Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
Lincoln Mill Holiday Haunted House
Lincoln Mill Haunted House in Manayunk is continuing its tradition of popping up with one-night-only themed activations later this week, and this one is titled ‘A Twisted Christmas.’ Taking place Saturday, Dec. 16, from 6 to 10 p.m., ‘A Twisted Christmas’ features over 35 scare-actors and is intended to “be very scary.” As a release states, during the debut of this particular experience, guests will venture to the darkest and lowest levels of Lincoln Mill Haunted House.
The space will be decked out with Christmas lights, tinsel, ornaments, trees, stockings and the story will contain the same cast of characters—just all of them will have Christmas essence added to them. Owners/partners Jared Bilsak and Brian Corcodilos hope that ‘A Twisted Christmas’ will become an annual holiday tradition , and the two are already working on new experiences for 2024, the release finishes.
4100 Main St., lincolnmillhaunt.com
Chocolate Ballerina Company’s ‘Nutcracker: Dipped in Chocolate’
The all-Black ‘Nutcracker: Dipped in Chocolate’ from the CBC is in its third year, and will play at Drexel University’s Mandell Theatre for one weekend, (Dec. 16-17). Show times are 1:30 and 7 p.m. on both days.
As a release states, founded in 2017 by Chanel Holland-Pierre, Chocolate Ballerina Company engages underserved communities through dance, to inspire and instill a sense of hope, discipline, and confidence through training and through professional development. The company offers free dance classes, outreach programs, pop-up performances, masterclasses, and more, both digitally and in-person. Tickets to ‘The Nutcracker: Dipped in Chocolate’ are available online and range from $25-$110.
3220 Chestnut St., chocolateballerinacompany.com
Alpine Heights at Assembly Rooftop Lounge
Located in The Logan Hotel, this rooftop hotspot is offering Philadelphians a fire-side escape from the cold weather with their annual Alpine Heights activation. The modern ski lodge-inspired pop-up features hot cocktails, comfort food, themed décor, cozy blankets, blazing fire pits and heaters, and will be open until Feb. 29 of next year.
While at Alpine Heights, Philadelphians can indulge in boozy hot chocolate, fondue, short rib rosti, a Bavarian smash burger, gruyere & onion dip, and a variety of other cocktails.
As a release states, for those looking to get extra cozy, the cocktail menu will also feature hot libations, including the firepit staple Liquid Love ($18), made with Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey, ganache hot chocolate and Chantilly cream; Alpine Floral Toddy ($16), with Evan Williams Bourbon and fall spiced mulled apple cider; and Spiced Mulled Wassail ($16), built with Cruzan Aged Dark Rum, Maggie’s Farm Falernum, lemon, hibiscus tea and simple syrup. Assembly’s Alpine Heights will also feature a happy hour between 4 and 5 p.m. for discounted cocktails and bites.
1840 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, assemblyrooftop.com
The Cauldron’s Magical Hot Chocolate Experience
The Cauldron Philadelphia offers locals the chance to experience “magical” food and drink elements (plus, potion-making classes) with every visit. But recently, the venue has added a new element to its line-up: The Magical Hot Chocolate Experience. The activation features cast iron cauldrons, flights of mini hot chocolates, and locked wizard chests of toppings that open by tapping on them through a “spell” with your wand.
The Cauldron will also be hosting weekly events, many of which are holiday-themed (they’re also introducing a new red and green “potion” for the occasion) and interested Philadelphians can find a full schedule of events online.
1305 Locust St., thecauldron.io/philly
Tinseltown
Tinseltown is back in 2023, but this time at FDR Park with some new activations like the ice trail, where guests can glide through a “breathtaking display of lights”, aka, go ice skating through a 13,000-square-foot trail of lit-up winter-themed decorations. The team at Tinseltown has also brought back all the favorite attractions of previous years, like the ice slide, the light-up dance floor, Union Forge Tinsel Lodge, Reading Room with Mrs. Claus, photos with Santa, Gritty appearances and much more.
As a release states, as guests stroll the brand-new layout of this illuminated wonderland in the park, they will find larger-than-life sculptures, including a 60-foot light tunnel, glowing baubles, and even Santa’s sleigh. Tinseltown will also showcase some of Philadelphia’s most beloved landmarks and personalities in lights, and along the way you’ll find a massive, walk-through Liberty Bell, illuminations representing Philly sports teams, and a few more holiday-inspired jawns.
1900 Pattison Ave., tinseltownholiday.com
