Victorian Christmas transforms town into a winter wonderland
BELLEFONTE — It doesn’t get any better than Bellefonte Victorian Christmas.
Victorian Christmas is a tradition unlike any other. After taking 2020 off due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it returned in full force in 2021, celebrating its 40th anniversary.
2022 marks year No. 41 for the holiday tradition.
If you’ve never been to Victorian Christmas, it’s surely a bucket list item. It’s like a Hallmark Christmas movie come to life. For three days, Bellefonte turns into a winter wonderland. Everything kicks off with opening ceremonies at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 9. After that, Victorian Christmas is off and running.
No matter what you’re looking for, chances are that you can find it during the three-day event.
There are the horse-drawn carriage rides, arts and crafts, food, games, entertainment and, of course, Santa Claus.
The horse-drawn carriage rides are one of the most popular events that take place at Victorian Christmas. Enjoy a trip back in time as you and your family tour the streets of Bellefonte in a horse-drawn carriage.
Rides will depart from the Brockerhoff House at 105 S. Allegheny St., weather permitting. Rides are just $15 and reservations are recommended. To reserve a ride, contact Melissa at melissa.hershey@gmail.com.
There are special events just for the kids. On Saturday, breakfast with Santa takes place from 8:30 a.m. until 11 a.m., at Faith United Methodist Church, 512 Hughes St. In addition to breakfast with Santa, there will be free crafts and activities for the kids, including Chip Mock caricatures and a puppet show by Adam Swartz. Tickets are $6 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under. Tickets will be available at the door.
Also on Saturday, there is a Victorian children’s tea party at the Little House. This event features a light lunch and teatime treats while listening to stories of Christmas past. Cost is $15 for children and $10 for adults. There will be beverages, finger sandwiches, fresh fruit and dessert. The tea party times are 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. To reserve your spot, visit tinyurl.com/4tk5czfd.
Not everything is for the kids, however. On Friday, “A Christmas Cordial” will be held from 8:45 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. at State Burger, 101 S. Allegheny St. Following the Community Choir concert, adults are invited to raise a glass of Christmas cheer to celebrate the season. “A Christmas Cordial” is new and seats are limited. Music will be provided by Jay Zimmerman Jazz.
In addition to music, there will be local craft beverages and some hors d’oeuvres.
If arts and crafts are your thing, head to the Bellefonte YMCA to pick up some holiday gifts and handmade ornaments to trim your tree.
Of course, Victorian Christmas wouldn’t be Victorian Christmas without the Dickens characters. Theatrical producer Brian Belge has assembled a troupe of professional performers to entertain on the streets of Bellefonte. They will walk through the streets of Bellefonte caroling, storytelling and making magic happen. Don’t be surprised if they stop and interact with your family.
Finally, Bellefonte stores and restaurants will be open for business and offering all sorts of holiday specials. So, if you are looking for a last-minute gift or just want to grab a bite to eat, head to Bellefonte from Dec. 9 through Dec. 11.
For more information about Bellefonte Victorian Christmas, visit www.bellefontevictorianchristmas.com
