Here’s a tip from Montgomery County native, Alison Smith, who works as public relations coordinator for the York County Convention and Visitors Bureau:
“Getting outside of the Beltway bubble is vital for surviving the holidays. When [you] need to decompress from the hustle and bustle, head north to York to unwind and have an authentic American experience.”
Indeed, York County, Pa. — whether for a day trip or a weekend getaway — plays host to an abundance of “laid-back” seasonal events, festivals, fairs and celebrations. And what better time to drift gently away from District life with its copious merrymaking than to visit during the week before New Year’s Day?
If you go
York, Pa.
From D.C.: 1.5 hours travel time
yorkpa.org
Christmas Magic at Rocky Ridge County Park beckons visitors to take a seasonal stroll along its half-mile walking trail decked out with more than 400,000 Christmas lights and holiday scenes. The trail is open through the end of December and makes for a bright and colorful “outdoors-y” way to celebrate the waning days of 2009. After the stroll, a cup of hot mulled wine might hit the spot at Naylor Wine Cellars. Sip some holiday cheer at Naylor’s Open House Weekend this Saturday and Sunday.
Those looking to spend their gift money in places other than big-box stores will delight in York’s variety of innovative shops.
Once again, Smith has suggestions.
“Visit any of the 13 wineries along the UnCork York Wine trail to stock up on locally crafted wine for the perfect hostess gift,” she said. “[And] check out Beaver Street in downtown York for eclectic gifts at the Studio & Art Bar, tasteful accents for your holiday table at Kimman’s and local art at York Arts.”
If choosing overnight accommodations, Smith recommends Lady Linden B&B or the newly renovated Queen Anne Victorian Home, circa 1887, where beautiful rooms are punctuated with local art and the owners share their enthusiasm for York with their guests.
Finally, Smith finds it difficult to contain her enthusiasm when she talks of the New Year’s Eve hoopla around town.
“There’s something about Central Pennsylvania and dropping ‘things’ on New Year’s Eve,” she said. “In York City, the ‘White Rose City’ named after the English War of the Roses, the downtown [area] exudes festive spirit as vendors line the streets, music plays and at the stroke of 12, the white rose is dropped at Sovereign Bank Stadium to cheers! In Dillsburg, they drop a pickle at midnight. You can nosh on fried pickles, buy pickle gear and make some new friends during this annual community event.”
