By Molly Given
Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
68th Annual Community Performance of Handel’s ‘Messiah’
A Philadelphia classic will be hitting the stage this weekend. The 68-year tradition is officially set for Sunday, Dec. 7, at 3 p.m. at Tindley Temple United Methodist Church. The event has been described as a “glorious celebration of the season” as part concert and part community tradition, with the goal of combining music and ministry at this historic venue.
As a release notes, this year’s free performance (suggested donation: $25+) supports the creation of the Charles A. Tindley Legacy Preservation Center, honoring the gospel pioneer whose songs helped shape American sacred music, as well as the continued support for the historic Möller organ. There is also a Meet & Greet + Reception option: for a $50 donation, visitors get concert access, plus a post-concert reception and the chance to meet some of the performers.
750 S Broad St., tindleyphl.us
Delaware River Waterfront’s Winterfest
Open seven days a week, including holidays (unless otherwise noted), Winterfest admission is free with pay-as-you-go amenities. Some favorites returning to the venue this year include a Ferris wheel, indoor arcade, and a giant holiday tree, which will be lit during a public ceremony on Dec. 5. Skating tickets, cabins, firepits, and Rinkside Lounge packages are also available to reserve for any holiday party or festive gathering.
The rinkside Lodge at Winterfest will keep guests satisfied with options like hot chocolate, spirited cocktails, and local brews. Otherwise, on-site food and beverage partners include Chickie’s & Pete’s, Skelly’s Amusements, Skelly’s Pizza Port, Philly Taco, and—new this year—Philadelphia’s historic spirits supplier, Jacquin’s, which will take over the outdoor Porch Bar with a lineup of winter-themed cocktails from their brands. Overall, the menu throughout the venue will feature bites like Crabfries, birria tacos, pizza, cheesesteaks, pretzels, and more.
101 S Christopher Columbus Blvd., delawareriverwaterfront.com
Old City’s Holiday Shopping Sip & Stroll
This Saturday, Dec. 6, artisan boutiques, contemporary galleries, historic storefronts and award-winning restaurants in the area will all offer special holiday programming. From noon to 4 p.m., locals can find highlights like colonial chocolate-making demonstrations at the Betsy Ross House, pet portrait sessions with Pawtrait Pop Up at Opportunity Barks, a holiday pop-up flower cart at The Papery, festive cocktails at Khyber Pass Pub and Fringe Bar, photos with Santa in the holiday-themed lounge at The Gas Lamp Hotel, and exclusive discounts at retailers.
While in Old City, visitors can also check out the 2025 Christ Church Holiday Market (1 to 4 p.m.) and Elfreth’s Alley’s 2025 Deck the Alley event (2 to 6 p.m.).
Loretta’s x Together Athletics’ Holiday Bazaar
Two brands are merging forces this weekend to offer a unique holiday bazaar featuring new merch from both businesses, festive drinks, holiday tunes, pastries, and more. As a release notes, attendees will enjoy bites and beverages courtesy of Loretta’s, including a cannoli-filled croissant, constellation brownies, plus iced lattes, cold brew, iced matcha and a special Loretta’s x Together gingerbread latte, aptly named “Breader Together” (which locals can purchase at Loretta’s through Dec. 31.)
The treats will be available for purchase at the Bazaar along with items from Together Athletics’ newest merch drop, plus Loretta’s branded button-down shirts, jean jackets, and aprons (handmade) on Saturday (Dec. 6) from 9 a.m. to noon.
305 Cherry St., togetheroldcity.com
Frankford Hall-idays
As part of the venue’s annual Hall-idays celebration, locals can catch Santa at this German-inspired locale this Saturday, Dec. 6 and Sunday, Dec. 7 (check online for exact times for each date). While there, visitors can also indulge in family-friendly activities, s’mores around the fire pits, and other festive food/drink specials.
1210 Frankford Ave., frankfordhall.com