If Philly’s good at one thing (besides cheesesteaks), it’s going all out for the holidays!
As soon as November hits, the city lights up with sparkling decorations, fun holiday markets, and hot chocolate stands popping up everywhere.
The holiday vibes are strong, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Think streets glowing with lights, skating rinks full of happy laughter, and neighborhoods that look like they belong in a Christmas movie.
The air smells like roasted nuts, cocoa, and yummy treats, and you can hear carolers singing wherever you go.
So grab your coziest scarf and comfy shoes, and get ready for holiday fun.
Here’s the ultimate list of spots and events to make your holiday season unforgettable!
- Macy’s Christmas Light Show & Dickens Village
When: November 29 – December 31, 2024
Where: Macy’s Center City, 1300 Market Street
A timeless Philadelphia tradition, Macy’s Christmas Light Show has been wowing visitors since 1956.
The Grand Court of the historic Wanamaker Building transforms into a dazzling spectacle with thousands of lights forming snowflakes, candy canes, and other holiday figures, all synchronized to the music of the legendary Wanamaker Organ.
Shows run five times daily at 10:30 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m., ensuring ample opportunity to enjoy the magic.
Upstairs, Dickens Village brings Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to life through intricate animatronics.
This 6,000-square-foot walkthrough captures the essence of Victorian Christmas, immersing visitors in Scrooge’s story of redemption.
Be sure to reserve a time slot for a photo with Santa, the perfect way to round off this quintessential holiday experience.
- Miracle on South 13th Street
When: November 30, 2024 – January 1, 2025 (tentative)
Where: 1600 block of S. 13th Street
For more than 30 years, this neighborhood light display has captivated visitors with its over-the-top decorations.
Residents of the 1600 block of South 13th Street collaborate to create a truly enchanting holiday experience.
Stroll through the block between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. nightly to admire twinkling lights, inflatable decorations, and themed dioramas that turn the entire street into a holiday wonderland.
Whether you walk or drive, this community effort is guaranteed to fill you with the festive spirit.
- Christmas Village in LOVE Park & City Hall
When: November 28 – December 24, 2024
Where: LOVE Park, 1500 Arch Street; City Hall, 1400 John F. Kennedy Boulevard
Philadelphia’s beloved Christmas Village is a festive open-air market inspired by European traditions.
LOVE Park comes alive with more than 100 wooden stalls offering unique holiday gifts, from handmade ornaments to cozy scarves.
Sample delicious treats like raclette, bratwurst, and mulled wine, or satisfy your sweet tooth with apple strudel and gingerbread cookies.
Across the street at City Hall, the festivities continue with a carousel and a 65-foot Ferris wheel, offering stunning views of the holiday lights.
The City Hall Courtyard is home to the Festival of Trees, featuring nearly 20 uniquely decorated Christmas trees designed by local artists.
Don’t miss the double-decker carousel for a fun ride that’s perfect for families.
- Philly Holiday Tree at City Hall
When: December 5–7, 2024
Where: North Apron, City Hall
Towering at 50 feet, the Philly Holiday Tree is a centerpiece of the city’s holiday celebrations.
Adorned with over 6,000 LED lights and 100 meteor lights, it dazzles visitors from far and wide.
This year’s lighting celebration spans three days and includes live music, food vendors, and family-friendly entertainment.
The classical seasonal songs played by the tree’s custom-made base add an extra touch of magic.
- Winter in Dilworth Park
When: November 15, 2024 – February 23, 2025
Where: 1 S. 15th Street
Right next to City Hall, Dilworth Park transforms into a bustling winter wonderland.
The Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink invites skaters of all ages to glide under the city lights.
Afterward, warm up with seasonal bites and beverages in the cozy Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin.
The Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn is a magical retreat featuring whimsical topiary reindeer and sparkling lights, making it a perfect spot for photos.
For holiday shopping, visit the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market, where local artisans offer handmade gifts, jewelry, and seasonal decorations.
- A Longwood Christmas
When: November 22, 2024 – January 12, 2025
Where: Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square
Named the Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights by USA Today, A Longwood Christmas is an extraordinary spectacle of over 500,000 lights, mesmerizing fountain shows, and seasonal plants.
