A Wonderland of Winter
Discover Seasonal Events in the PA Great Lakes Region
Winter in the PA Great Lakes Region is a magical time, transforming Erie, Crawford, Mercer, and Venango counties into a wonderland of twinkling lights, festive events, and snowy adventures. From ice festivals and light displays to holiday celebrations and outdoor fun, each county offers unique experiences that capture the spirit of the season. Let’s explore the must-see winter events that make this region a cozy, enchanting destination for all.
Avalanche Express - Crawford County
Liberty Courthouse - Venango County
Ice House Festival - Crawford County
Linesville Lighted Tractor Parade - Crawford County
Crawford County
A Winter Tapestry of Lights and Festivities
- Winter Ice House Festival: Witness ice come to life in Meadville with spectacular ice sculptures, live carving demonstrations, and winter activities for all ages.
- Trees of Light on the Barbara J: A beautiful Holiday Tradition, enjoy a 1 ½ hour tour on the Barbara J to view the Trees of Light around Conneaut Lake.
- Merry Meadville: Celebrate the holiday season with downtown festivities, including shopping, dining, and entertainment in a festive atmosphere.
- Linesville Lighted Tractor Parade: Experience a unique holiday parade featuring tractors and farm equipment decked out in lights, a true rural celebration.
Erie County
Sparkling Lights and Winter Delights
- Presque Isle Lights: Take a mesmerizing drive through Presque Isle State Park, adorned with holiday lights that reflect off the snow and water.
- Erie Otters Hockey: Season 28 of Erie Otters Hockey features the most home games ever played in the team’s history!
- Groundhog’s Winterfest – Celebrate Tater & Spud at Poverty Knob’s Groundhog’s Winterfest, February 1-2, with free admission, winter fun, and groundhog-themed activities!
- Erie Winter Carnival – Returns February 21-23 with over 60 ice sculptures, fire dancing, kids’ activities, skating, and more in Perry Square and Downtown Erie!
Erie Otters Hockey - Erie County
Presque Isle Lights - Erie County
Winter Carnival - Erie County
WinterFest at Buhl Farm Park - Mercer
Mercer County
Holiday Magic and Safari Lights
- Keystone Safari Holiday Light Nights: Explore an illuminated safari park, where holiday lights meet exotic animals for a unique festive experience.
- Christmas Events at the Gibson House: Step back in time with Victorian Christmas celebrations, complete with decorations, music, and holiday cheer.
- Santa’s Christmas Land at Kraynaks: Visit this holiday wonderland, featuring a renowned Christmas display that captivates visitors with its festive scenes and decorations.
- Shenango River Lake’s Eagles Fest: Bundle up for a winter day outdoors, where you can spot majestic eagles and learn about local wildlife.
Venango County
Festive Nights and Icy Delights
- Light Up Night in Franklin: Kick off the holiday season with Franklin’s annual lighting ceremony, complete with music, festivities, and community cheer.
- First Night New Year’s Eve in Oil City: Ring in the New Year with concerts, art, and fireworks in a family-friendly celebration of creativity and community.
- Franklin on Ice: Marvel at the artistry of ice carvers as they transform blocks of ice into stunning sculptures, adding a touch of magic to Franklin’s winter landscape.
Egbert Fountain, Franklin - Venango County
Downtown Fountain - Venango County
Winter in the PA Great Lakes Region is a season of joy, community, and natural beauty.
Whether you’re drawn to the serene glow of holiday lights, the excitement of festive parades, or the allure of winter wildlife, our region offers countless ways to celebrate the season. Join us as we wrap up in the warmth of community spirit and make the most of winter’s wonder.
