That’s because Santa is seemingly everywhere in this town, which is steeped in holiday spirit. Just ask Jim Morrison, the white-bearded founder of the National Christmas Center in Paradise, PA, just outside Lancaster. Morrison, who’s collected Christmas memorabilia since he was seven, noticed early on that many of his holiday antiques came from the Lancaster region. “That’s when I realized how important Lancaster was to the American Christmas,” he says.
Children, however, will be more interested in “der Belsnickel,” who comes carrying a switch and a bag of peanuts. Dressed in furs, he doles out the appropriate goods based on whether the children were naughty or nice.
Screens are required on all windows from May through October in Hudson, Wisc. And in Wyoming, it’s illegal to take a shower on Wednesday or to take a picture of a rabbit in your back yard in June.
7. Holiday greenery can be picked up last minute at Shaw’s Old City Green. The three-year-old nursery is offering Christmas trees, wreaths, and garlands in a variety of sizes until December 25. Wreaths start at $15 and trees start at $25, ranging in height from 3 feet to 12 feet. Boxwood, red cedar, and white pine garland sold by the foot is also available.
Instead of a smorgasbord, Plain & Fancy features optional family-style dining, which places strangers elbow-to-elbow at a long table. A 16-item traditional feast includes the Pennsylvania Dutch chicken pot pie. Instead of the usual pastry cap, the savory dish is topped with square noodles. An à la carte menu is also available. Plain & Fancy Farm Restaurant, 800-669-3568, plainandfancyfarm.com.
The economy in Nevada is tough, but state law makes it illegal for owners to pawn their dentures to make their mortgage payments. New Hampshire bans using the toilet on Sundays while looking up.