Philadelphia, PA - The holiday season in Philadelphia is closely approaching, as temperatures drop in this tradition-steeped city, a joyful spirit fills local retail stores, theaters, eateries, and area parks. This season guarantees a wealth of festivities, including Center City's annual holiday festival.
Jolly in the City of Brotherly Love: Winter Holiday and Christmas Highlights in Philadelphia
Philadelphia, a city steeped in colonial history and famed for its lively cultural scene, transforms into a truly magical destination during the winter holidays. From spectacular light shows and historic German markets to uniquely Philly traditions, the city offers a festive experience guaranteed to warm the chilliest visitor.
Here are the essential winter holiday and Christmas highlights you shouldn't miss in Philadelphia:
1. The Signature Light Shows
Philadelphia is home to some of the country's most spectacular and long-running light-and-sound shows.
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Macy's Christmas Light Show & Dickens Village: Held in the Grand Court of the historic Wanamaker Building (now Macy's), this tradition dates back over half a century. The show features thousands of LED lights synchronized to music from the Wanamaker Organ (the world's largest playing pipe organ). After the show, take the elevator up to Dickens Village, a walk-through display that brings scenes from A Christmas Carol to life with animatronic figures.
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Wawa Holiday River Rink Winterfest: Situated on the Delaware River waterfront, Winterfest is a considerable attraction featuring an outdoor ice-skating rink, warming cabins, twinkling lights, and a massive holiday tree. It's an ideal spot for family fun with stunning views of the Ben Franklin Bridge.
2. The Festive Markets and Shopping
Philadelphia's holiday markets embrace European traditions and local craftsmanship.
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Christmas Village in Philadelphia: This is the city's version of a traditional German Christmas Market. Located in Love Park and extending into City Hall's courtyard, the village features dozens of wooden booths selling international crafts, ornaments, and authentic European foods like bratwurst, gingerbread, and warm mulled wine (Glühwein).
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The Reading Terminal Market: While always a culinary hub, the market becomes especially festive with holiday decorations, seasonal treats from local bakers, and specialty food items perfect for Christmas dinner preparation.
3. Historic and Iconic Decorations
The city’s historic architecture provides a dramatic backdrop for classic holiday displays.
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City Hall Tree and Ice Rink: The stunning architecture of City Hall is often illuminated with a massive holiday tree and features an adjacent ice rink, making it the central hub of downtown holiday activity.
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Miracle on South 13th Street: Located in the East Passyunk neighborhood, this residential block puts on an annual, competitive display of lights and decorations. Residents coordinate to create a dazzling, continuous spectacle that draws visitors from all over the region.
4. Unique Philly Traditions
No Christmas in Philadelphia is complete without experiencing the local flavors and enduring traditions.
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Hot Chocolate and Hoagies: Warm up with a "wooder ice" alternative—a cup of rich hot chocolate—and consider stopping for a holiday hoagie, a seasonal favorite featuring turkey and fixings.
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The Mummers Parade (New Year's Day): While technically after Christmas, the Mummers Parade is the ultimate Philadelphia winter spectacle. The colorful, costumed, musical parade takes over Broad Street on New Year's Day, providing a unique and boisterous cap to the holiday season.
