Best Christmas Experiences & Attractions in Philadelphia 2026: Holiday Activities Guide

Find the best Philadelphia Christmas experiences for 2026, including holiday train rides, ice skating, Santa visits, workshops, tastings, and winter activities.

Photo Credit: K. Kelly for VISIT PHILADELPHIA

Philadelphia offers a wide range of Christmas experiences and attractions in 2026, with seasonal activities for visitors of all ages. From holiday train rides and ice skating to Santa visits, hands-on workshops, and tasting events, this guide highlights the best ways to enjoy Christmas in Philadelphia throughout the season.

The Best Experiences & Attractions in Philadelphia This Season

Discover the top Christmas experiences in Philadelphia for 2026, featuring unique activities, seasonal attractions, and memorable things to do for all ages.

1. Trees of Historic Bethlehem Exhibit — Bethlehem, PA

This self-guided exhibition invites visitors into the stone-walled warmth of Pennsylvania's historic landmarks to explore a unique architectural journey told through holiday design. More than 20 trees are carefully styled by the local Bethlehem Garden Club, transforming historic spaces into galleries that trace design eras from ornate Victorian details to sharp, geometric Brutalism. Guests can wander at their own pace through three premier cultural heritage buildings, including the 1741 Gemeinhaus and the Kemerer Museum of Decorative Arts. It's an inspiring way to enjoy the early winter season while casting your vote for your favorite layout at the final stop.

Dates: November 13th, 2026 - January 4th, 2027
Admission: Ticketed (Currently on sale)
Street Address: 501 Main Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018
Kid Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: Street & public lots available
Website: https://historicbethlehem.org/

Insider Tip: Remember to pick up a voting ballot at your first museum stop so you can rate the individual tree designs as you walk through the different properties.

2. Bethlehem By Night Motorcoach Tour — Bethlehem, PA

Relax inside a comfortable, heated motorcoach while a guide in authentic Colonial attire narrates the rich holiday history of Christmas City USA. This continuous evening drive takes you through the limestone structures of the newly designated Moravian Church Settlements before heading toward the city's historic industrial core. You can look out the large passenger windows to see the illuminated blast furnaces of the old Bethlehem Steel plant glowing sharply against the crisp winter sky. The trip wraps up with a memorable drive up the winding slopes of South Mountain, revealing a sweeping view of the valley lit up by thousands of twinkling lights and the famous 91-foot-tall star.

Dates: November 27th, 2026 - December 31st, 2026
Admission: Ticketed (Currently on sale)
Street Address: 501 Main Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018
Kid Friendly: Recommended for ages 8 and older
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: Street & public lots available
Website: https://historicbethlehem.org/

Insider Tip: Book your seats for the 5:00 PM departure if you want to watch the city transition from dusk to full night illumination during the mountain climb.

3. Christmas City Stroll — Bethlehem, PA

Walk the atmospheric, centuries-old brick walkways of the Historic District on a guided journey that brings nearly three centuries of Pennsylvania history to life. Led by a local historian carrying a real lantern during the late afternoon and evening departures, this comfortable walking tour highlights the origins of classic town traditions. Visitors typically gather near the 1741 Gemeinhaus and the 1762 Waterworks to discover the meaning behind the handmade beeswax candles and the geometric Moravian Stars hung above the doorways. This is a highly educational stroll that pairs European settlement folklore with fine Victorian and colonial architecture.

Dates: November 13th, 2026 - January 13th, 2027
Admission: Ticketed (Currently on sale)
Street Address: 501 Main Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018
Kid Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: Street & public lots available
Website: https://historicbethlehem.org/

Insider Tip: Wear sturdy, thick-soled walking shoes to keep your feet comfortable while navigating the historic, uneven cobblestones and brick pavements.

4. Spirits of Christmas Pub Walking Tour — Bethlehem, PA

This specialized holiday walking tour blends historic tavern exploration with classic storytelling along Main Street. A certified guide dressed in full 18th-century attire leads your group into famous local landmarks, including the historic 1758 Sun Inn, which once hosted figures like George Washington and Alexander Hamilton. Guests can step away from the brisk winter air to learn about traditional Moravian community displays and local customs. The evening concludes inside the lavishly decorated lobby of the Historic Hotel Bethlehem, where you can enjoy a warm glass of authentic Moravian Glühwein.

