Philly does holidays and events big \u2013 and the winter holidays are no exception. With so many activities floating around, it can feel overwhelming choosing the right ones to participate in this winter.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Whether you\u2019re looking for a Christmas cocktail, a themed play or a tree-lighting festival, we\u2019ve got you covered. Check out our list.<\/p>\n
Holiday events<\/p>\n
Philly neighborhoods each have their own twist on the holiday season. If you\u2019re looking to attend a parade, Open Street program, or neighborhood event, look here.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Wednesday, Dec. 3, 10, and 17 \u2013 Chestnut Hill Stag & Doe Nights<\/p>\n
Chestnut Hill\u2019s hallmark holiday event will feature extended shopping hours, complimentary refreshments, live entertainment and holiday specials along Germantown Avenue. The event runs from 5 to 9 p.m.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Thursday, Dec. 4 \u2013 East Passayunk Tree Lighting & Holiday Open Street<\/p>\n
Head over to East Passyunk for a Holiday Open Streets block and holiday tree lighting \u2013 jam-packed with free Santa photos and a live band. The tree-lighting event at Mifflin Triangle will feature hot chocolate, coffee and cookies and will last from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Afterwards, grab your Holiday Open Streets passport and pop into participating restaurants and shops for a chance to win free swag. The Holiday Open Streets will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. between Mifflin and Broad streets.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Dec. 4-20 \u2013 Manayunk \u201cGet Lit\u201d Weekends\u00a0<\/p>\n
Head over to Main Street Manayunk from 5 to 9 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays and 1 to 9 p.m. on Saturdays for some holiday fun. The festivities feature food and drink deals, shopping specials, live music and the \u201cJolly Trolley\u201d \u2013 which will run up and down Main Street. To check out trolley stops and learn more, click here.<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 6 \u2013 Chestnut Hill Community Holiday Parade\u00a0<\/p>\n Participate in a Chestnut Hill tradition (and maybe run into the Phillies Phanatic) at 9 a.m. for the holiday parade. The event will feature fire engines, Santa Claus, antique cars, horses, schools and other floats. The parade will begin at Chestnut Hill and Germantown avenues and will end at Market at the Fareway.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 6 \u2013 Old City Holiday Shopping Sip & Stroll<\/p>\n Spend your afternoon sipping and shopping in Old City<\/a> from 12 to 4 p.m.\u00a0<\/p>\n There will be discounts at local stores and restaurants, a variety of stops for themed cocktails and hot chocolate, and more specials.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 6 \u2013 Elfreth\u2019s Alley \u201cDeck the Alley\u201d<\/p>\n After you sip and stroll in Old City on Saturday, head over to the historic Elfreth\u2019s Alley for a look into 18th- and 19th-century homes and seasonal songs and decorations. From 2 to 6 p.m., there will be hot cider, snacks, carolers and tours of Elfreth\u2019s Alley Museum. Tickets<\/a> are $26.50 for adults and $11.20 for children ages 7-12.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 6 \u2013 Winter on the Waterfront<\/p>\n Ring in the holiday sea-son at the Independence Seaport Museum\u2019s second annual Winter on the Waterfront event<\/a>. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., guests of all ages can do a myriad of arts and crafts \u2013 including seaport snowflake-making, knot-tying ornaments, gingerbread boats, and holiday tours aboard the Olympia. This year, there will also be a Cannoli Flavor Contest \u2013 where you can make your own \u201chistory-inspired confection filling.\u201d The events are included in general admission tickets, <\/a>which range from $18 to $23.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Wednesday, Dec. 24: Wanamaker Light Show & Dickens Village\u00a0<\/p>\n The Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village are back for another year. The iconic light show features a combination of dancing Christmas characters with thousands of twinkling lights and the backtrack of the world-renowned Wanamaker organ.\u00a0<\/p>\n The Dickens Village features an animatronic retelling of the movie A Christmas Carol. The walk-through experience is free, but timed tickets are required in advance.