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Arts and entertainment roll on around Erie as 2025 winds down. What to see and do

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Thursday, November 6th 2025 at 6:01 GMT by Erie Times-News
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Erie’s Festive Finale: 2025 Holiday Highlights You Can’t Miss

As the crisp November air settles over Erie, Pennsylvania, the city’s holiday spirit begins to shine. Whether you’re a long‑time resident or a curious traveler, Erie’s 2025 winter calendar is bursting with activities that cater to families, food lovers, and cultural enthusiasts alike. From dazzling light displays to cozy community gatherings, there’s something for everyone as the city embraces the season’s warmth and wonder.

1. Lights That Keep the Night Bright

Erie’s annual “Holiday Lights in City Park” is the first stop on any holiday itinerary. The park’s 2.5 miles of illuminated pathways, complete with a massive 200‑foot Christmas tree and a carousel that plays holiday classics, creates a scene straight out of a storybook. Visitors can enjoy free admission, but special themed nights—such as “Carols & Cocoa” on Thanksgiving weekend—require tickets, which are available through the city’s official holiday portal. For those craving a more immersive experience, the “City Lights Tour” offers guided tours of the park’s most impressive displays, complete with a brief history of Erie’s lighting tradition.

Nearby, Presque Isle State Park transforms into a winter wonderland each December. The park’s holiday trail is illuminated with string lights, making it safe for snowshoeing and night hikes. A seasonal “Tree‑Light Up” ceremony, streamed live on the park’s website, celebrates the planting of new holiday trees each year and invites the community to join in a moment of reflection and hope.

2. Markets, Malls, and Mirth

Erie’s downtown hosts a lively “Holiday Market at the Erie Historical Society”, where local artisans showcase handmade gifts, festive décor, and seasonal treats. The market, open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., features a “DIY Ornament” station that encourages families to craft their own holiday keepsakes. A link to the market’s event page offers detailed vendor lists, parking information, and a schedule of live music performances.

For food lovers, “Erie’s Christmas Eve Feast” at the historic “Miller’s Tavern” presents a unique opportunity to taste regional specialties. The tavern’s menu—available on its website—features a three‑course menu that incorporates locally sourced produce and Erie‑grown dairy, all served on a carved oak table with an array of holiday desserts.

3. Family‑Friendly Festivities

The city’s beloved “Erie County Holiday Parade” is a highlight for families. The parade, which traverses Main Street and the historic Erie Mall, showcases marching bands, school choirs, and floats depicting beloved holiday characters. According to the Erie County official page, the parade starts at 10 a.m. on Sunday, November 24, and is free for all attendees. An “Early‑Bird” view spot is available at the Erie County Courthouse steps, and a “Family Fun Pack”—including a scavenger hunt booklet—can be downloaded for kids.

Adjacent to the parade route, the “Kids’ Winter Carnival” at the Erie Children’s Museum features snowman building contests, a “Build‑Your‑Own Snowflake” craft station, and a holiday storytime session by local authors. Tickets are available online and include a complimentary hot chocolate.

4. Cultural Touchstones

Erie’s vibrant arts scene shines brightest in the winter months. The Erie College Christmas Concert, held at the university’s main auditorium, showcases a mix of classical, contemporary, and student‑composed works. Information on performance times, seating, and special “Meet the Composer” sessions is posted on the college’s events page.

Meanwhile, the “Erie Art Gallery’s Holiday Exhibition”—located in the historic Carnegie Library—features works by local artists that explore winter themes. A free admission policy encourages visitors to stroll through the galleries and enjoy the seasonal installations, with a “Gallery Crawl” map downloadable from the gallery’s website.

5. Outdoor Adventures in the Snow

If you’re looking for adventure, Erie’s “Winter Birding Trail” at Presque Isle offers guided tours that explore the region’s migratory patterns during the colder months. The trail, which begins at the park’s visitor center, is ideal for both novice and experienced birders. Booking information can be found on the park’s birding page, which also lists seasonal bird species and equipment rental options.

For those seeking a more leisurely outing, the “Erie Snowshoe Festival”—held on the 30th of November—provides free snowshoes, a scenic trail, and on‑site coaching for beginners. The festival’s official site offers a downloadable trail map, weather updates, and a list of local partner businesses that supply refreshments.

6. Planning Your Visit

Erie’s 2025 holiday calendar is both diverse and accessible. The city’s official tourism site offers a comprehensive “Holiday Planner” that aggregates all events, includes public transportation schedules, and provides accommodation tips. For travelers, the Erie Regional Airport’s website includes a “Holiday Travel Pack” that lists flight deals and car‑rental promotions.

Whether you’re strolling through illuminated parkways, enjoying a live concert, or embarking on a winter hike, Erie’s holiday season offers a tapestry of experiences that celebrate community, culture, and the joys of the season.

7. Embrace Erie’s Holiday Spirit

Erie’s 2025 winter events are a testament to the city’s commitment to bringing people together. With well‑timed light displays, engaging markets, family‑centric festivities, enriching cultural events, and outdoor adventures, Erie invites everyone to revel in the holiday magic. Check the city’s holiday portal for up‑to‑date schedules and ticket availability, and prepare to experience a season that feels both timeless and wonderfully contemporary.