Good morning, West Chester.

Chester County residents can celebrate the holiday season with festive tree lighting ceremonies and parades—Downingtown’s event at Kerr Park and Upper Uwchlan’s tree lighting with fireworks take place today, and West Chester will host its Christmas Parade and tree lighting of a 28-foot tree on December 5. Other celebrations include Phoenixville’s First Friday Tree Lighting on December 5 and an Exton event featuring live music, gingerbread decorating, and crafts on December 6.

Preparations at the NORCO Fire Company in North Coventry Township are complete and the Carnival of Lights opens today, featuring over half a million lights, carnival rides, food, games, mechanical reindeer, pictures with Santa and holiday crafts.

Admission fees range from $19 to $24 for adults and $14 to $19 for children ages four to 12 — kids three and under get in free; the carnival will run on select nights through New Year's Day.

Motorists in West Chester will face delays next week as PennDOT continues its multi-year safety project on High Street—crews will close a lane from December 1 to December 5 between Lacey Street and Linden Street from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to install lighting conduit and upgrade traffic signals. Drivers are advised to plan for backups and extra travel time during these weekday hours.

A national survey by Renaissance Recovery shows 39% of Pennsylvanians want kratom banned amid concerns it might lead to a public health crisis.

The poll found that most residents view kratom as risky as alcohol and tobacco and say it should be sold only to those over 21—limiting youth access.

Food safety inspectors in Chester County found problems like wrong temperatures, missing labels, and dirty areas at Buddy's Burgers, Farm to Table Retail Outlet, Kokarako, and Malvern Gas Inc. Officials said these routine checks are a snapshot of conditions—owners must act now to protect public health.

2025 West Chester Christmas Parade

5:30-9:30 p.m. — West Chester Lodge #322 — Free — Celebrate the holiday spirit with a festive parade featuring local performers, award-winning floats, and Santa's appearance.

Christkindlmarkt 2025

11 AM – 6 PM — Gay Street — Free — Explore over 100 vendors featuring handcrafted goods at this festive outdoor holiday market.

Have a Ball! New Year Family Event 2025

10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Chester County History Center — $10 — Kids can create party kits and enjoy themed crafts and treats as they prepare for the New Year.