You’d be hard-pressed to find a more fun and livelier place to be around the holidays than Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The city is jam-packed with fun things to do for Christmas — if you know where to look! From ice skating on the riverfront and bonafide German Christmas markets to massive light shows, a giant Christmas tree, and much more, you’re surely in for a good time. Whether you’re a local or just visiting for the holidays, there’s no shortage of ways to spend Christmas in Philadelphia — but if you’re not sure where to start, we put together this short list of some of our top recommendations for enjoying the holiday in the City of Brotherly Love. So, turn on the Christmas music, and let’s dive in!
Christmas Eve 2023 in Philadelphia with City Cruises
Philadelphia Christmas Eve Signature Brunch Cruise – As far as Christmas Eve plans go, spending a magical afternoon on the water is tough to top. Aboard the Philadelphia Christmas Eve Signature Brunch Cruise, you and your guests will create treasured holiday memories with your loved ones as you dine, dance, and soak in the magnificent skyline while you sail along the Delaware River. Get ready to enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared buffet while taking in Philadelphia’s historic waterfront views. Don’t forget to bring your camera to snap some pictures while you marvel at famed city landmarks — such as the Ben Franklin Bridge — from the comfort of the climate-controlled interior and spacious open-air roof decks. Of course, the spirits will be flowing with a fully stocked bar, fun games, and lively music from the on-board DJ. If that sounds like a memorable, one-of-a-kind Christmas Eve celebration to you, book your ticket ASAP. And, if you’re booked during the day on Christmas Eve, you can always opt for the Philadelphia Christmas Eve Signature Dinner Cruise for that same top-tier experience after dark.
Celebrate Christmas Day on the Water
Philadelphia Christmas Day Signature Brunch Cruise – Don’t stress the planning this Christmas — instead, book tickets for you and your loved ones to embark on the Philadelphia Christmas Day Signature Brunch Cruise. You and your guests will gather together for a joyful celebration and revel in the magic of the holidays as you dine, dance, and soak in magnificent skyline views on the Delaware River. There’s also a delicious, chef-prepared buffet, outstanding views of classic Philly landmarks, and on-board entertainment to make this year’s celebration an unforgettable, merriment-filled memory. If you’d rather spend the day lounging around the house in your pajamas, we get it — that’s why there’s also the Philadelphia Christmas Day Signature Dinner Cruise, which offers that same once-in-a-lifetime experience at night.
Other Fun Things to Do in Philadelphia for Christmas
Visit the Philadelphia Holiday Tree at City Hall – On the north side of City Hall, around the corner from all the wintry fun in Dilworth Park and LOVE Park, you’ll find the Philadelphia Holiday Tree. If you’re not around for the actual tree-lighting celebration in early December, residents and visitors alike can pop by to see the tree sparkle whenever they’d like after that. You can also explore the holiday cheer-filled surrounding area, which is complete with a whimsical carousel, local vendors, delicious treats — all in and around one of the East Coast’s most iconic buildings.
Christmas Village – When we think of Christmas, we think of the open-air European-style wonderland that is the Christmas Village in LOVE Park. With more than 110 different vendors set up in wooden huts, you and your guests can roam around and sample the local and international gifts, such as Käthe Wohlfahrt ornaments, fun accessories, chic wintry apparel, and more. For eats, there’s a bunch of options, including raclette sandwiches, spiced wine, apple cider, strudels, and more seasonal treats.
Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest – It wouldn’t really be the holidays without a little ice skating, right? If you’re of the same mind, then you have to carve out some time to experience a riverfront winter wonderland at the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest. Get ready to glide around the enormous ice skating rink, take a picture next to Philly’s holiday tree, and warm your bones with, say, a hot apple cider next to one of the fire pits or inside a cozy holiday cabin. The best part? Entry to Winterfest is free!
The Macy’s Christmas Light Show – The light show at the Macy’s in City Center has been a tradition since 1956 — a long time! Spanning four stories, the massive display dominates the store’s Grand Court as nutcrackers, snowmen, and more holiday characters dance to carols. Plus, you can check out the Wanamaker organ (the largest pipe organ in the world) as it plays holiday tunes four times a day.
Book Your Holiday in Philadelphia with City Cruises Today!
What are you waiting for? Make this holiday one for the books, and start a new tradition of celebrating Christmas on the water with City Cruises Philadelphia.