\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n Beyond the two flagship experiences, there is a Holly and Humbug Holiday Pop-Up restaurant, featuring themed cocktails and beers, and winter-themed food.\u00a0<\/p>\n For more information on hours and days open, click here.<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Sunday, Jan. 4: A Christmas Story: The Musical at Walnut Street Theatre<\/p>\n On select dates through the beginning of January, experience a musical adaptation of the iconic Christmas movie, A Christmas Story. The musical will feature heartfelt songs, dancing, wit and even some triple-dog dares. Ticket prices vary<\/a>.<\/p>\n Markets<\/p>\n If you\u2019ve been slacking on getting your Christmas gifts, you\u2019re not alone. Here are some markets where you can get that gift secured.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Wednesday, Dec. 24: Shops at The Wanamaker Light Show<\/p>\n This festive indoor market set inside the iconic Wanamaker Building in Center City is a spot for Christmas gifts and holiday cheer ahead of the holidays. The event runs daily from 12 to 8 p.m., except for closures on Dec. 8-9, and shortened hours on Christmas Eve (12-4 p.m.) Attendees can marvel at the LED lights, purchase holiday gifts and seasonal treats, and find special creations from local artisans and crafters. The event is free to attend.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Dec. 24: Christmas Village\u00a0<\/p>\n Inspired by other open-air, German-style holiday markets, Philadelphia\u2019s 2025 Christmas Village features themed food and drinks, local vendors and family-friendly events. The market is spread throughout City Hall and LOVE Park.\u00a0<\/p>\n For kids, there is a ferris wheel, kids train and carousel, and Santa photo opps throughout the month. <\/a>For parents, there are \u201cThirsty Thursdays\u201d spirit-and-wine tastings throughout the month. And for the whole family, there are various events, including special food offerings, storytime and an ugly sweater contest. There are also Holiday Greenery Workshops, where participants can create things like succulent globes or a eucalyptus wreath. There\u2019s also a Festival of Trees<\/a>, which features holiday-decorated trees and an opportunity to vote for your favorite, to explore.\u00a0<\/p>\n This is all in addition to sweet and hot drinks, Christmas gift vendors, holiday lights and entertainment. For more on ticket prices and specific event offerings, click here.\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n Through Thursday, Jan. 1: Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market\u00a0<\/p>\n Explore Dilworth Park\u2019s winter wonderland <\/a>during the entire month of December, for free. The annual market outside of City Hall features a large market with local artists, crafters and jewelers. The market open Sunday to Thursday from noon to 8 p.m., and Friday to Saturday from noon to 9 p.m. (with special hours for Christmas Eve). It will be closed on Christmas Day.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 6: Community Fair at the Asian Arts Initiative\u00a0<\/p>\n Support youth art makers at the Asian Arts Initiative Community Fair, from noon to 4 p.m. The event marks the end of the Asian Arts Initiative youth education semester, and will allow youth and emerging artists to connect with other artists and show off their work. You can enjoy yummy food, get your holiday shopping done, and participate in hands-on activities at this all-ages event. The event is pay-what-you-can<\/a>.<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 6: Fiber Craft Holiday Market<\/p>\n Head on over to the Bok Building Gym from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for all kinds of fiber craft offerings<\/a>, including yarn shops, handmade items, jewelry and more. The 50-plus vendors at the event offer many options for your last-minute holiday needs.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday & Sunday, Dec. 6-7: Lucia and Christmas Market\u00a0<\/p>\n Head over to the American Swedish Historical museum for Swedish food and bakery treats, live music and performances, and a children\u2019s program. The Lucia and Christmas Market will be held in a heated outdoor tent at the museum\u2019s FDR Park location. The market will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, and a ticket buys you event access and admission to the museum. Tickets cost $10 for non-members, $8 for members, $5 for children ages 5-12, and free admission for children under 5. You can purchase ahead of time<\/a> or at the door.