Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
‘Twas the Night Before… by Cirque du Soleil’
This Christmas-themed show playing at The Met is inspired “by the joy of giving and the wonder of the holiday season.” This showcase will only play in the city for a limited time (until Dec. 29), with tickets currently on sale for all performances.
The holiday-inspired show is based on the classic poem ‘A Visit from St. Nicholas’ by Clement Clarke Moore. In the poem, a jaded young girl rediscovers the magic of Christmas, and some of the lines from Moore’s work will also find their way weaved onto stage with Cirque’s performers.
Currently, Cirque is running a holiday and a family special for tickets to ‘Twas the Night Before.’ The holiday offer runs for 25% off, while the family package gets you a bundle of four tickets for a reduced price. Tickets (various prices) are available to purchase online.
858 N Broad St.,cirquedusoleil.com
Vinter Wonderland at Renault Winery
Located a short drive away from the city (Egg Harbor Township to be exact), the South Jersey winery has been transformed into “a scene from a Hallmark movie” with the entire estate decked out for the holiday season.
New for 2024, the seasonal experience has added the Vinter Express Barrel Train experience, the “Grinch’s Lair” pop-up bar, a photo-ready space in Santa’s Workshop, a new lounge/wine bar, and a sweet shop serving up different treats like a ginormous hot chocolate. Returning fan-favorites include the ice rink, Vinter Village with a variety of vendors, family-friendly activities (like face painting and crafts), and the Renault’s famous Barrel Tree, which will be housed right out front of the venue.
Philadelphians can also opt to score a Renault Passport (Vinter Edition) to nab some exclusive deals. For $39 plus tax, you will receive parking close to the venue, a way to skip the line, an ice skating pass, a tractor ride, plus a s’mores kit and 10% off the Renault Gift Shoppe. A similar family package is also available for $139 plus tax.
2 Bremen Ave, Egg Harbor City, New Jersey, renaultwinery.com
One-Man Nutcracker
If you’re looking for a unique way to check out ‘The Nutcracker’ in Philly, award-winning actor and writer Chris Davis has the show for you. His one-man Nutcracker is open now and runs until Dec. 29 at the Louis Bluver Theatre at The Drake. Davis takes on the role of—well, every character—plus MK Tuomanen is stepping in as director and Campbell Tosney as choreographer.
The show is coming to Philly after a sold-out run in Germany in the 2024 Thespis Festival, and tickets ($15-$35 via Eventbrite) are now on sale. The show description also notes that this performance is suitable for ages 10 and over.
302 S. Hicks St., realchrisdavis.com
Craftsman Row Saloon
Those looking for holiday pop-up bars in Philadelphia are in for a treat with Craftsman Row Saloon. Known for its over-the-top decorations—featuring thousands of lights, ornaments and more—and extravagant milkshake options (like the “All I Want for Christmas” featuring vanilla ice cream, egg nog, crushed gingerbread cookies, a holiday decorated cookie, lollipop, and a green/red sour strip), the venue is also donning an updated food and drink menu.
Festive options span the Christmas Dinner Burger, Candy Cane Caprese, Holiday Pasta and sips like the Fireside Chat (skrewball whiskey, chocolate bitters, cream, toasted marshmallow and a cinnamon rim), the Elf Help Book Sangria (pinot grigio, white cranberry, rosemary, orange and apple cider) the Garland Punch (gin, midori, lemon and a Christmas wreath) and much more.
112 S 8th St., craftsmanrowsaloon.com
LumiNature at the Philadelphia Zoo
Luminature is back this winter at the Philadelphia Zoo. This dazzling showcase features over a million holiday lights throughout the venue, with different themed activations, food and drink options, plus new additions taking over the line-up for 2024.
LumiNature will be on-site at the venue through Jan. 4, 2025. Advance tickets for adults ages 12+ are $22 to $29, children ages 2-11 are $18 to $24, and children under 2 years old are no charge for Philadelphia Zoo members. Timed entrance tickets are available every half hour from 5 to 8 p.m. with the experience closing at 9 or 10 p.m. depending on the visit date.
3400 W Girard Ave., philadelphiazoo.org
