Your 2020 Holiday Guide is presented by Jefferson Outpatient Imaging:
During the busy holiday season, don’t forget to take care of yourself and your health. If you need imaging, Jefferson Outpatient Imaging (JOI) offers same and next day appointments as well as evening and weekend hours at seven convenient outpatient locations. If you have a high deductible health plan, they can get you scheduled before the end of the year when deductibles reset.
When you have imaging at JOI, you gain access to the renowned radiologists from Jefferson in a friendly, comfortable and safe outpatient environment. Jefferson Outpatient Imaging accepts most insurance plans and reports are available to your physician within 24 hours.
Services include PET/CT, High Field Wide Bore MRI, CT, Low-Dose CT Lung Screenings, Mammography, Arthrography, Ultrasound, MSK Ultrasound, X-ray, & DEXA bone density scans.
Locations: East Norriton, Collegeville, Malvern, Center City, Navy Yard, Marlton, NJ & Washington Twp, NJ
For more information, visit JeffersonHealth.org/JOI.
The 2020 holiday season is finally upon us. Though celebrations may look and feel a bit different this year, the holiday season in Philadelphia will still be a memorable and meaningful experience. Whether it is an exciting excursion or a calm, relaxing moment in time, there is an activity or event for all. Strap on your warmest gear, work up an appetite and prepare to indulge in the best seasonal fare and activities the city has to offer this year!
Read on for:
Holiday Events & Celebrations
Where to Buy a Live Tree
Eat, Drink & Be Merry
#LoveLocal Holiday Shopping
Holiday Events & Celebrations:
Indulge in tried & true classic holiday celebrations and events and also create new traditions with brand-new spectacles festivities:
Wintergarden at Dilworth Park
When: Now through February
Where: Greenfield Lawn at Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th Street, West Side of City Hall, Philadelphia
Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn returns to Dilworth Park this season with whimsically-crafted reindeer topiaries, seasonal plantings and an open-air layout. Visitors are welcomed with festive twinkling lights, a new rustic arbor and generous seating throughout the garden. Guests 21 and older can purchase warm mulled wine at the Chaddsford Winery kiosk conveniently located within the space. Children and adults are free to explore the Wintergarden at no cost all season long. As a reminder, masks must be worn at all times except when eating or drinking.
Rothman Orthopaedics Rink
When: Now through February 28
Where: Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th Street, West Side of City Hall, Philadelphia
The Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink is a safe, outdoor entertainment experience in Philadelphia’s beloved Dilworth Park. It is open severan days a week and offers wintry fun for all ages. This year, there will be an online reservation system to provide safe, contactless purchasing opportunities. There will also be limited in-person sales based on availability. Masks are required. Find out more HERE.
Winter in Franklin Square
When: Now through through December 31, open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 6th and Race Streets, Philadelphia
Safely celebrate the holidays both day at night at Franklin Square! During the day, play 18 holes of “Chilly Philly Mini Golf,” spin with holiday music on the carousel and get active along the Snowy Silly Stroll. Plus, slide, swing and run in the playgrounds! And at night, you can enjoy the Electrical Spectacle Holiday Light Show, presented daily every 30 minutes from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. (10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.)
Special Events: There will be a Hanukkah Dreidel Giveaway on Thursday, December 10 as well as the lighting of the kinara during Kwanzaa Weekend, December 26 and 27.
Gingerbread House Display and Lights at Peddler’s Village
When: Now through through January 9
Where: Street Road and Route 263, Lahaska
Stroll the village, indulge in holiday shopping and festive treats and check out the annual Gingerbread House Displays.
Peddler’s Village Family Mystery Walking Tours: Elf on the Stealth:
When: Fridays, November 20 through January 10. Fridays at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Saturdays on the hour from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Sundays on the hour from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Street Road and Route 263, Lahaska
It’s almost Christmas, and the Elf on the Shelf is missing! Join Mrs. Claus at the “North Pole” for a walking tour and help solve the mystery of the missing Elf on the Shelf.Tickets are $25 per person. It does not include dinner, but you can enjoy dinner before or after the show and receive a 10% discount at select restaurants by showing your receipt. Tours are limited to 20 people per tour and masks are required. Purchase tickets HERE.
Shady Brook 2020 Holiday Light Show
When: Now through through January 10, nightly
Where: 931 Stony Hill Road, Yardley
Shady Brook Farm’s spectacular Holiday Light Show is a Bucks County tradition featuring more than 3 million lights illuminating acres of farmland. Encounter whimsical displays and familiar characters as your drive through in the comfort of your own car or enjoy the show on an open-air wagon ride (weather permitting.)