Dates: December 2nd, 2026 - January 3rd, 2027
Admission: Ticketed / Adults Only 21+ (Currently on sale)
Street Address: 501 Main Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018
Kid Friendly: No
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: Street & public lots available
Website: https://historicbethlehem.org/

Insider Tip: Eat a light meal before arriving, as this educational history tour focuses primarily on seasonal drinks and storytelling rather than heavy food courses.

5. A Longwood Christmas — Kennett Square, PA

Just outside Philadelphia in the heart of Chester County, Longwood Gardens becomes one of the most breathtaking holiday destinations on the East Coast every winter. A Longwood Christmas transforms the historic estate's grand conservatories and expansive outdoor grounds into an immersive display of horticultural artistry and seasonal beauty.

Inside, towering trees shimmer in jewel toned hues, while crystal accents and gemstone inspired lighting fill every historic room. Outside, over 500,000 brilliant lights blanket the landscape as soon as darkness settles across the gardens. The Music Room alone, anchored by a magnificent 18-foot Fraser fir rising dramatically from an oversized jewelry box, is well worth the trip!

Dates: Friday, November 20th, 2026 through Sunday, January 10th, 2027
Admission: Ticketed (Purchase in advance on their website)
Street Address: Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348
Kid Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: Free on-site parking available
Website: https://longwoodgardens.org/gardens/our-seasons/longwood-christmas

Insider Tip: Arrive at opening and work through the conservatories first, then head outside for the evening light display. You'll catch both the daytime and nighttime experience in a single visit!

6. Garden to Vase: Holiday Centerpiece Workshop at Winterthur Museum — Winterthur, DE

For those who want to bring a piece of the holiday season home, the Garden to Vase workshop at Winterthur Museum is one of the most intimate seasonal experiences in the region. Guests begin with a special guided Yuletide Tour of Winterthur's beautifully decorated historic mansion, led directly by the estate's expert floral designers.

Afterward, participants gather inside the premier decorative arts museum to use what they've learned in a hands-on creative environment. Using fresh, long-lasting greens, everyone designs and builds their own bespoke holiday centerpiece to take home for the holidays. Registration is required well in advance as space for this popular creative workshop is strictly limited.

Dates: Wednesday, December 17th, 2026
Admission: Paid (Registration required by December 7th, 2026)
Street Address: Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, 5105 Kennett Pike, Winterthur, DE 19735
Kid Friendly: Best for adults and older teens with an interest in decorative arts
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: Free on-site parking available
Website: https://www.winterthur.org/calendar/garden-to-vase-holiday-centerpiece/

Insider Tip: Make the most of the trip by combining this evening workshop with a daytime visit to Yuletide at Winterthur, which runs November 21st through January 3rd and is included with general admission. The mansion's holiday displays, including a gingerbread replica of the historic train station and a three-story dollhouse, are well worth the extra time.

7. A Merry Christmas Run (5K, 10K, Half-Marathon) — Camden, NJ

Lace up your running shoes and join a supportive group run along the scenic Camden Waterfront designed to spread some end-of-year cheer. The course guides walkers and runners of all paces through a low-pressure route at Wiggins Waterfront Park, with crisp winter views of the river the whole way. With a private group structure and capped wave sizes, this event puts community connection and personal fitness goals ahead of competition. A relaxed seasonal tradition that lets you log your miles and enjoy the togetherness before the year wraps up.

Dates: Saturday, December 26th, 2026
Admission: Paid (Registration fee varies by distance)
Street Address: Wiggins Waterfront Park, 2 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ 08103
Kid Friendly: Yes (features a short kids' dash option)
Pet Friendly: No (strollers allowed, but pets are restricted from the race course)
Parking: Paid parking available in the nearby waterfront garage and lots adjacent to the park
Website: https://raceroster.com/events/2026/119069/a-merry-christmas-run-5k10k131-philadelphia

Insider Tip: The wind coming off the Delaware River in mid-December can be biting and brutal during the pre-race corral lineup. Wear an old, disposable long-sleeve shirt over your running gear. You can discard it at the starting line once your body temperature rises.

8. Elf 'N' Cocoa (8K, 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run) — West Deptford, NJ

This South Jersey athletic tradition balances serious road running with cold weather indulgence while supporting the HEADstrong Foundation. The paved course runs through waterfront areas with open views of the Philadelphia skyline, offering a flat and fast profile that's ideal for chasing a late-season personal best. The real draw is the post race party, a DJ, food trucks, and a special character visit round out the morning. Every finisher goes home with a custom medal, a collectible cocoa mug, and a cup of hot chocolate to warm up with.

