Burlington Review

Historic Smithville Park is set to host its annual Winter Fest on Saturday, December 14, from 1 PM to 6 PM. The event will take place at the park located at 803 Smithville Road in Eastampton and promises a variety of attractions for visitors.

Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson highlighted the park's transformation during the festival: “Smithville is beautiful all year, but decorated with lights and garland is spectacular. Attending Winter Fest is a great way to welcome the joyful season and see the park in all its holiday splendor.”

The festival will feature Victorian-themed decorations and activities such as meeting Santa Claus dressed in Victorian attire, watching a performance of Charles Dickens’ "A Christmas Carol," ice sculpture carving, synthetic ice skating, an elf hunt with Buddy the Elf, shopping at the Holiday Marketplace, enjoying s’mores by a bonfire or drinks in the beer garden, and riding a trackless train through Smithville. Additionally, live music, food trucks, cookie decorating sessions, and more are planned.

Tours of both Smithville Mansion and village will be available during Winter Fest. The Mansion Annex Gallery will display Burlington County’s annual Juried Art Show featuring various artworks from local artists. Meanwhile, the Worker’s House Gallery will showcase handmade crafts from artists associated with Peters Valley Gallery and School of Crafts.

Commissioner Allison Eckel emphasized the significance of this event for families: “Burlington County’s park system is one of the best around and Smithville is one of our biggest and most popular locations,” she said. “Visitors from all over the region enjoy its unique blend of history and natural beauty, and the holidays are an opportune time to discover all the park has to offer.”

Both galleries remain open Thursdays through Sundays outside of Winter Fest hours.