If you live in or around the Philadelphia area, you want to be there this Christmas season. In fact, we’ll be giving you a list of seven reasons why Christmas in Philadelphia may be the best. In the City of Brotherly Love, there is never a shortage of things to do.
You can go with your friends, family, or even by yourself. No matter how much of the holiday spirit you’re in, you’re always bound to find something. Keep reading to find out what Philadelphia has in store for you.
Let’s get started.
1. So many Christmas light displays to check out
It wouldn’t be the holidays without Christmas lights. If you are looking to visit Philadelphia, there are plenty of neighborhoods that are decked out. The East Falls neighborhood is the must-see place since it is the home of the famous “Christmas Light District”.
If you want to see something spectacular, the Light Show at Franklin Square might just be the place. With over 50000 LED lights moving in synchronicity with holiday music, it’s a sight to behold. You might not get enough Christmas once you check out the many neighborhoods throughout Philadelphia.
2. Holiday markets are a hit
If you are looking for things to do in Philadelphia, shopping may be one of them. In fact, you’ll want to check out the many holiday markets and fairs in the city. If you ever find yourself in LOVE Park, the Christmas Village may be the perfect place to start.
If you are at the Blue Cross RiverRink during WinterFest, you might be checking out some of the nearby markets. You can also be chowing down on holiday foods and drinks, if you’re in the mood. Christmas Village is home to over 80 vendors and offers plenty of goods from European treats to handmade crafts (and everything in between).
You’d be hard-pressed to find awesome markets anywhere else in the city. After you’ve visited these fine markets, you can get more into the holiday spirit with whatever else is going on. What could be going on during the holidays?
Keep reading to find out more.
3. Plenty of events going on
There’s always something for everyone. So you might find something that is right up your alley. If you’re looking for something in your list of holiday activities ideas, we’ve got some suggestions. The Philadelphia Orchestra holds Christmas concerts and these tickets sell out fast. You may also check out the Nutcracker ballet at the Academy of Music. If you ever find yourself in Center City, the Christmas Light Show at Macy’s is worth checking.
Some events continue on up until New Years. If you want to know about what they are, you’d be crazy to stop reading right here. Let’s continue.
4. They have their own holiday traditions
Philadelphia is home to many holiday traditions. They kick off New Year’s with the Mummer’s Parade. This features a ton of floats, costumes, and musical performances. This parade has been going on for well over a century and always attracts quite a crowd. If you want to check a lot of awesome stuff during the holiday season, be sure to have your Philadelphia Attractions Map handy.
You don’t want to miss out on the fun when you want to celebrate Christmas in Philadelphia and beyond. Don’t forget, there’s always a lot of holiday cheer going on no matter where you are in the city.
5. You can go ice skating
If you’re someone who loves to ice skate, there’s a couple of rinks in the city you can check out. The first one is the Blue Cross RiverRink during Winterfest. The other is the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink located in Dilworth Park. Either place will be perfect when you want to enjoy skating in an outdoor setting. You can rent skates if you don’t have any of your own. You can also enjoy all the food and drink options that are available as well.
It’s never the holiday season when you want to enjoy ice skating while immersing yourself in the Winter Wonderland that Philadelphia has to offer.
6. You can find something for the kids
If you’re a parent with kids, then you’re always going to find something awesome. The Philadelphia Zoo has a Christmas light show that is worth checking out. With nearly a half million LED lights all lit up, they’ll be amazed by the awesome display. You might try to locate Santa and bring the kids to him. They’ll be excited to see the jolly old man himself. They’ll share what they want for Christmas and wait with anticipation.
Santa is somewhere in Philadelphia. But the real question is: where will he pop up? What if it’s yourself or with friends?
Not to worry, we have an idea for you.
7. Celebrate Christmas at a bar or restaurant
If you’re with friends or that special someone, there might be a Christmas party going on at one of the many Philadelphia restaurants and bars. The Assembly Rooftop Lounge transforms into a Chalet-style setting each year. They have the fire pits, themed decorations, and yes…alcoholic Hot Cocoa (among others). If you and the grown-ups want to celebrate Christmas in Philadelphia in the best way possible, you’ll want to check out the festivities and take advantage of the holiday specials for foods and drinks.
Sure, there’s always eggnog. But we think the alcoholic hot cocoa might be worth trying.
Final Thoughts
Christmas in Philadelphia is a special time of year. You’ll definitely want to get in on the action while the holidays are in full swing. If you’re reading this before the holidays, not to worry. You have plenty of time to plan a holiday outing with family or friends. You’ll never run out of things to do in Philadelphia during the holiday season. Plan ahead and enjoy the day whenever you get the chance.
We hope your visit in Philadelphia during the holiday season is a good one.
