Have yourself a mERIE Christmas!
This weekend is packed with festive ways to get outside, support local traditions and soak in all the holiday magic.
Whether you’re looking for twinkling lights, community celebrations or a scenic nighttime drive, here are three events you won’t want to miss.
Winter Wonderland at Asbury Woods
Begins December 4 | Thursdays–Sundays (closed Dec. 25) | 5:30–8:30 p.m.
If you’re looking for a gentle, peaceful way to kick off your holiday season, this is it.
Go walking through this winter wonderland in Millcreek.
Asbury Woods’ beloved Winter Wonderland is back—transforming its accessible boardwalk into a sparkling holiday escape.
Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, where lights twinkle through the trees and wetlands for a cozy, immersive winter experience perfect for all ages.
Inside the Nature Center, you’ll find animal exhibits, a holiday gift shop and a sprawling festive model train display that’s always a hit with families.
Admission to both the boardwalk and Nature Center is free, with donations appreciated to support programming at Asbury Woods.
Downtown d’Lights
Dec. 5 | Beginning at 5 p.m. | Perry Square
Bundle up and head downtown for the annual Downtown d’Lights, a bright and bustling celebration that turns Perry Square into the heart of Erie’s holiday season.
Here’s the schedule at a glance:
- 5 p.m. – Event opens with free hot cocoa, free holiday children’s books, music, ice skating, and the start of the toy drive, hat/coat drive and holiday shops
- 6–6:30 p.m. – Santa arrives for the tree and park lighting countdown
- 6:30–8:30 p.m. – Visit with Santa on the Perry Square stage … plus free horse-drawn carriage rides
Presque Isle Lights
Begins Dec. 5 (ends Dec. 28) | Fridays–Sundays | After dark at Presque Isle State Park
Experience Presque Isle State Park like never before with Presque Isle Lights, a drive-through display that highlights the park’s natural beauty with glowing light installations and festive scenes.
This year introduces a new 3.6-mile round-trip route, designed to be brighter, more concentrated and easier to navigate. The updated path allows visitors to take in the full experience in about 15–20 minutes, with room to slow down and enjoy the magic.
The event runs Friday through Sunday, from Dec. 5 through Dec. 28. As always, admission is free and donations help support the park and its programs.
It's Christmas 365 