Dates: Sunday, December 6th, 2026
Admission: Paid (Registration fee scaled by distance and registration date)
Street Address: Riverwinds Community Center, 1000 Riverwinds Drive, West Deptford, NJ 08086
Kid Friendly: Yes (the 1-mile Fun Run is perfect for young kids)
Pet Friendly: No (dogs are not permitted to participate, though jogging strollers are allowed)
Parking: Ample free parking available on-site at the Riverwinds Community Center parking lots
Website: https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/WestDeptford/ElfNCocoa8K5K?aflt_token=lsDDTCWcazIepazYI0FCz9dbRxkCWAcY

Insider Tip: The 8K distance is a rare regional race length that draws top tier local club runners looking for a unique pacing challenge. It sells out its registration cap weeks before the standard 5K. Sign up before mid November to lock in your spot and guarantee your technical shirt size.

9. The Run Before Christmas - SantaCon 8K — Clinton, NJ

Step into a living holiday postcard at the historic Red Mill Museum Village, where this annual Clinton tradition transforms the rolling streets into a moving river of crimson and white. Runners are encouraged to come in full Santa or holiday gear, creating a genuinely amazing sight as hundreds of costumed participants storm past the iconic landmarks. An unforgettable morning of fitness, community pride, and pure seasonal absurdity that brings together locals and visitors alike.

Dates: Saturday, December 19th, 2026
Admission: Paid (Advanced online sign-up mandatory)
Street Address: Red Mill Museum Village, Clinton, NJ 08809
Kid Friendly: Yes (highly entertaining for families to watch)
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: Free parking available at designated municipal lots and local school facilities with shuttle options
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/18918/the-run-before-christmas-santacon-8k

Insider Tip: Since you bring your own holiday gear, opt for breathable layers rather than heavy velvet to avoid overheating on the rolling roads. Secure loose hats or costume pieces with safety pins so they don't slide around on the downhills. Arrive early to snap clear photos by the historic Red Mill before the crowd blocks the view.

10. Santa Will Run for Beer 5K-ish — Bethlehem, PA

Ditch the training schedules and embrace the pure, unadulterated joy of social running in the historic "Christmas City" of Bethlehem. This laid-back, costume-heavy event kicks off with a warm-up gathering at the Flying Pig bar before Santas take off at noon to navigate a choose-your-own-adventure route through local pubs. The first 24 runners to arrive at each designated stop score a free beer, while everyone else enjoys drink specials before all participants reunite at Molly's Irish Grille and Sports Pub for live music. Five dollars from every registration goes directly to Toys for Tots.

Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
Admission: Paid
Street Address: Flying Pig (Starting location), 21 E. Elizabeth Avenue, Bethlehem, PA 18018
Kid Friendly: Best for adults and social groups
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: Free parking available in the main public lots across the SteelStacks campus grounds
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/56017/santa-will-run-for-beer-5k-ish

Insider Tip: There is no set course, so map out your pub route in advance to be among the first 24 to arrive for a free pour. Bring a new toy to donate to Toys for Tots at check-in. This instantly scores you a free beer ticket at the starting line, ensuring you win a prize regardless of your speed.

11. 6th Annual Peddler's Village Holiday Hustle — New Hope, PA

Brought to you by Peddler's Village and Scoogie Events, this beloved holiday tradition is designed to grow even the biggest Scrooge's heart two sizes. Open to families and fitness enthusiasts of all ages, this event invites you to jog, run, or walk a 1 or 2 miles course winding through the village's holiday light displays. The night peaks at the finish line, where you'll pass under the famous Peddler's Village arch of lights into a flurry of artificial snow and holiday music, picking up a finisher's medal alongside hot chocolate and cookies.

Dates: Thursday, December 3rd, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Cock 'n Bull, 2400 Street Road, New Hope, PA 18938
Kid Friendly: Yes (children under 4 participate free and do not need to register)
Pet Friendly: No (narrow village paths make the route unsafe for dogs)
Parking: On-site parking at the Cock 'n Bull lot, follow the Scoogie Events signage
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/96365/6th-annual-peddlers-village-holiday-hustle-1-2-mile-run-jog-or-walk

Insider Tip: Skip the day-of rush and pick up your packet between 4:30 and 6:30 PM the same day. Hold onto your bib after the race, since local shops and restaurants offer discounts to registered runners.