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday & Sunday, Dec. 6-7: Fishtown Freeze and Shopping Spree<\/p>\n Head on over to Fishtown<\/a> for two days of holiday fun \u2013 with everything from ice sculptures to shopping discounts. On Saturday, hop aboard a free holiday trolley running down Frankford Avenue from noon to 6 p.m. The trolley will drop you at shops with discounts and specials, Frankford Hall for photos with Santa, and various restaurants for food and drink specials. Additionally, there will be four live, interactive ice-sculpture carvings on Saturday \u2013 including drink and food specials and live music at various stops. All weekend, there will be deals at participating retailers and pop-up markets.\u00a0<\/p>\n The event will run from noon to 8 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. It is free to attend.\u00a0<\/p>\n Sunday, Dec. 7: Whole Health Studio Holiday Market\u00a0<\/p>\n Get your wellness on with Whole Health Studio from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.! The holistic wellness space for women will feature offerings from local, women-owned businesses, including activeware, skincare and jewelry. The event<\/a> is free to attend, and will feature complimentary coffee, tea and prosecco.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 13: West Philly Bizzare<\/p>\n This year\u2019s West Philly Bizzare<\/a> will host over 30 local vendors, providing everything from ceramics and jewelry to soaps and toys. The event will take place from noon to 6 p.m. inside the Calvary Center. It is free to attend, and food and beverages will be available for purchase.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 13: Made @ Bok Winter Market\u00a0<\/p>\n Find unique gifts for your loved ones at the Bok Building\u2019s Winter Market. Local artists and businesses will provide everything from homemade gifts and seasonal goods to festive treats. The event is free to attend and runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 13: HANDMADE at Fleisher Art Memorial\u00a0<\/p>\n Come shop for crafts, gifts and handmade items from varying artists. The event will feature handmade goods focusing on promoting local vendors and inclusivity. This includes vendors from Fleisher\u2019s El Mercado Cultural program, which focuses on business needs of the Latino community, and Fleisher\u2019s 127th annual Adult Student Exhibition. It lasts from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is free to attend.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday & Sunday, Dec. 13-14 \u2013 Northern Liberties Holiday Shopping Stroll & Pop-Up Market\u00a0<\/p>\n Spend your Saturday and Sunday shopping, gift-wrapping and participating in family-fun activities at the annual Northern Liberties Holiday Shopping Stroll & Pop-Up Market. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., you can pick up a punch card at the Pop-Up Market at 914 N. 2nd Street or any other participating store, and receive a punch for every participating store you visit.\u00a0<\/p>\n Once you\u2019ve gotten 6 or more punches, drop your card off for a chance to win a grand prize. Gift wrapping will also be available at the NLNA Community Center (700 N 3rd St.). One of the participating stores, Laser Philly, will also have a Winter Wonderland where you can get a photo taken with Santa, write letters to the North Pole, or play games.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday & Sunday, Dec. 13-14: West Craft Fest\u00a0<\/p>\n Experience rotating holiday gift vendors all weekend outside of Black Hound Clay Studio, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The West Craft Fest will have everything from toys and jewelry to accessories and art. The event is free to attend, and you can find a list of vendors here.\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n Sunday, Dec. 14: Trans Art Market\u00a0<\/p>\n Support trans, nonbinary and gender-expansive artists and makers in Philly from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The market, held in Bok Building\u2019s West Gym, will feature all kinds of gifts, including art and jewelry. There is a $5 entry fee collected at the entrance, <\/a>which will go toward Philly-based reparation groups.\u00a0 A mask and negative COVID test are required for entry.\u00a0<\/p>\n Friday, Saturday & Sunday, Dec. 19-21: Punk Rock Flea Market\u00a0<\/p>\n The Punk Rock Flea Market is the perfect place to find art, clothes, records and \u201cold punk junk.\u201d The vintage market will be at the 23rd Street Armory from 4 to 10 p.m. on December 19 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on December 20 & 21. Tickets are $10 in advance, or $12 with card and $15 with cash on the day of. Admission is good all weekend.