Wander through colorful light tunnels, marvel at the towering Christmas trees, and warm up by cozy fire pits.
This year, the expanded Longwood Reimagined spaces add even more holiday magic, with newly designed gardens and dining experiences.
Tickets are timed and sell out quickly, so book early to ensure your spot at this enchanting event.
- LumiNature at the Philadelphia Zoo
When: November 21, 2024 – January 4, 2025 (select dates)
Where: Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Avenue
The Philadelphia Zoo’s LumiNature is a dazzling light experience that features 16 illuminated zones.
Highlights include a 40-foot-tall glowing penguin, a sparkling butterfly tree, and a 100-foot-long jungle tunnel.
Strolling performers, seasonal snacks, and hot chocolate complete the festive atmosphere.
This nighttime adventure is perfect for families and includes interactive displays and Instagram-worthy photo ops.
Tickets are required, so grab them early to avoid missing out.
- Holiday Light Show at Shady Brook Farm
When: November 23, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Where: Shady Brook Farm, 931 Stony Hill Road, Yardley
This Bucks County gem features a spectacular drive-through light display spanning over 2 miles and 3 million lights.
Visitors can also opt for an open-air wagon ride to soak in the festive atmosphere.
After the light show, head to Santa’s Village for photos with Santa, seasonal treats, and warm drinks by the fire pits.
Shady Brook Farm offers a magical countryside escape for families and couples alike.
- Wild Lights at Elmwood Park Zoo
When: November 22 – December 30, 2024 (select dates)
Where: Elmwood Park Zoo, 1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown
Wild Lights turns the Elmwood Park Zoo into a glowing wonderland, with millions of LED lights illuminating the zoo’s pathways and animal exhibits.
Meet Santa, snap pictures with costumed characters, and enjoy live entertainment throughout the evening.
Don’t miss the animal encounters and festive treats available at this family-friendly event.
- Peddler’s Village
When: November 15, 2024 – January 19, 2025
Where: 100 Peddlers Village, Lahaska
Peddler’s Village is a picture-perfect holiday destination with over a million twinkling lights and a full calendar of seasonal events.
Kick off the season with the Grand Illumination celebration, followed by the Gingerbread Competition, where intricate gingerbread creations are on display for free.
During Holly Jolly Weekend on December 7–8, 2024, enjoy parades, live entertainment, and free Santa-themed activities.
With over 60 specialty shops, it’s also an ideal spot for holiday shopping.
- Koziar’s Christmas Village
When: November 2 – December 29, 2024
Where: 782 Christmas Village Road, Bernville
Koziar’s Christmas Village is the epitome of holiday magic.
Located in Bernville, this sprawling, family-owned wonderland features countless light displays illuminating barns, houses, and trees.
You’ll walk through whimsical exhibits like Santa’s Post Office, an Old-Fashioned Bakery, and a Toymaker’s Workshop.
The village includes a miniature train display and even a Nativity scene.
With every corner lit up in vibrant colors, Koziar’s is ideal for families and couples looking for that perfect dose of Christmas nostalgia.
Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the glow!
- Holiday Garden Railway at Morris Arboretum
When: November 23 – December 30, 2024 (select dates)
Where: 100 E. Northwestern Avenue
Morris Arboretum transforms its famous outdoor model train display into the festive Holiday Garden Railway.
Intricately crafted G-scale trains wind their way through loops, tunnels, and bridges, all surrounded by sparkling lights.
The tracks feature detailed replicas of local landmarks, adding a Philly twist to this enchanting experience.
After sunset, the display becomes the Nighttime Express, with additional laser lights adding an extra layer of magic.
This family-friendly event is perfect for kids and adults alike, and tickets are required for evening visits.
- Manayunk Gets Lit
When: November 14 – December 31, 2024
Where: Main Street, Manayunk
Manayunk shines bright during the holiday season with its annual Manayunk Gets Lit display.
More than 80,000 lights adorn over 50 storefronts along Main Street, creating a festive atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
The free Jolly Trolley offers visitors a fun way to see the lights while enjoying onboard entertainment like carolers and musicians.
