Annual Holiday Bonfire at Landis Valley

Friday, December 12, 2025
6:00–8:00 p.m.
Admission: Free

The Annual Holiday Bonfire at Landis Valley invites visitors to enjoy a warm, festive, and family-friendly evening in the heart of our historic Pennsylvania German village.

The Annual Holiday Bonfire at Landis Valley is one of the museum’s most cherished seasonal traditions—a warm, inviting community gathering that brings together families, friends, neighbors, and visitors for an evening of holiday cheer. Held at Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum, this free event offers a peaceful and nostalgic way to celebrate the season while experiencing the beauty and history of rural Pennsylvania German culture.

From 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., guests are invited to stroll through the lantern-lit paths of the historic village, where flickering lights and crisp winter air set the mood for a magical holiday experience. The highlight of the evening is the glowing bonfire, which creates a cozy gathering place for storytelling, conversation, and quiet moments of reflection. Guests of all ages are welcome to circle around the fire, enjoy the warmth, and take in the peaceful atmosphere of the winter farm landscape.

Throughout the village, the sound of holiday caroling fills the air. Whether sung by local groups, volunteers, or enthusiastic visitors, the carols add an element of joy and tradition to the night. Historic buildings will be open for visitors to explore, and interpreters and demonstrators will be on hand to share stories, crafts, and seasonal Pennsylvania German traditions. From the meaning behind winter decorations to the customs that shaped holiday celebrations in the 18th and 19th centuries, guests will gain a deeper understanding of how communities in this region marked the season.

This relaxed, family-friendly event also includes seasonal refreshments that provide a warm and comforting treat on a chilly December evening. Visitors can sip on hot beverages, enjoy traditional holiday flavors, and connect with others as they explore the village. Children and adults alike will appreciate the slower pace of the evening—an opportunity to step away from modern-day holiday bustle and spend time in a historic setting that captures the spirit of the season.

The Annual Holiday Bonfire at Landis Valley also supports a meaningful cause. Guests are encouraged to bring one or more non-perishable food items to contribute to the Lancaster Food Hub, helping families in need during the holiday season. This act of community giving reflects the museum’s commitment to service, hospitality, and honoring the generosity that has always been a part of Pennsylvania German culture.

Whether you’re looking to create new holiday memories, revisit an annual family tradition, or experience Landis Valley in a new way, the Holiday Bonfire invites you to gather, celebrate, and enjoy a peaceful evening in a historic farm village. With its mix of open buildings, caroling, seasonal treats, and the warm glow of the fire, this event offers an atmosphere of togetherness that captures the true essence of the holidays.