{"id":53396,"date":"2023-12-15T10:53:19","date_gmt":"2023-12-15T15:53:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/?p=53396"},"modified":"2023-12-18T09:53:44","modified_gmt":"2023-12-18T14:53:44","slug":"what-to-do-local-edition-lights-and-santa-in-w-chester","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/?p=53396","title":{"rendered":"What To Do (Local edition): Lights and Santa in W. Chester"},"content":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff<\/strong>, Entertainment Editor, The Times\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"Editor\u2019s Note:<\/strong>\u00a0Due to the larger number of holiday events, we\u2019ve broken our listings into two entries: this one for the local Chester County, Delaware County and Delaware and a second for events around the greater Philadelphia region.<\/em><\/p>\n

Christmas Day is a little more than one week away \u2013 and you know what that means.<\/p>\n

It means that there is a plethora of holiday celebrations in Chester County — fun holiday celebrations every day, everywhere with something to please everyone in the family.<\/p>\n

West Chester sparkles when the Christmas season arrives.<\/p>\n

Transformed into a winter wonderland, the streets of historic West Chester are bathed in the glow of thousands of holiday lights every evening in December. Each weekend features holiday festivities, shopping and dining.<\/p>\n

On Saturdays from 2-3 p.m., the \u201cMaking Spirits Bright Holiday Music Series\u201d will feature local choirs and performances singing favorite holidays songs every Saturday on the steps of the historic courthouse on High Street. The schedule features Bishop Shanahan Liturgical Choir on December 16.<\/p>\n

Dressed in Victorian attire, The West Chester Borough Balladeer Carolers will roam around downtown West Chester and perform throughout the holiday season.<\/p>\n

Performance dates are December 15 and 16.<\/p>\n

On December 16, it will be time for \u201cSanta on The Fire Truck.\u201d \u00a0Santa will be escorted through the streets of downtown West Chester by the First West Chester Fire Company.<\/p>\n

There will also be a \u201cProfessional Gingerbread House Competition\u201d now through January 2 and a \u201cHoliday Window Decorating Contest\u201d with voting ending on December 9.<\/p>\n

\"\"

West Chester Griswolds<\/p><\/div>\n

The fabulous holiday light display \u201cWest Chester Griswolds\u201d (304 Dutton Mill Rd, West Chester, www.westchestergriswolds.com<\/a>) opened on Thanksgiving night and is running through January 2.<\/p>\n

This year\u2019s display features more than 135,000 lights and 800 smart pixels.<\/p>\n

Also featured is a Cosmic Color Ribbon Tree (CCR) to our display.\u00a0It is an exciting piece of technology with the ability to create any color of the rainbow. The exhibit will be playing throughout the night and \u201csinging\u201d with the bulbs.<\/p>\n

Lights will be on now through January 2 — Monday through Thursday from 4:45-9:45 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 4:45-10:15 p.m.<\/p>\n

On December 2, the West Chester Public Library (https:\/\/www.wcpubliclibrary.org\/holidaydoortour<\/a>) held its annual 11th Annual Holiday Home Tour, which was a one-day event.<\/p>\n

This holiday season, the library also is presenting a Holiday Door Tour.<\/p>\n

\"\"

Holiday Door Tour<\/p><\/div>\n

Created as a socially distanced replacement for the Holiday Home Tour during the pandemic shutdown of 2020, the family-friendly Holiday Door Tour was so popular the library now offers it in addition to the Home Tour.<\/p>\n

Running now through December 17, this self-guided tour will feature dozens of West Chester doors and porches decorated by their owners in holiday finery. It can be enjoyed at any time of day and by a group of your choice.<\/p>\n

This tour does not include entry into homes and is entirely outdoors, self-guided, and at a time of your convenience.<\/p>\n

\u201cChristmas in Coatesville\u201d festivities (ChristmasInCoatesville.com<\/a>) continue this weekend with the Fifth Annual Pavilion of Trees and City of Coatesville Tree at Gateway Park (22 Lincoln Highway, Coatesville, ChristmasInCoatesville.com<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Guests are invited to attend the free, family-friendly event where they can stroll through Gateway Park, which each year, magically transforms into a winter wonderland amidst twinkling lights and dozens of community-sponsored Christmas trees.<\/p>\n