The festivities kick off with the tree-lighting ceremony at Canal View Park, which also includes awards for the best decorated storefronts.
- Smedley Street Christmas Light Spectacular
When: November 27, 2024 – January 12, 2025
Where: 2700 block of Smedley Street
For over 50 years, the Smedley Street Christmas Light Spectacular has been a South Philly favorite.
The entire block becomes a holiday paradise with blow-up decorations, twinkling lights, and festive characters.
Walk through this candy-cane lane to see towering inflatable Santas, glittering reindeer, and sparkling trees.
It’s a neighborhood tradition that locals and visitors alike cherish.
The display officially kicks off with a lighting ceremony on November 30, 2024.
- Herr’s Snack Factory Christmas Lights
When: November 24 – January 2, 2025
Where: 271 Old Baltimore Pike, Nottingham
Herr’s Snack Factory offers a free, family-friendly drive-through light display that has been delighting visitors for over 30 years.
With more than 600,000 lights, the factory grounds are transformed into a holiday wonderland.
The lights flick on at dusk and remain lit until dawn, giving visitors plenty of time to soak up the festive atmosphere.
While there are no free chips, you can always bring your own snacks to enjoy while you drive through this dazzling display.
- A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place
When: November 16, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Where: 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne
Sesame Place becomes a winter wonderland during A Very Furry Christmas, with millions of twinkling lights and festive decorations transforming the park.
Visitors can enjoy themed rides, a special Christmas Parade, and meet-and-greets with beloved characters like Elmo and Big Bird.
Santa Claus makes an appearance in the Furry Workshop, and the nightly 1-2-3 Christmas Tree light show is a must-see.
Families celebrating Hanukkah or Kwanzaa can also participate in themed activities during the last week of December.
- Holiday Light Show at Yeager’s Farm
When: November 29 – December 30, 2024
Where: 1015 Pike Springs Road, Phoenixville
Yeager’s Farm offers a countryside holiday experience with its spectacular Holiday Light Show.
Drive through more than a mile of dazzling light displays set across 60 acres of farmland.
The show features animated characters, tunnels of light, and music synchronized to your car’s radio.
This year’s display promises even more creative designs, making it a perfect destination for families looking for an illuminated adventure.
- Carnival of Lights
When: December 1 – December 31, 2024
Where: Norco Fire Company, 144 W. Schuylkill Road, Pottstown
The Carnival of Lights combines the magic of holiday lights with the fun of a carnival.
This walk-through event features thousands of sparkling lights, amusement rides, and visits with Santa Claus.
Families can enjoy live entertainment, indulge in seasonal treats, and shop for gifts at the on-site market.
Special nights, like Sensory Friendly Night, cater to visitors who prefer a quieter, more accessible experience.
- Founding Footsteps BYOB Holiday Lights Tour
When: November 25 – December 31, 2024 (select dates)
Where: Starts at Craft Hall, 901 N. Delaware Avenue
Hop aboard a festive trolley for the Founding Footsteps BYOB Holiday Lights Tour.
Guests can bring their own beverages (beer or wine only) and enjoy live music while visiting some of the city’s brightest attractions.
Stops include Smedley Street, Miracle on South 13th Street, and Franklin Square.
With a blend of holiday cheer and lighthearted fun, this tour is perfect for groups or couples looking for a unique holiday outing.
- Philadelphia Trolley Works Holiday Lights Tour
When: November 29 – December 30, 2024 (select dates)
Where: Starts at Marriott Downtown, 1200 Filbert Street
The Philadelphia Trolley Works Holiday Lights Tour takes guests on a nostalgic journey through the city’s most iconic holiday displays.
This 90-minute tour aboard a Victorian-style trolley is fully decked out in holiday decor.
Stops include Miracle on South 13th Street, LOVE Park, and the Comcast Holiday Spectacular.
Like Founding Footsteps, this tour is also BYOB, adding a festive twist to your evening.
- City Sightseeing Philadelphia Holiday Lights Tour
When: November 25 – December 31, 2024 (select dates)
Where: Starts at Bourse Building, 111 S. Independence Mall East
City Sightseeing Philadelphia adds a festive twist to its classic city tours with the Holiday Lights Tour.
