Christmas in Hanover Festival

Get ready for a season of holiday cheer with Christmas in Hanover! Our festive lineup includes exciting events and activities that will bring the community together to celebrate the holidays.

Date

November 29, 2025

Location

Downtown Hanover

Type

Outdoor
Promotional graphic for Christmas in Hanover 2025. Includes a picture of Santa Claus waving.

Get ready for a season of holiday cheer with Christmas in Hanover! Our festive lineup includes exciting events and activities that will bring the community together to celebrate the holidays.

Saturday, November 29, 2025

  • 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM Santa Parade
  • 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Santa’s Cabin Open
  • 12:00 PM – 1;40 PM Screening of the film Elf (2003) at the Eichelberger Performing Arts Center | 195 Stock St STE 200 | Tickets are $7 and can be purchased online or at the door
  • 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM Christmas Carolers Singing Downtown
  • 2:00 PM – 3;40 PM Screening of the film Elf (2003) at the Eichelberger Performing Arts Center | 195 Stock St STE 200 | Tickets are $7 and can be purchased online or at the door
  • 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM Live Music by Bob Cratchit and the Bookkeepers in the Square | Check out their music by clicking here!
  • 4:00 PM – 5;40 PM Screening of the film Elf (2003) at the Eichelberger Performing Arts Center | 195 Stock St STE 200 | Tickets are $7 and can be purchased online or at the door
  • 6:00 PM Tree Lighting Ceremony (RAIN DATE: December 6 at 6:00 PM

Bonus Activities:

  • Emerge Church will be serving free hot chocolate during the Christmas Festival (while supplies last)! Visitors can find them outside Santa’s Cabin in Center Square and warm up with a cup of holiday cheer. Their mission is to remind everyone that God’s love is free — a simple and sweet message for the holiday season.
  • The YWCA of Hanover and Guthrie Memorial Library will be offering a FREE kids craft during the Christmas Festival from 11am – 5pm! Stop by the heated tent in the Square for a fun, festive activity perfect for children of all ages.

Stockings for Veterans & Seniors Drop-Off Booth A group of caring local citizens from the Hanover area will have a booth set up during the Christmas Festival in Downtown Hanover as a stocking drop-off location for veterans and senior citizens in need this holiday season. You’re invited to “stuff a stocking” and spread some cheer! Bring a filled stocking or individual items to donate during the festival. Suggested stocking items include: Non-slip socks, Lotions and hand sanitizer, Snacks, cocoa, or tea, Stationery items and tissues, Pajamas, Lip balm, A Christmas card from you, the donor. Please do not include any sharp objects (razors for grooming, etc.) For many of our local veterans and senior citizens, this may be the only gift they receive this Christmas — your kindness will make a world of difference.

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Upcoming

Event Schedule

Explore the activities and timings of upcoming events in Hanover.

March 14, 2026
Outdoor

Downtown Four-Leaf Clover Scavenger Hunt

Join the Downtown Four-Leaf Clover Scavenger Hunt and explore local businesses while searching for hidden four-leaf clovers! Visit participating shops, locate their hidden clovers, and collect stamps along the way. Once you’ve collected all the clover stamps, submit your card to Main Street to be entered in a FREE drawing to win an Explore Downtown basket with goodies from our downtown businesses as a reward for your lucky hunt. It’s a fun and festive way to discover downtown and enjoy a bit of Irish charm!
February 14, 2026
Outdoor

Valen-Tour Downtown

Celebrate love where it lives best—right here in downtown Hanover! Our February 2nd Saturday theme, Valen-Tour Downtown, is all about creating memorable moments with the ones who matter most. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, a cozy lunch, or a sweet surprise, downtown Hanover is filled with ways to show your loved one just how much you care.
January 10, 2026
Outdoor

Health & Wellness Day

Discover the many ways to nurture your well-being during our Health and Wellness 2nd Saturday in Downtown Hanover! Explore the downtown area and visit a variety of businesses that offer a range of health and wellness opportunities. From mental health services to physical fitness, you’ll find spas, retail therapy, fitness classes, and more. It’s the perfect day to focus on self-care while supporting local businesses!
December 13, 2025
Outdoor

Hot Chocolate and Cookie Stroll

Join us for the Hot Chocolate and Cookie Stroll on December 13, 2025! Stroll through our charming downtown, visit local businesses, and enjoy samples of delicious cookies and hot chocolate along the way. While you explore, enjoy festive entertainment including carolers spreading holiday cheer and a visit to Santa’s Cabin in the Square.
November 29, 2025
Outdoor

Christmas in Hanover Festival

Get ready for a season of holiday cheer with Christmas in Hanover! Our festive lineup includes exciting events and activities that will bring the community together to celebrate the holidays.

Submit Your Event

Submit your event to be added to the Discover Hanover Events Calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about dietary options, reservation policies, and hours of operation.

What are the top attractions to visit in Hanover?

Visitors often inquire about the Hanover Historic District, which is known for its over 2600 mid-19th to mid-20th-century buildings.

Are there guided tours available in Hanover?

In Hanover, Pennsylvania, history enthusiasts can enjoy a journey through time with visits to the Hanover Area Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town’s rich past; the Warehime-Myers Mansion, a beautifully preserved example of early 20th-century architecture; and the Neas House, one of the oldest surviving structures in Hanover, offering a glimpse into the life of the 18th-century Pennsylvania German settlers. These historical landmarks provide a captivating window into Hanover’s heritage and are a must-visit for those looking to experience the town’s historical charm.

Can visitors engage in any unique local activities?

In addition to Codorus State Park and Hickory Falls, Hanover is also known for the Snack Town Street Fair, a vibrant festival celebrating the town’s snack food heritage with craft vendors, food, and entertainment, created in partnership between the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce and Utz Brands

What historical experiences can one have in Hanover?

Hanover provides a rich historical experience with tours like the Civil War Ghosts of Gettysburg Tour and the Spirits of Jennie Wade Ghost Night Tour in nearby Gettysburg.

What is Hanover known for?

Hanover, Pennsylvania, is renowned as the Snack Food Capital of the World, home to iconic brands like Utz Quality Foods and Snyder’s of Hanover, which are part of the Campbell Snacks portfolio.                              

Where can I grab a drink?

Dolphin & Anchor Pub: Located in the heart of Hanover, they offer traditional beer styles with a twist.

Fat Bat Brewing Company: A local brewery started by a beer-loving brother and sister team, known for their craft beer selections.

Sign of the Horse Brewery: A contemporary brewery catering to craft brew enthusiasts with a range of house taps.

Lydian Stone Brewing Company: A nano brewery offering a variety of craft beers, from the light or malty to the hoppy or stouts; and, plenty of conversation.

Where can I get a map of Hanover?

The Borough office at 33 Frederick St, Hanover has everything you will need to find your way around Hanover.