Philadelphia’s Old City District, known as America’s most historic square mile, is set to host the return of Historic Holidays, a stuffed set of festive events taking place in the neighborhood’s collection of retail stores and restaurants.
The excitement begins on Small Business Saturday, which takes place on Nov. 30, with an assortment of live entertainment, sidewalk sales, and more, all lifting up local shops.
Old City is home to over 300 small businesses, from art galleries to design showrooms, museums, restaurants and bars. And on Small Business Saturday, these businesses will feature special discounts and deals.
The list of participating businesses includes 48 Record Bar, ANIMA Natural Pet Products, Arch Enemy Arts, Bella Bridesmaids Philadelphia, Blokes Barbershop & Gentleman’s Emporium, Cuba Libre, Dafina Company, the Fireman’s Hall Museum, Kick Axe Throwing Philly, Museum of Illusions, Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti, The Papery, The Wellness Refinery, and more.
Shoppers taking in the sights and sales can easily locate discounts and deals on Small Business Saturday by visiting stores with balloons outside of their buildings. The first 25 customers at select locations will go home with a complimentary Old City tote bag while supplies last. There will also be live entertainment from noon to 3 p.m. at various sites.
Next, Old City will host its eighth annual Historic Holidays Tree Lighting. It will be held at the Betsy Ross House on Wednesday, Dec. 4, from 6 to 6:30 p.m. and feature a variety of musical and dance performances, including Settlement Music School, Philadelphia Dance Academy, Upper Darby Encore Singers, special guest speakers, a holiday tree by Old City’s Petit Jardin en Ville, and an appearance from Santa Claus.
Then there’s the return of Holiday Shopping Sip & Stroll, set to take place on Saturday, Dec. 7, from noon to 5 p.m. Third Street will be closed between Market and Arch streets to allow pedestrians to stroll the streets and enjoy Old City’s offerings, from shopping to sipping, eating, live entertainment and more.
The Community Menorah Lighting will round out this year’s Historic Holidays in Old City. Taking place on Monday, Dec. 30, from 4 to 4:30 p.m., the lighting will also be located at the Betsy Ross House and will be presented in collaboration with the Old City Jewish Arts Center.
