Explore the Best Things to Do in Philadelphia This Week
Philadelphia is brimming with exciting events and activities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you're looking for a festive holiday experience, an art installation, or a picturesque date spot, there's something for everyone. From upcoming events and seasonal attractions to community gatherings, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your week in Philly.
Holiday Light Show at Shadybrook Farm
Shady Brook Farm is lighting up for the holiday season with thousands of whimsical light displays featuring beloved holiday characters. You can enjoy the show from the comfort of your car or snuggle up in a wagon for a closer look. The event runs from November 22 to January 4.
- Location: 931 Stony Hill Rd., Yardley, Pa, 19067
- Website: shadybrookfarm.com
- Price: $45–$120
Christmas Village in LOVE Park
Philly’s favorite open-air Christmas market returns to LOVE Park, offering over 100 vendors with unique gifts, delicious treats, and spiced wine. The market is a magical experience for the whole family.
- Location: 1500 Arch St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19102
- Website: philachristmas.com
- Price: Pay-as-you-go
- Duration: Through December 24
6ABC Thanksgiving Day Parade
The 6ABC Thanksgiving Day Parade is a beloved tradition featuring giant floats, incredible performances, and Santa’s arrival. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season.
- Time: November 27, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Location: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., Philadelphia, Pa, 19130
- Website: 6abc.com
- Price: Free
Comcast Holiday Spectacular
Experience the magic of the holidays at the Comcast Center with sleigh rides over the city, performances by the Philadelphia Ballet, and sing-alongs. The show runs at the top of the hour from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Location: 1701 JFK Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19103
- Website: comcastcentercampus.com
- Price: Free
Wannamaker Light Show
This holiday tradition dates back to 1956 and features thousands of dancing snowmen, candy canes, and the sounds of the Wanamaker Organ. Upstairs, Dicken’s Village brings A Christmas Carol to life.
- Location: 100 E. Penn Sq., Philadelphia, Pa, 19107
- Website: phlvisitorcenter.com
- Price: Free
- Duration: November 28 – December 24
Small Business Saturday Market
Support local businesses at the Small Business Saturday Market in Bok. Shop from dozens of local makers and enjoy coffee or cocktails from nearby vendors.
- Date: November 29
- Time: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Location: 1901 S. 9th St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19148
- Website: goodthingsphl.com
- Price: Pay-as-you-go
Family-Friendly Events in Philly
Thanksgiving week in Philly is packed with classic traditions that are perfect for kids and families. From parades to light shows and skating rinks, there’s no shortage of fun activities.
Thanksgiving Day Parade
For the 106th year, Philly’s Thanksgiving tradition marches up the Ben Franklin Parkway and down JFK Boulevard, featuring giant balloons, floats, local marching bands, clowns, and a finale with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
- Time: November 27, 9 a.m.
- Location: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy. to City Hall, Philadelphia, Pa. 19102
- Website: 6abc.com
- Price: Free
Christmas Village
LOVE Park transforms into a German-style holiday market with wooden huts, mulled drinks, ornaments, and Santa visits on weekends. Across the street, City Hall adds even more holiday flair with a Ferris wheel, carousel, and ice skating at Dilworth Park.
- Location: 15th & JFK Blvd. and 1 S. 15th St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19102
- Website: philachristmas.com
- Price: Free entry; pay-as-you-go
Light Show and Dickens Village
The Grand Court Light Show at the Wanamaker Building runs throughout the season, while upstairs, Dickens Village brings back its vintage animatronic retelling of A Christmas Carol. Free timed tickets required for Dickens Village.
- Location: 1 E. Penn Sq., Philadelphia, Pa. 19107
- Website: phlvisitorcenter.com
- Price: Free
RiverRink Winterfest
Penn’s Landing becomes a winter playground with an outdoor skating rink, a cozy warming lodge, carnival rides, arcade games, fire pits, and plenty of food and drink. Skating is ticketed; entry to the waterfront space is free.
- Location: 101 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106
- Website: delawareriverwaterfront.com
- Price: Free entry; $5 to skate, $12 rental
New Hope Christmas Tree Lighting
The riverfront streets of New Hope glow for the town’s annual community tree lighting, complete with cookies, hot chocolate, carols, and a Santa sighting.
- Date: November 30
- Time: 5–8 p.m.
- Location: 10 W. Ferry St., New Hope, Pa. 18938
- Website: visitnewhope.com
- Price: Free
“A Christmas Story”
The Walnut Street Theatre turns the delightfully offbeat holiday movie into a full-fledged musical, including frozen tongues, flying turkeys, and leg lamps. Bonus: for the Tuesday, Dec. 2 performance at 7:30 p.m., every adult ticket comes with a free child ticket (under age 17).
- Location: 825 Walnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19107
- Website: walnutstreettheatre.org
- Price: $31–$108
Holidays in Franklin Square
Franklin Square rings in the season with music-and-light fountain shows, Nutcracker previews, holiday mini golf, and a warming tent serving cocoa and treats.
- Location: 200 N. 6th St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106
- Website: historicphiladelphia.org
- Price: Free; pay-as-you-go
Luminature
At the Philadelphia Zoo, millions of bulbs illuminate giant animal sculptures, including a 40-foot dancing penguin and a flamingo “tree.” Timed tickets required.
- Location: 3400 W. Girard Ave., Philadelphia, Pa. 19104
- Website: philadelphiazoo.org
- Price: $29