\u00a0<\/p>\n Activities<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking for a more active way to spend the holidays, you have a few options!<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 13 \u2013 Rudolph Run\u00a0<\/p>\n Join Philly Runner for a 3-mile run along the Manayunk canal path starting at 9 a.m. Philly Runner\u2019s Manayunk store will have footwear for participants to test out starting at 8:30 a.m. and there will be post-run treats afterward. The store will also collect canned goods and necessities in place of an entry fee for the run. Holiday attire is encouraged \u2013 anything from ugly sweaters to reindeer antlers. Sign up here.<\/a><\/p>\n Through Jan 1: Holidays at the Comcast Center Campus<\/p>\n The Comcast Center Campus also goes big on the holidays, with everything from cinematic experiences to a holiday fair. Every day through Jan. 1, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., a 15-minute show featuring holiday singalongs, dance performances and a sleigh ride will be featured on the Comcast Center\u2019s video wall. At the Comcast Technology Center across the street, the Dreamworks Shrek\u2019s Festive Flight animation is paired with gingerbread cookie-making in an interactive digital experience.\u00a0<\/p>\n The Comcast Center Campus will also host a last-minute holiday fair on Dec.16-18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., visits with Santa on Dec. 12-13 and Dec. 19-20, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and a pop-up holiday crafting workshop in The Concourse at the Comcast Center.\u00a0<\/p>\n To learn more about specific events, visit their website<\/a>.<\/p>\n Select dates through Saturday, Jan. 3: LuminNature at the Philadelphia Zoo<\/p>\n The Philadelphia Zoo\u2019s annual exhibit is a nature-inspired light show \u2013 featuring over one million lights and \u201cdazzling displays\u201d featuring \u201cwhimsical wildlife scenes.\u201d Highlights include a 100-foot-plus Pherris Wheel over the zoo, a 40-foot tall penguin shining with 40,000 lights, and Santa photo opps. There will also be mocktails, cocktails and food for sale. Admission to LuminNature is included with general admission entry, but for more \u2013 such as access to the Pherris Wheel \u2013 you can purchase other packages<\/a>.<\/p>\n Through Sunday, Jan. 4: Winter in Franklin Square\u00a0<\/p>\n Head over to Franklin Square Park for a myriad of family-friendly fun. The Electrical Spectacle Light Show is the main attraction \u2013 featuring illuminated light shows every half-hour with corresponding soundtracks. The park\u2019s Chilly Philly Mini Golf includes 18 holes of holiday music, festive lights and winter characters. You can also get your family together to try the winter sport of street curling at the park if you\u2019re up for it. For curling, rinks must be rented in advance and tickets are required. Frosty\u2019s Fireside Lodge & SquareBurger are also located on the premises \u2013 and offer everything from festive cocktails and hot chocolate to delicious burgers.\u00a0<\/p>\n In addition to regular programming, the park also offers a lineup of one-time events, including gift-making nights, Kwanzaa and Hanukkah celebrations, and more<\/a>.<\/p>\n While holiday festivities in Franklin Square Park run through Jan. 4, the winter festivities will continue until the end of February.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Feb. 22, 2026: Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink<\/p>\n Enjoy ice skating right in the heart of Dilworth Park<\/a> daily through late February. The rink is open from Monday to Thursday, from noon to 9 p.m., Fridays from noon to 11 p.m., Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets are recommended to be bought in advance, and sessions are 90 minutes long. Tickets are $10 for those aged 11 and up, $7 for kids 10 and under, and skate rental is an additional $10.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through March 1, 2026: Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest\u00a0<\/p>\n Experience a mix of games, rides, food, drinks and ice skating all in one place, at the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest.<\/a> Interested skaters can purchase tickets for $5 and rentals for an additional $12, and there are also options for ice skating lessons.<\/a> After you\u2019re done, check out the myriad of food options and other rides, all overlooking the Ben Franklin Bridge. For more specifics on open days, hours and holiday hours, click here.