Writer: Joshua Andino
2 min read November 2022 — As another Thanksgiving Day passes, the Philadelphia region has turned its focus to an event-packed holiday season. From parades to light shows, Invest: explores the best ways to celebrate this year’s winter holidays.
Dilworth Park Holiday Shops at Philly City Center
Transforming Dilworth Park and the west side of Historic City Hall, the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market returns for those in need of a little holiday shopping or those looking to see the city sights. As is tradition, many of the vendors, from artists, jewelers, crafters and designers and the wares provided are local, demonstrating the city’s pride in its people and culture, as well as Philadelphians’ penchant for the holidays. For those just looking to be a part of the fun, the market runs from Nov. 19 to the start of the new year on Jan. 1, providing ample opportunity for enjoyment and memory-making.
For more information, please visit here
Philadelphia Zoo’s LumiNature!
With over a million lights and 14 different illuminated zones, the Philadelphia Zoo’s LumiNature experience is back for the season, offering visitors the chance to explore the beauty of the natural world alongside a dazzling display of light and music. With exclusive discounts for Zoo members and offerings for all guests of s’mores, hot cocoa and adult beverages, and now a unique, limited edition LumiNature Pink Flamingo Christmas Tree ornament to pick up at the zoo or LumiNature hours, the Zoo has something for everyone.
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The Miracle on (South) 13th Street
Downtown and Center City can’t have all the fun – and over in South Philly, the Miracle on 13th Street has been recognized in years past as some of the best Christmas lights that Pennsylvania has to offer. With no tickets needed and the city of brotherly love’s strength of community on full display, the best way to enjoy the neighborhood sights is simple – park a car or arrive by train, and just take a few minutes to walk around the block. While no one knows for sure how the tradition began, the story goes that an organized effort was made from a few houses 30 years ago, and the initial effort grew to what today encompasses 50 houses and most of the 13th Street’s 1600 block to create an iconic Philadelphia moment that lasts all the way up to the New Year.
For more information on the Miracle, please visit here
Winterfest!
With an ice skating rink overlooking the Delaware River, Winterfest and the Blue Cross Riverrink provides skaters a chance to enjoy scenic views. Should visitors not be interested in ice-related activities, then they can look forward to carnival games and amusements, a Ferris wheel for the best views, and an open-air lodge with snacks and warm drinks to keep everyone entertained and in the holiday spirit.
For more information, visit.
Visit Philadelphia’s Holiday Parade
After a wildly successful first year and celebrating all that there is to enjoy, from Christmas and Hanukkah to Kwanzaa and the Chinese New Year, Philadelphia will be hosting its holiday parade Saturday, Dec. 3 with kick off at 5:00 PM at 2nd & Market Streets, proceeding up to and ending at City Hall. Featuring classic marching bands and floats, dance groups, cold air balloons and more, the parade’s second year is the must-see event of the holiday season. The parade will also feature representation from Project Capoeira, Philadelphia Jazz Legacy Project, 5 Shorts Project of CultureTrust Greater Philadelphia, The American Swedish Historical Museum, and a number of others. With no bad viewing spots, locals and visitors alike are encouraged to come out and show their support for the city and enjoy the holiday spirit.
For additional information, please see here.
