Holiday Festivities at Pennswood Village

The holidays at Pennswood are full of activities and events celebrating the season! Families and friends gather to share their traditions, and because Pennswood residents come from a multitude of backgrounds and cultures, there is a variety of activities and events in which to participate.

This year, Hanukkah began the evening of December 2. Hanukkah at Pennswood involves traditional readings, a Menorah display and the lighting of the candles. A dinner and traditional Jewish games are also a part of the evening, creating a welcoming and festive atmosphere for all. 

Each year at Pennswood, a Christmas tree brightens the lobby for residents and their guests.

This year, we continued the beloved tradition of inviting the pre-K class from neighboring Newtown Friends School to help trim the Pennswood tree. During the tree trimming, there was — of course — a visit from Santa, festive music and treats for all.   

One of the most popular annual highlights of the holidays is the Cantus Novus Chamber Choir, which performed selections from its winter concert, Majesty and Mystery that “explores both the grandeur and nuance that make the holiday season so special.”

Based in Bucks County, Cantus Novus is an auditioned chamber choir. Since 2000, Cantus Novus has been performing various programs throughout the year, and Pennswood residents have been enjoying the performances. The holiday performances are always popular and this year were made even more special by members of our Priority Reservation List who joined residents for a festive celebration featuring cocktails, dinner, and the performance.

This year we began another holiday tradition. The Pennswood Village Residents Association has long held a holiday event with staff where residents handed out checks with money raised by the Association to thank Pennswood staff for their service and dedication. This year’s event was made extra special by a cookie exchange, where residents and staff shared their favorite treats and bonded over the unifying love for delicious baked goods. An outpouring of more than 4,000 cookies (60 types!), baked by residents and staff were shared and it was a heartwarming event where staff could show their appreciation for their holiday gifts.

Wrapping up the holidays at Pennswood was the annual Christmas Eve celebration at Pennswood on December 24. This year’s theme was “Gifts.” Many residents and their families attended — whether they celebrate Christmas or not – and all enjoyed an evening of lighthearted poems and stories as shared by residents.

All of Pennswood’s holiday activities and events are open to all: perhaps the most important part of this season is embracing the diversity one can find in a community like Pennswood, and celebrating and sharing meals with members of the community.

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