Shoppers can wander from Käthe Wohlfahrt’s classic German nutcrackers and incense smokers to the vibrant mosaic lanterns at Silk Road Traders and handcrafted Moroccan goods at Little Marrakesh Bazaar. Fashion lovers will find everything from upcycled tie-dye apparel at Jazzy River to cozy alpaca knits from Winterborn Alpaca, while jewelry fans can browse handmade silver pieces at Tommy Conch Designs or modern accessories from Little Brown Box.
Food and drink options
Visitors can savor bites like German bratwursts at German Grill, cheesy spätzle at the German Spatzle Booth, schnitzel sandwiches at Schnitzel Haus, or vegan brats with blooming onions. Sweet treats abound too, from Helmut’s Strudels and Hardy Funnel Cakes to artisan chocolates from Chocoidea, caramel candies from Hope’s Caramels, and Stroopie gift waffles. Other standout options include bao buns from Bao & Bun Studio, roasted corn from Husky Jawn, and Swiss raclette sandwiches at Raclette Stube.
Beer lovers can raise a glass to locally brewed craft beer from Brewery Techne at “The Alm,” a beer garden nestled in LOVE Park, where you can relax, socialize, and enjoy various holiday brews.
Spirits tastings return this season to add some extra cheer to Thirsty Thursdays. Beginning Dec. 5, visitors can sip exclusive signature drinks from local distillery Boardroom Spirits at the seating area in City Hall’s Courtyard every Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. Each ticket includes four 2-ounce samples, a choice of a German bratwurst or Belgian fries, a souvenir Boardroom Spirits shot glass to take home, and 15% off any Boardroom Spirits products purchased at Christmas Village.
Family events
Christmas Village is rolling out the holiday magic with fun for the whole family, including a double-decker carousel, Ferris wheel, and a Kids Train presented by SEPTA.
Families are invited to celebrate Family Weekend on Dec. 7 and 8, featuring appearances by A Moment of Magic’s princesses, superheroes, and the market’s mascot, Phil the Reindeer. Highlights include a festive parade on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 12:30 p.m., with stops throughout the market for meet-and-greets and plenty of photo opportunities.
On Tuesdays, Christmas Village teams up with the Free Library of Philadelphia for storytime on the LOVE Park stage from 1:30 to 2 p.m., offering seasonal reads and cozy seating.
Festival of Trees
The Festival of Trees is returning to the LOVE Park Welcome Center from Dec. 5 to 24, and features a collection of Christmas trees designed by local artists, each decorated with themed ornaments and original artwork. Visitors can vote for their favorite tree by making a donation to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).
Schedule
Christmas Village is open now through Christmas Eve, Dec. 24. Operating hours are Sunday through Thursday, from noon to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, from noon to 9 p.m. There are special holiday hours on Christmas Eve, noon to 5 p.m.
Admission to Christmas Village is free, with food, beverages, and shopping available on a pay-as-you-go basis.
