The Ultimate Hanover, PA Christmas Guide: Festivities, Shopping & Family Fun
Christmas in Hanover, PA is more than colorful lights and carolers-- it’s a season of traditions and cherished memories. If you are local or planning a trip, December is one of the best months to visit with events, shopping, food, and activities for every age.
Must-See Christmas Events
A winter wonderland comes to Hanover, PA during the holidays with a variety of community events. Hanover kicked off the holiday season with the annual Christmas Festival on November 29th, 2025. The festival included a Santa parade, Christmas Carolers, live music, tree lighting, and the opening of Santa's cabin. It is a full day of holiday spirit in the heart of Downtown Hanover. Local churches and communities also hold their own celebrations and public tree lightings.
The Eichelberger Performing Arts Center is also hosting multiple holiday shows throughout December. One show worth noting, Christmas In The Air, is a Broadway-style variety show bringing the holiday spirit to Hanover on November 21st.
The Best Christmas Light Displays
No holiday is ever complete without a tour of the sparkling lights that Hanover delivers. Local neighborhoods are where you will find large creative displays that draw families from all over South Central PA. If you want a magical experience, the Bourcher Family Lights house offers a musical light show synced to the radio! Downtown Hanover offers stunning walk-through light experiences that make for unforgettable evenings. And not too far away, you can experience Kim’s Krypt Winter Wonder Trail! Grab a cup of hot chocolate, bundle up, and take a drive through Hanover, PA's many neighborhoods.
Holiday Shopping in Hanover, PA
Finding the perfect holiday gift starts by supporting local businesses. Hanover's boutiques, artisan shops, and craft markets have everything you're looking for, even those hard-to-shop-for friends. If you are searching for handmade goods, home decor, unique clothing, or stocking stuffers, Hanover's small businesses are the perfect places to shop. Holiday markets and craft events will pop up throughout December. These make for great opportunities to handcraft a gift or find one personalized.
Family-Friendly Christmas Activities
If you want to entertain the whole family while keeping it within budget, Hanover has plenty of holiday fun. Take a trip down to Santa's cabin in Downtown to take a family photo and learn about the holiday cheer. You can also visit the Guthrie Memorial Library for holiday story times and craft nights. R/C Hanover Movie Theater will be showing the Polar Express and the live-action The Grinch on certain days throughout December. Grab your tickets and mark your calendars now so you don't miss these fun holiday activities.
Ways to Give Back During the Holiday Season
The holidays are also a time of generosity, and Hanover's community rallies together every year to support neighbors in need. Get involved by donating to local charities and food banks, or by volunteering at community events. Giving back is one of the best ways to feel connected to the Christmas spirit in Hanover, PA.
Where to donate:
- New Hope Ministries
- God's Meal Barrel
- Hanover Area Council-Churches
- By His Hand Food Bank
Tips for Making the Most of Christmas in Hanover, PA
Planning can make a big difference when trying to enjoy Christmas in Hanover, PA. Start by mapping out your day, including key events, light displays, and shopping stops. On weekends, Downtown can get extremely busy during the holidays. We recommend arriving early for essential events to secure parking and a place in line, avoiding last-minute stress.
Parking can be tricky during busy holiday weekends, however, in keeping with tradition, free parking is available in Downtown Hanover on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from November 28th to December 27th.
Plan Your Christmas Trip to Hanover, PA Today!
From festive events to sparkling light displays, local shopping, and family-friendly fun, Christmas in Hanover, PA, offers everything you need to celebrate the season right. If it's your first time exploring or you are returning to your hometown traditions, Hanover invites you to slow down, savor the magic, and create memories that last long after the holidays are over.
Discover Hanover is here to help you plan a safe and memorable holiday experience. From lodging to shopping to enjoying a great meal, we have you covered. Plan your Christmas trip to Hanover, PA, today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about dietary options, reservation policies, and hours of operation.
Visitors often inquire about the Hanover Historic District, which is known for its over 2600 mid-19th to mid-20th-century buildings.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
The Borough office at 33 Frederick St, Hanover has everything you will need to find your way around Hanover.