Montgomery County towns might be small in area and populations, but each Dec., they break forth with some big-time holiday festivities.

The Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board’s chronological guide to Dec. ensures that residents looking for seasonal engagement can find it in their own backyards.

Dec. 1

Glencairn Museum Christmas Homeschool Day, Bryn Athyn

Glencairn Museum welcomes homeschool families to its Bryn Athyn castle for an educational and fun morning.

The day includes access to the World Nativities exhibition, which features Nativity scenes from more than 40 countries. Students can also engage in a scavenger hunt, explore the Pitcairn family’s vintage Christmas celebrations, and leave with Christmas projects to work on at home.

Advance ticket purchases are required, online.

Dec. 3

Valley Forge Beer & Cider Festival, Oaks

Enjoy beer and cider tastings at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks. The roster includes an ugly sweater contest, pretzel necklaces, food trucks, and a chance to help with a charity, the Committee to Benefit the Children, which is holding a toiletry drive.

Dec. 4 

Dickens Festival, Narberth

For one winter’s day each year, Narberth’s population skyrockets, during an 1840s Dickens-themed street fair that has attracted up to 5,000 visitors at once. With hot chocolates and hot toddies in hand, people of all ages can enjoy outdoor carolers, a flea circus, a puppet show, a. kids’ scavenger hunt, and a reading of A Christmas Carol. Even Scrooge couldn’t resist this event; it’s free.

Dec. 8 

Santa Train Arrival, Ambler

Santa will meet children at the Ambler train station and read stories to them at the Borough Hall, accompanied by milk and cookies he provides. Afterward, Ambler, dressed in its seasonal finery, tree blazing in the night, and retailers stocked with unique gifts, is great for a stroll.

Dec. 11

Pottsgrove Manor 18th Century Holiday Frost Fair, Pottstown

Pottsgrove Manor presents the best of olden food and cheer in its first Frost Fair, an outdoor winter market with vendors and activities. The fair offers games, puppet shows, a tavern tent, singing, gingerbread baking, and a manor tour of its 18th century holiday décor.

Dec. 17

Miracle of Lights Hanukkah Laser Show, Elkins Park

The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia presents the Festival of Lights laser show at the historic Beth Sholom Congregation in Elkins Park. Enjoy snacks and a light show presented by Wondergy, that will bring the miracle of lights to life with bright and colorful displays. After the show, guests are invited to attend the camp fair where they will have the opportunity to learn more about the Festival of Lights. Advanced registration is recommended.

Dec. 18

Menorah Lighting at Station Plaza, Ardmore

Celebrate the start of Hanukkah at Ardmore’s Suburban Square. Bring the whole family to this annual menorah lighting to celebrate the eight days of Hannukah. The lighting will take place at the fire feature next to Shack Shake.

Additional Events

Here are a handful more of quick-mention Dec. opportunities:

• Holiday Bricktacular LEGOLAND Discovery Center Philadelphia, Plymouth Meeting (ongoing)
• Dec. 3: Candlelight Event at Peter Wentz Farmstead, Lansdale
• Dec. 8: Story Time and Sing-A-Long with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Rosemont Square, Rosemont
• Dec. 10: Victorian Christmas Open House. Pennypacker Mills, Schwenksville
• Dec 18: Augustus Lutheran Church Sunday School Christmas Pageant, Trappe

Full details (and all links) on these holiday opportunities from across the array of Montgomery County towns is at the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board website.