Christmas in Philadelphia: 21 Best Holiday Attractions in Philly + nearby!

From authentic German holiday markets for boutique shopping to light shows, winter festivals, and even Philly ice skating — there are plenty of fun activities and things to do for Christmas in Philadelphia (both indoors and outdoors). Since I’ve lived in Philly I can share my best tips for a Philly Xmas.

Christmas attractions and holiday lights are a festive highlight if you want to visit Philadelphia during the winter. Even while driving, you can see Philly’s Christmas glow from afar – along boathouse row.

Many of the holiday attractions are right in center city or surrounding neighborhoods, and a few are just a short drive away in Greater Philadelphia. The best part: most of these holiday/Christmas things to do in Philly are FREE.

Use this guide to navigate some of Philly’s best winter attractions to help you get in the holiday spirit (including Christmas Day activities in Philadelphia too!)

Philadelphia Christmas Village in Love Park

Love Park’s iconic Christmas Village in Philadelphia (across from City Hall) runs for a limited time between Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve.

Open daily from approximately 11am-7pm, it is modeled after authentic German holiday markets and offers opportunity to find European food, artisan gifts, and crafts from around the world!

• Address: Love Park, 1500 Arch Street, Philadelphia PA 19102 (outdoors)
• Dates: Thanksgiving – Christmas eve
• Admission: FREE

Dilworth Park Wintergarden

Across from the Love Park Christmas Village in Philly is the Dilworth Park Wintergarden and Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market; essentially the sister market to the Christmas village mentioned above. 

This Philadelphia Christmas attraction is full of fun activities for you and your loved ones. You’ll find outdoor ice skating at the Rothman ice rink, vendors for food and shopping, cool reindeer topiaries, and even some rides. If you are around the first Saturday of December, you can also come by to experience the Philadelphia Christmas tree lighting.

• Address: Dilworth Park, west side of Philadelphia City Hall (outdoors)
• Dates: November (weekend before Thanksgiving) – January 1st
• Admission: FREE

Deck the Hall Light Show

If you make it to Dilworth Park and the adjacent Love Park Christmas Village after sundown, you’ll be just in time for the scheduled light show set to illuminate City Hall — so stick around! 

The light show is synchronized with holiday music and runs every 30 minutes starting at 5pm.

• Address: Philadelphia City Hall (outdoors)
• Dates: November (weekend before Thanksgiving) – January 1st
• Admission: FREE

Elfreth’s Alley: Deck the Alley

Deck the halls — or the alley, along the country’s oldest continuously inhabited street: Elfreth’s Alley (I mention this spot in my Philly weekend itinerary as a must-visit).

The charming pedestrian road in Old City is not only a significant landmark on any historic Philadelphia walking tour, but also a festive stop for holiday cheer.

During this time, it offers an inside peek into its 18th-century homes, which is a rare opportunity since there are still active residents! There are also crafts, photo opps, and fun activities available.

• Address: 124-126 Elfreth’s Alley, Philadelphia, PA 19106 (indoors and outdoors)
• Dates: first Saturday of December (3-5pm and 5-7pm ticket windows)
• Admission: $25 per adult, $15 per child 

Miracle on South 13th Street

Enjoy Philadelphian Christmas cheer with this neighborhood holiday light display in South Philly. Miracle on South 13th Street is perfect for a festive stroll or drive-thru, and an ideal stop on your Philly Christmas Attractions itinerary.

Locals go all out with decorations and holiday lighting to lift your Christmas spirit, and most of the residential homes keep their lights on from 5-11 pm throughout the month of December. 

• Address: 1600 S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19148 (outdoors)
• Dates: December (all month)
• Admission: FREE

Macy’s Holiday Light Show

Pair your holiday shopping with a stop to view the Macy’s Holiday Show and visit Dickens Village! The annual Christmas Light Show and Wanamaker Organ Concert is a family favorite and popular Philadelphia Christmas attraction.

