Bucks County residents immerse themselves yearly into a winter wonderland village known as Peddler’s Village with the celebration of the holiday season to be enjoyed by every age group. Located in the town of New Hope, Pennsylvania, Peddler’s Village is a popular attraction for visitors and residents alike. Whether it’s the small stores that line the cobblestone streets or the scenery and lights that wrap around the greenery, Peddler’s Village has something for everyone to enjoy. Although the town is in place all year round, the environment surrounding the village during the holiday season is unlike any other and brings together diverse groups of people in the spirit of the festivities. With a quick visit to experience the cheerful climate, I was able to immerse myself into an event adored by many.

Cars packed in every available space, it took more time than most would like in finding a parking space, but once we finally were out, the colorful lights that sparked on practically every tree and bush in the surrounding area were blinding. Walking on the cobblestone crosswalk into the heart of the village, an archway of lights covered the path. Crowds gathered around every pathway and crosswalk littered throughout the village and every doorway and shop had lines of people waiting to be let in. With cold air hitting every exposed part of my skin along with the fresh, strong smell of hot chocolate lingering in the air, I truly felt like I had walked into a doorway and entered a Hallmark holiday movie. The adventure within the village doesn’t stop on the streets. Scattered throughout, I could find shops that sold spiritual items, boutiques with stylistic clothing and simple gift shops for holiday shopping. The shops may be one of the main attractions for many of the visitors of Peddler’s Village as the diversity in the genre of shops is never ending. A particular shop that drew my attention was The Fun Place. Children and parents walked in and out of the doors of the small toy and bookstore with the biggest smiles on their faces. As a child to be enveloped in a winter wonderland village and then to get the opportunity to go toy shopping, it most definitely feels like living the dream.

When it comes to the culinary life of Peddler’s Village, the options are endless and plentiful for almost every taste. Whether you’re craving a quick sweet shop visit or a sit-down dinner, the village will make sure your needs are tended to. Quite hungry myself at the moment, I had opted for the option of eating in a sit-down restaurant, Cock ‘n Bull. Upon entering, the restaurant has a dimly lit and warm environment. The menu itself provides a variety of options, however, as a vegetarian, many food choices were limited. The restaurant was top rated and also seemed like one of the busiest spots to eat. However, some village goers like Alexia Tate have a negative experience with the restaurant claiming it to be “overpriced, under seasoned and rushed service.” However, if you are not in the mood for such a restaurant and are craving a more sweet option, Nina’s Waffles freshly made waffles with varieties of toppings was a popular choice.

Many village goers adore the experience, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some negatives when visiting the village. With the popularity of the attraction and the crowds it brings in during the holiday season, many expectations can be held about the village’s prices. One visitor, Neha Bhardwaj, brings to light how “Everything there is so expensive.” However, not much can be expected from such a big tourist attraction especially when even amidst the high expenses, crowds gather in large numbers. From the festive lights, the streams and ponds that are littered within the greenery and the occasional events like Gingerbread competitions, Peddler’s Village holds a special place in many people’s hearts. Neha continues on to say, “I love the vibe of the place. The lights, the people, it’s all very welcoming.” So, if you’re looking for a night out in a hallmark movie town, Peddler’s Village is most definitely the place to go.

Sources:

1.https://peddlersvillage.com/festivals/

2. https://peddlersvillage.com/portfolio-items/cock-n-bull-restaurant/

3.https://peddlersvillage.com/shop