The Pavilion of Trees is presented by Elite Therapy Solutions in the name of community spirit and goodwill. Each tree will express the creativity and imagination of a business, organization or individual sponsor that will decorate the tree and take part in a friendly competition.<\/p>\n

A new \u201cChristmas in Coatesville\u201d event is the Made in Coatesville Holiday Market, which features local merchants, light refreshments, kids\u2019 activities and more. Shoppers are welcome December 15 and 16 at 228 East Lincoln Highway. The Market will be open on Fridays from 4-8 p.m. and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.<\/p>\n

Downingtown Good Neighbor Christmas (dtownchristmas.com)<\/a>\u00a0features a 20-foot artificial lighted Giant Everest Christmas Tree with a three-foot lighted star on top.<\/p>\n

The tree, which is professionally decorated, sits next to the Log House on Lancaster Avenue and at the entrance to Kerr Park.<\/p>\n

The Brandywine River Museum of Art Route 1, Chadds Ford 610-388-2700, www.brandywinemuseum.org<\/a>) is celebrating the 51st anniversary of the Brandywine Railroad holiday train display now through January 8.<\/p>\n

A holiday favorite since 1972, the Brandywine Railroad features trains running on 2,000 feet of track and contains more than 1,000 pieces, including locomotives, passenger and freight trains, and trolleys that pass through a small village, a farm, factories, a drive-in movie theater and even a carnival.<\/p>\n

A dazzling array of both toy and scale model trains can be seen chugging through the varied scenery, including those made by Lionel, Williams, Atlas, Mike\u2019s Train House, K-line and others.\u00a0Interactive components are also incorporated into the display\u00a0to allow for further engagement.<\/p>\n

The Brandywine Railroad holiday train display is included in the cost of general admission.<\/p>\n

\u201cYuletide at Devon\u201d (Devon Horse Show, 23 Dorset Road, Devon<\/a>, www.yuletidedevon.com<\/a>) is running now through December 31.<\/p>\n

The special holiday event features a\u00a0European Christmas market, a gourmet farm-to-table dining experience, a series of live music concerts and a community carnival.<\/p>\n

There is a giant 65-foot Ferris Wheel that provides the opportunity for aerial views of the twinkling lights \u2013 and there are unlimited free rides. The list of featured attractions also includes a fun house, an exciting Himalayan rides and opportunities for Santa photos.<\/p>\n

Renowned Chef Chris Nguyen of the\u00a0Philadelphia\u00a0catering group Strothers will be providing farm-to-table food offerings. The craft drinks menu features fresh pour coffee, signature holiday drinks, gourmet hot chocolate, and homemade Gluhwein.<\/p>\n

More than 35 high-end market shops will also be open five days a week, offering a wide array of unique gifts and keepsakes. Whether you\u2019re looking for a special present for a loved one or a memento for yourself, you\u2019re sure to find something special at these shops.<\/p>\n

\u201cYuletide at Devon\u201d occurs weekly from Wednesday through Sunday, promising endless opportunities for fun, food, and frolic.<\/p>\n

Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, 610-388-1000, www.longwoodgardens.org<\/a>) has shifted into holiday mode with the arrival of \u201cA Longwood Gardens Christmas.\u201d<\/p>\n

The festive holiday display at Longwood Gardens, which is running now through January 7, features spectacular lights, lavish decorations, holiday music and colorful displays featuring thousands of brilliant poinsettias, brightly decorated trees and fragrant flowers — all inside the heated Conservatory.<\/p>\n

This holiday season, experience a radiance of retro, a bevy of bright, and numerous nostalgic moments with us. Marvel at playful trees draped in throwback baubles to shimmering tinsel to childhood-favorite toys. Stroll through a fab, festive holiday party scene decked out in mid-century magic. Reminisce amid a vintage Christmas street scene, make new merry memories amid dazzling, vibrant light displays\u2014including some super-sized surprises\u2014and revel in the retro fun at every turn.<\/p>\n

There will be towering trees adorned in amber to fiery red tones, flickering flame lanterns, and an inviting mountain retreat, complemented by icy-hued plantings, a \u201cfrozen\u201d succulent fountain, and a refreshing alpine waterway that is the ultimate winter wonderland.<\/p>\n

