It’s that time of year again—Tinseltown will be once again shining for Philadelphians—but in 2023, at a new location.
“For the first time ever, we are bringing Tinseltown to South Philly’s FDR Park, so the change of location is sure to bring an added element of magic to the experience,” says Michael Sulkes, SVP of Spectacor Sports and Entertainment. “With the change of venue, the layout and footprint of Tinseltown will be completely different and will wow both new and returning visitors.”
This year, as Sulkes says, Tinseltown will have a brand-new ice trail where guests can glide through a “breathtaking display of lights”, aka, go ice skating through a 13,000-square-foot trail of lit-up and winter-themed decorations. The team at Tinseltown has also brought back all the favorite attractions of previous years, like the ice slide, the light-up dance floor, Union Forge Tinsel Lodge, Reading Room with Mrs. Claus, photos with Santa, and much more.
“There is truly something for everyone at Tinseltown,” Sulkes says. The SVP also noted what the new location will bring to the festivities this year.
“FDR Park is one of Philadelphia’s most cherished natural spaces, and we are thrilled to be bringing Tinseltown there. Bringing Tinseltown to FDR Park allows us to build on the magic that FDR Park already has and create a holiday experience not seen anywhere else. Visitors will be wowed as they stroll through the Park’s already beautiful landscape and see it dazzling with over 2.5 million lights.”
Sulkes also added that the beauty of this location with its proximity to the Broad Street Line and plenty of parking available at the Novacare Complex. “Getting to Tinseltown could not be easier,” he continues.
Highlights from this year span the four-lane 160-foot-long ice slide, time with both of the Clauses, a series of seasonal food and drink options from the Lodge, and plenty of stand-alone events.
“Every night at Tinseltown is special but we have a few special events throughout the run that are sure to excite folks. Every Wednesday at Tinseltown is Waggin’ Wednesday. No holiday memory is complete without our furry friends, so guests are encouraged to bring their four-legged pals along,” Sulkes says.
“In addition, every Friday in December, Tinseltown will welcome Philly’s jolliest mascots, Gritty Claus. No one brings the holiday spirit quite like Gritty, so visitors on those days can expect to make extra special holiday memories.”
On top of those themed days, the huge appeal of Tinseltown is, of course, the light displays that the event has become known for.
As a release states, as guests stroll the brand-new layout of this illuminated wonderland in the park, they will find larger-than-life sculptures, including a 60-foot light tunnel, glowing baubles, and even Santa’s sleigh. Tinseltown will also showcase some of Philadelphia’s most beloved landmarks and personalities in lights, and along the way you’ll find a massive, walk-through Liberty Bell, illuminations representing Philly sports teams, and a few more holiday-inspired jawns.
“Bringing Tinseltown to FDR Park is yet another part of Comcast Spectacor’s commitment to making South Philly a world-class sports and entertainment destination for the region,” Sulkes finishes. “Guests to Tinseltown will be wowed by the experience, so we look forward to building on that and expanding the entertainment offerings in South Philly.”
Tinseltown opens Friday, Nov. 17. More information and a full schedule with tickets can be found at TinseltownHoliday.com
