Celebrate the Holiday Season in Philadelphia

Philadelphia delights residents and visitors alike during the holiday season with numerous attractions and activities for all ages.

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest

The seasonal, outdoor ice-skating rink and winter wonderland runs late November–March. Enjoy food and beverage from local restaurants, cozy cabins and fire pits when you aren’t skating.

Wonder in Christmas Lights

Philadelphia offers several iconic light displays. Macy’s hosts a light show late November–Dec. 31. More than 100,000 energy-efficient lights deliver a spectacular show. South Philadelphia is home to a stunning light display known as The Miracle on South 13^th Street. Residents on the 1600 block of South 13^th Street deck out their homes in a must-see holiday light display.

Take in a Show

Get in the spirit by watching a holiday classic. The Academy of Music hosts George Balachine’s The Nutcracker in December. Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol plays at the Walnut Street Theatre late November through December.

Go Shopping

Dilworth Park hosts a Christmas village, with quaint shops as well as an ice-skating rink. Explore stores in the chic Rittenhouse Square neighborhood. Make sure to stop and check out the Square’s Christmas tree during your shopping trip.

Stick around for New Year’s Day

Philadelphia is home to the one-of-a-kind, annual Mummers Parade, held every year New Year’s Day. Marchers and performers take to the city streets, decked out in elaborate, feathered costumes.