Halloween is over and we’ve entered the holiday season, which really is the best time of year. You have family and friends all around, home-cooked meals, holiday music, lights and so much more that make you feel so joyful and warm inside around this time of year.
As college students, we are away from home for the majority of the year and we may not even be able to return home for the holidays. Because of this, it’s easy to get disheartened and homesick. Luckily, in Philadelphia, there are a number of events and attractions during this holiday season to help spread the holiday cheer. Sometimes we just need to be around others who are in the spirit and it immediately lifts us up. Even if you aren’t homesick or feeling a little blue, these attractions are still worth checking out.
Macy’s Christmas Light Show at Macy’s Center City
1300 Market St.
November 25 – December 31
Nobody does the holidays like Macy’s. They always have the largest trees, the most lights, and the best music. Going into Macy’s in December is the best way to get ready for the holidays. The department store is decorated perfectly, packed with people rushing to get presents for their loved ones and in the background is the best selection of holiday music that you can’t help but jam out to. Stop by Macy’s if you want to do your shopping like a true grown up, but also fulfill your inner child by admiring the lights and decorations.
The Christmas Village in Philadelphia
City Hall
November 24 – December 24
This is a classic European-inspired Christmas market that pops up in the middle of Philly. The market includes a number of shops selling all types of items and vendors selling holiday treats and beverages.
BlueCross RiverRink Winterfest
Penn’s Landing
November 25 – March 5
Penn’s Landing turns into and a winter wonderland with an ice rink for the season. The ice rink replaces Spruce Street Harbor Park and its roller skating rink and sits by the Delaware River. There is also a Christmas tree and warm spots to have a hot chocolate with your friends.
Rothman Ice Rink at Dilworth Park
City Hall
November 11 – February 27
Dilworth Park also sets up a rink right in the middle of the city with lots of food and drinks to make it an enjoyable evening. These two rinks are the best places to enjoy the outdoors during the cold days. Skating around the rink will warm your bodies up, and taking snapchats with the tree will keep your blood flowing. Go with a group of friends for a night out in town!
Franklin Square Holiday Festival & Electrical Spectacle Holiday Light Show
6th and Race Streets
November 10 – December 31
Another park in Philadelphia gets a makeover for the season, and it’s Franklin Square. One of Philadelphia’s most popular parks will become a light show with different activities and attractions for all to enjoy.
Longwood Garden Christmas
Kennett Square
November 24 – January 8
This isn’t exactly in Philadelphia, but if you’re able to get a ride to Kennett Square, you have to check out the illuminated garden. While all of these spots seem very fitting for a romantic night out with bae, Longwood is especially oozing romance. Find some mistletoe in the garden and give your partner a kiss.
Neighborhood Lights in South Philadelphia
1600 block of South 13th Street
Ongoing
When I was a kid, the best thing about the holidays was all the lights and decorations that were hung. Well, in South Philly, you can get nostalgic and walk down the streets to see the homes in the area all decorated. The 1600 block of South 13th is also known as the Miracle on South 13th Street. These neighborhood lights will definitely get you in the spirit.
This year, take some time away from studying and partying on the weekends. Instead, spend an evening ice skating with your friends. Maybe have a warm hot chocolate and take a nice walk around a garden with your significant other. Let us know where you go this year and share your holiday photos with us on Twitter (@HerCampusDrexel). Happy Holidays!