Hi Neighbor!

This Thanksgiving, both of my kids will be home — YAY! Last year my son was away, and I’ll be honest, I did not like it one bit. But this year the band is back together!!

Since I’m not hosting this year, I went ahead and started decorating for Christmas early. I usually wait until after Thanksgiving, but with no prepping, cooking, or table-setting on my plate, out came the red and green. Now I’m wondering why I ever waited. The twinkle lights, the greens, those little festive corners around the house… they’re bringing me so much joy. The tree isn’t up yet, but give me until November 28th.

Last year, we took a family trip right before Christmas—an “experience over things” gift. This year, no trip, so I’m trying to keep it simple. Last year I tried to embrace the simplicity of a few gifts. Honestly? It was hard, not gonna lie. I love giving gifts and the unwrapping of surprises on Christmas morning. Our new tradition of collecting moments and memories, not material things, is growing on me but I'm not fully there yet. I’m a constant work in progress.

I hope this guide helps you find local events that spark a little magic and help you create moments you’ll remember long after the holidays are over.

Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving! 🦃 We’re so thankful for you—our readers—and for all your support year after year.

💛 With a grateful heart,
Regina

Christmas on King​
November 29
Noon - 6:00 PM
King Street, Malvern ​
An afternoon of holiday shopping, food trucks, a beer garden, live music, kids activities, photos with Santa, Mrs. Claus & Santa’s elves, live song & dance performances and more! End the day with the annual tree lighting at dark! ​Details​

West Chester Christmas Tree Lighting & Hometown Parade​
December 5, 6:30 PM
Downtown West Chester​
West Chester Christmas festivities start with the lighting of the 25-foot-tall Christmas tree on the lawn of the Historic Chester County Courthouse. Following the tree lighting, West Chester’s famous hometown Christmas Parade will delight fans of all ages! Parade goers can expect Chester County’s favorite performers as well as a variety of notable newcomers. Marching bands, award-winning floats, sparkling performances and of course – Santa’s much-anticipated appearance! ​Details​

Christmas in Wayne​
December 5-7
Downtown Wayne​
Enjoy festive decorations, family-friendly activities at the firehouse, a magical trolley ride through South Wayne, and strolling carolers. The highlight is the grand tree lighting ceremony at the Wayne Train Station, followed by Santa’s arrival on a fire truck. On Saturday, join the Santa Parade and take pictures with Santa at the Wayne Presbyterian Church courtyard. ​Details​

​MORE CELEBRATIONS​

Conshohocken Winter Market​
December 5-7 & December 12-14
Plaza at SORA West adjacent to Hotel West & Main
​FREE ADMISSION AND PARKING!
The market will feature approximately 25 vendors each weekend, offering items that make the perfect gift or something to enjoy yourself. In addition to shopping, there will be live holiday music, a holiday cocktail menu, hot German wine, and more from 1874 Social just off the plaza. Approximately half the vendors will change for the second weekend, so be sure to visit twice! Details​

‘LIGHTS ON’ OPENING EVENT​
November 30
3:30 – 7 PM
Chester County History Center, West Chester
​Season of Lights is an invitation to embrace our differences, celebrate our shared humanity, and create lasting connections while immersed in a truly unique experience that reflects the spirit of Chester County’s multicultural community. Details​

Holiday History Stroll (walking tour)​
December 7
11:00 AM - 12:30PM
West Chester​
Holiday History Stroll runs on Saturdays and Sundays through the month of December. Details​

Gingerbread Decorating with Santa​
December 6, Noon - 2 PM
Radnor Fire Company, Wayne
​Sign up to reserve a spot to decorate a house or firetruck and take a photo with Santa! This is an all ages event – so bring the family!! Details​

The Polar Express Read-Aloud Pajama Night​
December 3 and 19
Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford ​
Children are invited to wear their pajamas and listen to the tale of “The Polar Express” while enjoying hot chocolate and cookies. Details​

​MORE HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES!​

Delaware County Symphony Presents: A Holiday Chamber Concert​
Sunday, November 30, 3:00 PM
Aston
​Celebrate the warmth and joy of the holiday season with an enchanting afternoon of music at Delaware County Symphony’s Holiday Chamber Concert! This festive event promises to be a delightful experience for families and music lovers alike. Details​

Holiday Concert with BVS Brass Quintet​
​December 6 ​
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
West Chester​
Holiday Concert with a Brass Quintet as part of our celebrations. Details​

Rhymes for a Reason​
​Fri, November 28
5:30 PM - 10:00​
Kelly Center, Havertown ​
​A holiday fundraiser benefitting families in need. Make a cash donation or bring a toy for the Toy Drive.The Havertunes are a club consisting of students that attend Haverford High School. They sing acapella arrangements of songs that you know and love! Details​

Holiday Cheer Concert​
Presented by Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center at Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center, West Chester
Saturday, December 5, 5:00 PM
​Hear your old Holiday favorites as well as songs made famous by R&B and Pop Artists. Who will be entertaining you during this Highly Acclaimed Annual Event you ask? None-other than the Future Stars of Broadway: Our Area Youth! The Holiday Cheer Concert will include students studying in our Uptown Singers, The Singing Artists, The Singing Academy and, last but certainly not least, the Broadway Kiddos. Details​

​MORE HOLIDAY SHOWS!​