This time of year has a way of pushing time’s fast-forward button, so it’s never too early to start bringing out the tinsel, miseltoe and lights. From pop-up shopping nights to holiday light celebrations, there are plenty of Philly happenings to get you in a festive mood. Below are my picks that I’m looking forward to checking out!
Holiday lights across the City
If you’re anything like me, one of your favorite things about the holiday season is all the lights and decorations spread across the city. So, if you are indeed like me, you’ll be excited to know that this is an ongoing event going on throughout the city. Grab some friends, bundle up, and make a nice hot chocolate to go, and explore the neighborhoods of Philadelphia and the amazing decorations that’ll truly wow you. (My personal favorite is the Longwood Gardens lights)
Check out Visit Philly’s list of The Top Places to View Holiday Lights in Philadelphia and head to the Parade of Lights at the Seaport Museum on Saturday, December 10!
Franklin Flea Holiday Market 2016
Looking for unique, one-of-a-kind gifts? Stop by the Franklin Flea at the Historic Strawbridge’s Building happening on Saturday, December 17th from 10 am to 5 pm! In addition to great gift finds, you can grab a bite to eat from one of the many food vendors and enjoy live music performances throughout the day.
Looking for more events like this? Here’s uwishunu’s list of 10+ Holiday Markets To Shop In Philly This December.
Historic Holiday Nights in Old City
Head to Old City this Thursday for Historic Holiday Nights, which runs every Thursday until December 22nd. 45 shops, restaurants and museums open up their doors to the public from 5-8 p.m. with special deals and an extended happy hour for those of age. This is a great way to explore Old City, and cross a few people off of your Christmas list!
Another holiday tradition, ice skating at Rothman Rink at City Hall! If you can’t skate they even offer a five week session of skating lessons on Sunday mornings that include skates and admission. You can also warm up after skating for awhile with food and drinks around City Hall.
In addition to Rothman Rink at Dilworth Park, lace up your skates at the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest!
Christmas Village at City Hall
Not much of a skater? You can still hit up City Hall for the Christmas markets starting later this month. More than 80 vendors will be out selling little trinkets and gifts perfect for the holidays. Not only will there be shopping but you can expect side-street performances and other special events throughout the entirety of the markets stay in Center City.
Catch the annual holiday show at Walnut Street Theatre
Want to catch an awesome show and see some history as well? Hit up Walnut Street Theatre, which just so happens to be America’s oldest theatre and catch a classic, Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’! Maybe take a stroll to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, which are just a quick walk away before settling in for a bit to watch an awesome cast perform one of the most classic Christmas favorites of all time.
Have “A Very Philly Christmas” at Fairmount Park
Music. Friends. Neighbors. Family. These four elements are the four most important ideas to our lovely city. Head to Fairmount Park to see some of the historical homes decked out for the season with these ideals in mind. Fairmount Park will also be hosting some really awesome events based around those four elements. Grab your friends, your family, your neighbors and head to Fairmount Park (while listening to some awesome music) and enjoy some of the things that make the City of Brotherly Love the best city to be in.
There you have it, Z’s holiday picks for this upcoming season. For more events, you can always check out our calendar page. If you’re looking to take a road trip, check out For Planners Making Plans: Holiday Edition. If you have any suggestions or want to share your experience at one of these places, let us know!
