Looking for some fun things to do for Thanksgiving weekend in Philadelphia? We’ve got you covered.
Christmas Village
Now in its 17th season, the open-air market will have some fan favorites returning, but also, a few new facets to check out this go-around. Fresh additions for Christmas Village in Philadelphia include: A full-time Vegan booth, new and exclusive flavors of Glühwein, new keepsake mug designs, an updated Kids Wonderland section, and even a new activation called “Wedding Wednesdays”, which allows couples to tie the knot at the iconic locale.
Returning favorites of the Village, on the other hand, span the Ferris Wheel, carousel, train and other popular rides/attractions, exclusive Christmas Village beers, and over 120 vendors serving up fare across Love Park, North Apron and the City Hall courtyard. Vendors will sell hand-crafted goods (think, a selection of ornaments, toys, apparel, jewelry, decorations, home goods, and gourmet treats) and other food and drink options (like the popular Raclette cheese, strudel, waffles, and other savory and sweet bites.)
A full list of offerings is available online.
1500 John F Kennedy Blvd, philachristmas.com
Holidays on the Hill
This multi-week activation offers festive art exhibits, seasonal shopping opportunities, themed events, food specials and more throughout Chestnut Hill.
With over 200 retailers, restaurants, and businesses to visit, there are plenty of independently owned and handcrafted items by local artists to peruse through for gifts, plus, restaurants along the Avenue will continue to serve drink specials and savory dining options. Holidays on the Hill will run through Dec. 25, a full schedule can be found online.
‘Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical’
The holiday engagement of ‘Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical’ is on stage now through Dec. 1 at the Miller Theater.
A description of the show reads: “Featuring the hit songs ‘You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch’ and ‘Welcome Christmas,’ the Grinch discovers there’s more to Christmas than he bargained for in this heart-warming holiday classic. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is two sizes too small, decides to steal Christmas away from the holiday-loving Whos.”
The 2024 production is directed by Matt August and choreographed by Bob Richard, based on the original choreography by John DeLuca and originally created by four-time Tony Award-winning director, Jack O’Brien. Tickets (various prices) are available online or through Miller’s Box Office.
250 S Broad St., ensembleartsphilly.org
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.
As a release notes, highlights this year include “LumiNature 360”, where you can experience a 360-degree celebration of wildlife on the Zoo’s Impala Plaza; “Beary Sweet”, where you can walk through a world of gummy bears and candy; and “Polar Play”, where you’ll choose your own adventure.
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
Holiday Garden Railway at Morris Arboretum
Those looking for unique light shows in Philadelphia are in luck when at Morris. As a release notes, The Morris Arboretum & Gardens’ annual family favorite, the Holiday Garden Railway, is set to run now through Dec. 30. The miniature world of model trains, historic buildings, bridges, and more will be decorated with thousands of twinkling lights. More information on times and tickets can be found online.
100 E Northwestern Ave., morrisarboretum.org