The colorful annual event, which appeals to the entire family, also has a lot of outdoor attractions such as fountain shows and nighttime light displays. Longwood\u2019s Christmas celebration also includes a wide array of seasonal music — holiday concerts, organ sing-alongs and carillon performances.<\/p>\n

When darkness arrives at Longwood, a night-blooming garden of more than a half-million lights strung on close to 100 trees with approximately 40 miles of wire comes to life. A carillon with 62 cast bells plays holiday music every half hour during daylight hours. Longwood\u2019s Open Air Theatre fountains dance to holiday music each half hour — temperature permitting.<\/p>\n

As always, admission by \u201cTimed Ticket\u201d — tickets issued for specific dates and times. Timed ticketing limits the number of people in the Gardens at any given time and allows guests to enjoy minimal lines and a better viewing experience.<\/p>\n

Visitors to \u201cA Longwood Gardens Christmas\u201d can also check out Longwood\u2019s Garden Railway — a whimsical display set into motion with G-scale model trains. This is the 18th year that the railway has delighted visitors with special water features and custom trains traveling in and out of bridges and tunnels.<\/p>\n

Admission to Longwood Gardens is $30 for adults, $27 for seniors (ages 62 and older) and college students, $23 for active and retired military and $16 for youth (ages 5-18).<\/p>\n

The holiday season at Herr\u2019s Snack Food Factory (20 Herr Drive,\u00a0Nottingham, 610-932-9330, www.herrs.com<\/a>) has arrived. The area around the factory site will be illuminated with thousands of lights and holiday displays.<\/p>\n

Herr\u2019s \u201cHoliday Light Display,\u201d which is free and open to the public, will be open nightly now through January 2.<\/p>\n

Visitors to the site will be able to drive along a trail that is illuminated with more than 600,000 lights.<\/p>\n

The special light exhibit will be open daily from dusk to dawn.<\/p>\n

Chaddsford Winery (Route 1, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221, www.chaddsford.com<\/a>) is presenting \u201cReserve Tastings – Festive Faves\u201d on select Saturdays and Sundays in December.<\/p>\n

Guests will join the CFW Crew for an intimate and educational 60-minute experience in the Barrel Room.\u00a0The trained staff will guide them through a pre-selected tasting of five widely diverse and award-winning wines from across our portfolio. The selections will be paired alongside seasonal local cheeses and other accoutrements to enhance your tasting experience.<\/p>\n

The staff will also discuss topics such as grape growing conditions at our partner vineyards and the onsite winemaking process from production to aging and bottling.<\/p>\n

The following is the 2023 Pairing Line Up \u2013 Greeting Wine: 2022 Sparkling White; 2022 Chardonnay with Maine Crisp Buckwheat Crackers (contains nuts), Brie, and Local Smoked Fall Honey; 2021 Pinot Noir with Smoked Gouda and New Jersey Dried Cherries; Spiced Apple with Pumpkin Spice Bon Bon from\u00a0\u00c9clat Chocolate; and Warm Holiday Spirit with Chocolate Cranberry Scone from\u00a0OsoSweet Bakery & Caf\u00e9.<\/p>\n

On December 16, there will be \u201cChristmas Tours of the Historic Potts Mansion\u201d in Elverson (St. Mary of Providence Center, 227 Isabella Road, Elverson, stmaryprov.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

The mansion was built in the 1890s by the Potts Family and features marble staircases, beautiful fireplaces, and more.<\/p>\n

This is a one-day opportunity to visit the mansion and see it decorated for the holidays.<\/p>\n

In celebration of the mansion\u2019s 75th Anniversary, local businesses, artists and groups will be decorating multiple rooms in the mansion in a Christmas holiday theme. The rooms include the Ballroom, the east and west staircases, the east and west foyers, Mrs. Pott\u2019s bedroom, the Green Room, and more.<\/p>\n

In addition to touring the mansion, visitors can learn about the history of the mansion, and have questions answered by expert guides.<\/p>\n

The day includes visits with Santa, prize baskets, and Christmas treats at the “Gingerbread House!”<\/p>\n

Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for children 6-13, and free for children under 6.<\/p>\n

There is also a wide array of attractive family holiday activities just over the state line in northern Delaware.<\/p>\n

