Sam Tracy Sam Tracy | December 11, 2020 | Culture,
Philly has decked the halls for yet another holiday season, and while this year has been anything but usual, we can still get our kicks in safely.
Twinkling light displays have popped up all across Greater Philadelphia to bring holiday cheer to the City of Brotherly Love. From ice skating rinks to shopping villages and everything in between, the city is bursting with the festive spirit.
Don't know where to head first? We've got you covered. Read on to find out where you can experience the best of the city's holiday magic.
See also: Decorate Holiday Cookies with the Team at Four Seasons and More This Month
Holiday Light Show at Shady Brook Farm
931 Stony Hill Rd, Yardley / Website
Fun is always in season at Shady Brook Farm, and this season calls for twinkling lights galore! Take in the fantastic sights from the comfort of your own car or hop in an open-air wagon for a festive spectacle. More than 3 million lights sparkle throughout the holiday-themed drive. Trees are costumed as red and white striped peppermint sticks, and tunnels are covered with white lights like stars on Christmas night. Stroll down Candy Cane Lane, a walk-thru display of dancing lights and Santa’s workshop, where the Big Man himself is available for socially distanced photos.
A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens
1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square / Website
Be merry this holiday season in the fresh air at A Longwood Christmas light display at Longwood Gardens. The famous botanical garden has decked the trees out in the finest twinkling lights and curated the perfect seasonal plant palette of whites, reds and greens. Holiday magic is in the air at this outdoor experience. Take in the sights of the shimmering tunnel of light, the miniature train display and warm up at the cozy fire pits for nostalgic talks of holidays past. The display is open to the public now through Jan. 10.
Dilworth Park
1 South 15th St. / Website
In the heart of Center City is Dilworth Park’s iconic winter wonderland. A skating rink, holiday market, festive collection of holiday lights and more - the park has everything to keep you and your loved ones busy this holiday season. Check out this year’s white fir Christmas tree, towering at 50 feet and covered with glittering lights and one-of-a-kind ornaments. The tree is topped with a 130-pound rendition of the famous Liberty Bell. The merry atmosphere of Dilworth Plaza makes the perfect photo opp for holiday photos!
See also: Sip Positano Coast's Peppermintini all Season Long
Christmas Village in LOVE Park
1501 John F Kennedy Blvd. / Website
Calling all shopaholics! If you haven’t yet finished your holiday shopping, you’re in luck. The German Christmas Village in LOVE Park marks one of the city’s best places to pick up original artisanal gifts. Stroll through the park and browse the market’s unique offerings under a canopy of fairy lights and Christmas baubles. Each vendor stand is ornamented with strands of garland and icicle lights, while a holiday carousel stands in the center for both young and old to enjoy. This open-air market truly sets the holiday spirit!
Winter on Broad Street: A Holiday Light Spectacular
3601 South Broad St. / Website
Step into the glow of an illuminated landscape at this holiday light spectacle just steps from the Wells Fargo Center! Let the Christmas magic envelope you as you wander through nearly 200 shimmering light sculptures and displays. Among this year's light installations include a jawdropping 25-foot reindeer, glowing tunnels adorned with icicle lights, and an enchanted forest of more than 45 sparkling trees. A fantastic location for your next Instagram post, you won’t want to miss this place, open now through Jan. 2.
Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
101 South Columbus Blvd. / Website
Arguably the city’s most popular seasonal attraction, the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest has returned for the 2020-21 season! Enjoy the riverfront park’s famous attractions including its large ice skating rink, rental cabins decorated in seasonal adornments and cozy fire pits perfect for long chats with friends. Walk, skate and cozy up underneath countless strands of bright Christmas lights hanging above your head. Entry to the riverfront park is free, and cabins as well as ice skates can be reserved in advance online.
Photography by: NurPhoto