 19), Stories, Cookies, & Milk with Santa in Philadelphia (December 19), Holiday Storytime with Local Author Lydia Cohen in Kennett Square (December 21), Christmas Storytime in Monroeville (December 22) and Lolly Hopwood! - Kids Winter Concert! in Southampton (December 22). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Philadelphia, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Holidays in Franklin Square: Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO (Nightly, Nov 19 to Jan 3, 5 to 9 pm, see host page for attraction pricing); A Longwood Christmas (in Kennett Square, Daily, Nov 20, 2026 to Jan 10, 2027, timed tickets required, prices on longwood ticket site); Jingle & Mingle with Santa (Nov 27 and 28, Dec 5, 12 and 19, 5 to 7 pm, not stated); Sensory Fun: Winter Sensory Bins and Holiday Craft (in Ardmore, Fri, Dec 4, 11 am to 12 pm, free, registration required); Gift-Making Night (Sat, Dec 5, 5 to 7 pm, not stated); Tree Lighting Celebration 2026 (in Wayne, Sat, Dec 5, 5 to 7 pm (rain date Dec 6), free); Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's Philadelphia (Sun, Dec 6, 9 to 11 am, $27.94 food only, $33.01 food plus play, per person); Storytime with Mrs. Claus (in Ridley Park, Sat, Dec 12, 3 to 5 pm, free, registration required); Elf on Shelf & Winter Paintings: Art with Crafts (in Paoli, Thu, Dec 17, 5:30 to 6:30 pm, free, registration required); Winter Fest (in Yeadon, Thu, Dec 17, 6 to 7:30 pm, free library program); Interactive Movie Night - Elf (in Upper Darby, Fri, Dec 18, 5:30 to 8:30 pm, free library program); Stories, Cookies, & Milk with Santa (Sat, Dec 19, 11 am to 1 pm, tickets required, price not stated); Holiday Storytime with Local Author Lydia Cohen (in Kennett Square, Mon, Dec 21, 10 to 11 am, free library program); Lolly Hopwood! - Kids Winter Concert! (in Southampton, Tue, Dec 22, 10:30 to 11:15 am, free library program, register children). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Philadelphia section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Pittsburgh, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet (in Sewickley, Fri, Nov 20, 3 to 4 pm, free, registration required); Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden (Nov 20 to Jan 10, admission; advance reservations required); Highmark Light Up Night (Sat, Nov 21, evening, free); Santa at the History Center (Fri, Nov 27, 10:30 am to 1:30 pm, more select dates to come, included with museum admission; kids 17 and under free); Zoo Lights Drive-Thru (Select nights, Nov 27 to Jan 3, 5 to 10 pm, $45 per vehicle ($40 members, $65 flex)); Gingerbread Workshop (in Bethel Park, Sat, Nov 28, 1 to 3 pm, free, registration required (bring a bag of candy to share)); Santa Family Fun Cruise (Weekends late Nov to Dec, starting Sat, Nov 28; sails 10:30 am and 1:30 pm, $36.66 adults, $26.19 children, $5.24 infants (all in)); Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time (Sat, Nov 28, 10 am to 2 pm, included with admission; kids 17 and under free; tickets required); Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre (in Bridgeville, Mon, Nov 30, 11 am to noon, free, registration required); Brunch with Santa (Dec 5 and 6 (brunch 11 am), Dec 12, 13, 19 and 20 (breakfast 9:30 am or lunch noon), $45 nonmembers, $40 members, $10 under 24 months; includes zoo admission); Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho! (in Glenshaw, Sat, Dec 5, 11:30 am or 1 pm sessions, free, registration required); Grinchmas! Around the World (in Monroeville, Sat, Dec 5, 1 to 2:30 pm, free); Breakfast with Santa (Sat, Dec 19, 9 am to noon, $60 adults, $40 ages 3 to 17, $10 ages 0 to 2); Christmas Storytime (in Monroeville, Tue, Dec 22, 10:30 to 11:15 am, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Pittsburgh section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Harrisburg, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Mrs. Claus Returns Again (in Mechanicsburg, Sat, Dec 12, noon to 3 pm, see the host for cost). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Harrisburg section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Pennsylvania?