12. Winter Wonder Run 6K at the Institute Woods — Princeton, NJ

A scenic trail run through Princeton's Institute Woods, built for trail runners chasing a fast, flat natural surface as much as casual walkers looking to spend a morning in the woods. The main event is a 6K loop on maintained woodland paths, with a non-competitive 3K option available for anyone averaging a pace over 15 minutes per mile. A spread of post run refreshments awaits at event headquarters once you've finished your loop.

Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Princeton Friends School, 470 Quaker Road, Princeton, NJ 08540
Kid Friendly: Yes (best suited to older kids comfortable with trail distances)
Pet Friendly: No (strollers, pets, and personal audio devices are not allowed on the trails)
Parking: On-site at Princeton Friends School, with overflow parking on Mercer Street by Princeton Battlefield and a short walk through the park
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/90347/winter-wonder-run-6k-at-the-institute-woods

Insider Tip: Packet pickup opens at 8:45 AM and closes at 9:45 AM sharp. Aim to arrive by 9:15 to find parking and pin your bib flat and centered, with all four corners visible.

13. Candy Cane 5K — Langhorne, PA

A candy cane themed charity run on the rolling campus of Cairn University, where showing up in costume is half the point. Whether that means an ugly Christmas sweater, a full Santa suit, or coordinating with friends as a herd of reindeer, prizes go to both top finishers and the most creative costumes. Every registration includes a long-sleeve shirt, candy canes, hot chocolate, marshmallows, and cookies at the finish line.

Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Cairn University, 200 Manor Ave, Langhorne, PA 19047
Kid Friendly: Yes (includes a family friendly Mile Fun Run/Walk option)
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: Signs direct drivers to Lot C near the pond or upper campus lots; Lots D and E are closed for the race
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/50836/candy-cane-5k

Insider Tip: This race is a fundraiser for Cairn University's New Horizon Scholarship Fund, which provides full tuition support and community for new mothers balancing parenthood with undergraduate education.

14. Haddonfield Snowflake Run — Haddonfield, NJ

A brisk, fast paced dash through the neighborhoods of Haddonfield, starting and finishing at the Crows Woods Complex. This chip timed race is a favorite among local runners and cross country teams looking for a flat course to test their winter speed. Race morning opens with a costume contest and a pre race stretching session, and every finisher takes home a custom snowflake medal.

Dates: Saturday, December 5th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Crows Woods Complex, 957 East Atlantic Ave, Haddonfield, NJ 08033
Kid Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: On-site at the Crows Woods Complex
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/28768/haddonfield-snowflake-run

Insider Tip: Pick up your swag bag early on Thursday or Friday from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM at the Haddon Fortnightly Building on Kings Highway. There's also a free yoga class there Friday night at 7:00 PM, bring your own mat!

15. Funky Santa 5K! — Pottstown, PA

A winter run that favors wild holiday spirit over strict personal records, winding through the paved pathways of Pottstown's Riverfront Park along the Schuylkill River. The course is packed with Christmas tunes, holiday decorations, and volunteers handing out candy canes and cookies. Serious runners can compete for overall and age group awards, while social groups aim for the "most spirited social team" and best dressed titles.

Dates: Sunday, December 6th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Riverfront Park, 140 College Drive, Pottstown, PA 19464
Kid Friendly: Yes (dedicated division for kids 12 and under)
Pet Friendly: Yes (leashed dogs and jogging strollers welcome on the wide park paths)
Parking: Public parking available within Riverfront Park and the surrounding downtown area near College Drive
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/46438/funky-santa-5k

Insider Tip: Coordinate outfits with your running club or family, because judges will weigh creativity and group effort heavily for the social team awards.

16. Hammonton Rotary’s Galloping Grinch's 5K — Hammonton, NJ

Presented by the Hammonton Rotary as the centerpiece of the town's 4th Annual Winterfest, this race is a lively loop around the Mount Carmel Fair Grounds built for runners and walkers in Grinch green gear, earmuffs, and holiday costumes. Crossing the finish line earns you a custom medal, and the real fun starts at the festival area, with hot cocoa, s'mores by the fire, and local craft vendors.

Dates: Sunday, December 6th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Mount Carmel Fair Grounds, 1 Mount Carmel Lane, Hammonton, NJ 08037
Kid Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: Yes
Parking: Free on-site parking inside the Mount Carmel Fair Grounds
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/88006/hammonton-rotarys-galloping-grinchs-5k

Insider Tip: Every bib comes with a $5 food and drink coupon redeemable at designated food trucks inside the Winterfest village.

17. 2026 Jingle Bell Run — Philadelphia, PA

The original charity winter run, hosted by the Arthritis Foundation for four decades running. Thousands of runners, walkers, and strollers turn out in holiday gear to raise funds for arthritis research, making it one of the most inclusive and high energy events on the winter calendar.

