Koziar's Christmas Village
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Koziar's Christmas Village is a seasonal attraction located in Jefferson Township, near Bernville, Berks County, Pennsylvania, U.S.A., approximately fifteen miles northwest of Reading. Christmas Village utilizes approximately one half million Christmas lights and other decorative effects in a presentation that has consistently been listed among the top tourist attractions in Pennsylvania and the top Christmas displays in the United States.
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[edit] History
William M. Koziar began decorating his rural property for Christmas in 1948. The display was created for the enjoyment of Koziar's wife and four children and initially centered on the house and barn. However, the display became increasingly elaborate and grew to incorporate the lake, walkways, trees, and fences. Over time the private display became a popular local attraction and visitors were admitted to the premises.
[edit] Display
Christmas Village features the elaborately illuminated home and barn of the Koziar family, as well as several other smaller buildings. Children may visit a costumed "Santa Claus" at his headquarters on Santa Claus Lane. There are several large dioramas depicting scenes such as Christmas Beneath the Sea, Christmas in the Jungle, Santa's Post Office, and Christmas in Other Lands. There are a number of displays featuring cut-out representations of characters from popular comic strips and animated films. The Village has also included a recreation of the Valley Forge encampment. In addition, there are several indoor features, including an extensive model train layout and sales area, as well as shops selling souvenirs, Christmas decorations, refreshments, and other seasonal items.
Perhaps the most dramatic feature of the Village is the first glimpse one sees of the display. Most visitors approach the property from the east, via Christmas Village Road. Being farm country the surrounding area is sparsely inhabited and, after dark, sparsely lit. The terrain blocks the view of the Village until the road crests a hill just a few hundred feet to the east of the display, at which point the entire Village is suddenly visible, reflected in a lake.
[edit] Operation
Koziar's Christmas Village is a seasonal attraction. It is generally in operation from early November through New Year's Day.
[edit] Awards
Christmas Village was recently named Best Outdoor Christmas Display in the World by Display World magazine.
[edit] External links
- Koziar's Christmas Village official web site
- Satellite imagery from Terraserver
- Street Map from Mapquest