Yes. 15 of the 29 events here are free: Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet in Sewickley, Highmark Light Up Night in Pittsburgh, Gingerbread Workshop in Bethel Park, Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre in Bridgeville, Sensory Fun: Winter Sensory Bins and Holiday Craft in Ardmore, Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho! in Glenshaw, Grinchmas! Around the World in Monroeville, Tree Lighting Celebration 2026 in Wayne, Storytime with Mrs. Claus in Ridley Park, Elf on Shelf & Winter Paintings: Art with Crafts in Paoli, Winter Fest in Yeadon, Interactive Movie Night - Elf in Upper Darby, Holiday Storytime with Local Author Lydia Cohen in Kennett Square, Christmas Storytime in Monroeville and Lolly Hopwood! - Kids Winter Concert! in Southampton. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Pennsylvania this December?

Santa appears at Jingle & Mingle with Santa in Philadelphia (November 27), Santa at the History Center in Pittsburgh (November 27), Santa Family Fun Cruise in Pittsburgh (November 28), Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time in Pittsburgh (November 28), Brunch with Santa in Pittsburgh (December 5), Gift-Making Night in Philadelphia (December 5), Tree Lighting Celebration 2026 in Wayne (December 5), Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's Philadelphia in Philadelphia (December 6), Breakfast with Santa in Pittsburgh (December 19) and Stories, Cookies, & Milk with Santa in Philadelphia (December 19). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Pennsylvania?

Holiday story times on this page: Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet in Sewickley, Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time in Pittsburgh, Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre in Bridgeville, Mrs. Claus Returns Again in Mechanicsburg, Storytime with Mrs. Claus in Ridley Park, Elf on Shelf & Winter Paintings: Art with Crafts in Paoli, Stories, Cookies, & Milk with Santa in Philadelphia, Holiday Storytime with Local Author Lydia Cohen in Kennett Square and Christmas Storytime in Monroeville. 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 Pennsylvania?

Meals with Santa confirmed for 2026: Brunch with Santa in Pittsburgh (Dec 5 and 6 (brunch 11 am), Dec 12, 13, 19 and 20 (breakfast 9:30 am or lunch noon)), Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's Philadelphia in Philadelphia (Sun, Dec 6, 9 to 11 am), Breakfast with Santa in Pittsburgh (Sat, Dec 19, 9 am to noon) and Stories, Cookies, & Milk with Santa in Philadelphia (Sat, Dec 19, 11 am to 1 pm). These usually sell out, so book as soon as you pick a date.

Which Pennsylvania Christmas events are best for toddlers?

These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Sensory Fun: Winter Sensory Bins and Holiday Craft in Ardmore (Preschool and younger), Holiday Storytime with Local Author Lydia Cohen in Kennett Square (Preschool, school age, family) and Christmas Storytime in Monroeville (Children and preschool (birth to 5)).

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

Yes: Holidays in Franklin Square: Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO in Philadelphia (through January 3), A Longwood Christmas in Kennett Square (through January 10), Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden in Pittsburgh (through January 10) and Zoo Lights Drive-Thru in Pittsburgh (through January 3).

How much is Holidays in Franklin Square: Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO in Philadelphia?

See host page for attraction pricing. Holidays in Franklin Square: Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO is on Thursday, November 19, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (nightly; closed Nov 26, Dec 25 and Jan 1; closes at 8 pm Dec 24 and Dec 31), 5 to 9 pm at Franklin Square. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is A Longwood Christmas in Kennett Square?

Timed tickets required, prices on Longwood ticket site. A Longwood Christmas is on Friday, November 20, 2026 to Sunday, January 10, 2027 (daily) at Longwood Gardens. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet in Sewickley?

Free, registration required. Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet is on Friday, November 20, 2026, 3 to 4 pm at Sewickley Public Library, Community Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden in Pittsburgh?

Admission; advance reservations required. Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden is on Friday, November 20, 2026 to Sunday, January 10, 2027 (daily run; timed tickets) at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Highmark Light Up Night in Pittsburgh?

Free. Highmark Light Up Night is on Saturday, November 21, 2026 at Downtown Pittsburgh (Penn Ave and Stanwix St). Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Jingle & Mingle with Santa in Philadelphia?

Not stated. Jingle & Mingle with Santa is on Fri November 27, Sat November 28, Sat December 5, Sat December 12 and Sat December 19, 2026, 5 to 7 pm at Franklin Square. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa at the History Center in Pittsburgh?

Included with museum admission; kids 17 and under free. Santa at the History Center is on Friday, November 27, 2026, 10:30 am to 1:30 pm at Heinz History Center, Great Hall. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Zoo Lights Drive-Thru in Pittsburgh?

