Pandemic Prompts Changes To Peddler's Village Light Show Debut

LAHASKA, PA — One million lights will once again glow in Peddler's Village this holiday season, an annual tradition in the 42-acre shopping destination for 58 years.

But the kickoff will be a bit different in 2020.

Instead of the annual Grand Illumination Celebration, which normally draws thousands of people to the village for a two-hour event, officials are hosting a daily series of mini lightings beginning Thursday, Nov. 19, in an effort to deter large gatherings of people.

“While 2020 has presented us with myriad challenges we never expected, we are planning very creatively for the holidays, with safety as a top priority,” Peddler’s Village Chief Operating Officer Bob McGowan said. “We feel very fortunate to be an outdoor destination where we can offer some holiday magic in the fresh air.”

From Nov. 19-22, and again from Nov. 22-29, lights will turn on in one of three key areas of the village at 5:30 p.m., 6 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Santa will also make surprise socially distanced appearances during those two weekends, as well as on Dec. 5-6.

Other key dates include:

• Thursday, Nov. 19 - Gingerbread House Competition and Display
• Friday, Nov. 20 - Sunday, Nov. 22 - Merchants Open House
• Friday, Nov. 27 - Extended hours from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Monday-Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Sunday

In accordance with state mandates, masks are required outdoors when it is not possible to maintain at least a six-foot distance from others.

For more information about holiday happenings at Peddler’s Village, visit PeddlersVillage.com.