A Dickens of a Christmas Festival - Wellsboro, PA

Trip Duration: 3 Days

Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners

Tour Director: Yes 

 

Highlights Include:

 

A Dickens of a Christmas Festival

Celebrate the 39th Annual "Dickens of a Christmas Festival" and take a step back in time as Wellsboro, PA's Main Street and the surrounding side streets become an early Victorian marketplace featuring all types of delectable wares for eating and drinking, as well as delightful gift items for wearing or enjoying. Beginning in the morning, over 175 food and craft vendors, strolling musicians and singers, dancers, and street-corner thespians will spread up and down the holiday decked streets of downtown Wellsboro. Performers and vendors will be appropriately costumed and decorated to create a Victorian atmosphere that fits so well with the Wellsboro Gas Lights. With streets closed to traffic, visitors have the freedom to stroll and enjoy the festivities. It's not uncommon to stumble upon a little match girl, or even old Scrooge himself as Street Entertainers delight shoppers with their renditions of Christmas readings and carols. Many local churches will host indoor luncheons, concerts, tours or special services, and "A Christmas Carol" at the Arcadia Theater will perform several times during the day.

 

"A Christmas Carol" Performance

Historic Downtown Wellsboro is the venue for the annual Festival's performances of the traditional Holiday favorite, "A Christmas Carol". This Victorian-themed show tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a bitter old man who revisits his past and ultimately transforms his future after rediscovering the meaning of the spirit of Christmas.

 

Purity Candy Company

Visit the Purity Candy Company Factory Store, started by Ford G. Birchard in 1907. Back then, Mr. Birchard used all natural ingredients, simple machines and carefully tested recipes. He believed that making small batches by hand contributed to Purity's outstanding reputation for quality. Today, that legacy continues to thrive at Purity under the ownership and guidance of the Burfeindt family. From chocolate Christmas trees to candy canes as stocking stuffers, there's something for everyone on your list and the hard candy curls are a delight for all family members, young and old. They still make them from scratch using a time tested method used by master confectioners a century ago.

 

The Famous Street of Shops

Located in a historic woolen mill, this 375 shop mall creates an indoor old town streetscape complete wiht the recreated antique bank teller window, park benches, and vintage streetlights.

 

PA State Capitol Building

Teddy Roosevelt called it "The Handsomest Building" he'd ever seen. Enjoy a guided tour of the PA State Capitol Building, claimed to be the finest statehouse in the nation. The Capitol features the finest lighting system in the world and the largest bronze and iron front portal in America. The dome was inspired by the great dome of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome and the Rotunda staircase was based on that of the Paris Opera House. The Capitol reflects varied Renaissance designs for its largest rooms - Italian in the House, French in the Senate, and English in the Governor's Reception Room.

 

 

Need to Know:

This trip contains time on own with walking.

 

Eyre has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Holiday Inn, Williamsport, PA

 

This Williamsport, PA hotel is within walking distance of Williamsport's downtown business district, and only minutes away from trendy Williamsport restaurants and nightlife. Hotel features an indoor heated pool, fitness center, restaurant and lounge. Guest rooms feature coffee maker, hairdryer, and iron/board.