Winter is Wonderful in New York City, Pennsylvania and New Jersey
In New York City, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, winter festivities are planned long before the first snowflake of the season falls. The region has lots of events and activities that make for an exciting, unforgettable winter.
While New York City’s Central Park Zoo is spectacular throughout the year, December is an especially magical time to visit. The first three Fridays and Saturdays of the month are part of Winterfest, during which the zoo stays open late so visitors can admire the thousands of sparkling lights. December 16 and 17, 2011 are the last days of Winterfest, so don’t miss out on any of the activities. Spend some time with cold-weather friends like snow leopards, polar bears and penguins, or get creative with crafts in the Zoo Theater Classroom. Everyone in your crew will enjoy 4-D movies like The Polar Express and Planet Earth: Ice Worlds. Finish off your Winterfest evening with a trip to the Zootique shop, or by indulging in some holiday cookies and cocoa at the Dancing Crane Café. Order tickets online at www.centralparkzoo.com/plan-your-trip/events-calendar/presents-to-the-animals.aspx.
Holiday Lights on the Lake is a Lakemont Park tradition. More than 50 acres of sparkling lights and animated displays illuminate this historic amusement park located in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Drive through while listening to holiday music on Lakemont Park’s radio network. The Alto Model Train Museum Association invites visitors to check out their 17 different models that travel on more than 800 feet of track. Enjoy some refreshments or browse the gift shop before it, and the train displays, close for the season on January 1, 2012. Want to take a horse-drawn carriage or sleigh ride? Book a reservation for December 20, 22, 26 or 28, 2011. Most of the other Holiday Lights on the Lake attractions will be open until January 8, 2012. Find out more at www.lakemontparkfun.com.If you’re looking for a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration with live music and delicious local food, check out First Night Haddonfield 2012. The New Jersey community has several performers lined up for December 31, 2011 including headliners like Tommy Cash who does a musical tribute to his brother, Johnny Cash. Check out Searson, for high-energy Celtic music, or Galumpha, for an impressive combination of acrobatics, dance and comedy. Other acts include the Roadshow Relics, The Amazing Kreskin, Flamenco Ole! and Stoney the Llama. At the Kid Zone, don’t miss Tucker Tales Puppet Theater and the magic show by Doc Swan. Grab a bite to eat from outdoor food vendors like A Little Tuna and The Bistro of Haddonfield. First Night is a memorable way to ring in 2012 with the whole family. The activities and events will take place at different locations around Haddonfield, so get the full list of venues and performances at www.firstnighthaddonfield.org.
The New York City, Pennsylvania and New Jersey area is full of exciting winter events. From holiday lightings to celebrations of winter and New Year’s, there’s something for everyone this season.