Jim Thorpe is a spectacular little town, appropriately referenced to as the “Switzerland of America”. Steeped in rich history and blessed with a thriving business and art scene, any day in Jim Thorpe has an air of festivity to it that makes it not quite like any other place in Pennsylvania. So one can imagine that the Jim Thorpe Olde Time Christmas really delivers! The whole town comes out in full force to celebrate the winter season and the holidays with Olde Time Christmas. This festival goes right back to the nineteenth century days of Mauch Chunk (before the town was called Jim Thorpe) with an authentic and affectionate three weekend-long celebration.
For Olde Time Christmas everyone is dressed in period costume, and for visitors who dress up there are special deals at local shops and restaurants. Of course, for those visitors not in costume there are still plenty of great specials at the amazing restaurants and the stores are all running special deals and longer hours in celebration of the festival. The yuletide fun carries quickly into the streets with carolers and carriage rides. There are tours of the historic Packer Mansion and spooky ghost walks. Every Sunday the opera house hosts plays and concerts
The parade is a must see. It showcases a live nativity, characters from A Christmas Carol and of course, Santa Clause. The parade marches right into Josiah White Park and ends with the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree. After the parade, catch a train ride with Santa and peruse the arts bazaar. There are activities for the kids like face painting and storytelling, wine for the adults, and anyone can have some fresh cookies and hot cocoa!
Jim Thorpe’s many businesses and talented artists celebrate Olde Time Christmas by crafting live wreaths. These beautifully decorated wreaths are one-of-a-kind and are sold at the information center. Hurry, because these popular wreaths go fast! Also, don’t miss the chance to do the Mug Walk. The official Olde Time Christmas Mug can be purchased at the festival or pre-purchased via email. The Mug Walk is a great way to get into the spirit of Olde Time Christmas and see all the great shops of Jim Thorpe!
Admission to the festival is free but some of the events are moderately priced and require tickets. Parking is limited.
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