Friday, November 29, 2024
Walking down Main Street under the lit wreaths and trees feels like walking into a Hallmark movie, and this “hallmark” event has been an Ephrata tradition for over 100 years.
Get ready for the most Instagram-worthy moment of the season! Main Street transforms into a dazzling wonderland as we kick off the holidays in style with Santa’s arrival and our spectacular tree lighting ceremony. We’ve got some exciting additions in 2024 to this family-fun event that will make even the Scroogiest grown-up believe in the magic of the season.
November 29 (post-arrival) through December 21, 2024
Fridays 5:30 – 7:30pm | Saturdays 10:00am – 1:00pm
Location: 16 E. Main St, Ephrata, PA 17522
Score some face time with the big guy himself – totally free! Grab your phone or camera for the perfect holiday snap. Got a wish list? Drop your letter in the North Pole Mail Express mailbox (find it on the Train Station’s parking lot side door). Pro tip: Include your name and return address, and Santa might just write back! Post your pics and tag @mainspringofephrata to appear in our weekly round-up of good kids! Heads up: Santa heads north on December 21 for final holiday prep!
Saturday, November 30, 2024
Shop Small All Day!
Join our Downtown stores all day to kick off your holiday shopping where shopping local makes a difference. From our friends at the Cloister Museum Store, to Hello Dia, A Little Hipp, For His Glory Boutique, Sheldon’s Gallery, FX Saddles, Casa Huerta, Parkhill Jewelry, Laura the Cookie Lady, and Harmony’s Treasures, and more where unique finds await. And when you’re done, stop by the Holiday Market!
Holiday Market Hours: 10:00am – 2:00pm
Location: Whistle Stop Plaza, 16 E Main St.
Your holiday shopping just got an upgrade! Our 4th Annual Holiday Crafters Market brings together the coolest local makers and shops.
Don’t forget to fuel your shopping spree at our amazing local spots:
Griddle & Grind Cafe (7am~2pm)
Scratch Bakes (8am~4pm)
Tacos El Gordo (9am~9pm)
Plus more, opening at 11am
Makers & crafters, want in on the action? Drop a line to lisa@mainspringofephrata.org (no direct selling items, please!) for details on how to participate. Hurry, our spaces are filling fast!
Friday, December 6 – Family Night | $15
Saturday, December 7 – Adult Night | $18
Eleven years of magic calls for an epic celebration! Hop aboard our decked-out trolley for either our family-friendly Friday or our adults-only Saturday tour of Ephrata’s most stunning holiday displays (outside only). Laugh along with our Trolley hosts as they showcase the most decked out halls in the area. Mark your calendars: Tickets drop November 4, 2024!
Tuesday, December 31 | 9:30pm – 12:00am
Location: The Square in Ephrata
Say goodbye to 2024 at Mainspring’s 3rd annual NYE bash! We’re taking over downtown with:
Live music by Big Fat Meanies & dancing
Midnight fireworks
Food trucks
Adult beverages
Plus more surprises!
Weather happens! Stay in the loop by following our social channels for any updates.
Adopt a lighted tree or wreath and take part in decorating our beautiful downtown!
Plaques are placed on each wreath or tree with a heartfelt message and your name. It’s a beautiful way to help ring in the holidays!
Grab your collectible, annual Christmas Ornament featuring our historic buildings. We have a limited number of 2022 and 2023 ornaments for sale. Stay tuned for the 2024 Ornament!
Click below for a complete inventory of all the ornaments available!
November 30, 2024
5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
$8.00 per person age 5 and above
Step back in time and explore the historic buildings of this early American religious community, illuminated by candlelight. Tickets will be available online on November 1st. Admission is $8.00 for everyone age 5 and above.
Additional information at ephratacloister.org
Fridays & Saturdays starting December 6 – 22, 2024
Fri – 7:30 pm • Sat – 2 pm & 7:30 pm • Sun – 2 pm
$38 – Standard ticket pricing. (including fees)
Get ready to embark on a holiday adventure when EPAC closes its 2024 season with Elf, Jr.! Based on the beloved film, this delightful musical brings the magic of Christmas to life on stage. Follow Buddy, a cheerful and oversized elf, as he leaves the North Pole searching for his true identity in bustling New York City. Along the way, he spreads joy, love, and a bit of chaos, teaching us all the true meaning of Christmas. With catchy songs, energetic dance numbers, and a heartwarming story, Elf, Jr. is the perfect show for kids and adults alike. Join Buddy and his newfound friends on a journey of laughter, friendship, and holiday cheer. This festive musical celebration is guaranteed to leave you with a smile, on your face, and the spirit of Christmas in your heart. (from EPAC’s website)
Additional information & tickets: EPAC Tickets
December 13 & 14 | December 20 & 21
$15 Adults, $10 children 5-16, 4 and under: Free
Maximum Family Charge (must live at the same address): $60
Cash and Check Only. 225 Woodcrest Rd, Ephrata. For additional information and to reserve a timeslot, visit WoodcrestRetreat.org
DECEMBER 9 & 10
6:30 & 8:00 PM each night
632 W Main St, Ephrata
Join friends and family in the historic 1741 Meetinghouse to enjoy a “lessons and carols” celebration of the season. Two programs are offered each night, one starting at 6:30 p.m. and the other at 8:00 p.m. Seating is limited, and advance tickets are required for this event.
Additional information at ephratacloister.org
December 27-30 | 6:30-9:00 PM
632 W Main St, Ephrata
Historic Ephrata Cloister’s Lantern Tours are themed theatrical tours led by students involved in the Student Historian program. Tickets go on sale online on December 1st!
Additional information at ephratacloister.org