Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
Philly Goat Project’s Tree-Cycle
This Saturday marks the first official date for the Philly Goat Project’s annual event, which turns locals’ Christmas trees into goat snacks and sustainable material for Philly parks. On Jan. 4 (noon to 3 p.m.), the activation will be in full swing at The Farm at Awbury Arboretum with an afternoon packed with activities, all of which benefit the nonprofit.
This year’s Christmas Tree-Cycle festivals will feature farm exploration, firepits with s’mores and hot cocoa, a goat petting zoo and games. The fests will also host quiet visiting areas as a calm space for guests with special needs and the Philly Goat Project Swag Tables. The latter will feature Philly Goat Project’s 2025 calendar showcasing the goats at Philadelphia landmarks. A $20 donation per tree is recommended.
6336 Ardleigh St., phillygoatproject.org
The Prime Rib
“Drinks in Toyland” is the venue’s latest holiday pop-up, and it will be housed in the restaurant’s front entrance foyer/bar until Jan. 11. Decor-wise, the pop-up dons twinkling lights, antique toys, tinsel, ornaments, snowy windows and more, but the real magic comes from the cocktails being served.
Different seasonal flavors like chocolate peppermint and gingerbread are on display with the Chocolate Peppermint Martini and the Gingerbread Espresso Martini. Other sweet sips include the Toy Shop Sangria made with red wine, Belle de Brillet Pear Liqueur, St. Remy Brandy, cinnamon spiced syrup, and cranberry juice with sugared thyme, cranberries, and a cinnamon stick; plus the Gin & Jolly, a spin on a classic gin fizz cocktail made with The Botanist Gin, egg white, ginger syrup, lime, a lemon peel, and club soda poured into a coupe glass garnished with ginger candy.
900 Packer Ave., philadelphia.livecasinohotel.com
Electrical Spectacle at Franklin Square Park
The Electrical Spectacle Light Show in Franklin Square has become a staple in the city during the winter season. The free showcase runs every 30 minutes from 5 to 9 p.m. and boasts over 1,000 twinkling lights choreographed to seasonal music throughout the Square. This year, the synchronized performance will feature a new song: ‘Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)’ by The Philly Specials.
Electrical Spectacle features seven songs total (two songs for each show) on a rotating basis. Locals can stop by through Jan. 5, 2025. After that, as a release notes, beginning Jan. 9, the show changes for January and February with the sole song, ‘Winter Wonderland’ by Johnny Mathis featured. While at Franklin Square Park, Philadelphians can also check out Chilly Philly Mini Golf, street curling, a special beer garden (Ben on the Rocks) and more.
200 N 6th St., historicphiladelphia.org
Alpine Heights at Assembly Rooftop Lounge
This rooftop lounge is a prime spot for cocktails simply for its views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. But while here this winter season, Philadelphians can also check out the venue’s Alpine Heights pop-up, which features aprés ski-inspired decor and menu items, including the Cherry Apple Hot Cider ($17) and the All White Hot Chocolate ($18.)
The former boasts bourbon, apple cider, cherry and winter spices, while the latter is made with Stoli Vanilla, samba, chocolate liqueur and white chocolate.
1840 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, assemblyrooftop.com
LumiNature at the Philadelphia Zoo
It’s the last weekend for this annual showcase at the Philadelphia Zoo. LumiNature 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.
The show 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
