Good morning, neighbors! Today, West Chester Pike will experience cooler temperatures with periods of clouds and sunshine. It's expected to be breezy this afternoon, with a high around 43°F (6°C) and a low near 29°F (-1°C). As the weekend approaches, anticipate much colder conditions.

LocalThings Happening Today

Ugly Sweater Party

📅 Thursday, December 19, 2024
📅 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM
📍 Taproom, DiFabio's Market & Tap

Features:

• Ugly sweater contest with $50 gift card prize

• Holiday drink specials

• Happy Hour all night

• Photos with Christmas characters

Christmas Vinyl Adventures

📅 Thursday, December 19, 2024
📍 Twelve78 Brewing Company

Schedule:

• Special Happy Hour starts at 5:00 PM

• Music at 6:00 PM with DJ Minty Fresh

• Christmas Vinyl Bingo

• Ugly Sweater Contest

• Holiday treats

Wine'd Through Wayne

📅 Thursday, December 19, 2024
📅 6:30 PM (shotgun start)
📍 Downtown Wayne, PA

Seasonal stroll through Wayne with wine, beverages, and bites at participating locations. Tickets: $35 per person.

Historical Spotlight: Washington's March to Valley Forge

On December 19, 1777, General George Washington led the Continental Army into winter quarters at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. After a series of defeats, including the loss of Philadelphia to the British, Washington chose Valley Forge for its strategic location—close enough to monitor British activities in Philadelphia, yet distant enough to prevent a surprise attack.

The six-month encampment tested the resilience of his troops, who endured harsh conditions, disease, and supply shortages. Despite these hardships, the time at Valley Forge became a turning point in the Revolutionary War, as the army emerged more disciplined and unified, thanks in part to the training efforts of Baron Friedrich von Steuben.

🎄 Local Special Holiday Events & Offers 🎄 

FOOD & DINING EVENTS

La Cabra Brewing: Smoked Christmas Prime Rib Dinner

📅 Friday, December 20th & Saturday, December 21st
📍 La Cabra Brewery & La Cabra Smokehouse (both locations)

Festive dinner featuring:

• Smoked Prime Rib

• Bacon & Cranberry Green Beans

• Potatoes au Gratin

• Wild Mushroom Demi-Glace

Limited quantities available each night!

Apple Walnut Cafe: Christmas To-Go & Breakfast

📅 Christmas Eve Pickup: 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM
📍 2924 West Chester Pike, Broomall, PA

Menu options include:

• Turkey Platters: $20.50 (add pie or cake for $2)

• Ham Platters: $16.00

• Extra Sides: Gravy, cinnamon rolls, stuffing, mashed potatoes

• Sweet Treats: Whole pies, cakes, and cheesecakes starting at $22

• Christmas Breakfast: Brioche French Toast Bakes, Scramble Bowls, Whole Quiches

5th Annual Christmas Breakfast

📅 Wednesday, December 25, 2024
📅 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
📍 Backyard Ale House, 523 Linden St., Scranton

A special Christmas morning breakfast for community members facing barriers. Donations of new or gently used toys, non-perishable food, gloves, and hats are welcomed.

Holiday Sale at Botanery Barn Distilling

📅 Through December 20th, 2024

20% OFF your entire order of handcrafted spirits, perfect for gifts or holiday gatherings. Discount automatically applied at checkout.

SPORTS & FITNESS

S3 Girls Holiday Camp

📅 Friday, December 27th, 2024
📍 United Sports Training Center, Downingtown, PA

Sessions:

• U8-U10: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

• U11-U13: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Features all-female staff, Division 1 college coach interaction, technical training, small-sided games, prizes, and a Q&A session.

Winter Camp for Goalkeepers

📅 December 21-22, 2024
📍 United Sports Dome, Downingtown, PA

Led by former U.S. National Team goalkeeper Jillian Loyden and Olympic gold medalist Kailen Sheridan. Features intense field sessions, technical training, and individualized feedback.

Christmas Eve Yoga Classes

📅 Tuesday, December 24, 2024
📍 The Works Malvern - Yoga & Wellness Studio

Schedule:

• 8:00 AM: Fusion with Allison

• 9:30 AM: Power Hour with Kathleen

SHOPPING & MARKETS

Nifty Fifty's Gift Card Promotion

📅 Now through December 21st
📍 niftyfiftys.com

Order a gift card online ($20 minimum) and receive a FREE Collectible Christmas Ornament. Online orders only, while supplies last.

Grange Vintage Home Decor Shop Holiday Hours

📍 The Grange Vintage Shop

Special Hours:

• Friday, December 20th: 5:00 - 7:30 PM

• Saturday, December 21st: 1:00 - 4:00 PM

Additional hours available into January!

Holiday Magic in Kennett Square

📍 Kennett Square (8 minutes from Longwood Gardens)

Stroll through the town and vote for your favorite holiday window displays. Enjoy dining at local restaurants and unique finds at boutiques.

Berwyn Farmers Market Winter Schedule

Last 2024 Market: Sunday, December 22nd, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Winter Market starts January 12, 2025 (2nd & 4th Sundays, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM)

HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS

Menorah Lighting at Suburban Square

📅 Thursday, December 26, 2024
📅 5:00 PM
📍 Suburban Square Lawn

Celebrate Hanukkah with the community. Enjoy traditional menorah lighting, hot apple cider, dreidel-making, and crafts.

UPCOMING REGISTRATION

Riverbend Environmental Education Center: 2025 Summer Camp

📅 Registration Opens: Tuesday, December 17th

Give your kids a summer filled with hiking, crafting, science, and fun!

National Re-Gifting Day: Support Local Artisans for Unique Gifts

Today is National Re-Gifting Day, but instead of passing along items, consider the joy and thoughtfulness of selecting unique, locally crafted gifts. Supporting local artisans not only provides your loved ones with one-of-a-kind presents but also strengthens our community's economy and fosters creativity. Here are some local art galleries and boutiques along the Pike where you can find exceptional gifts:

The 5 Senses

A local art gallery hosting a collection of functional art objects chosen to satisfy one or more of your five senses. From handcrafted jewelry to unique home décor, you're sure to find a special gift here. 

Ginkgo Arts

A community of artists offering unique co-working studio spaces. Visit their gallery to discover original artworks and crafts, perfect for thoughtful gifting. 

The Art Trust Gallery at Meridian Bank

Enhancing the local cultural environment by linking businesses, civic philanthropy, and the arts. Explore exhibitions of regional fine artists and find distinctive pieces for art enthusiasts. 

Sunset Hill Jewelers & Fine Arts Gallery

On the second floor, this gallery exhibits original work from both local and non-local artists. It's an excellent place to find fine art pieces that make memorable gifts. 

Church Street Gallery

Featuring contemporary art exhibitions, this gallery offers a range of artworks that cater to diverse tastes, ensuring a unique present for your loved ones. 

By choosing to shop at these local establishments, you not only find meaningful gifts but also contribute to the vibrancy and sustainability of our local arts scene.

Whether you're reflecting on our nation's history or exploring local boutiques for the perfect gift, there's much to appreciate along the Pike today. Don't forget your umbrella, and have a wonderful day!