NOTE: This year, you will need to purchased TIMED tickets! Timed tickets will be available soon HERE.
Wild Lights at Elmwood Park Zoo
When: Now through December 30, 2020, on select dates, 5-9pm.
Where: Elmwood Park Zoo, 1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown, PA
Get ready to delight in animals, glistening lights and even Santa, himself, as Wild Lights, a holiday exhibition, returns to Elmwood Park Zoo!Running from November 20-December 30, from 5-9pm, purchase advance tickets online and enjoy new light attractions, even more animals on exhibit than before, stroll through “Oh Christmas Tree,” and be amazed by the glistening trees. Even stroll the Trail of the Jumping Jaguar, where jaguars will make your acquaintance!Enjoy live music as you take in the lights and sights, plus the chance to see Santa!
Legoland Discovery Center Holiday Bricktacular
When: Now through January 3, 2021 (Weekends, only), Tickets – $17.95 for adults & children ages 3 and older; children under 2 are FREE.
Where: Legoland Discovery Center, 500 W. Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting, PA
Celebrate the holiday season surrounded by a festively decorated plethora of LEGOS! Every weekend this holiday season, join Legoland for their Holiday Bricktacular and snap photos on their LEGO sleigh and meet their new LEGO reindeer! Also, build a LEGO ornament and decorate their holiday tree. Be sure to dress up in your favorite ugly sweater to celebrate and stop by the Elves’ workshop! Click HERE for more.
A Longwood Christmas
When: Now through January 10, 2021; Gardens open daily, 10am-11pm; timed admissions tickets are required: $25 for adults 19 and older, $22 for seniors 65 and older & college students with ID, $18 for military and vet, $13 for youth ages 5-18.
Where: Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348
Light up the holiday season amid festive twinkling trees and plant palettes in shades of winter whites, reds and deep evergreens. Explore favorites like poinsettias and other festive plants and flowers within the observatory. Head outside and take in the famed Garden Railway, a display of 31 locomotives, steam engines, diesel engines, specialty engines and even childhood favorite, Thomas the Tank Engine! Becoming a “tunnel of light,” for the holidays, it is a fun way to add delight to the season.
Enjoy holiday music from Rob Dickenson & The Brandywine Christmas Minstrels while taking in the outdoor displays. Don’t forget to take in the transfixing open-air theatre fountain shows!
Find out more HERE.
A Very Furry Christmas and Furry & Bright Christmas Drive-Thru Experience at Sesame Place
When: Now through January 3, 2021
Where: Sesame Place, 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA 19047
Join Sesame characters to celebrate the holiday season at their annual A Very Furry Christmas event! At $20.99 (limited time only, check website for the most accurate pricing), for single day tickets for ages two and up, the park is transformed into a spectacle of twinkling lights, festive décor and sights and sips for those of all ages to enjoy!
Take in the “1-2-3 Christmas Tree Show,” a brand-new music and light show featuring a 30-foot, fully animated tree! Watch in amazement as the trees project images and sing along to the holiday soundtrack in accompaniment! Be sure to hop on the Sesame Place Furry Express for both a fun train ride, plus an exclusive tour of The TwiddleBugs’ Gingerbread Factory!
If you’re not comfortable walking around the park, you can also visit from the comfort of your own vehicle! This year, there is a brand-new Furry & Bright Christmas Drive-Thru! Priced at $45 per car, on select dates on Tuesdays & Wednesdays from 5-8pm, between November 10-December 23. Take a journey through a festive Winter delight amid twinkling lights, décor, holiday music and even falling snowflakes creating the illusion of a Winter snowfall. Also delight in an illuminated, 9-foot Menorah to commemorate Hanukkah and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for Santa!
Find out more HERE.
Deck the Hall Holiday Lights
When: Monday, November 23 through January 1
Where: Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th Street (West Side of City Hall), Philadelphia
The Deck the Hall Light Show offers onlookers technicolor projections which dance in synchrony to holiday tunes. The western façade of City Hall is transformed into a holiday spectacle! The newly redesigned illumination will run continuously (to cut down on crowds) on a 30-minute loop from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Christmas Village in Philadelphia
When: Opens on Thanksgiving Day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. After that, Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: LOVE Park and City Hall Courtyard, Philadelphia
The Christmas Village in Philadelphia is one tradition that is committed to providing a safe and fun experience this year!
The authentic open-air German-style Christmas Market at LOVE Park and City Hall will return from Thanksgiving Day, November 26 through Christmas Eve, December 24. Keeping in mind the health of vendors and guests, there will be a considerably modified layout and extensive safety precautions in response to COVID-19. Find out more HERE.
