Philadelphia Christmas Event Guide 2025

Philadelphia is all about celebrating the holidays to the max. From historic squares strung with lights to beloved neighborhood traditions, the city blends its rich heritage with modern holiday fun. 

Strolling through LOVE Park, catching a classic light show, or wandering blocks lined with over-the-top decorations all add up to a season that feels both festive and personal. And don’t you worry, we searched high and low to find the most popular, trending, and truly memorable Christmas events in Philly this year, so you don’t have to.

These events are not ranked in any particular order. Each one is included because it's popular or worth knowing about.

1. Christmas Village in Philadelphia

This authentic German-style market transforms LOVE Park and City Hall into a holiday destination. With more than 120 vendors, you’ll find handmade ornaments, wooden toys, and European treats like bratwurst and mulled wine. 

• Dates: November 22 – December 24, 2025
  
• Address: LOVE Park, 1500 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (outdoors)
  
• Free: Yes
  
• Website: philachristmas.com
  
• Insider Tip: Visit in the evening for twinkling lights, but arrive early if you want first pick of handmade gifts.

2. Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market

Steps from City Hall, this market celebrates local makers with over 50 vendors selling art, jewelry, crafts, and tasty snacks. It’s a relaxed, Philly-focused complement to the busier Christmas Village next door. 

• Dates: November 14, 2025 – January 1, 2026
  
• Address: Dilworth Park, 1 S 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes
  
• Free: Yes
  
• Website: madeinphila.com
  
• Insider Tip: Grab a snack and enjoy the ice rink view; it’s especially pretty after dark. Weekday visits are strongly encouraged. 

3. Macy’s Christmas Light Show & Dickens Village

A beloved Philadelphia tradition for more than 50 years, this event fills Macy’s atrium with 100,000+ LED lights dancing to holiday music. After the show, stroll through Dickens Village, where “A Christmas Carol” comes to life in detailed dioramas.

• Dates: November 29 – December 24, 2025
  
• Address: Wanamaker Building, Macy’s Center City, 100 E Penn Square, Philadelphia, PA 19107
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Service animals only
  
• Free: Yes
  
• Website: phlvisitorcenter.com/wanamaker-christmas-light-show
  
• Insider Tip: Catch a weekday show to avoid weekend crowds.

4. Winter in Dilworth Park

Dilworth Park turns into a lively winter playground every year. Lace up your skates at the Rothman Rink, stroll through the Wintergarden, or shop at pop-up holiday stalls. Food vendors and warm drinks complete the scene, making it a favorite for families or date nights.

• Dates: November 14, 2025 – February 23, 2026
  
• Address: 1 S 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (outdoors)
  
• Free: Entry is free; skating is ticketed
  
• Website: centercityphila.org/dilworth-park
  
• Insider Tip: Warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled cider between skate sessions.

5. Franklin Square Electrical Spectacle Light Show

Franklin Square glows with more than 100,000 lights choreographed to holiday songs. Families can enjoy carousel rides, mini-golf, and seasonal snacks while taking in the show. It’s a laid-back but festive way to spend an evening in the city.

• Dates: November 21, 2025 – February 23, 2026
  
• Address: Franklin Square, 200 N 6th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (outdoors)
  
• Free: Yes
  
• Website: historicphiladelphia.org/
  
• Insider Tip: Plan your visit just after sunset to see the lights at their brightest.

6. Miracle on South 13th Street

This South Philly block is legendary for its cheerful overload of lights and decorations. Residents go all out with inflatables, themed displays, and bright colors lining every inch. Walking the street has become a local holiday ritual, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking up the neighborhood pride.

• Dates: December 1, 2025 – January 1, 2026
  
• Address: South 13th Street between Tasker & Morris Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19148
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (outdoors/leashed)
  
• Free: Yes
  
• Website: kidfriendlyphilly.com/free-holiday-light-displays-philadelphia
  
• Insider Tip: Weeknights are less crowded than weekends, but the lights shine just as bright.

7. A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens creates a spectacular holiday show with half a million lights, themed conservatories, and music-synced fountain displays. The gardens’ sprawling paths make it an immersive outing for families or couples. 

• Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 11, 2026
  
• Address: 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Service animals only
  
• Free: No (ticketed)
  
• Website: longwoodgardens.org
  
• Insider Tip: Reserve tickets early because prime evening slots sell out fast.

8. Philadelphia Zoo’s LumiNature

The zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland with 14 themed zones and huge animal lanterns. Interactive displays and seasonal treats make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Whether it’s a family outing or a romantic stroll, LumiNature is a must-see.

• Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
  
• Address: 3400 W Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Service animals only
  
• Free: No (ticketed)
  
• Website: philadelphiazoo.org/luminature
  
• Insider Tip: Dress warmly and give yourself plenty of time to explore every zone.

9. Oaks Christmas Market

Just outside Philadelphia, this massive indoor market draws nearly 300 vendors selling crafts, food, and seasonal décor. It’s a great spot for one-stop shopping and catching live entertainment while you browse. Families and pets alike enjoy the relaxed, festive vibe.

• Dates: December 6 – 7, 2025
  
• Address: Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Station Avenue, Oaks, PA 19456
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (indoors, leashed)
  
• Free: No ($5 admission)
  
• Website: phillyexpocenter.com/events/oaks-christmas-market-2
  
• Insider Tip: Go early on Saturday to beat the biggest crowds.

10. Smedley Street Christmas Light Spectacular

Hidden in South Philly, this block-long display features glowing candy canes, lights, and festive inflatables. It’s a community tradition that has delighted locals for decades. A quick evening walk here is an easy way to get into the holiday spirit.

• Dates: November 29, 2025 – January 12, 2026
  
• Address: 2700 Block of Smedley Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145
  
• Kid-friendly: Yes
  
• Pet-friendly: Yes (outdoors/leashed)
  
• Free: Yes
  
• Website: kidfriendlyphilly.com/free-holiday-light-displays-philadelphia
  
• Insider Tip: Bundle up and grab a hot drink. The block is best enjoyed on foot.

Mix Rich History of the City with Holiday Traditions

Each of these events shows off a different side of Philadelphia: historic charm, neighborhood pride, or all-out festive spirit. Christmas in Philadelphia can be all you ever dreamed of if you hit up each one!

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Have an event to add or see an update we should make? Email us at info@thechristmas.com.