Hanover, PA — The holiday season is about to shine bright in downtown Hanover! Main Street Hanover, in partnership with the Christmas in Hanover Committee, and the Borough of Hanover proudly presents the 2025 Christmas in Hanover Festival, kicking off on Saturday, November 29 at 11:00 AM with a full day of festive activities for all ages.
This cherished annual celebration transforms downtown Hanover into a winter wonderland filled with music, laughter, and holiday cheer. From the Santa Parade to live performances, family-friendly film screenings, and the beloved Tree Lighting Ceremony, there’s something magical for everyone.
Festival Highlights:
Friday, November 28, 2025
- Santa’s Cabin Opens: 9:00 AM–1:00 PM | 2:00 PM–5:00 PM | 6:00 PM–8:00 PM
Saturday, November 29, 2025 – Christmas Festival Day!
- 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Santa Parade
- 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM & 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Santa’s Cabin Open
- 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM: Screenings of Elf (2003) at the Eichelberger Performing Arts Center
- 195 Stock Street, Suite 200 | Tickets $7 | Available online or at the door
- 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Christmas Carolers Strolling Downtown
- 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Live Music in the Square with Bob Cratchit and the Bookkeepers
- 6:00 PM: Tree Lighting Ceremony in Center Square (Rain Date: December 6 at 6:00 PM)
Bonus Holiday Activities:
- Free Hot Chocolate: Courtesy of Emerge Church, available outside Santa’s Cabin (while supplies last).
- Stockings for Veterans & Seniors Drop-Off Booth: Donate filled stockings or individual items (like socks, snacks, lotion, stationery, and a Christmas card) to spread holiday cheer to those in need. Located in the Hanover Square.
- Hanover Market House Stand: Visit on November 29, December 6, 13, 20, and 27 to learn about holiday events, purchase merchandise, and support community festivities.
Free Holiday Parking
Enjoy free parking in all downtown metered spaces every Friday and Saturday from November 28 through December 27. Spend more time shopping, dining, and enjoying the holiday spirit without the hassle of feeding meters!
Santa’s Cabin Hours
Join the Fun!
Want to be part of the Santa Parade or our Bike Decorating Contest?
Fill out your registration form at MainStreetHanover.org/christmas-in-hanover by November 15 to participate.
Young artists can also enter our Annual Coloring Contest! Submit entries to the Christmas Mailbox in Center Square or mail to Main Street Hanover, 40 York Street, Hanover, PA 17331 by Saturday, November 15, 2025.
Celebrate the Season in Downtown Hanover!
From twinkling lights and holiday music to community spirit and classic traditions, Christmas in Hanover is where memories are made. Bring your family, invite your friends, and be part of the holiday magic that makes downtown Hanover shine.
For a full schedule of events, contest details, and volunteer opportunities, visit www.mainstreethanover.org.
The mission of Main Street Hanover is to expand the economic capacity of downtown Hanover, thus improving the business environment, enhancing the quality of place, and increasing community synergy.
Main Street Hanover is a 501c3 non-profit & proceeds benefit the revitalization of Downtown Hanover.