In Lebanon, PA, and the surrounding county, winter is synonymous with food. After all, only in Lebanon do residents drop a 150-pound bologna instead of a ball on New Year’s Eve. Lebanon is known for its bologna, which originated from the region’s Dutch settlers. Weaver's-Kutztown Bologna Inc., which provides the star of the New Year’s Eve drop, and Seltzer’s Smokehouse Meats are among the oldest manufacturers.But there's more to this town than a bunch of bologna. Lebanon's economy has remained stable. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that while most U.S. cities saw job losses between 2005 and 2010, Lebanon saw a total job gain of 575 new positions. The city is surrounded by pastoral landscapes and Lebanon also has a sweet side. Even though Hershey, PA, is less than 30 minutes away, the town has its own milk-chocolate mainstay – Wertz Candies, which has been hand-making its delights since 1931. Lebanon residents know the best way to keep warm in winter is with a nice cold brew at a local tavern. Lebanon and nearby Cornwall and Annville are dotted with neighborhood pubs and taverns, tucked neatly on street corners or between row houses. Connor’s Tavern in Lebanon is a favorite.
When you're ready to burn off some of those calories from all the tasty food there are plenty of wintertime activities in and around Lebanon. The area offers and abundance of cross-country skiing, snowmobile trails, ice skating, sledding hockey rinks, and downhill skiing can be found less than an hour away. Ice fishing is also popular here.
Population: 24,901
Average January low: 19 degrees
Average annual snowfall: 28 inches
Median home price: $79,000
Unemployment rate: 6.2 percent