One of the best holiday events in the area is the annual \u201cYuletide at Winterthur.\u201d This year\u2019s 40th annual staging of the event, which runs through January 7 at Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library (Route 52, Wilmington, Delaware, www.winterthur.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Visitors can revel in the beauty and warmth of the holidays and explore treasures of Christmases past with displays of holiday traditions from the 1800s to the early 20th century, including displays of: the earliest types of colorful lights decorating house exteriors; the du Pont family holiday celebrations; and the evolution of Christmas trees over the decades from the 1880s to 1960s.<\/p>\n

This year\u2019s\u00a0Yuletide Tour\u00a0features custom fashion by local designers Shawn Pinckney and Asata Mais\u00e9 Beeks, whose creations reflect the history of Winterthur and the design sensibilities of Henry Francis du Pont and Ann Lowe. The house will be\u00a0decorated in all its finery with our signature traditions, including the show-stopping Dried-Flower Tree, plus artistic Christmas trees inspired by Ann Lowe gowns.<\/p>\n

New this year is\u00a0a large-scale gingerbread version of\u00a0Enchanted Woods,\u00a0made by Bredenbeck\u2019s Bakery of Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania.\u00a0Visitors will also enjoy an outdoor light display, including a 15-foot decorated Christmas tree. The miniature doll house and other holiday favorites will also return.
\nOne of visitors\u2019 favorites every year is the 18-room dollhouse mansion created by designer and philanthropist Nancy McDaniel over a period of 30 ears. It features amazing intricate details in each room and is even decorated for the holidays.<\/p>\n

As always, the rooms will be enhanced with the floral displays so essential to du Pont\u2019s decorating, and with special Christmas trees inspired by the beauty of Winterthur\u2019s gardens — including the\u00a0popular Dried Flower Tree in the Conservatory.<\/p>\n

Returning this year is a toy train display, featuring Standard Gauge toy trains. The display is presented by the Standard Gauge Module Association, whose members will construct the display at Winterthur. The display is open from 10:00 am\u20134:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, and Wednesday evenings in December, 5:00\u20138:00 pm.<\/p>\n

Special holiday programs throughout the season include\u00a0\u201cWonderful Wednesdays<\/a>\u201d\u00a0in December,\u00a0evening\u00a0events featuring live\u00a0jazz performances, caroling,\u00a0and workshops. In addition to the Wednesday evening festivities, visitors can enjoy a live one-man performance of\u00a0\u201cA Christmas Carol<\/a>\u201d\u00a0by\u00a0Gerald Charles Dickens, the great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens,\u00a0wine and cocktail tastings,\u00a0and family events\u00a0with\u00a0Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.<\/p>\n

Timed Yuletide Tour reservations are required.<\/p>\n

Admission to Winterthur is $22 for adults, $20 for seniors and students and $8 for children.<\/p>\n

Nemours Estate (1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington, Delaware, www.nemoursestate.org<\/a>), which is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., has finished its holiday preparation and is presenting \u201cNo\u00ebl at Nemours\u201d now through the end of the year.<\/p>\n

Ever since 1910, when Mr. and Mrs. duPont began living in their newly built mansion, the holiday season has been a festive time at Nemours. The Christmas decorations at the Nemours Mansion are often inspired by the architecture of the home, the customs of the duPonts or the French influence.<\/p>\n

The Mansion is also decorated by some of the duPonts\u2019 original decorations, including a German cr\u00e8che, which dates from the late 19th century. The figures are soft ceramic, unglazed and hand colored.<\/p>\n

Visitors can enjoy Christmas trees, wreaths, and hundreds of feet of garland on grand display in the Visitor Center, Chauffer\u2019s Garage, Mansion and grounds.<\/p>\n

All three floors of the Mansion will be decorated as well as the Chauffeur\u2019s Garage and select areas of the gardens. Decorations will coincide with the story of the Estate along with a festive Versailles-inspired motif.<\/p>\n

Live music performances will be held in the Mansion throughout the season.<\/p>\n

Nemours Estate features an exquisite, 77-room Mansion, the largest formal French gardens in North America, a Chauffeur’s Garage housing a collection of vintage automobiles, and 200 acres of scenic woodlands, meadows and lawns.<\/p>\n

