If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping straight into a Hallmark Christmas movie, you might not need to look any further than Montrose, Pennsylvania.
Out of every town across the state, big city or tiny borough, Montrose has been named the most Hallmark-like of them all.
Travel Writer Says Montrose Is Holiday Movie Perfection
Robin O’Neal Smith, writing for Travel Awaits, dug into towns across Pennsylvania to find the one that fully embraces the magic of the holiday season. Her top pick? Montrose. According to O’Neal Smith, Montrose checks off nearly every single box you’d expect to see in a heartwarming holiday flick, from snow-covered streets to small-town charm and community cheer.
Christmas in Montrose via Facebook
Christmas in Montrose via FacebookA Festival Straight Out of a Script
One of the primary reasons Montrose earned the top spot is its highly anticipated Christmas in Montrose Festival. O’Neal Smith described it as something that “warms your heart and appears to be right from the set of a Hallmark movie.” And if you’ve been there, you already know that she’s right.
The whole town transforms into a winter wonderland. We’re talking tree lighting ceremonies, a Christmas village, a gingerbread house contest, and even a twinkling light parade. And yes, there are horse-drawn carriage rides. It’s the kind of place where you can’t help but slow down, smile, and soak in every single festive detail.
Christmas in Montrose via Facebook
Christmas in Montrose via FacebookYes, There’s a Giant Chocolate Santa
You read that right. One of the festival’s signature events is the “Santa Roll,” where kids help roll a giant chocolate Santa down the street. It’s quirky, it’s sweet (literally), and it’s just one more reason Montrose deserves the crown.
A Runner-Up Worth Visiting
If you’re looking to keep the holiday road trip going, you won’t have to go far. Just 30 minutes down the road, you’ll find Tunkhannock, another Pennsylvania town that gives off major Hallmark feelings. Tunkhannock’s Santa Train Rides and Christmas in Our Hometown event is packed with holiday cheer: train rides with Santa, caroling, ice carvings, and their own dazzling Festival of Lights.
Want More Holiday Magic?
Montrose and Tunkhannock are just the beginning. Robin O’Neal Smith put together a whole list of Pennsylvania towns that feel like they were made for Christmas movies. From snow-lined streets to vintage storefronts and community traditions that make the season truly special, the full list is worth exploring.
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Snuggle Up in This Cozy Chic Airbnb Cabin in BinghamtonLocated in a quiet area of Binghamton where there are no neighbors, this cozy cabin is described as being rustic with a touch of chic flair and is hidden from the outside world so you truly will be able to relax and leave your troubles behind as you listen to the crackle of the fire and watch the snow fall or, watch the snow fall while relaxing in the indoor Jacuzzi tub.
Gallery Credit: Traci Taylor