This Victorian-style trolley is decked out with holiday decor, creating a warm and nostalgic atmosphere.
The two-hour guided ride takes visitors through Philadelphia’s brightest spots, including City Hall, LOVE Park, and Franklin Square.
A stop at Smedley Street offers guests the chance to step off the trolley and experience South Philly’s dazzling decorations up close.
This tour is perfect for families and couples seeking a cozy way to explore the city’s holiday magic.
- Events with Benefitz BYOB Holiday Lights Trolley Tour
When: November 25 – December 31, 2024 (select dates)
Where: Starts at Urban Village Brewing, 1001 N. 2nd Street
The Events with Benefitz BYOB Holiday Lights Trolley Tour is a lively and interactive way to experience Philadelphia’s holiday displays.
Starting with a pre-tour gathering at Urban Village Brewing, attendees enjoy complimentary snacks and trivia games before boarding the festively decorated trolley.
This BYOB experience (beer or wine only) features stops at LOVE Park, Smedley Street, and Macy’s Center City.
Onboard games, prizes, and music keep the energy high as you travel from one holiday hotspot to the next.
This tour is ideal for groups of friends or couples looking for a fun, relaxed holiday outing.
- Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
When: November 29, 2024 – March 2, 2025
Where: Penn’s Landing, 101 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest transforms Penn’s Landing into a waterfront winter wonderland.
The NHL-sized ice skating rink is the centerpiece, inviting visitors to glide beneath the twinkling lights.
Cozy warming cabins, fire pits, and a rinkside lounge provide perfect spots to warm up with hot chocolate or seasonal cocktails.
The festival also features light displays shimmering over the Delaware River and family-friendly games on the boardwalk.
Weekly events like Holiday Markets, Bingo Nights, and Themed Skate Nights ensure there’s always something new to enjoy.
- Illuminaire Nights in Skippack
When: November 29 – December 20, 2024 (Fridays only)
Where: Skippack Village, 4034 Skippack Pike
Every Friday night during the holiday season, Skippack Village comes alive with Illuminaire Nights.
This charming event lines the sidewalks with glowing luminaria, casting a warm and magical glow across the village.
Shops stay open late, offering holiday treats, in-store specials, and unique gifts.
Whether you’re shopping for loved ones or simply enjoying the atmosphere, Illuminaire Nights make for a peaceful yet festive escape from the city crowds.
- Rose Tree Festival of Lights
When: December 5 – January 2, 2025
Where: Rose Tree Park, 1671 N. Providence Road, Media
The Rose Tree Festival of Lights is one of the largest and most beloved community light displays in the area.
Spread across the expansive 120-acre Rose Tree Park, the event features dozens of illuminated trees and festive installations.
Opening night includes a tree-lighting ceremony, live choral music, and food trucks serving seasonal treats.
Special nights throughout December include extra entertainment, making this a delightful outing for families, couples, and anyone looking to soak in the holiday spirit.
- Friends of Rittenhouse Holiday Tree
When: December 9, 2024 – End of December
Where: Rittenhouse Square Park, 1800 Walnut Street
Rittenhouse Square Park becomes even more enchanting during the holidays with the addition of the Friends of Rittenhouse Holiday Tree.
This 30-foot conifer, adorned with thousands of sparkling lights, is the centerpiece of the park’s seasonal decor.
The tree lighting ceremony on December 9, 2024, features family-friendly activities, live music, and festive treats leading up to the grand illumination.
Once lit, the tree casts a warm glow over the square, making it a favorite spot for photos and quiet holiday moments.
There you have it—everything you need to have an amazing Christmas in Philadelphia this year!
With sparkling lights, fun markets, ice skating, and tons of holiday events, Philly is packed with festive fun.
Spend time with family, friends, or someone special and soak up all the holiday cheer.
Make great memories, enjoy delicious treats, and take in the beautiful sights.
Grab your coat, step outside, and get ready to have the best holiday season yet. Happy holidays, and enjoy every moment!