\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n Drinks\u00a0<\/p>\n Feeling more like relaxing and grabbing a festive drink this holiday season? Here are some holiday-themed bars and events in the area.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 13 \u2013 Passayunk Avenue Hot Chocolate Crawl<\/p>\n Grab your hot cocoa mug and explore the various vendors offering deals on hot chocolate from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets start at $14.74,<\/a> and mugs must be purchased in order to get exclusive event prices. There are options for plain hot chocolate, hot chocolate and ice cream, and boozy hot chocolate. Enjoy shopping and tunes from local carolers as well.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Sunday, Dec. 21: Frankford HALLidays<\/p>\n Frankford Hall is decked out in winter decor all season long, but its signature family-friendly event offers even more \u2013 food-and-beverage specials, s\u2019mores around the fire pits, and a visit from Santa. You can learn more about hours for the experience here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Through Saturday, Dec. 27: Ever Eve in the Back Bar at High Street<\/p>\n The lobby of the Franklin Residences is now a loungy, festive speakeasy on Saturdays from 6 to 10 p.m. through Dec. 27. The Ever Eve in the Back Bar<\/a> pop-up bar features holiday-inspired cocktails, live jazz, products from local artisans, and a dessert cart (boozy chocolate included!). Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Sunday, Dec. 28: Holly Jolly Christmas Bar at Juno<\/p>\n Visiting Juno\u2019s Holly Jolly Christmas Bar in Northern Liberties is like stepping into a winter wonderland. Your $22.50 ticket<\/a> gets you entry, 90-minute open seating and a welcome drink in a bar decked out in tinsel, trimming and ornaments. There are seasonal cocktails and additional holiday-themed bites available for purchase. You can reserve your time slot here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Through Sunday, Dec. 28: Emo Christmas<\/p>\n The nationwide Emo Christmas pop-up comes to Philly <\/a>\u2013 and its offerings don\u2019t disappoint. The pop-up (dubbed as \u201cfar from merry and bright\u201d) features holiday-themed cocktails, themed food and a brunch option. Tickets start at $16.75, and include a 90-minute seating experience and one cocktail. \u201cEmo Brunch\u201d starts at $41.95 per person and includes a 90-minute seated experience, main entree and one mimosa. The event will take place at 699 N. Broad Street.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Wednesday, Dec. 31: Walnut Wonderland at Walnut Garden<\/p>\n Head over to Rittenhouse Square\u2019s Walnut Garden<\/a> to see a towering Christmas tree and character decor, string lights and art installations. The outdoor garden will offer themed cocktails, sweet-and-savory treats, and refuge in a heated outdoor tent.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Wednesday, Dec. 31: Tinsel Christmas Bar\u00a0<\/p>\n Deeming itself \u201cPhilly\u2019s favorite Christmas bar,\u201d this holiday pop-up<\/a> in Center City features cocktails, mocktails, and a large range of decorations. You do not need reservations or tickets to walk in, and kids are allowed to enter with a parent on weekdays and until 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Wednesday, Dec. 31: Twas an Evil Christmas at Evil Genius Beer Co.<\/p>\n Fishtown\u2019s iconic Evil Genius Bar Co.<\/a> has turned into a decked-out taproom \u2013 featuring everything from string lights and gifts on the ceilings, to peppermint espresso martinis and mouth-watering food.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through January 2026: McGillin\u2019s Old Ale House Pop-Up<\/p>\n Philly\u2019s oldest continuously operating tavern is decked out in Christmas decor for the season and has launched its festive drink menu<\/a> ahead of the holidays. Try anything from an Eggnog Martini to a Partridge in a Pear Tree cocktail to satisfy the festive drink craving this season.<\/p>\n Through January 2026: Miracle on 8th Street at Craftsman Row Saloon\u00a0<\/p>\n You\u2019re going to want to make a reservation if you plan on going to one of Philly\u2019s most decked-out Christmas bars. The saloon features thousands of ornaments and lights, a real toy train circling above the bar, milkshakes with lots of decorations, and lots of themed food. To learn more and make a reservation, click here.