Looking for festive family fun this holiday season? Erie is brimming with magical events that will light up your weekend! Whether you’re strolling through a Hallmark Movie-like downtown, building gingerbread houses at the ExpERIEnce Children's Museum, singing carols at the Erie Playhouse, or marveling at dazzling light displays, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These events are perfect for creating holiday memories without breaking the bank. Ready to make your weekend merry and bright? Keep reading for all the details on these five can’t-miss holiday happenings in Erie! 🎄✨
1. Enjoy a magical holiday evening downtown
The big post-Thanksgiving snowstorm delayed the Downtown D'Lights event until this weekend, which means it's now the same evening as Gallery Night! The two events will bring downtown alive for a Hallmark Movie-like atmosphere. Get more info about these events here:
At Perry Square, there will be the lighting of the tree, a visit from Santa and even horsedrawn wagon rides. At the Erie Art Museum and more than a dozen businesses and galleries throughout Erie, you can celebrate Gallery Night. Pick up some one-of-a-kind gifts and support our local arts community. Friday, Dec. 13
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2. Gingerbread Workshop at ExpERIEnce Children's Museum
Kick off the holiday season with this hands-on STEAM learning workshop! Families will build gingerbread masterpieces while enjoying hot chocolate, cookies, and plenty of festive cheer. This interactive event is a great way to create holiday memories together while embracing creativity. Registration is required. Saturday, Dec. 14 and Sunday, Dec. 15
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3. FREE: Winter Crafts at the Neighborhood Art House (Registration Required)
Spend the second Saturday in December making wintery artwork at the Neighborhood Art House. They'll have a variety of themed projects to choose from ... and make GREAT homemade gifts from the kids to grandma and grandpa! This is a free, all ages event, although donations are always appreciated. Registration is required. Saturday, Dec. 14
4. FREE: Holiday Sing-A-Long PLAYtime at Erie Playhouse
Sing your holiday favorites during the Annual Holiday Sing-a-long, LIVE, on stage and FREE for family of ALL ages! Join us Saturday, December 14 for jingle bells, holiday smells and happy yells as we croon in the holiday spirit – together! Saturday, Dec. 14
5. FREE: Driving Trail of Lights
Thanks to a Facebook group called Erie's Best Holiday Lights, you can easily find Clark Griswold's house! Don't miss their 2024 4th Annual Driving Trail of Lights. During your self-guided tour, you'll see some of the most festively decorated homes on this side of the North Pole. Even better-you'll have the opportunity to stop at select homes and enjoy candy canes, cocoa, cookies, and more. We went last year and had a GREAT time. Saturday, Dec. 14
Check out highlights from the event in 2023:
Be sure to check our always FREE Macaroni KID Erie Event Calendar for even more holiday happenings! Happy holidays from our family to yours. 🌟