While there, check out traditional Macy’s favorites: festive window dressings, Macy’s Dickens Village on the third floor (reservations required at least 5 days in advance), and Santaland (now virtual). We won’t judge if you also take advantage of some gift shopping with Macy’s iconic holiday deals.

• Address: Macy’s, 1300 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 (indoors and virtual)
• Dates: last Friday of November – December 31 
• Admission: FREE (shopping is at your discretion, of course)

Comcast Holiday Spectacular

Head to the Comcast Experience 2,100 square-foot video wall for the Comcast Center’s Holiday Spectacular. 

The 15-minute projected video experience runs hourly from 10am-8pm each day, and even has a Santa appearance on weekends between 11am and 4pm. It is a musical treat in Philadelphia and perfect for awakening some holiday cheer. 

• Address: Comcast Center, 1701 JFK Blvd Philadelphia (now outdoors)
• Dates: Thanksgiving – January 1st
• Admission: FREE

Fairmount Park’s Very Philly Christmas

Visit the largest urban park in the country to experience 18th and 19th century historic homes during the holidays from 10am-4pm.

East Fairmount Park’s Very Philly Christmas is an award-winning homes tour that allows visitors to explore historic era homes including the Woodford Mansion, Laurel Hill Mansion, and Historic Strawberry Mansion decorated for the holidays.

• Address: varies throughout the eastern park (indoors)
• Dates: December (all month)
• Admission: $8 on weekdays, $5 on select weekends during the Pandemic

Franklin Square Holiday Festival

Just one block north of Independence Hall, Winter in Franklin Square is a festive and fun experience for all — from day to night throughout the season.

Whether it is their Electrical Spectacle Show (after 5pm), outdoor fire pits, heated tents at Franklin’s Winter View through early January (after 5pm), or an 18-hole game of Chilly Philly mini golf (10am-9pm), it’s a great Christmas attraction right in the heart of the city.

• Address: 200 N 6th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 (outdoors)
• Dates: November (weekend before Thanksgiving) – late February
• Admission: FREE, Mini golf is $10-15 per adult, $8-12 per child

Jewelers’ Row Holiday Lights

If you are holiday lights-obsessed and seeking Christmas lights in Philadelphia, consider taking a stroll down Jeweler’s Row for a festive glow with a taste of history. This string of jewelry stores marks the historic Diamond District — the oldest diamond district in the US (since 1851).

During the season, you’ll find twinkles of Season’s Greetings strung from street lamps and posts, making your jewelry shopping session extra special.

• Address: Between 7th and 9th st. | 701 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 (outdoors)
• Dates: December (all month)
• Admission: FREE

Holidays at Reading Terminal Market

During the holidays, Reading Terminal Market transforms from an already eclectic food and goods landmark to a festive one! There are different events planned with local vendors (holiday-crafted beverages, live food demonstrations, and holiday entertainment) and lots of colorful holiday decor.

Check out the Reading Terminal Market holiday guide for a full overview, and be sure to check out their Gingerbread Candyland, hanging snowflakes, and more.

• Address: Reading Terminal Market, 51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107 (indoors)
• Dates: day after Thanksgiving – December 31
• Admission: FREE (purchases not included)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Reading Terminal Market (@rdgterminalmkt)

Rittenhouse Square Holiday Park

A beautiful neighborhood year-round, Rittenhouse Square and its adjacent blocks light up during the holidays with an annual tree lighting event that then illuminates every night throughout the month of December.

While there, you can enjoy the tree-lined landscape of the relaxing park, splurge at the many surrounding shops, or indulge in fine dining experiences in the area.

• Address: 210 W Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA 19103 (outdoors)
• Dates: December (all month)
• Admission: FREE

LumiNature at the Philadelphia Zoo

Visit the iconic Philadelphia Zoo during the holiday season for a magical evening light show that transforms the park into a winter wonderland. You can visit the zoo for the light show from Wednesday – Sunday, 5:30-8:30pm, except on Christmas eve, Christmas day, and Thanksgiving.

LumiNature’s 14 unique theme light displays, performances, and seasonal treats (hot cocoa, s’mores, etc.) make it a festive occasion for the whole family.