Macy’s Santaland at Home Virtual Holiday Experience
When: Friday, November 27 through Thursday, December 24
Where: A virtual event; online from anywhere of your choosing, visit the website for the latest information and relevant links:
With health, safety and the wellbeing of all at the heart of Macy’s initiatives, the holiday season led by Santa at Macy’s is going completely virtual this year! Starting November 27th and running through Christmas Eve, children of all ages and their families will be provided with FREE access to Macy’s Santaland at Home Virtual Experience!
In the online hub, children will be able to travel virtually through Macy’s Santaland at Herald Square in New York City! Meet and greets with the Elves, meeting Santa himself, via interactive video can all be enjoyed! Even better, all kids will be able to snap an “interactive selfie,” with Santa to complete the holiday experience, 2020-style! Get more information HERE.
Holiday Garden Railway at Morris Arboretum
When: Friday, November 27 through December 31 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and select nights from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: 100 E. Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia
Visitors of all ages will be wowed by a quarter mile of track featuring seven loops and tunnels with fifteen different rail lines and two cable cards, nine bridges, and more! It’s all set in a lovely winter garden with all of the displays and building made of natural materials. Advance tickets are required and can be purchased HERE.
PHestivaL of Trees
When: Friday, November 27 through Sunday, November 29 from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Where: The Fairgrounds at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Station Avenue, Oaks
This festive holiday drive-thru features 200 uniquely decorated holiday trees, live nativity scenes, Hanukkah menorah, Kwanzaa imagery, a 30-foot live decorated tee, a drone light show … and even Santa! Tickets are $20 per car and benefit local animal shelters and rescues. Find out more HERE.
Winter on Broad Street: A Holiday Light Spectacular!
When: November 27, 2020-January 3, 2021; Sun-Thurs: 5-10pm; Fri-Sat: 5-11pm; Tickets – Adults 14 and older – $32.50, Children 13 and younger – $27.50, children under 5 are FREE
Where: Wells Fargo Center, 3601 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148
Offered for the first time ever, join the Wells Fargo Center for Winter on Broad Street! Strap on your warmest boots and attire and stroll through 160,000 sq ft of an outdoor winter wonderland! Take in various light installations and sculptures which include: a 25 ft reindeer, 20ft ornament, an enchanted forest, “Under the Tree” pop-up with life-size, lit toys and much more!
Also indulge in seasonal sweet treats and beverages while you stroll, such as spiked ciders and cocoas, Chickie’s & Pete’s crab fries, Bavarian pretzels and more!
Find out more HERE.
VIRTUAL Historic Holidays Tree Lighting Ceremony
When: Thursday, December 3 from 6:15 to 6:30 p.m.
Where: Watch via the Facebook page
The festivities continue online this year with the fourth annual Historic Holidays Tree Lighting Ceremony. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Tree Lighting will be streamed live via Old City District’s Facebook page from the Betsy Ross House (239 Arch Street). The Holiday Tree is designed by Old City’s Petit Jardin en Ville, a Parisian Florist and Garden Designer! Please note, the Tree Lighting is not open to the public. (However, you can visit the tree at another time!)
The 21st Annual 92.5 XTU Toy Truck Parade
When: Saturday, December 5 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Xfinity Live Parking Lot, 1100 Pattison Avenue, Philadelphia
Join Philadelphia-based country music radio station, 92.5 XTU at Xfinity Live! for their annual toy truck parade! Unlike other years, this year’s parade will be held in a drive-thru style! Decorate your truck/vehicle in festive holiday gear and décor and be judged by XTU personalities; you may even win a prize!
Be sure to bring along a toy donation, snap a photo and then be on your way!
VIRTUAL Old City Menorah Lighting Ceremony
When: Thursday, December 10 at 4:30 p.m.
Where: Watch via the Old City District’s Facebook page
On the first night of Hanukkah, the Old City Jewish Arts Center hosts the Menorah Lighting at the Betsy Ross House (239 Arch Street). Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Menorah Lighting will be streamed live via Old City District’s Facebook page.
Please note, the Menorah Lighting is not open to the public.
VIRTUAL Parade of Lights hosted by Independence Seaport Museum
When: Saturday, December 12 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Can be viewed via Independence Seaport Museum on Facebook as well as youtube
Christmas on Cringle
When: Sunday, December 13 from 9:30 a.m. to noon
Where: Cricket Avenue between Lancaster and Cricket Terrace, Ardmore
Bundle up and head over to Cricket Ave for a new socially-distanced Christmas tradition! Join Lulu’s Casita and pucciManuli Christmas on Cringle. Families are invited to enjoy a jolly good time as they welcome Santa, The Grinch and Elf on the Shelf! The morning will be filled with holiday tunes with Roots with Ruark, ornament making, hot chocolate & cookies and a special story time! Space is limited due to capacity restrictions. To purchase tickets please email info@luluscasita.com. Please note face covering is required for everyone over the age of 2 and social distancing will be in effect. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time, no tickets will be sold on the day of the event as they will be having a staggered arrival time.
