From whimsical performances of The Nutcracker to nerve-wracking sporting events, this winter’s lineup is sure to keep Philadelphians busy. 
Through 12/24
Christmas Village in LOVE Park and City Hall
Holiday cheer has finally come to City Hall and LOVE Park—take a ride on the historic carousel in the middle of City Hall and shop local vendors as thousands of vibrant Christmas lights illuminate the festival. After picking up a few last-minute gifts, attendees can test their sommelier skills with a wine tasting and indulge in traditional European food like raclette, schnitzel sandwiches and Austrian strudel. 1500 Arch St., philachristmas.com
While taking in LumiNature’s captivating displays, visitors can enjoy strolling performers, hot chocolate and more
Through 1/7
LumiNature at the Philadelphia Zoo
As over 1 million lights illuminate the zoo, find a winter wonderland of sparkling creatures at every turn. A nearly 20-foot-tall blue gorilla, 500 flamingos and 22-foot-tall butterfly tree are sure to dazzle—but be sure to check out the holiday spectacular’s newest addition: Penguin Prismatic. The glowing aquatic bird towers 40 feet with 40,000 glowing lights. 3400 W. Girard Ave., philadelphiazoo.org
Cole Sternberg’s mixed-media pieces on linen are sure to wow.
Through 1/18
Cole Sternberg Exhibit at Villanova University
Plunge deep into Sternberg’s multimedia exhibition, thirsty while drowning: an environmental sustainability themed display concentrating on humanity’s interdependence with their environment. Vast murals adorn the university’s art gallery as well as historic buildings and outdoor spaces on the campus. Inspired by the oceans Sternberg traveled through on his maiden voyage in a shipping vessel, the collection also includes signature paintings with the contemporary plein air technique. 800 Lancaster Ave., 2nd Floor, Villanova, 1.villanova.edu
12/3-17
A Philly POPS Christmas at Verizon Hall
A holly jolly POPS is back for its final year of seasonal favorites like “Winter Wonderland” and “Silent Night.” Returning to join the other 300 performers—Philly POPS Festival Chorus, The Philadelphia Boys Choir and the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas Gospel Choir—is Hamilton’s Mandy Gonzalez, accompanied by Broadway star Jordan Donica. As Gonzalez’s voice fills the Hall, sit back and let the yuletide spirit consume you. 300 S. Broad St., kimmelculturalcampus.org
Listen in awe as Pretty Yende performs with the Philadelphia Orchestra
12/8-10
Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 at Verizon Hall
Inspired by a child’s imagination, Gustav Mahler’s “The Heavenly Life” depicts heaven from a youthful perspective. Listen as Pretty Yende’s harmonious, soprano vocals intertwine with The Philadelphia Orchestra for an unforgettable moment of musical brilliance. 300 S. Broad St., philorch.org
12/9-28
The Nutcracker at the Academy of Music
Join the Philadelphia Ballet this holiday season as it takes the audience on Marie’s magical journey. With the help of a friendly wooden soldier, and captivating battles against a small but mighty king, George Balanchine’s beloved The Nutcracker enchants every viewer’s inner child. 240 S. Broad St., academyofmusic.org
12/10
Army Navy Game at Lincoln Financial Field
Get ready for kickoff at the thrilling Army Navy football game—with Navy’s 62-53 win last year, who knows what this December’s game has in store? A tradition spanning 128 years, the battle will commence in the City of Brotherly Love for its 90th game, setting the stage for an eventful wintery season. 1 Lincoln Financial Field Way, armynavygame.com
Blue Man Group has reached more than 35 million people worldwide
12/27-31
Blue Man Group at Kimmel Cultural Campus’ Miller Theatre
We’ll be having a blue Christmas this year as the Blue Man Group returns to Philadelphia for the first time in over 10 years. Known for their colorful blasts of paint against vibrating drum beats, this group of comedic, blue bald men will get you out of your seat. 250 S. Broad St., kimmelculturalcampus.org
1/1
Mummers Parade
Over 10,000 costumed adults and kids flood the streets in glittery garb this New Year’s Day for the annual Mummers Parade. As you depart City Hall, make note of the three performance locations along the marching path to watch the Comics, Wench Brigades, Fancies, String Bands and Fancy Brigades dance battle it out. After a journey across historical Philly, arrive at Washington Avenue as the final destination to ring in 2023. 1400 John F. Kennedy Blvd., phlvisitorcenter.com
1/1
White Dog Cafe 34th Annual New Year’s Day PJ Brunch
Take “I woke up like this” to a new level with the annual White Dog Cafe pajama brunch—slippers encouraged. As you lounge inside the decorative, dog-themed eatery, sip handcrafted mocktails like the Hair of the Dog and indulge in mouthwatering bites—we recommend the cage-free egg white omelet and avocado BLT, made with local, seasonal ingredients. Multiple locations, whitedog.com
1/8
Philadelphia Flyers vs. Toronto Maple Leafs at Wells Fargo Center
It’s certainly a year for Philly sports. Don’t miss out on this battle as the Flyers take on the Maple Leafs. The northern rivals will travel south to play at the Wells Fargo Center for a night filled with animated fans and flying pucks. Look out for recently signed goalie Felix Sandstrom as he fends off the opponents from the brand-new club level. 3601 S. Broad St., nhl.com
Photography by: COURTESY OF CHRISTMAS VILLAGE IN LOVE PARK; COURTESY OF THE PHILADELPHIA ZOO; YEO WORKSHOP; DARIO ACOSTA; LINDSEY BEST