Nemours was the estate of Alfred I. duPont.<\/p>\n

Alfred named the estate Nemours, after the French town that his great-great-grandfather represented in the French Estates General. While looking to the past and his ancestors for inspiration, Alfred also ensured that his new home was thoroughly modern by incorporating the latest technology and many of his own inventions.<\/p>\n

Admission to Nemours is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and $10 for children.<\/p>\n

The annual staging of \u201cHolidays at Hagley\u201d is an event that is always one of the most eagerly anticipated holiday attractions in this area every year.<\/p>\n

The popular Brandywine Valley exhibit, which is included with regular admission, is running now through January 1 at Hagley Museum and Library (Route 141, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-658-2400, www.hagley.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

\u201cHolidays at Hagley\u201d returns with the theme, \u201cTreasures and Traditions,” and will feature Holiday Home and Garden Tours, the sixth-annual Gingerbread House Contest, Santa Day, Holiday Nights Tours, and more.<\/p>\n

This year\u2019s edition of \u201cHolidays at Hagley\u201d features tours of Eleutherian Mills, which is the first du Pont family home built in America. The tours, which will be presented each day from 10a.m.-4:30 p.m., feature decorations in a combination of styles from both the 19th and 20th centuries.<\/p>\n

During the Victorian years when candle-lit tabletop Christmas trees were the norm, hand-made gifts were attached to tree branches, and winter scenes were displayed underneath the tree. The upstairs Victorian Library shows how magical that looked with its mid- to late-nineteenth-century toys, games and dolls. The upstairs Parlor features a case filled with small ceramic animals well-loved by some of the du Pont family children.<\/p>\n

Early du Pont family French holiday traditions are remembered with a display of gifts that were given to E. I. du Pont\u2019s children on New Year\u2019s Day as well as the Twelfth Night party illustrated by the ornate French dessert service in the Dining Room.<\/p>\n

Well-loved displays returning include the elaborate Twelfth Night celebration in the dining room and the Victorian library\u2019s Christmas for children with its table-top tree surrounded by toys and games. Of course, there will be warm glowing lights and poinsettias.<\/p>\n

Admission is $20 for adults, $16 for seniors and students and $10 for children (ages 6-14).<\/p>\n

On December 15 and16, Rockwood Park (4651 Washington Street Extension, Wilmington, Delaware, www.nccde.org\/431\/Rockwood-Park-Museum<\/a>) is hosting its annual \u201cWinter Nights at Rockwood.\u201d<\/p>\n

The popular family event, which runs from 5-8 p.m. each night includes tours of the holiday display in the museum and a joyous light display in the gardens surrounding the Mansion and Carriage House.<\/p>\n

Holiday Open House features exceptional entertainment, fun festive crafts, costumed characters, refreshments, food trucks and free photos with Santa.<\/p>\n

The event also includes the Holiday Shoppe selling gifts for the whole family.<\/p>\n

This is a free event.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoliday Magic\u201d is in full swing at Riverfront Wilmington (Christina Riverwalk, Wilmington, Delaware, riverfrontwilm.com<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Riverfront Wilmington has always been one of the centerpieces of the greater Wilmington area during the holiday season with festive events and activities throughout the area.<\/p>\n

The Riverfront Development Corporation of Delaware (RDC) has dramatically increased that presence with the introduction of\u00a0\u201cRiverbright Wilmington,\u201d a full lighting of the Riverwalk and surrounding amenities.<\/p>\n

At the end of November, the Christina Riverwalk was transformed into a walk-through holiday light display, with trees and archways wrapped in holiday lights, holiday d\u00e9cor throughout the area, and holiday-themed events throughout the season. The almost two-mile Riverwalk from Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park to the DuPont Environmental Education Center will be lit, offering guests a chance to stroll along the river and enjoy the festive display.<\/p>\n

The illumination of the Riverwalk will create a magical winter wonderland for all ages to enjoy.<\/p>\n

The Historic Odessa Foundation\u2019s 2023 Christmas Holiday Tour is a bicentennial event.<\/p>\n

To commemorate the 200th\u00a0anniversary of the enduring Christmas poem \u201cAccount of a Visit from St. Nicholas,\u201d\u00a0the\u00a0Historic Odessa Foundation\u00a0is making it the centerpiece of its 2023 Holiday Exhibit and Tours, which is running now through December 31 in the foundation\u2019s 249-year-old National Historic Landmark Corbit-Sharp House.<\/p>\n

