It’s the holiday season and that time of year when Philadelphians come together to celebrate the holidays, give thanks, and get ready for the new year.
With the help of the Office of the City Representative, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation, and Welcome America Inc, many of our city’s most iconic spots are decked out and bringing the holiday spirit!
Here are six ways you can celebrate the holidays here in Philly:
Boathouse Row Festival of Lights
Run, walk, or ride along Kelly Drive to see the beautiful houses along Boathouse Row lit up in festive colors for Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa. Snap a few pictures — this is Instagram gold.
When:
Hanukkah: December 2–9
Christmas: December 21–25
Kwanzaa: December 26–January 1
Where: 1 Boathouse Row
Christmas Village in Philadelphia
Support small business owners and find one-of-a-kind gifts at the Christmas Village, inspired by the famous German Christmas markets. Over 80 vendors offer everything from traditional European food to high-quality jewelry and crafts. And while you’re there, you can visit The Present, a 27-foot-tall walk-through holiday gift box illuminated by five miles of red and white lights. Park goers who make a donation from their phones to one of three local causes will receive a gift tag to personalize and add to The Present.
When: November 22–December 24
Where: LOVE Park, 16th & Arch streets
Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
This winter tradition is celebrating 25 years! You can enjoy its winter park, world-class skating rink, fire pits, warming cabins, Franklin Fountain ice cream, and hot chocolate every day of the week. Little ones can also play in the Kids Lodge and arcade.
When: November 23–March 3
Where: 101 S. Columbus Boulevard
Army-Navy Game Weekend
Love football, rivalries, and our military? Come out for the Army-Navy Game. Philadelphia has been home to this storied game for the majority of its century-long history, and the tradition continues this December. The weekend also features many free events leading up to the game kickoff.
When: December 7–8
Where: Game at Lincoln Financial Field,1 Lincoln Financial Field Way; free events at various locations
SugarHouse New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Ring in 2019 with fellow Philadelphians and visitors at the Delaware River Waterfront. Two fireworks displays, both synchronized to different soundtracks, light up the evening sky. Pro-tip: Catch the action from the RiverRink Winterfest.
When: December 31, 6:00 p.m. and midnight
Where: Delaware River Waterfront
SugarHouse Casino 2019 Mummers Parade
Get an early start on the first day of 2019 at the Mummers Parade! The longest-running New Year’s Day tradition in the country is a Philadelphia staple. With sparkling costumes, eye-catching performances, and fun music, the much-anticipated event wows people of all ages.
When: January 1
Where: Broad Street, from City Hall to Washington Avenue
Enjoy this year’s festivities as you make memories with your loved ones and welcome a new year in Philadelphia. Happy holidays!
