Fun things to do in Philly this weekend

Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? Metro has you covered. 

Holiday Garden Railway

The holiday season has kicked off in Chestnut Hill, and to celebrate the occasion, Philadelphians can stop by one of their classic attractions. The Holiday Garden Railway at the Morris Arboretum returns this Friday and continues daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through the end of the year. The exhibit features an expansive train display of 15 rails and a quarter-mile track adorned with a miniature village and will be open from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on weekends. Advanced tickets are required and can be purchased online. 

(100 E. Northwestern Ave.,) morrisarboretum.org

Black Friday Brunch + Bourbon County Stout Tappings

If you’re shopping on Black Friday and need some sustenance, or, if you just want to enjoy a nice meal, head to City Works this Friday in King of Prussia. While there, diners can enjoy their Brunch + Bourbon County Stout Tappings event featuring rock n’ roll-themed brunch offerings. Dishes will include the Johnny Hash (hardwood-smoked pulled pork shoulder, red and green bell peppers, onions, butternut squash, potatoes, jalapeno salsa verde, and sunnyside up eggs); the Clash Smash (smashed avocado on toasted challah, roasted corn, pickled red onion, shaved radish, and sliced hardboiled egg); and their Chimi Hendrix (breakfast chimichanga in a fried flour tortilla with scrambled egg, bacon, sausage, green onion, pico de gallo, smoked cheddar, chipotle salsa roja, and cheesy potato casserole). To wash it all down, Philadelphians can also select tappings from Goose Island’s 2021 Bourbon County Stout lineup ($11 for a 6 ounce pour) and an assortment of cocktails. Brunch begins at 10 a.m.; reservations are recommended and can be made online or by calling the restaurant.

220 Main St., King of Prussia Town Center Development, cityworksrestaurant.com

Menorah Lighting at the Betsy Ross House 

According to a release, at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, the Betsy Ross House will join the Old City Jewish Arts Center to host a community menorah lighting celebrating the first night of Hanukkah. This neighborhood favorite was virtual in 2020 and now the return to an in-person event has been highly anticipated. In addition to the lighting, traditional Hanukkah gifts and treats will be offered for guests to take home. Philadelphians can also take advantage of Museum Store Sunday on that same day as well: The Betsy Ross House Museum Shop will offer 20% off any one non-sale item (restrictions might apply). The shop also has a variety of unique gift items, from sewing crafts to girl power T-shirts and American Heritage chocolate as a twist to traditional holiday sweets. 

239 Arch St., historicphiladelphia.org

Tinseltown Holiday Spectacular 

The massive, immersive, one-of-a-kind experience offering “a winter wonderland of lights, shopping and dining” will take place from Black Friday through Jan. 2 at the Fairgrounds at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks. According to a release, Tinseltown will also feature different events such as ‘Waggin’ Wednesdays,’ when guests can bring their dogs along and ‘Gritty Thursdays’ when Philadelphia’s favorite mascot will join holiday revelers. There will also be local artisans and food and beverage vendors, a safe, eco-friendly skating rink, perfect for kids and beginners, and much more.  Tickets for Tinseltown are limited and start at $19.99 for adults and $13.99 for children under 13 – admission is free for children under 5. All ticket buyers will be required to select a designated arrival window when purchasing. and patrons are encouraged to book their timed tickets early as sell-outs are anticipated. 

The Fairgrounds at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Station Ave., Oaks, tinseltownholiday.com

Winter in Franklin Square Park

The holiday season has kicked off in Philly, and with so many events and festivities to choose from, one of the brightest options is Winter in Franklin Square Park. Winter in Franklin Square Park recently kicked off and guests will be able to enjoy some new additions as well as some old favorites. Back again is the Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO and those who head to the square can catch the updated showcase with new songs and features through Feb. 27. Also, through Jan. 9, Philadelphians can enjoy Franklin’s Winter View operated by Cescaphe with outdoor fire pits and an indoor heated tent featuring adult and hot beverages and seasonal food. Chilly Philly Mini-Golf presented by IBEW Local 98 is also back, transforming Center City’s only miniature golf course to provide both daytime and evenings with fun for all ages. Specially curated events will also be taking place throughout the winter months; more information can be found online.

200 N. 6th St., historicphiladelphia.org