Now that Philly families have made it through Thanksgiving and we don't have to worry about what we are fixing for dinner all week (leftovers anyone?), our attention can turn towards the fun and excitement of the winter holidays.

Our Events Calendar offers many opportunities to get into the spirit of the season. Bring your family, including your dog or cat, for pictures with Santa at the mall. Listen to Hanukkah stories at the library. Take an imaginary ride on the Polar Express at Brandywine River Museum. Or, attend Malvern's Victorian Christmas Celebration.

Below are our top selections for each day of the week. Be sure to browse through the December GO List and our entire calendar for all of your many options. Remember to narrow down your search by selecting your preference for type of activity, age and area. Enjoy the week ahead!

Connecticut has the winter sports scene covered with everything from ski runs for the newbies to racing lessons for the aspiring Olympians. With the sun glistening over snow covered treetops and crisp white blankets draping the hills and valleys, the Hartford area offers a powdery playground for all ages and skill levels. A peaceful natural area, Winding Trails is a great day trip full of fun for the entire family.

In Eastern Connecticut, on the edge of the Connecticut River, a small unassuming building holds many archeological treasures, history lessons, nautical artwork, and a full-sized replica of the first American submarine. The 22nd Annual Train Show is a special seasonal attraction for visitors of all ages, and only a few minutes away, a ride on the North Pole Express awaits at the Essex Steam Train Station. 

The latest Disney-Pixar flick comes roaring into theaters this week with astoundingly rendered background art; themes of family, friendship, and overcoming fear, and starring roles for those kid-favorite critters, dinosaurs. Though largely aimed at a younger crowd, The Good Dinosaur is rated PG, and some themes and moments may be a little too intense for more sensitive viewers. Read on to find out if this film is appropriate for your family (and why it's worth seeing at Hollywood's El Capitan for folks in LA this holiday season).

Kids and grown-ups of all ages turn up the Christmas music this time of year! After all, it’s one of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit. Most of us smile and sing along to the modern and age-old holiday music for a few weeks, but eventually, those songs wear out their welcome, leaving families searching for a little twist on festive tunes.

Enter Laurie Berkner, who families may recognize as a popular kindie music artist. My family recently saw her live holiday concert in Philadelphia—read on to find out more about why we loved the show.

With the opening of the Lynch Family Skatepark in East Cambridge near the Museum of Science, skateboarders and BMX bikers have reason to rejoice after waiting for 10 years. The new skatepark features an awesome design. The atmosphere is cool, the setting in uniquely industrial, and the people using it are friendly. 

However, unless children know how to shred on a skateboard, push their bike to the limits, or are particularly nimble on a scooter, they may be better off just watching.

Ready to make some good, old-fashioned Christmas memories? Families will cherish moments with Santa Claus and the oohs and ahhs that come when the local Christmas trees light up for the first time! Tree lighting ceremonies and holiday parade season is almost upon us. Delaware County, like much of the Philadelphia region, boasts its share of opportunities to get into the season right in your backyard. So get bundled up, pack your thermos of hot chocolate, and enjoy the show!

Don't forget to check out our Events Calendar for even more festive fun!