Note: only penguins will be on display during LumiNature (in the evenings). If you want to see animals, a daytime visit to the zoo is still your best bet. Try this Philadelphia city pass for admission to multiple attractions in the city, including the zoo during the day so you can save money.

• Address: Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104 (outdoors)
• Dates: November (weekend before Thanksgiving) – early January
• Admission: $25 per adult, $20 per child (ages 2-11)

RiverRink Winterfest

RiverRink Winterfest is a holiday season experience we recommend in our Philadelphia ice skating guide thanks to its beautiful scenery and cozy, wintry setting — and riverside skating rink, of course (skates rent for $10 but if you want to invest in your own skates buy these to start).

At the RiverRink Winterfest, private rental cabins ($75-125 per 90 minutes) give alpine vibes for groups of 4-8 people, in addition to a ferris wheel ($5), boardwalk games, and more.

• Address: 101 South Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19106 (outdoors)
• Dates: Thanksgiving weekend – early March
• Admission: FREE to walk around, $5 to skate, game fees vary

Morris Arboretum Holiday Garden Railway

Celebrate the season with a visit to the Morris Arboretum to see their annual Holiday Garden Railway. This miniature display is an outdoor train and garden exhibit with a quarter-mile track that is surrounded by beautiful flora and lights.

The Holiday Garden Railway is a ticketed daytime attraction, running daily from 10am-4pm, but the hours extend into the evening on weekends through Christmas (4:30pm-7:30pm).

The caveat? Daytime viewing and night tickets do not cross over, so if you want to do both (ie. arrive on a Saturday afternoon and stay thru the evening) you’ll have to buy two tickets.

• Address: Morris Arboretum, 100 E. Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118 (outdoors)
• Dates: November (day after Thanksgiving) – January 2nd
• Admission: $20 per adult, $10 per student or child (3-17)
• How far is Morris Arboretum from center city? 30 minutes

Tinseltown Holiday Spectacular

Previously, Winter on Broad at the Wells Fargo Center illuminated the “holidays in Philadelphia” scene. Now, Dietz & Watson is hosting a new event in its place called Tinseltown Holiday Spectacular at The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center instead.

The Expo Center is near Valley Forge National Historical Park, open daily from 5-10pm. There is a holiday market for shopping, ice-skating at Rudolph’s Rink (additional fee), photo ops, and holiday-inspired treats to indulge in (outside food and drink not allowed).

It may be the priciest experience on this list once you add costs up, but if your Christmas spirit begs for you to take the leap, and your wallet agrees — go for it!

• Address: The Greater Philadelphia Fairgrounds, 100 Station Ave, Oaks, PA 19456 (outdoors)
• Dates: November (Thanksgiving weekend) – January 2nd
• Admission: $19.99 per adult, $13.99 per child (ages 5-13)
• How far is Tinseltown from Philadelphia center city? 40-45 minutes

 

Linvilla Orchards: Christmas around the Farm

Cut your own Christmas trees or choose from pre-cut trees, visit Santa, enjoy holiday music, and go Christmas shopping at the Linvilla Orchards in Media, PA.

Open from 9am-6pm, it is a fun budget-friendly holiday attraction between Philadelphia and Wilmington, making it perfect for people in the greater Philadelphia area.

Although it is free to attend and park, some of the activities require reservations, so plan ahead. Cutting your own Christmas tree requires a $2 hayride ticket per person, reserved in advance, with any Cut Your Own Tree size costing $89.99.

• Address: Linvilla Orchards, 137 W Knowlton Rd, Media, PA 19063 (outdoors)
• Dates: November (weekend before Thanksgiving) – Christmas eve
• Admission: FREE
• How far is Linvilla Orchards from Philadelphia? 40 minutes

A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place

While nearly all of the Christmas attractions on this list are family-friendly, a Sesame Place holiday experience takes it to the next level for kids.