Where to Buy a Live Tree
Philly Christmas Trees
For the 2020 Christmas season, this 36-year-old tree farm will operate from four locations starting Friday, November 27 with over 350 trees on display:
Spring Gardens: 1834 North Street, Philadelphia
Fridays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Lemon Hill Mansion: 1 Lemon Hill Drive, Philadelphia
Saturdays and Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Franklin Fountain: 116 Market Street, Philadelphia
Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Evil Genius Brewing: 1727 Front Street, Philadelphia
Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Rocky YO-MO’s Christmas Trees
1000 S. Front Street, Philadelphia (Front and Washington Ave.)
Rocky YO-Mo’s offers a great selection of live, premium-grade Christmas trees. And best of all, you can get free delivery!
Opens Friday, November 27.
The Christmas Tree Stand
Regarded as prime Christmas tree rental, delivery, setup and removal company in the city, having a Christmas tree in Philly has never been easier! Conveniently visit their WEBSITE to set up your delivery.
Eat, Drink & Be Merry
Enchanted in Northern Liberties: Snow Queen Brunch at the Igloos
When: Saturdays, November 28, December 5 and December 12 with seatings at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Where: Germantown Garden, 1029 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia
Germantown Garden Grill is partnering with local business A Dash of Magic Events to host an Elsa-themed brunch sure to delight your Disney princess fan! This socially-distanced positive and magical dining experience will include 90 minutes at a private, exclusive and heated igloo just for you and your immediate family members. Get ready to enjoy a safe and socially-distanced photo opportunity, songs from the princesses story and grand entrance. Each reservation will also receive a private Snow Queen visit per each Igloo, a souvenir, and frozen themed activity sheets. Don’t forget to come hungry for brunch and lunch, plus hot beverages for kids and adults. Read more about the event HERE.
Christmas Belle Brunch: the Beauty Princess at the Igloos
When: Saturday, December 19 with seatings at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Where: Germantown Garden, 1029 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia
After the success of the Enchanted in Northern Liberties: Snow Queen Brunch series, Germantown Garden and A Dash of Magic have decided to add on a Belle-themed Christmas Brunch! This socially-distanced positive and magical dining experience will include 90 minutes at a private, exclusive and heated igloo just for you and your immediate family members. Get ready to enjoy a safe and socially-distanced photo opportunity, songs from the princesses story and a grand entrance. Each reservation will also receive a private The Beauty Princess visit per each Igloo, a souvenir, and princess themed activity sheets – and a special holiday dessert that would make even Chef Bouche hungry! Leave room for brunch and lunch, plus hot beverages for kids and adults.
NOTE: A portion of each ticket for both events will go to charity, and provide a free princess appearance for children in need through the Salvation Army.
For even more ideas of where to go for festive food (takeout, delivery, outdoor dining and more), read THIS article.
#LoveLocal Holiday Shopping
It’s the season of gift giving! And this year, more than ever, it’s the small businesses in our community that need our support. In addition to shopping your favorite small businesses directly, there are also several holiday events that make it even easier (and more fun) to shop a number of businesses in one stop. You’re sure to find wonderful and unique gifts for everyone on your Gift List.
Reading Terminal Market
12th and Arch Street, Philadelphia
Due to the newest restrictions, Reading Terminal Market cannot offer indoor dining right now. But you CAN still shop this beloved Philly destination either in person or online. Whether you are hosting a small gathering, celebrating virtually, or even just need to treat yourself, you will find everything you need all under one roof at the Market. Be sure to check their Facebook page for special offers and holiday suggestions.
Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market
When: Saturday, November 21 through Friday, January 1
Where: Dilworth Plaza (outside City Hall), 1 S. 15th Street, Philadelphia
Dozens of artisans, designers and small businesses from the greater Philadelphia region will offer decorations, fashions and gifts inside white, festively lit tents. Visitors will be required to social distance and wear masks while shopping for their loved ones. Vendors will be spaced out in a new layout – that will be located adjacent to the City Hall Courtyard, where the dazzling holiday Christmas Village Philadelphia Carousel will be located. The Market and Carousel will be joined by Christmas Village vendors in the Courtyard and North Apron. The open-air pop-up market is curated by organizers of Christmas Village in Philadelphia, which will also be set up across the street in LOVE Park for its 13th season. Admission to the Market is free, with Carousel rides $3.00 each.