This year marks the 35th\u00a0anniversary of Historic Odessa\u2019s unique holiday tradition of celebrating classic literature through festive scenes and interpretive vignettes throughout one of the foundations historic homes.<\/p>\n

\u201cAccount of a Visit from St. Nicholas,\u201d or\u00a0commonly known as \u201cThe Night Before Christmas\u201d and \u201cTwas the Night Before Christmas,\u201d\u00a0was written by\u00a0Clement Clark Moore,\u00a0and first published anonymously in December 1823. Historic Odessa\u2019s holiday tradition began with the iconic poem in 1988. This year\u2019s exhibit will feature vintage Christmas decorations on loan from members of The Golden Glow of Christmas Past organization.<\/p>\n

All of Historic Odessa\u2019s museum properties will be adorned with thousands of lights, and on full festive display for the 2023 holiday season.<\/p>\n

Special school and public tours and events will celebrate \u201cA Visit from St. Nicholas,\u201d and its accompanying exhibit in the Corbit-Sharp House, including the\u00a0Storybook Trees\u00a0exhibit created by community members,\u00a0Storybook Time\u00a0for children, a\u00a0Colonial Dance\u00a0with the\u00a0Dover English Country Dancers, as well as regularly scheduled\u00a0Candlelight Tours\u00a0and\u00a0Festive Food\u00a0demonstrations.<\/p>\n

On December 1, Historic Odessa will host a presentation and book signing by\u00a0Pamela McCool author of \u201cTwas The Night: The Art and History of the Classic Christmas Poem\u201d\u00a0(2023)\u00a0which traces the evolution of\u00a0the holiday, presents how the historic figure of Saint Nicholas evolves into the central character in the story, and how characteristics of today\u2019s Santa Claus originated with Clement Clark Moore.<\/p>\n

McCool uses dozens of vintage illustrations from the thousands of editions published over the last 200 years in her lively and informative presentation. As a bonus to the evening\u2019s presentation, McCool will be introduced by the enthusiastic\u00a0Benjamin Bradley, known as\u00a0\u201cMr. Christmas,\u201d\u00a0from the\u00a0Netflix\u00a0original series\u00a0\u201cHoliday Home Makeover.\u201d<\/p>\n

Historic Odessa is a member of the North American Reciprocal Museum Association<\/a>\u00a0(NARM), and is open to the public March through December, Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday 1 to 4:30 p.m. Monday by reservation.\u00a0General Admission: Adults, $10; Groups, Seniors, Students, $8; and Children under six are free. Member discounts are available.<\/p>\n

The calendar is loaded with holiday events.<\/p>\n

There are tree lightings and parades all over. Santa Claus is everywhere \u2013 having breakfast, having brunch, riding trains, listening to gift requests and posing for pictures. Many of these activities are running daily now through the end of the year.<\/p>\n

There is a much smaller list of non-holiday events. Many of these activities are limited to just one weekend.<\/p>\n

Here is a look at some of these events around the area this weekend.<\/p>\n

The calendar is filled to the brim with holiday events.<\/p>\n

There are tree lightings and parades all over. Santa Claus is everywhere \u2013 having breakfast, having brunch, riding trains, listening to gift requests and posing for pictures. Many of these activities are running daily now through the end of the year.<\/p>\n

There is a much smaller list of non-holiday events. Many of these activities are limited to just one weekend.<\/p>\n

Here is a look at some of these events around the area this weekend.<\/p>\n

On December 19, Valley Forge National Historical Park (Route 23, Valley Forge, 610-783-1099, www.nps.gov\/vafo<\/a>) is presenting its annual March-In.<\/p>\n

The event, which will run from 6-8 p.m., commemorates a major happening in the American Revolution — the arrival of George Washington and his troops to the area in 1777.<\/p>\n

General George Washington brought his ill-supplied Continental Army to Valley Forge in 1777 in order to establish a winter encampment.<\/p>\n

At this event, Valley Forge National Historical Park will commemorate the 246th anniversary of the arrival of the Continental Army to Valley Forge in 1777 with family-friendly programs, demonstrations, reenactors, and hands-on activities!<\/p>\n

