State College, PA — December 2025 — Holiday cheer is in full swing at the Nittany Lion Inn and The Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center, where a festive lineup of events, culinary experiences, and hands-on workshops is transforming both hotels into the most spirited destinations in Happy Valley. From nostalgic traditions to interactive family fun, each event has been designed to bring the community — and visitors — together for a season of celebration.
Local media are invited to attend, capture the festivities, and experience these beloved properties during the holidays.
A Season of Culinary Delights & Festive Experiences
Weekend Brunch at Lionne American Brasserie AMERICAN BRASSERIE, Nittany Lion Inn
Every Saturday & Sunday | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Beginning December 6
Lionne American Brasserie AMERICAN BRASSERIE at the Nittany Lion Inn has launched weekend brunch — an elevated, cozy morning experience complete with seasonal dishes, warm hospitality, and a fireside atmosphere perfect for family gatherings or a relaxing start to the day.
Holiday Luncheon Buffets at Lionne American Brasserie AMERICAN BRASSERIE, Nittany Lion Inn
December 5, 12, & 19
Designed for small businesses, family celebrations, and corporate teams, these festive lunchtime buffets offer a stress-free holiday meal with a beautifully curated seasonal menu.
Feast of the Seven Fishes — Christmas Eve Dinner at the Nittany Lion Inn
Guests can reserve a seat for this cherished culinary tradition featuring a thoughtfully crafted Seven Fishes menu — a timeless and flavorful way to celebrate Christmas Eve.
Christmas Eve & New Year’s Day Brunch at The Gardens, The Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center
The Gardens is hosting two special holiday brunches, each featuring celebratory menus, warm ambiance, and dishes designed to bring people together.
The Return of a Beloved Tradition: The Nittany Lion Inn Gingerbread Replica
One of the Inn’s most nostalgic holiday traditions is back for the first time since reopening — a handcrafted gingerbread replica of the Nittany Lion Inn, created by the artist who made the display famous more than two decades ago.
Heather Luse of Delectable Delights, known for her longtime work with the Penn State Bakery, is once again bringing this sweet piece of history to life. The Nittany Lion Inn culinary team has contributed additional gingerbread creations to complete a full holiday display that promises to be a must-see attraction for guests, families, and photographers.
The display is located in the lobby near Harper’s boutiques and will be available throughout the holiday season.
Stan the Gingerbread Man: A Whimsical Holiday Scavenger Hunt
This year, the Nittany Lion Inn introduces Stan the Gingerbread Man, a playful character who “travels” around the Nittany Lion Inn. Guests are invited to join the hunt, find Stan in his daily hiding place, and claim a complimentary hot chocolate as their reward.
A charming, interactive activation — and a fun photo and video opportunity for media.
Family-Friendly Events & Creative Workshops
Brunch with Santa at the Nittany Lion Inn
December 13 | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Families are invited to enjoy a magical holiday brunch experience complete with festive dishes and a visit from Santa himself.
Wreath-Making Workshop with Rooted Farmstead
The Penn Stater | December 14
Guests can create their own custom wreaths using seasonal greens and locally sourced materials.
More Information: https://www.rootedfarmstead.com/products/wreath-decorating-with-santa-penn-stater-holiday-2025
Holiday Centerpiece Workshop with Rooted Farmstead
Nittany Lion Inn | December 21
This hands-on floral workshop allows guests to design their own Christmas centerpiece in a cozy seasonal setting.
More Information: https://www.rootedfarmstead.com/products/christmas-floral-centerpiece-workshop-the-nittany-lion-inn-holiday-2025
A Festive Invitation to Local Media
Both properties welcome media to visit, take photos and video of the décor and events, and experience the warmth and joy of the season firsthand.
Interviews with hotel leadership, culinary team members, and event partners can be arranged upon request.
About Scholar Hotel Group
Scholar Hotel Group owns and operates a growing portfolio of hospitality properties with a passion for delivering exceptional experiences rooted in comfort, community, and local pride. The company is dedicated to preserving cherished traditions while bringing fresh energy, elevated dining, and innovative programming to each destination. Scholar Hotels currently manages: The Nittany Lion Inn; The Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center; Scholar Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton; Hyatt Place; Courtyard by Marriott; and the Residence Inn in State College, PA, in addition to other properties located in Syracuse, NY; Philadelphia, PA; Morgantown, WV; and Radford, VA.
HOLIDAY EVENTS AT A GLANCE — NITTANY LION INN & THE PENN STATER
December 5
• Holiday Luncheon Buffet at Lionne American Brasserie — Nittany Lion Inn
Time: Lunch service (exact service window as scheduled)
Beginning December 6
• Weekend Brunch at Lionne American Brasserie— Nittany Lion Inn
Every Saturday & Sunday through the season
Time: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
December 10–January 1 Holiday Week (Ongoing)
• “Stan the Gingerbread Man” Interactive Hunt — Nittany Lion Inn
Daily — Guests find Stan to earn a complimentary hot chocolate.
December 12
• Holiday Luncheon Buffet at Lionne American Brasserie— Nittany Lion Inn
Time: Lunch service
December 13
• Brunch with Santa — Nittany Lion Inn
Time: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
December 14
• Wreath-Making Workshop with Rooted Farmstead — The Penn Stater
December 19
• Holiday Luncheon Buffet at Lionne American Brasserie — Nittany Lion Inn
Time: Lunch service
December 21
• Holiday Centerpiece Workshop with Rooted Farmstead — Nittany Lion Inn
December 24 (Christmas Eve)
• Feast of the Seven Fishes Dinner — Nittany Lion Inn
• Christmas Eve Brunch at The Gardens — The Penn Stater
January 1 (New Year’s Day)
• New Year’s Day Brunch at The Gardens — The Penn Stater
Time: As scheduled
Ongoing Holiday Feature
• Nittany Lion Inn Gingerbread Replica — Lobby at the Nittany Lion Inn
Available daily throughout the holiday season.