The theme park goes all out for the holidays with an elaborate Christmas wonderland transformation. From dance parties and performances to cookie decorating and a dedicated Christmas Family Fun Zone, “A Very Furry Christmas” is a festive celebration for all.

• Address: Sesame Place, 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA 19047 (outdoors)
• Dates: November (weekend before Thanksgiving) – January 2nd
• Admission: $89 per person at the gate, but if purchased online you can usually get it for about $40 per person
• How far is Sesame Place from Philadelphia center city? 40 minutes

Shady Brook Farm’s Holiday Light Show

Shady Book Farm is known for its big, seasonal fun throughout all four seasons — winter is no different.

During the holidays this family-run farm has a series of Christmas attractions and activities, like a drive-thru holiday light show, campfires, and even weekend breakfast sessions with Santa!

• Address: Shady Brook Farm, 931 Stony Hill Rd, Yardley, PA 19067 (outdoors)
• Dates: November (weekend before Thanksgiving) – early January
• Admission: $40 per car for the light show, $15 per person for a wagon ride through the light show, $125 for campfire sites (up to 15 people),
• How far is Shady Brook Farms from Philadelphia center city? 40 minutes

A Longwood Christmas

Longwood Gardens is one of the most beautiful and esteemed botanical garden in the country, so it’s no surprise their Holiday Lights event will follow suit.

Throughout the Christmas season, from 10am-11pm, you can visit the gardens to enjoy themed exhibits, fire pits, a Garden Railway, and more.

• Address: Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348 (outdoors)
• Dates: Late November – January 2
• Admission: $30 per adult, $16 per child (5-18 years old) during holiday season
• How far is Longwood Gardens from Philadelphia center city? 1 hour

Peddler’s Village Christmas Festival

Peddler’s Village in New Hope, PA is one of the most quaint towns near Philadelphia. From winding brick paths and unique boutique shops to fine dining and festive decor, it is definitely a place you want to visit for Christmas shopping.

During Christmas, visit Peddler’s Village for their charming wonderland energy filled with lights, a 1920’s carousel, gingerbread house display, and more.

• Address: Routes 202 & 263, Lahaska, Bucks County, PA, 18931 (indoors and outdoors)
• Dates: November (weekend before Thanksgiving) – first week of January
• Admission: FREE
• How far is New Hope from Philadelphia center city? 1 hour

For those who aren’t local to the city and are planning to visit Philly during the holidays, read this free 3-day Philly itinerary and this Philadelphia museum guide for art lovers before you go!

If you are specifically visiting Philadelphia Christmas markets and attractions in center city, consider staying at these beautiful hotels during your stay:

• Cambria Suites (mid-range / budget-friendly, Contemporary, $$)
• Residence Inn by Marriott Center City (mid-range, Contemporary, $$)
• Element by Westin (modern, eco-friendly, $$-$$$)
• Canopy by Hilton (mid-century modern chic, $$-$$$) – we love the design here!
• The W Philadelphia (trendy, modern, $$$)
• The Ritz Carlton (luxury, contemporary, $$$-$$$$)

If you are experiencing sticker shock at hotel prices during the holidays, definitely consider using discount sites like Priceline Express Deals or Hotel Tonight to slash those prices dramatically. I wrote a guide on how to guess the correct hotel on Priceline Express Deals, as well as a firsthand review of the Express Deal hotels I get when I’ve used it before.

Here are the discount hotel sites I recommend, and use all the time myself:

• Priceline Express Deals
• Booking.com
• HotelTonight (app) – get $25 off when you book (new users) with my code OPEREZ38

Have a fun Christmas in Philadelphia!

I hope this list of holiday attractions in Philly is helpful as you plan your Philadelphia Christmas activities. The markets are perfect for finding unique gifts or just indulging in comfort foods and festive drinks, and the decorated parks and light shows are sure to evoke some holiday cheer.

If you want to add glam to the mix, get dressed up and book tickets to the ballet to watch the Nutcracker!

* * *

Hey Pinterest Fam!

Share this guide to Christmas Attractions in Philadelphia by pinning the image below to your planning board.