Christmas Village
The holiday season in the city is being cranked up to No. 11 this year.
From a giant German Christmas pyramid in Love Park to a new shopping destination in the Wanamaker Building, along with the return of the Christmas light show and Dickens Village, it will be easy to get festive in 2025.
“This year will be especially memorable as we debut our new traditional German Christmas Pyramid, a multi-level wooden tower adorned with lights, traditional and Philly favorite figures, and festive decorations,” said Christmas Village President Thomas Bauer. “Standing tall at the heart of Christmas Village, it will bring an authentic touch of German holiday tradition for all visitors to enjoy.
“It is a project we have been working on for many years, and we can’t wait to see it take over everyone’s social media feeds. With the beloved Christkind returning once again and our continued partnership with CHOP for the Festival of Trees fundraiser, we look forward to bringing families and friends together to create lasting memories. We are excited to make this holiday season unforgettable and unique.”
Christmas Village in Philadelphia will officially open Thanksgiving. The market will open and operate seven days a week through Christmas Eve.
Crowd favorite events like the German American Weekend with the Schuhplattler Dancers and the German Games will return Dec. 13-14, presented by the German Consulate General in New York. New events like the Ugly Sweater Day Dec. 19, 2025, and Wine Tastings on Tuesdays presented by Mazza Wines will round up the schedule.
For more information and events, check out www.philachristmas.com.
The highlight, though, will undoubtedly be the dazzling 30-foot pyramid with the windmill at the top.
“Christmas Village has become a beloved family tradition in the heart of Center City, bringing together generations in one of Philadelphia’s most cherished public spaces,” said Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Susan Slawson. “This annual event not only spreads holiday spirit but also provides an incredible opportunity for small business vendors to showcase their unique offerings, helping to boost the local economy while celebrating the rich culture of our city. It’s a cornerstone event that connects our community and highlights the best of Philly during the holidays.”
The Wanamaker Building at 1300 Market St. in Philadelphia will be presenting the famous light show again this year starting Nov. 28. (Courtesy of the Philadelphia Visitor Center)
Wanamaker Building market
While there has always been some shopping going on while the famous light show inside the Wanamaker Building has been twinkling — Macy’s, of course, was there until it left town earlier this year — this year is a little different.
In collaboration with the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corp., this new indoor holiday market will transform the Wanamaker Building Grand Court into a warm and festive shopping destination, featuring 30 local vendors.
Shoppers can browse a curated selection of artisan gifts, seasonal treats, handmade goods and festive finds, while surrounded by the glow and music of the iconic Wanamaker Light Show, a Philadelphia tradition that has captivated audiences since 1956.
“When we heard about the Philadelphia Visitor Center’s initiative to bring the Light Show back, we didn’t think twice, we were happy to be part of this effort,” said Bauer. “Artists, designers, and crafters will fill the space with life beyond The Wanamaker Light Show hours and offer unique gifts and art in a heated space of traditional Philadelphia Holiday enjoyment.”
The market hours will be Wednesday to Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. The light show will run every half-hour beginning at 12:30 p.m. The famous Dickens Village on the third floor of the building will also be open.
For more schedule information and timed tickets to the Dickens Village, go to www.phlvisitorcenter.com/wanamaker-christmas-light-show.
The Made in Philadelphia Market will be back around City Hall in Philadelphia again this year. (Courtesy of the Made in Philadelphia Market)
Made in Philly Market
Of course, the shopping and festive times will also be again spread to Dilworth Plaza across the street and inside the courtyard of Philadelphia’s City Hall.
For the 11th consecutive year, the Made in Philadelphia Market will feature local vendors, a fun ferris wheel, train ride, the official Philadelphia Christmas tree and other holiday fun.
“The Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market continues to highlight the best of our city’s creative spirit,” said Bauer. “We are proud to provide a space where local artisans can showcase their work and where Philadelphians can find truly unique holiday treasures right in the heart of Center City.”
Visitors should check out the North Broad section and City Hall Courtyard, where families can enjoy delightful spins on the Christmas Village Ferris wheel, a ride on the Christmas Village Carousel, and fun adventures on the Kids Train presented by SEPTA. These festive attractions add extra magic to a day at the market.
The Made in Philadelphia Market will run through Jan. 1. For more information and schedules, check out madeinphila.com.