7 Best Christmas Activities in the Poconos Near Arrowhead Lake (2026)
Updated October 27, 2026
Looking for the best Christmas activities in the Pocono Mountains this holiday season?
The Poconos transform into a festive winter destination during November and December, with Christmas villages, Santa experiences, holiday markets, decorated historic towns, and family-friendly celebrations.
Whether you're planning a Thanksgiving weekend getaway, a romantic December escape, or a Christmas vacation with the family, there's plenty to experience beyond skiing and snowboarding.
If you're staying in Arrowhead Lake or Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania, here are seven holiday attractions worth adding to your 2026 itinerary.
1. Country Junction Christmas Village — Lehighton, PA
Dates: November 27–29 and December 5–6, 12–13, 19–20, 2026
One of the most family-friendly holiday attractions in the region is Christmas Village at Country Junction-World’s Largest General Store.
The seasonal celebration features a Christmas-themed hay-train ride, holiday character appearances, Santa's 3D Adventure, festive treats, and activities for children.
Visitors can also explore Mrs. Claus' Corner, enjoy live entertainment, and browse the store's enormous selection of holiday decorations and gifts.
2026 admission: $12 per person, with children ages two and younger admitted free.
Hours: 11 AM–4 PM on scheduled dates.
Local tip: Combine your visit with Christmas shopping. Country Junction is a convenient destination for families who want several holiday experiences in one location.
Official Christmas Village schedule and tickets. Country Junction
2. Meet Real Reindeer at Spruce Ridge Reindeer Farm
Dates: Selected evenings November 27–December 22, 2026
Have you ever wanted to meet real reindeer?
Spruce Ridge Reindeer Farm in Albrightsville offers a unique holiday experience that children and adults can enjoy together.
During its seasonal Reindeer Nights program, visitors can observe the herd, meet Santa, take photographs, and enjoy festive lights and a campfire.
The farm specializes in educational experiences, giving guests an opportunity to learn about these remarkable animals.
2026 admission: $30 per person ages three and older; $5 for children ages two and younger.
Local tip: Reservations are required. Arrive approximately 10 minutes before your scheduled visit, dress warmly, and wear clean, closed-toe shoes.
The farm does not permit outside animals because of its reindeer safety requirements.
Spruce Ridge Reindeer official website. Pocono Mountains
3. Experience an Old-Fashioned Christmas at Quiet Valley
Dates: December 5–6 and December 12–13, 2026
For a holiday experience combining history and tradition, visit Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm.
Its annual Old Time Christmas celebration recreates holiday customs from the 1800s.
Visitors follow candlelit tours through historic farm buildings, listen to traditional Christmas stories, sing carols, and see demonstrations of handmade holiday gifts.
The experience also includes a live Nativity, a decorated Christmas Tree Forest, and seasonal refreshments.
Tours take approximately 90 minutes.
2026 advance admission: $16 for adults and $8 for children ages 3–12.
Tickets purchased at the gate cost $18 for adults and $10 for children.
Local tip: Advance ticket sales begin November 1, 2026. Reserve early if you're visiting during a December weekend.
Quiet Valley Old Time Christmas information. Pocono Mountains
4. Celebrate Hawley Winterfest
Dates: December 11–13, 2026
The charming town of Hawley hosts one of the region's most traditional holiday celebrations.
Hawley Winterfest brings together local businesses, artists, musicians, and families for a weekend of Christmas activities.
The 2026 festival includes a holiday craft and artisan market, seasonal shopping, entertainment, and a newly announced lighted Victorian Christmas Parade.
The parade is scheduled for Friday, December 11, at 6 PM.
Festival admission: Free, although individual activities may have separate charges.
Local tip: Visit during the afternoon to explore the shops and market, then stay for the evening holiday atmosphere.
Because individual event schedules may change, check the organizer's latest announcements before traveling.
Hawley Winterfest 2026 schedule. Pocono Mountains
5. Enjoy Jim Thorpe's Olde Time Christmas
Dates: December 5–6, 12–13, and 19–20, 2026
Historic Jim Thorpe is especially beautiful during the Christmas season.
Its Victorian buildings, decorated streets, unique shops, and mountain scenery create a memorable holiday atmosphere.