Dates: Saturday, December 12th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: 4747 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19112
Kid Friendly: Yes (strollers and children of all ages are encouraged to participate)
Pet Friendly: Yes
Parking: Accessible lots and street parking throughout the Navy Yard district along South Broad Street
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/133902/2026-jingle-bell-run-philadelphia-southern-new-jersey

Insider Tip: Set up a corporate, school, or family team on the registration page to track collective fundraising. Grab complimentary jingle bells at the pre race pavilion to fasten to your laces.

18. The Santa Cause 5K — Newark, DE

Newark's premier charity holiday run, sending runners and walkers of all backgrounds down Main Street to raise funds for local causes. The crisp, flat road course is fast, but the real draw comes after the finish line, when the race turns into a full holiday block party.

Dates: Saturday, December 12th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: 158 East Main Street, Newark, DE 19711
Kid Friendly: Yes
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: Public municipal lots behind Main Street businesses and metered street parking
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/18928/the-santa-cause-5k

Insider Tip: Hang onto your bib after the race because it doubles as your pass for drink specials and free entry to the post race party at Klondike Kate's.

19. Reindeer Romp — Havertown, PA

A long standing Havertown tradition pairing a competitive 5K road race with a more relaxed mile walk, with 100% of entry fees going to the American Cancer Society. This paved course loops through the neighborhood streets surrounding Haverford High School. Top overall finishers win gift cards to The Running Place, and age group winners take home a custom engraved Reindeer Romp glass mug.

Dates: Saturday, December 12th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Haverford High School, 200 Mill Road, Havertown, PA 19083
Kid Friendly: Yes (the top finisher aged 14 or younger receives the Brandon's Cup Trophy)
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: Main school lots on the Haverford High School campus
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/37136/reindeer-romp

Insider Tip: Packet pickup logistics shift by day, Friday pickup runs 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Nolan Painting office on Hillcrest Ave, while Saturday pickup is only available on-site at the high school.

20. Frosty Looper — Pennsauken, NJ

A year-end ultra running celebration along the banks of Cooper River Park, run on a fast, flat 3.75 miles loop with a brief stretch of rubber track and sweeping views of the Philadelphia skyline. Known as one of the fastest timed looping courses in the country, it suits beginners who want to have fun just as well as regular runners chasing big pr’s.

Dates: Sunday, December 13th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: 1301 North Park Drive, Pennsauken, NJ 08109
Kid Friendly: No
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: Free public parking along North Park Drive and in the Cooper River Park central lot
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/47409/frosty-looper

Insider Tip: Set up a personal crew station in the designated pit area. Since the loop brings you back to the central zone every 3.75 miles, you can fix gear issues on the fly, and there's a Wawa right on course for quick fuel.

21. Reindeer Run 5K / Kids Fun Run at Renault Winery — Egg Harbor City, NJ

A scenic winter run cutting through the historic vineyards of Renault Winery and the festive grounds of Vintner Wonderland. This flat 5K follows a multi surface out and back route mostly on packed dirt farm roads, with pavement kept to a minimum. Chip timing delivers instant results, holiday music tracks the course, and a celebration at the winery caps off the morning.

Dates: Saturday, December 19th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Renault Winery, 72 N Bremen Ave, Egg Harbor City, NJ 08215
Kid Friendly: Yes (a shorter Kids Fun Run runs just before the main 5K)
Pet Friendly: No
Parking: Ample resort parking across the main Renault Winery visitor lots
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/112688/reindeer-run-5k-kids-fun-run

Insider Tip: Top overall finishers receive a $25 gift card to the winery along with their medals. If severe weather hits the dirt trails on race morning, the course shifts to a flat alternate loop along Bremen Avenue.

22. Pineland Striders Boxing Day 5K — Voorhees, NJ

The Pineland Striders host South Jersey's most cherished Boxing Day tradition, now in its fifth year, with a USATF-sanctioned, chip-timed 5K and a free Kids' Fun Run. The course winds through residential roads surrounding Signal Hill Elementary School, with a short off road stretch across a flat grass field. Post race, the club's longtime regifting raffle invites runners to bring an unwanted holiday gift and walk away with someone else's, no purchase necessary to participate in the swap.