Activities are spread across the park with programming taking place at the visitor center, Muhlenberg’s Brigade, and the Washington’s Headquarters area.<\/p>\n

Noah Lewis, a well-known reenactor and expert on the history of Ned Hector, will talk about Black soldiers in the Revolutionary War. The historical Ned Hector was an 18th century Black teamster local to the Valley Forge area.<\/p>\n

Tyler Arboretum (515 Painter Road, Media, 610-566-9134, www.tylerarboretum.org<\/a>) will present \u201cHike to Round Top: The Original Minshall Family Homestead\u201d on December 16 from 10 a.m.-noon.<\/p>\n

Over three centuries ago, Jacob Minshall built the homestead \u201cRound Top\u201d after relocating to Middletown with his family.<\/p>\n

The tour will make its way through Ridley Creek State Park to visit what remains of the original homestead. Participants will learn about the site\u2019s history and hear an account of what life was like for the last residents of Round Top.<\/p>\n

Participants are instructed to\u00a0park in Ridley Creek State Park, picnic area #17, where the group\u00a0will meet and hike to the ruins. This is a moderately-paced hike along easily traversed but narrow trails with some small hills to climb. Sturdy hiking boots, water, and a snack are recommended.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $21 per adult; $13 per child ages 15-17 \u2013 tour is for those age 15 and over.<\/p>\n

The arboretum\u2019s schedule for this weekend also features a \u201cSaturday Wildflower\u00a0Walk\u201d on December 16.<\/p>\n

With 650 protected acres of beautiful woodland, seasonally charming meadows, and a lively program of seasonal events and activities, Tyler Arboretum is a delight for nature lovers, birders, botanists, and those who want rediscover the natural world.<\/p>\n

Dating to 1681, making it one of the oldest public gardens in the United States, and home to eight generations of three families, Tyler Arboretum connects visitors to the region\u2019s rich culture and history while preserving, developing, sharing, and celebrating Pennsylvania\u2019s priceless horticultural heritage.<\/p>\n

\u201cSaturday Wildflower\u00a0Walk,\u201d which runs from 1-3 p.m., features wildflower\u00a0expert\u00a0Dick Cloud\u00a0on an informative two-hour hike that will take guests through meadows, woods, and occasionally streamside. These walks are for those who have a love of plants, their role in ecology, or for those who want to learn more.<\/p>\n

Although the focus is on plants, Cloud will also talk about whatever else is seen on the tour. Walkers should wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a camera and\/or a wildflower\u00a0guide, for this botanical-filled walk.<\/p>\n

The annual \u201cHoliday Punk Rock Flea Market\u201d will be held December 15-17 at the 23rd\u00a0Street Armory\u00a0(22 South 23rd\u00a0Street, Philadelphia,\u00a0www.phillyprfm.com<\/a>).<\/p>\n

The Punk Rock Flea Market is the place to shop for vintage clothing, records, crafts, art, and most of all old punk junk.<\/p>\n

This is an indoor event, rain or shine, inside the armory that will run from 4-10 p.m. on December 15 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on December 16 and 17.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $10 at the door with kids 12 and under admitted free (ticket good for both days!).<\/p>\n

Dogs on leashes are welcome \u2013 but only one dog per attendee.<\/p>\n

\u201cTreeTrails Adventures Trevose\u201d (301 West Bristol Pike, Trevose, treetrails.com\/trevose-pa<\/a>) is an adventure park\u00a0full of fun challenges for outdoor adventurers of all ages.<\/p>\n

Participants can experience the rush of TreeTrails Adventures\u00a0as they swing through the trees of the new\u00a0adventure park.\u00a0They will be able to discover the excitement of climbing and zip lining above the forest floor\u00a0with family, friends, co-workers, or teammates.<\/p>\n

The park, which is based at Phoenix Sport Club in Bucks County, offers two ways to experience climbing \u2013 TreeTrails Adventure Park and KidTrails Park. Young explorers can enjoy miniaturized courses in the adjacent KidTrails Park.<\/p>\n

General Park Admission prices are: Main Park Adult Tickets (Ages 12+), $59; Main Park Youth Tickets (Ages 7\u201311), $51; KidTrails Tickets (Ages 4\u20137), $12.<\/p>\n

