(Indoor + Outdoor Ideas for Central PA Families)
That final weekend before Christmas always feels a little different. The countdown is on, the to-do list is still long, and the excitement in the house is… a lot. Before things tip fully into wrapping paper, sugar highs, and last-minute errands, this is your chance to slow down and soak up a little more of the season.
The good news? It doesn’t have to be big, expensive, or perfectly planned. Some of the most meaningful memories happen when you lean into what works for this weekend, weather and all.
Here are a few easy, realistic ways to squeeze every last bit of magic out of the final weekend before Christmas, with options for both indoor and outdoor plans right here in Central PA.
If the Weather Cooperates (Bundle Up + Head Outside)
Cold air can still feel festive when the plan is simple.
Ride the Santa train at the Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad
A holiday train ride is such a classic way to slow down and soak in the season. Kids love the experience, parents love that it’s contained and easy, and it feels special without being overwhelming.
Visit Hershey Sweet Lights or Christmas Candy Lane
Whether you walk or drive, seeing the lights at Hershey Sweet Lights or along Christmas Candy Lane is an easy way to make the night feel magical. Pajamas, snacks in the car, and a Christmas playlist go a long way here.
Quick outdoor moment at sunset
Even a short walk or a few minutes outside bundled up can be enough. You don’t need hours. Sometimes fifteen minutes is perfect.
Christmas Magic at Rocky Ridge Park (York County Parks)
Each year, York County Parks celebrates the holiday season with Christmas Magic – A Festival of Lights at Rocky Ridge Park. Visitors can enjoy more than one million twinkling LED lights and animated scenes along a half-mile, ADA-accessible walking trail surrounded by picturesque woods.
Families can wander a candy cane–lined pathway, stroll beneath trees wrapped in colorful lights, and spot festive characters tucked throughout the trail. There are plenty of photo opportunities along the way, plus hot chocolate and cookies to help everyone warm up.
It’s a truly magical experience for visitors of all ages and a great way to soak up a little extra holiday cheer before Christmas.
When is Christmas Magic?
Christmas Magic runs from the day after Thanksgiving through December 30 (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). Tickets go on sale starting November 13, 2025.
If the Weather Is Miserable (Lean Fully Into Indoor Plans)
Because let’s be honest, Central PA weather in December doesn’t always cooperate.
Keystone Kidspace
If you need your kids to burn off some energy before the big day, Keystone Kidspace is a great option. It’s hands-on, engaging, and a lifesaver when everyone needs to move their bodies after too much indoor time at home.
Holiday movie + snack afternoon
Pick one movie, grab popcorn or cookies, and sit together. No multitasking. No pressure. Just cozy togetherness. Drop your favorite Christmas movie in the blog comments!
Simple baking or crafts at home
Cookie decorating, paper chains, or coloring together. The mess is part of the memory. Scroll to the bottom for a low stress recipe!
Lower the Bar (On Purpose)
This weekend doesn’t need to be picture-perfect. Kids won’t remember how clean the house was or how many activities you packed in.
They’ll remember:
- Feeling excited
- Feeling cozy
- Feeling connected
And often, those memories come from the simplest moments.
A Gentle Reminder
These in-between moments, the ones right before Christmas morning, matter just as much as the big day itself. Take a few photos on your phone. Hand the phone to someone else once in a while so you’re in them too. Future you will be thankful.
A Cozy Treat to Make Together 🍬
If staying in sounds more your speed this weekend, one of my favorite low-pressure traditions is making Christmas puppy chow with my kids. No baking, no perfection, just a little sugar and a lot of giggles.
I put together a simple Christmas puppy chow recipe that’s easy to make with kids and perfect for a cozy afternoon at home.
👉 Download the recipe here:
[Free Christmas Puppy Chow Recipe]
About Kate
Kate McCord is a mom of three and the photographer behind Kate McCord Photography, serving families throughout Central Pennsylvania. She creates warm, natural images that celebrate real connection and the fleeting seasons of motherhood and childhood.
If you’re ready to slow down and document this season with your family, you can view upcoming sessions and join the waitlist here.