Dates: Saturday, December 26th, 2026
Admission: Ticketed
Street Address: Signal Hill Elementary School, 33 Signal Hill Drive, Voorhees, NJ 08043
Kid Friendly: Yes (free Kids' Fun Run included)
Pet Friendly: No (strollers allowed, but dogs are not permitted on the course)
Parking: On-site at Signal Hill Elementary School
Website: https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Voorhees/PinelandStridersBoxingDay

Insider Tip: The regifting raffle is the real draw here. Bring an unopened, unwanted gift from the holidays and you'll be invited to pick a replacement from the donated pile, win or lose, no purchase needed to take part. Just keep it new and unopened, nothing alive, explosive, or pointy.

23. Second Annual New Year's Eve Art Run — Philadelphia, PA

A completely non-competitive evening event through North Philadelphia, with a 3 miles walk/run and a 5 miles running option. Both routes are mapped on the street grid so that your saved GPS track on Strava or Garmin spells out "2026" once you finish, a small, clever way to close out the year.

Dates: Thursday, December 31st, 2026
Admission: Free (online RSVP requested for route mapping logistics)
Street Address: 1300 Master Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122
Kid Friendly: Yes (jogging strollers, kids, and adaptive rollers are welcome)
Pet Friendly: Yes (leashed dogs may join the walking group)
Parking: Street parking throughout the surrounding residential streets of Master Street
Website: https://www.findtherun.com/race/99666/second-annual-new-years-eve-run-run-into-2026

Insider Tip: There are no official clocks, age categories, or competitive elements. Bring LED lights, glow sticks, and a pocket sized bottle of champagne to toast with the group at the finish.

Tips for Christmas Attractions and Experiences in Philadelphia

Book Santa photos early: Popular Santa visits at malls, train rides, and holiday villages sell out weeks in advance. Book as soon as dates are announced.
Plan around nap and meal times: Holiday events draw crowds at peak times. Going right at opening or in the late afternoon often works better for younger kids.
Layer up for outdoor events: Many Christmas attractions and experiences are partially or fully outdoors. Bring extra layers, hats, and gloves for unpredictable weather.
Bring snacks: Food at holiday events often has long lines and inflated prices. Packing your own snacks saves money and meltdowns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here's what to know before you go to any of the listed Philadelphia Christmas attractions and experiences this season.

What are the best Christmas events and experiences for kids in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia offers everything from Santa visits and ice skating to holiday train rides and interactive Christmas villages. The right pick depends on your kids' ages and interests. Check the listings above for age recommendations.

Where can I take a photo with Santa in Philadelphia?

Major shopping centers, holiday villages, train experiences, and select neighborhood events offer photos with Santa. Reservations are strongly recommended for the most popular Santa visits, which book up weeks in advance.

Are Philadelphia Christmas experiences and attractions free for kids?

Many Christmas attractions in Philadelphia offer free or reduced price tickets for young kids. Experiences like Santa photos, train rides, and holiday workshops typically charge admission.

When should I book Christmas experiences and attractions in Philadelphia?

Book ticketed activities as soon as dates are announced, typically in October. The closer to Christmas, the harder it is to get tickets.

Can I add my event to this guide?

We'd love to feature your Christmas event! Simply share your event through our quick submission form and we will get it added to the list!

Christmas Markets Worth the Drive from Philadelphia

Philadelphia isn't the only place worth visiting for Christmas markets this season. Within a couple of hours' drive, you'll find several other cities with their own festive markets worth the trip.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania — 1 Hour 30 Minutes from Philadelphia

Explore Bethlehem’s Christmas traditions with the Christmas City Stroll, a guided walking experience through the city’s historic district that shares the stories and traditions behind its holiday celebrations. Visitors can also head to the Earl E. Schaffer Bethlehem Municipal Ice Rink for seasonal skating sessions, making it an easy winter day trip from Philadelphia.

Hershey, Pennsylvania — 1 Hour 30 Minutes from Philadelphia

Make sweet holiday memories in Hershey with a visit to HERSHEY’S Chocolate World, where seasonal experiences include meeting Santa, breakfast with Santa, and hands-on chocolate activities. Travelers can also enjoy winter recreation at Hersheypark Arena with public ice skating sessions, adding an active stop to a Christmas getaway.

Plan Your Complete Philadelphia Christmas Experience

Philadelphia's family Christmas activities are just one part of the city's incredible holiday season. Explore our guides to Philadelphia Christmas lights, holiday shows and performances, Christmas festivals and parades, and Christmas markets and holiday shopping. Whether you're a local or visiting for the season, our Philadelphia Christmas guide has you covered.