Believe it or not, Christmas time is here again! It’s time to put up the tree, hang up the stockings, and start planning some unforgettable holiday memories for both you and the entire family. We created a list of all of our favorite Christmas events, traditions, and happenings near Erie, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas this holiday season. This list is specifically curated for 2025, but many of these events are annual traditions that happen every holiday season in Erie.
So, whether you’re new to the area or are just looking for a new Christmas tradition, put on your favorite Christmas music as you explore some of these fun family Christmas activities.
*2025 events and dates are being added as they are announced for the upcoming season. Check back often for more 2025 updates!
8 Can’t-Miss Christmas Events Near Erie, Pennsylvania
1. Christmas at the Warner
Details:
December 22, 2025: 5:00pm, 7:30pm
December 23, 2025: 3:00am, 5:30pm, 8:00pm
Warner Theater
2. Downtown D’lights – Perry Square Christmas Tree Lighting Event
Stop by Perry Square for holiday fun! During Downtown d’Lights, shop local vendors, come see Santa light up the tree, skate at the Downtown Community Skating Rink, and visit with Santa himself! Enjoy live entertainment and refreshments in Perry Square throughout the evening!
Details:
Friday, December 5, 2025
Perry Square, Downtown Erie – North Park Row
3. Presque Isle Lights
Presque Isle Lights is a free evening drive-thru tour of seasonal lights at the beautiful Presque Isle State Park. The holiday drive-thru highlights Presque Isle’s natural beauty while also being respectful of the environment. Put on your favorite Christmas music or tune into 99.9 Classy 100 to enjoy a peaceful and holiday-spirit-filled drive around the park.
Details:
Fridays-Sundays between December 5-28, 2025
Presque Isle State Park
4. Cirque Dreams Holidaze
CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE dazzles with a brilliantly breathtaking holiday spectacular for the whole family. As the original cirque holiday theatrical event, this annual tradition wraps a Broadway-style production around awe-inspiring contemporary circus arts. Guests will be on the edge of their seats as a cast of holiday characters come to life, captivating audiences while defying gravity. Reimagined for 2025, CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE features original music, fresh twists on beloved holiday favorites sung live, new sets, dazzling scenery, and stunning costumes.
Details:
November 25, 2025
Erie Insurance Arena
Related Article: 13 Best Christian Christmas Gifts This Year
5. Port Farms Country Christmas at the Farm
Whether you’re searching for the perfect Christmas tree or a place to experience a horse-drawn sleigh or carriage ride, you need to stop by Port Farms this Christmas! They have many festive children’s activities, delectable cocktails for 21+ guests, live music, and the opportunity to meet Santa Claus on the weekends.
Details:
November 22 – December 21, 2025
Santas Workshop: Weekends Only
Port Farms, Waterford, PA
6. Asbury Woods Winter Wonderland
Enjoy a free, peaceful evening stroll on the boardwalk through the woods. Holiday lights will twinkle in the woods and wetlands along the boardwalk, which covers 1/3 of a mile. Then, warm up inside the Nature Center, view their animal exhibits, and browse holiday items for sale in their gift shop with products from local artisans. They will also be collecting donations to help support Asbury Woods.
Details:
Thursdays-Sundays in December, 2025 (Except December 25)
Asbury Woods Nature Ceneter
7. A Live Conversation with Chevy Chase Followed by a Screening of Christmas Vacation
Join us for an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer and laughs as we celebrate the timeless classic, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, with a special screening of the film followed by a live conversation and Q&A with Chevy Chase, and his wife Jayni.
Chevy and Jayni will share their behind-the-scenes stories and personal anecdotes about the making of this beloved movie that has become a Christmas tradition. But the laughter doesn’t stop there! We’ll also be taking questions from the audience, giving you the chance to have your questions answered and hear firsthand from Chevy about his storied career including SNL, Caddyshack and so much more.
Details:
December 8, 2025
Warner Theater
8. Festival of Trees
Get ready for holiday magic! AHN Saint Vincent’s 41st Festival of Trees is coming to the Bayfront Convention Center, Friday, November 28th – Sunday, November 30th! Imagine a wonderland of decorated trees, a visit with Santa, live reindeer (from noon-5pm daily!), Santa’s castle, and cheerful entertainment. Plus, the ever-popular Teddy Bear Clinic returns! Bring your favorite teddy bear for a check-up, or adopt a new cuddly friend.
Details:
November 28-30, 2025
Bayfront Convention Center
9. Erie Philharmonic – Come Home For The Holidays
An annual holiday tradition, the Philharmonic invites you to come home for the holidays. Celebrate the joy of the season with special guests, the Philharmonic Choruses, and ballet dancers.
Details:
December 6-7, 2025
Warner Theater
10. The Nutcracker-Reimagined at the Warner Theater
Lake Erie Ballet Company is thrilled to showcase the power of collaboration among local organizations during this annual holiday event! Through the joint efforts of Marguerite’s Academy of Dance, Corella Productions, Seiche Dance Collective, Sovereign Ballet, and NWPA Collegiate Academy, they have created a truly enchanting performance that will warm the hearts of families during the holiday season.
The Nutcracker is a masterpiece that seamlessly blends art, music, and dance, creating an unforgettable experience that brings families together. Join us in downtown Erie for this community collaboration and witness the fascinating beauty that will captivate audiences from near and far.
Details:
Saturday, December 13, 2025
7:00pm
Sunday, December 14, 2025
2:00pm
Location: Warner Theater
