Philadelphia, a city rich in history, culture, and entertainment, offers a plethora of activities that cater to all interests, whether you are a local or a tourist. This holiday season, one of the must-visit attractions is the Grand Court of the historic Wanamaker Building, where thousands of lights form snowflakes, candy canes, and other holiday figures, all synchronized to the music of the legendary Wanamaker Organ. Shows run five times daily, ensuring you can catch this dazzling spectacle at your convenience. Upstairs, Dickens Village brings Charles Dickens’ *A Christmas Carol* to life through intricate animatronics, providing a unique and immersive Victorian Christmas experience.
For those looking for outdoor holiday festivities, the Miracle on South 13th Street is a neighborhood light display that has captivated visitors for over 30 years. This over-the-top decoration extravaganza runs from November 30, 2024, to January 1, 2025, and is complemented by a carousel and a 65-foot Ferris wheel at City Hall, offering stunning views of the holiday lights. The City Hall Courtyard is also home to the Festival of Trees, featuring nearly 20 uniquely decorated Christmas trees designed by local artists.
If you're in Philadelphia this week, you can visit the Christmas Village in Philadelphia, an authentic open-air German-style holiday market located at LOVE Park and City Hall. This market is open from November 23 through December 24, 2024, and offers a variety of holiday shopping, food, and drinks. On December 14, you can enjoy the market from 12pm to 8pm.
For sports enthusiasts, December 14 is a great day to catch a game. The Philadelphia Flyers are playing the Detroit Red Wings at the Wells Fargo Center on December 12, but if you missed that, you can look forward to their game against the Los Angeles Kings on December 19. The Philadelphia 76ers will be facing the Charlotte Hornets on December 20 at the Wells Fargo Center as well.
Music lovers can enjoy the festive atmosphere at Dilworth Park, where the Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn features whimsical topiary reindeer and sparkling lights, making it a perfect spot for photos and relaxation. Additionally, the Holiday Garden Railway at Morris Arboretum, running from November 23 to December 30, 2024, transforms its outdoor model train display into a festive Holiday Garden Railway with intricately crafted G-scale trains and additional laser lights in the evenings.
Art enthusiasts should visit the Woodmere Art Museum, home to a collection of 3,000 works of art by Philadelphia artists. This 19th-century stone Victorian mansion offers art classes for children and adults, and its exhibitions rotate throughout the year, showcasing local talent. Every Sunday, admission is free, making it an excellent day to explore.
For outdoor adventures, Morris Arboretum is a must-visit, with its 92-acre public garden featuring an impressive collection of plants and trees from around the world. Free tours are available with admission on Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm. Chestnut Hill, a charming neighborhood in northwest Philadelphia, offers a small-town feel with its lively retail corridor, outdoor dining options, and nearby attractions like the Wissahickon Valley Park and the children’s museum.
Food and drink experiences abound in Philadelphia, particularly in Chestnut Hill, where you can enjoy local eating and drinking at longtime favorites and new establishments along Germantown Avenue. The Chestnut Hill Hotel, conveniently located on the main drag, offers a boutique stay experience with dog-friendly rooms and access to a year-round indoor farmers market.
In the heart of Center City, Rittenhouse Square Park is hosting the Friends of Rittenhouse Holiday Tree lighting ceremony on December 9, but you can still visit the 30-foot conifer adorned with thousands of sparkling lights, making it a favorite spot for photos and quiet holiday moments.
Whether you are interested in sports, art, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, Philadelphia has something unique and engaging to offer, making it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists alike.