Wonderspaces\u00a0at the Fashion District (27 North 11th Street, Philadelphia, philadelphia.wonderspaces.com<\/a>) is an experiential, interactive arts venue.<\/p>\n

Building on the success of annual pop-up shows in San Diego, and its first permanent location in Scottsdale, Arizona,\u00a0Wonderspaces\u00a0opened a 24,000 square foot gallery space in Philly two years ago.<\/p>\n

Wonderspaces\u00a0features 14 art installations that all play with the idea of perspective.\u00a0 The artwork ranges from award-winning virtual reality short film about a dinner party-turned-alien abduction, to a room where visitors digitally paint the walls with the movement of their bodies.<\/p>\n

New artworks rotate in and out every few months, creating an ever-evolving, year-round show.<\/p>\n

Tickets are for entry at a specific date and time. Visitors are welcome to stay as long as they please during operating hours.\u00a0The average time spent experiencing the show is 90 minutes.<\/p>\n

A few installations contain flashing lights, images, and patterns that may trigger seizures for people with photosensitive epilepsy. All visitors must sign a waiver prior to being admitted into the space. Adult supervision is required for visitors under 16.<\/p>\n

Grim\u00a0Philly\u2019s \u201cDark Philly History Tour\u201d (www.grimphilly.com<\/a>) will be held every evening throughout the fall.<\/p>\n

Participants can walk with tour guides from the grounds of America’s first White House, Congress, and Liberty Bell to homes and sites of Hamilton, Washington, Franklin, Adams, Jefferson, Madison, Monroe, and more than 10 other Founding-Fathers. The surprising dirt of espionage, murder, sexual license and blackmail highlight the secrets of 1776 with a ghost story or two along the way. This tour is highly researched. And your guide is a historian.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $35.<\/p>\n

Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Philadelphia (215-413-1997, www.ghosttour.com<\/a>),\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Lancaster (717-687-6687, www.ghosttour.com<\/a>) and\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Strasburg (717-687-6687, www.ghosttour.com<\/a>) operate throughout the winter and offer an eerily entertaining evening of true\u00a0ghost\u00a0stories and real haunted houses.<\/p>\n

The Ghost Tour of Philadelphia, which is based on the book, \u201cGhost Stories of Philadelphia, PA.,\u201d is a candlelight walking\u00a0tour\u00a0along the back streets and secret gardens of Independence Park, Society Hill, and Old City, where\u00a0ghostly spirits, haunted houses, and eerie graveyards abound.<\/p>\n

Participants can discover the ghost lore of America\u2019s most historic and most haunted city with stories from the founding of William Penn\u2019s colony to present-day hauntings.<\/p>\n

The activity is open year-round \u2013 weekends, December-February; every night, March-November. Tickets are $24.<\/p>\n

The Ghost Tour of Lancaster and the Ghost Tour of Strasburg are based on the book, \u201cGhost Stories of Lancaster, PA.\u201d<\/p>\n

Participants in the\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Lancaster explore the long-forgotten mysteries of one of America\u2019s oldest cities, with haunting tales of otherworldly vigils, fatal curses, and star-crossed lovers. The\u00a0tour\u00a0provides the opportunity to experience 300 years of haunted history from the Red Rose City\u2019s thorny past. Tickets are $20.<\/p>\n

The\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Strasburg is a candlelight walking\u00a0tour\u00a0of the quaint and historic town of Strasburg in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Visitors will experience an entertaining evening with a costumed\u00a0tour\u00a0guide spinning tales of haunted mansions, eerie graveyards, and spirits that roam the night \u2026 in a town lost in time. Tickets are $20.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times\u00a0 Editor\u2019s Note:\u00a0Due to the larger number of holiday events, we\u2019ve broken our listings into two entries: this one for the local Chester County, Delaware County and Delaware and a second for events around the greater Philadelphia region. Christmas Day is a little more than one week away \u2013 […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":53393,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[7426,15423,15424,14868],"class_list":["post-53396","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","tag-featured","tag-west-chester-door-tour","tag-west-chester-griswolds","tag-west-chester-lights-up"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/53396","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=53396"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/53396\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":53403,"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/53396\/revisions\/53403"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/53393"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=53396"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=53396"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.unionvilletimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=53396"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}