$45 per vehicle ($40 members, $65 flex). Zoo Lights Drive-Thru is on Friday, November 27, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (select nights; closed Nov 30, Dec 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 24, 25, 31 and Jan 1), 5 to 10 pm at Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread Workshop in Bethel Park?

Free, registration required (bring a bag of candy to share). Gingerbread Workshop is on Saturday, November 28, 2026, 1 to 3 pm at Bethel Park Public Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa Family Fun Cruise in Pittsburgh?

$36.66 adults, $26.19 children, $5.24 infants (all in). Santa Family Fun Cruise is on Sat November 28, Sat December 5 and Sun December 6, 2026, 10:30 am to 3:30 pm at Gateway Clipper Fleet, Station Square Dock. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time in Pittsburgh?

Included with admission; kids 17 and under free; tickets required. Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time is on Saturday, November 28, 2026, 10 am to 2 pm at Heinz History Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre in Bridgeville?

Free, registration required. Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre is on Monday, November 30, 2026, 11 am to noon at Bridgeville Public Library, Community Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Sensory Fun: Winter Sensory Bins and Holiday Craft in Ardmore?

Free, registration required. Sensory Fun: Winter Sensory Bins and Holiday Craft is on Friday, December 4, 2026, 11 am to noon at Ardmore Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Brunch with Santa in Pittsburgh?

$45 nonmembers, $40 members, $10 under 24 months; includes zoo admission. Brunch with Santa is on Sat December 5 (11 am to 12:30 pm), Sun December 6 (11 am to 12:30 pm), Sat December 12 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm), Sun December 13 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm), Sat December 19 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm) and Sun December 20 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm), 2026 at Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, Education Complex Lecture Hall. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gift-Making Night in Philadelphia?

Not stated. Gift-Making Night is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 5 to 7 pm at Franklin Square. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho! in Glenshaw?

Free, registration required. Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho! is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11:30 am to 2 pm at Shaler North Hills Library, Community Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Grinchmas! Around the World in Monroeville?

Free. Grinchmas! Around the World is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 1 to 2:30 pm at Monroeville Public Library, Children's Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Tree Lighting Celebration 2026 in Wayne?

Free. Tree Lighting Celebration 2026 is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 5 to 7 pm at Wilson Farm Park. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's Philadelphia in Philadelphia?

$27.94 food only, $33.01 food plus play, per person. Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster's Philadelphia is on Sunday, December 6, 2026, 9 to 11 am at Dave & Buster's Philadelphia. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

When is Mrs. Claus Returns Again in Mechanicsburg in 2026?

Saturday, December 12, 2026, noon to 3 pm, at The Passenger Station. The host has not posted a price on its page, so check there before you go.

How much is Storytime with Mrs. Claus in Ridley Park?

Free, registration required. Storytime with Mrs. Claus is on Saturday, December 12, 2026, 3 to 5 pm at Ridley Park Borough Hall. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Elf on Shelf & Winter Paintings: Art with Crafts in Paoli?

Free, registration required. Elf on Shelf & Winter Paintings: Art with Crafts is on Thursday, December 17, 2026, 5:30 to 6:30 pm at Paoli Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Winter Fest in Yeadon?

Free library program. Winter Fest is on Thursday, December 17, 2026, 6 to 7:30 pm at Yeadon Public Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Interactive Movie Night - Elf in Upper Darby?

Free library program. Interactive Movie Night - Elf is on Friday, December 18, 2026, 5:30 to 8:30 pm at Sellers Memorial Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Breakfast with Santa in Pittsburgh?

$60 adults, $40 ages 3 to 17, $10 ages 0 to 2. Breakfast with Santa is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, 9 am to noon at Carnegie Music Hall Foyer. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Stories, Cookies, & Milk with Santa in Philadelphia?

Tickets required, price not stated. Stories, Cookies, & Milk with Santa is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, 11 am to 1 pm at Frosty's Fireside Lodge, Franklin Square. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Storytime with Local Author Lydia Cohen in Kennett Square?

Free library program. Holiday Storytime with Local Author Lydia Cohen is on Monday, December 21, 2026, 10 to 11 am at Kennett Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Christmas Storytime in Monroeville?

Free. Christmas Storytime is on Tuesday, December 22, 2026, 10:30 to 11:15 am at Monroeville Public Library, Children's Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Lolly Hopwood! - Kids Winter Concert! in Southampton?

Free library program, register children. Lolly Hopwood! - Kids Winter Concert! is on Tuesday, December 22, 2026, 10:30 to 11:15 am at Southampton Free Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Pennsylvania?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Pennsylvania 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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