As you stock up on stuffing and pumpkin pie, you know that a lot of work goes into planning Thanksgiving dinner. But what are you to do with a houseful of people after the leftovers have been stored and the Black Friday sales have passed?
Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts hosts two great holiday-themed events that are fun for the whole family! 
The Holiday Trains and Trees exhibit is underway now through January 1, 2014. All ages will enjoy the beautifully decorated Christmas tree display and model trains. Children will enjoy the hands-on activity area, not to mention the KidSteam railroad where the young ones can ride a mini train engine around the track.
Whitaker Center’s IMAX Theatre is hosting two holiday classic films for the seasons. First, is Santa vs. the Snowman 3D. Billed as a hilarious, fun-filled comedy for the whole family, watch Santa and a snowman duke it out for the attention of children at Christmas time. Runs approximately 35 minutes and is suitable for all ages. The Polar Express: An IMAX 3D Experience is another holiday favorite, based on the classic children’s holiday book, runs now through the end of the year.
And of course, one can’t forget Hershey’s magical holiday treats. The AACA Museum hosts Cars & Christmas now through the end of the year. The museum is transformed into a spectacular winter wonderland featuring Christmas trees through the ages adorned with period decorations. Kids of all ages will enjoy the Cammack Gallery filled with exotic cars, Hot Rods, Hot Wheels, Hess Trucks, Dolls, Pedal Cars and much more. Plenty of holiday trains will fill the museum, and Sammy the Snow Plow will make a return appearance!
Pack up the family and a supply of hot cocoa, Hershey Sweet Lights is now open. Drive through the woods behind The Hotel Hershey, following a two mile trail of nearly 600 light displays, set to Christmas music you can hear through your radio. Open every evening through the end of the year.
Another can’t miss of the season is Hersheypark’s Christmas Candylane. More than 30 rides are open (sorry, no rollercoasters, but lots else!), not to mention Santa Claus and live reindeer. There will also be loads of entertainment, like the N.O.E.L. light show set to holiday music, “Home Sweet Home for Christmas” musical at the Chevrolet Music Box Theater. You’ll also get to see real sled dogs, Christmas Candyland Storytime at 3 p.m. on weekends, holiday food demonstrations, strolling characters and more.
Over at the Hershey Lodge, take in some Christmas dinner theater with “Christmas in Chocolatetown, A Holiday Dinner Musical,” now through Dec. 28. Partake in the interactive entertainment experience while sampling holiday punch, hors d’oeuvres, a Christmas-themed dinner – and of course, dessert!
Christmas at American Music Theatre comes with more enchantment and splendor than the North Pole itself. This year’s all-new holiday show titled The First Noel features your favorite seasonal and sacred Christmas songs brought to life by marvelous vocal talent, masterful Orchestra, wondrous costumes, astonishing dancers, breathtaking sets, and all the endearment of a perfect fireside family moment. Beautiful snowscapes, child-like joy, cherished stories, the spirit of love, and all your favorite things about the holiday season are cast onstage in this glorious celebration.
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