The town's annual Olde Time Christmas celebration features strolling musicians, carolers, seasonal shopping, family activities, and special holiday entertainment.
Festivities begin with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony on Friday, December 4.
Visitors can also explore downtown restaurants and consider booking a scenic train excursion.
Local tip: Jim Thorpe becomes extremely busy during holiday weekends. Arrive early, reserve activities in advance, and allow additional time for parking.
Jim Thorpe Olde Time Christmas 2026. Pocono Mountains
6. Make Your Own Holiday Decorations at PEEC
Date: December 5, 2026
Looking for a quieter holiday activity?
The Pocono Environmental Education Center offers a Holiday Bows & Boughs workshop.
Participants create festive decorations using natural materials, making this an appealing activity for adults, couples, and families who enjoy crafts.
The workshop takes place from 1 PM to 3:30 PM.
2026 price: $25 per wreath, with craft supplies provided.
Local tip: This is a good option for visitors interested in a creative holiday activity rather than a large festival. Contact the center to reserve your place.
PEEC December 2026 events calendar.
7. Visit Yenser's Christmas Tree Farm
Dates: November 21–22 and November 27–December 6, 2026
For a classic Pennsylvania Christmas atmosphere, visit Yenser's Tree Farm.
The family-owned farm offers choose-and-cut Christmas trees, fresh wreaths, holiday greenery, and a seasonal gift shop.
Weekend visitors can enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and cookies.
Even if you're visiting the Poconos on vacation and don't need a Christmas tree, the farm offers an opportunity to experience a traditional holiday setting and browse locally made seasonal decorations.
2026 hours: Weekends 9 AM–5 PM; weekdays 3–5 PM during the announced operating period.
Local tip: If you're staying in a vacation rental, consider purchasing a small holiday decoration or souvenir rather than a full-sized tree.
Yenser's Tree Farm Christmas information.
Where to Stay for a Pocono Christmas Getaway
A Christmas vacation in the Poconos is even more enjoyable when you have a comfortable mountain home to return to after exploring local attractions.
Poconos Vacations offers professionally managed vacation rentals in Arrowhead Lake, a private gated community in Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania.
Depending on the property, guests can enjoy private hot tubs, fireplaces, game rooms, fully equipped kitchens, and spacious accommodations for families or groups.
Spend the day visiting Christmas markets, meeting Santa, or exploring decorated mountain towns, then return to your vacation home for a relaxing evening.
Browse Arrowhead Lake vacation rentals and book directly at Poconos.Vacations.
Arrowhead Lake requires advance guest registration and mandatory community fees. Outdoor swimming pools and certain recreational amenities operate seasonally.
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas in the Poconos
What are the best Christmas activities in the Poconos?
Popular activities include Christmas villages, Santa experiences, holiday markets, historic town celebrations, and seasonal farm events.
Are there Christmas activities near Arrowhead Lake?
Yes. Visitors staying in Arrowhead Lake can explore holiday attractions in Albrightsville, Lehighton, Stroudsburg, Hawley, and Jim Thorpe.
When do Pocono Christmas events start in 2026?
Some holiday activities begin in November. Country Junction's Christmas Village opens November 27, while other celebrations take place throughout December.
Are there free Christmas events in the Poconos?
Yes. Hawley Winterfest offers free festival admission, and Jim Thorpe's Olde Time Christmas includes free public activities. Some attractions, performances, and experiences require separate tickets.
Can I rent a Pocono cabin with a private hot tub for Christmas?
Yes. Some vacation homes in Arrowhead Lake feature private hot tubs, fireplaces, and game rooms. Check individual property listings at Poconos.Vacations for available amenities and holiday dates.
Plan Your Pocono Christmas Vacation
From meeting real reindeer and exploring Christmas villages to discovering historic holiday traditions, the Pocono Mountains offer memorable experiences throughout the season.
Whether you're planning a Thanksgiving weekend getaway or a December family vacation, there's plenty to explore.
Start planning your holiday escape and find your mountain vacation home at Poconos.Vacations.
Event information reviewed October 27, 2026. Dates, operating hours, prices, and availability may change. Always confirm details with the event organizer before visiting.