At the markets, visitors will have the unique chance to shop gifts and products that can’t be found at a usual shopping mall – including artwork, home goods, ornaments, toys, apparel, jewelry, decorations and more. While Christmas Village spotlights gifts and unique finds from around the globe, the charming Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market gives attention to local vendors from the tri-state area (Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware).
Christmas Village in Philadelphia
When: Opens on Thanksgiving Day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. After that, Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: LOVE Park and City Hall Courtyard, Philadelphia
The Christmas Village in Philadelphia is one tradition that is committed to providing a safe and fun experience this year!
The authentic open-air German-style Christmas Market at LOVE Park and City Hall will return from Thanksgiving Day, November 26 through Christmas Eve, December 24. Keeping in mind the health of vendors and guests, there will be a considerably modified layout and extensive safety precautions in response to COVID-19. Find out more HERE.
Northern Liberties Holiday Pop-Up Shops
When: Friday, November 27 – Sunday, November 29 and Friday, December 3 – Sunday, December 6 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: N. 2nd Street from Girard to Spring Garden, Philadelphia
This brand-new socially-distanced holiday shopping event will feature 15+ small local businesses and makers from around the Philadelphia region popping up with gifts, decor, fashions, treats and more in eight retail locations along N. 2nd Street. From French Toast Bites, to Christmas trees and ornaments, bridal wear to baguettes, there will be something for everyone on Santa’s holiday shopping list. For extra pop-up magic, A Dash of Magic Events will pop-up both Saturdays for Enchanted in Northern Liberties: Snow Queen Brunch at the Igloos at Germantown Garden Grill with music, song, food, drink and holiday magic for kids of all ages. Additionally, while visiting the District, shoppers are invited to make a day of it in Northern Liberties by enjoying a meal, hot beverage, baked good or Christmas cocktail at one of the District’s dozens of restaurants, bakeries and cafes. The District’s existing favorite retail shops will also be ready with gifts for all ages. For participating Holiday Pop-up Shop locations, look for the festive framed signs and posters. Social distancing and masks are required. Many merchants will also offer additional safety protocols and contactless forms of payments. For a full list of vendors, dates and locations, CLICK HERE.
Old City Window Decorating Contest
When: Saturday, November 28 at 11 a.m. through Sunday, December 13 at 5 p.m.
Where: Historic Old City
Old City’s Window Decorating Contest will kick off on Small Business Saturday! Wander the historic streets of City and view the delightful displays designed by local shops, restaurants, galleries, salons, spas and more. Vote for your favorite design! Visit THIS LINK for information on how to vote and complete contest rules.
In addition, support local businesses and shop small on Small Business Saturday, November 28th. Old City is home to unique shops, boutiques, art galleries, design showrooms, museums, restaurants, cafes, salons, spas, and more. Businesses are offering in store and online shopping, as well as curbside pick and delivery (varies by location). Click HERE for a list of Old City locations offering shopping deals.
Holiday Rally for Ardmore Restaurants and Retail
When: Saturday, November 28 through December 23
Where: Dozens of participating restaurants and retailers in downtown Ardmore
Small Business Saturday kicks off the Holiday Rally for Ardmore Restaurants and Retail! Throughout the month of December, the Ardmore Initiative wants to encourage everyone to shop, dine, and visit Ardmore!
Scarlato said, “The Rally for Ardmore is a popular promotion that benefitted over 50 businesses and generated over $10,000 for the Ardmore small business community during the COVID lockdown in April. We are ready to shatter that record in December!”
The promotion is simple: shop for your holiday gifts, dine, and order takeout from a small business in the Ardmore Business District during the month of December, snap a photo of your receipt and email it to info@ardmoreinitiative.org. You are then entered to win prizes valued up to $1,000 in total. Each week, one winner will be selected to win $100 gift card to the featured local business of the week. At the end of the Rally, one grand prize winner will be selected to win a bundle of gift cards from Ardmore businesses, valued at $600 sponsored by the Ardmore Initiative. It’s as simple as that! This promotion will start November 28 and end December 23. The winner will be announced by January 8, 2021. Minimum purchase of $25 required.
FREE PARKING IN ARDMORE
Every Saturday between Small Business Saturday and Christmas
All Downtown Ardmore meters and lots
Enjoy FREE parking at all downtown Ardmore meters and lots on Saturday, November 28th, December 5, December 12, and December 19th courtesy of the Ardmore Initiative, Ardmore Business Association, and Lower Merion Township.