ALLENTOWN, Pa. (WLVT) — There’s plenty of ways to get outdoors and explore this time of year.
Check out PBS39's top picks below:
WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR
The Winter Light Spectacular is back at the Lehigh Valley Zoo. Chief operating officer Matt Provence says the outdoor, walk-thru holiday attraction, which boasts over one million holiday lights, is ideal for social distancing.
"This is a Christmas winter wonderland right in our own backyard in Schnecksville," Provence told PBS39. "So far, we’ve had a strong fall season. We’re actually seeing better numbers this year than we did last year. I think that’s because guests know that they can be outdoors, wear their mask, which we do require, and social distance. We have 29-acres of open air space here at the zoo."
Visitors, he says, will appreciate some new additions for 2020.
"We added a gigantic lighted star, which is a good photo opportunity for families," he said. "We also have a green screen to take pictures with a virtual Santa Claus."
Winter Light Spectacular is the zoo’s largest fundraiser of the year. Provence is hopeful about this year’s returns.
"Our supporters have been great and we just hope people come out and enjoy what we have to offer," said Provence. "It’s safe family fun."
The event runs through Jan. 2nd. Guests are required to buy tickets in advance on the zoo’s website.
KOZIAR'S CHRISTMAS VILLAGE
Another holiday favorite, Koziar’s Christmas Village, is open. The Koziar family opened its Bernville, Berks County farm to the public over 70 years ago. The village features a variety of lighted holiday landscapes.
General admission is $12. Guests who attend during prime visiting hours will be charged an additional $5 per ticket. The village is open through Jan. 1st.
EASTON PEACE CANDLE
The holiday season kicks-off in Easton next Friday with the annual Peace Candle lighting. The 106-foot-tall Easton Peace Candle was first lit in 1951 in honor of those serving in the armed forces. It’s erected each year over the Soldiers and Sailors monument at Centre Square.
The candle lighting typically includes a kick-off event and festival. However, this year, there are no formal activities scheduled due to limitations on crowd size.