– by Hunter Hulbert
A lot of the magic we feel around the holidays revolves around what we cannot see, but in Bellefonte, that magic is physically in front of you — everywhere you go.
Turn the corner on Allegheny Street, and you’ll see it. Horses trotting around town, carriage in tow, carrying visitors past all the sights. Carolers, dressed in extravagant Victorian outfits, singing all the Christmas classics from every street corner. And Santa — yes, even Santa — setting up shop in front of the courthouse, eager to hear the wishlists whispered in his ear from kids far and near.
This is the magic of Bellefonte Victorian Christmas, a treasured tradition held in early December for the past 42 years — and counting. The latest edition is what brought me into town, to experience a piece of Central PA’s culture that I never knew existed despite having attended Penn State University, which is just a stone’s throw away.
It’s safe to say I will not make that same mistake again.
Carriage rides, carolers and Santa aside, Bellefonte Victorian Christmas is a celebration of community spirit. Many of the shops deck the halls with bells and whistles (literally!), including model trains, gingerbread houses and garlands galore. Exhibit A? That’s Belle Mercantile, a collective marketplace overflowing with festive decor.
Area restaurants also up their holiday game by adjusting their menus to incorporate seasonal drinks and dishes. Bonfatto’s does this by day with coffee, breakfast and lunch options (can you say “Sugar Cookie Latte” without falling in love?), and Big Spring Spirits hits the spot at night with dinner and cocktails set against the backdrop of a huge Christmas tree.
The tradition isn’t contained to one day, though. You’ll find activities and experiences scattered across the weekend, from theatrical productions during Opening Ceremonies to the elegance of Victorian High Teas to the shopper’s dream that is the Winter Market.
Don’t forget about the Festival of Trees, either. More than 60 decorated Christmas trees create a labyrinth of discovery alongside dancing, raffles, food and more. Last year’s trees featured themes like the CATA Bus, “The Polar Express” and America (red, white and blue) to give you a sense of the creativity you’ll see. The tower of poinsettias is also quite a sight to see.
Of course, these attractions only scratch the surface of what awaits at Bellefonte Victorian Christmas. I didn’t even mention the bed-and-breakfast scene, which is worth exploring on its own with a stay at landmarks like The Queen or Our Fair Lady. Point is: You’ll want to dedicate the weekend for exploring. Trust me, it’s worth it for a full dose of holiday magic.
While organizers are still in the planning stages for the 2024 event and no dates have been announced yet, you can stay updated by visiting bellefontevictorianchristmas.com or keep checking The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau website.
December will be here before you know it, and so will Bellefonte Victorian Christmas. See you there!