<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n Through January 2026: White Elephant: The Christmas Pop-Up\u00a0<\/p>\n The Rittenhouse espresso martini bar<\/a> is celebrating the Christmas season with festive decorations \u2013 like a disco ball snowman and Christmas foliage \u2013 and themed cocktails. Walk in for festive snacks, cocktails and decorations.<\/p>\n Through Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026: Uptown\u2019s Little Workshop at Uptown Beer Garden<\/p>\n Located by many of Center City\u2019s iconic Christmas markets and activities, Uptown Beer Garden<\/a> has decorated its grounds for the holidays. New updates feature fire pits, lights, decor and festive drinks and food. There are also alcohol-free options and casual bites available.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026: Senor Grinch Pop-Up at Taqueria Amor\u00a0<\/p>\n Head over to Main Street Manayunk<\/a> to enjoy a \u201cGrinch A Rita,\u201d \u201cDreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel,\u201d \u201cCindy Lou\u2019s Spiked Yoo-Hoo,\u201d or a variety of other themed food and drink options. Enjoy Manayunk\u2019s holiday events, then head over to Taqueria Amor for food, drinks, decor and more.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Sunday, Jan. 4: Bridget Foy\u2019s North Pole on South Street<\/p>\n Head over to the American restaurant <\/a>all holiday season long to get transported to the North Pole (and enjoy a drink while doing so). The seasonal offerings feature \u201cover-the-top\u201d garnishes, drinks like Sugar Plum Claus-mopolitan, and food to wash it all down.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Friday, Jan. 31, 2026: Jingle Jawn at Libertee Grounds\u00a0<\/p>\n Combine your drinking with some mini-golf at Libertee Grounds\u2019 Jingle Jawn. The bar is decked out in lights, candy canes and decorations, as well as lounges and mini-golf courses. Tickets to the experience<\/a> are $20, and include 9 holes of mini-golf, a holiday-themed glass and a seasonal cocktail.\u00a0<\/p>\n Through Saturday, Jan. 17: The Yule Lodge at Butcher Bar<\/p>\n The Rittenhouse restaurant<\/a> has turned its patio and garden into a warm space to enjoy themed cocktails, sweet-and-savory bites and fancy decorations. Enjoy cocktails like \u201cNaughty or Nice\u201d and \u201cYule Mule,\u201d while getting some much-needed time outside (but enclosed!).<\/p>\n Hanukkah\u00a0<\/p>\n There are lots of Hanukkah celebrations around the city to celebrate the eight-day holiday \u2013 which runs from Sunday, Dec. 14, to Monday, Dec. 22.\u00a0<\/p>\n Sunday, Dec. 14 \u2013 Suburban Square Menorah Lighting<\/p>\n Suburban Square in Center City will kick off its celebration of the Festival of Lights with a menorah lighting<\/a>. The event will begin at 5 p.m. and will feature hot apple cider, donuts, pretzels and hot dogs, in addition to donut and menorah decorating and crafts.\u00a0<\/p>\n Sunday, Dec. 14 \u2013 Betsy Ross House Menorah Lighting\u00a0<\/p>\n Head over to the Betsy Ross House in Old City at 4:30 p.m. to celebrate the Festival of Lights. The free event<\/a> is hosted in partnership with the Old City Jewish Arts Center and all are welcome.\u00a0<\/p>\n Wednesday, Dec. 17 \u2013 Center City Chanukah Celebration\u00a0<\/p>\n Join the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia for the fourth night of Chanukah. From 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., meet in Rittenhouse Square for a prayer ceremony, candle lighting and jelly donuts. Advanced registration<\/a> is preferred by Monday, Dec. 15.\u00a0<\/p>\n Thursday, Dec. 18 \u2013 Manayunk Hanukkah lighting\u00a0<\/p>\n Join Mt. Airy Chabad for a Hanukkah candle lighting at 6 p.m. The free event<\/a> will overlook Canal View Park and will feature candles, latkes and more.\u00a0<\/p>\n Sunday, December 21 \u2013 Hanukkah at The Please Touch Museum<\/p>\n Celebrate Hanukkah with this family-friendly day<\/a> at The Please Touch Museum. Participate in hands-on crafts, dreidel spins and a themed storytime that will be a fun Festival of Lights celebration for the whole family. The event will last from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and you can purchase tickets here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Sunday, Dec. 21 \u2013 Franklin Square Hanukkah Celebration<\/p>\n Explore Franklin Square and celebrate the Festival of Lights with a night of songs, crafts and activities. The free event<\/a> lasts from 5 to 7 p.m.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 25 \u2013 Being ___ at Christmas 2025 at The Weitzman<\/p>\n Head over to The Weitzman Museum <\/a>on Christmas Day with a full day of performances, movies, museum scavenger hunts and a menorah lighting. Children can create make-and-take crafts and also enjoy a sensory-friendly play zone. