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Just a small hop, skip and jump from the Lehigh Valley, one can leap into experiencing the season’s offerings in the Pocono Region of Pennsylvania. Witnessing the harvest hues that appear to have been painted on the sides of mountains and the winter white that caps the towns and blankets the streets make this a perfect backdrop for this cold-weather travel destination. A favorite of mine is to spend time visiting and partaking in various festivities that are set for the holiday season in the Pocono region. Jim Thorpe is a wonderful place to be any time of year, but it takes on a bit of holiday magic in December, and I want to share this with the readers of Lehigh Valley Magazine. As I approached the town of Jim Thorpe, the view of the town took my breath away. It is close to the Lehigh Valley but feels like a trip back in time. The architecture of the homes and historical buildings are remarkable, and I found myself walking through town with my eyes looking up and around in complete fascination. It was a beautiful fall day. The sun was shining, but the air was beginning to turn cool. Sitting on the porch of the Harry Packer Mansion, I was mesmerized by its beauty. I met with some folks, and they were very excited about the upcoming Olde Time Christmas. Jim Thorpe’s Olde Time Christmas welcomes tourists and neighbors to enjoy the many events taking place throughout the town. There will be a live nativity, a gingerbread house contest, historic ghost walks and musicians. Bob Eulo, aka Santa, decorates Joshua White Park and prepares the Tree Lighting Ceremony, December 4 at 5 p.m. The Faculty Brass Band, carolers and the Marine’s Toys for Tots will be at the ceremony for this festive occasion. There will be free photos with Santa (bring a camera) and train rides on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway (LGSR) with Santa during the weekends (December 4 to 6 and 12 to 13). The LGSR’s coaches were built as early as 1917, and the ride follows the Lehigh River for a 16-mile, round-trip ride that is comfortable and relaxing. The Asa and Harry Packer mansions will be decorated and open for tours. The Harry Packer Mansion will shine with more than 10,000 lights. First Fridays are also a favorite of the guests at the Harry Packer Mansion. Also on the first Friday of each month, the Libation Lounge hosts a themed, wine-pairing evening. Taylor Handwerk smiles as he explains, “First Friday is about socializing and having fun.” Alice Wanamaker from the Carbon Chamber and Economic Development Corporation enthusiastically speaks about the kick-off to the holiday season with Small Business Saturday. “This will take place the weekend after Thanksgiving and promotes small business,” she explains. “This is not just about shopping; it’s about the experience.” Read the full story here.