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.<\/p>\n Tickets are $20<\/a> for adults, and free for adult members. Tickets are $15 for kids and free for kids of Family Level members and above. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $25. All kids tickets include two snack tickets.\u00a0<\/p>\n Kwanzaa\u00a0<\/p>\n Kwanzaa was commemorated as an American holiday in 1966, with the purpose of <\/a>helping African Americans connect to their families, culture, pride and community. The holiday is based off of seven principles \u2013\u00a0<\/p>\n Umoja (Unity),\u00a0<\/p>\n Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)<\/p>\n Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)<\/p>\n Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)<\/p>\n Nia (Purpose)<\/p>\n Kuumba (Creativity)\u00a0<\/p>\n Imani (Faith)<\/p>\n Each of the principles are represented by seven candles, which are also colored to represent the pan-African flag. The festivities of the holiday end with Karamu \u2013 a communal feast.\u00a0<\/p>\n There are many ways that Philadelphians celebrate.\u00a0<\/p>\n Tuesday, Dec. 23: Learn About Kwanzaa with Mama Carla<\/p>\n The Free Library of Philadelphia will host a program<\/a> for all ages to learn about Kwanzaa at the Joseph E. Coleman Northwest Regional Library at 3:30 p.m. The workshop will be hosted by Mama Carla Wiley, a local storyteller and educator.\u00a0<\/p>\n Thursday & Friday, Dec. 25-26: Kwanzaa Celebration for All Ages<\/p>\n This two-day celebration<\/a> at Parkway Central Library will feature all kinds of Kwanzaa-themed activities \u2013 including presentations by multicultural groups who will perform dance, music and discussions around the history of the Kwanzaa holiday. The event runs from noon to 3 p.m. both days.\u00a0<\/p>\n Friday, Dec. 26-Thursday, Jan. 1: African American Museum in Philadelphia Kwanzaa Celebration\u00a0<\/p>\n The African American Museum\u2019s programming will last throughout the duration of Kwanzaa \u2013 with each day centering around one of the seven principles. Programming times and activities vary \u2013 but will range from Kwanzaa Quizzo, to a cooking class, to an open mic night. You can follow their Instagram<\/a> to stay up to date with specifics on how to participate.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 27: Honoring the Seven Principles: A Kwanzaa Celebration<\/p>\n Children are invited to come and learn more about the history of Kwanzaa <\/a>and its principles at The Central Children\u2019s Department Storyhour Room at 2 p.m. The program will look at the values of Kwanzaa through the lens of Black heritage and empowerment. Participants will learn about the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa, have storytime and will have a brief introduction to Black American Sign Language.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saturday, Dec. 27: KwanzaaFEST\u00a0<\/p>\n Celebrate Kwanzaa, the African diaspora heritage, and culture at the Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library from noon to 5 p.m. The event<\/a> will feature music, food, entertainment and community vibes.<\/p>\n Sunday, Dec. 28: Kwanzaa Celebration: Free Community Day<\/p>\n Head over to the Penn Museum to celebrate Kwanzaa<\/a> with family-friendly activities that honor African culture and community. Enjoy live music performances, learn more about Kwanzaa principles through hands-on workshops, and explore a marketplace with local artisans. The museum is free and open to the public, but advanced registration is encouraged.\u00a0<\/p>\n Monday, Dec. 29: Kwanzaa Story and Kinara Coloring<\/p>\n Children of all ages are invited to attend<\/a> this Kwanzaa-themed event at The Northeast Regional Library. Children will be invited to choose a kinara, or the candleholder for seven candles used in celebrating Kwanzaa, to color as well.\u00a0<\/p>\n Monday, Dec. 29: Celebrating Ujaama: Kwanzaa Quizzo and Evening Bazaar<\/p>\n Celebrate Kwanzaa <\/a>at Franklin Square from 5 to 8 p.m., with Kwanzaa-themed quizzo, music and a vendor market. The event is inspired by the fourth principle of Kwanzaa, Ujamaa, or cooperative economics. The family-friendly market will showcase Black-owned vendors across the region.\u00a0<\/p>\n For information on where you can find holiday light displays, you can check out the awesome roundup<\/a> Billy Penn\u2019s Julia Binswanger put together.\u00a0<\/p>\n This is an ongoing list of events that will be updated as more information is found.\u00a0<\/p>\n \t