Over a million lights illuminate the Philadelphia Zoo with LumiNature as it transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland. Photo by Georgi Anastasov

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Photo ops abound at the gorgeous light displays at LumiNature. Photo by Winnie Chung for the Philadelphia Zoo

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The zoo lights are aglow at LumiNature. Photo courtesy of the Philadelphia Zoo

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Curiosity meets discovery in Body Odyssey, where the walkthrough Giant Heart is just the beginning.

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Take a sparkling selfie at the Miracle on South 13th Street. Photo by K. Kelly for Visit Philadelphia

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Photo courtesy of Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

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Kids under 18 are always free at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Photo by Liz Baill

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Fishtown families flock to Penn Treaty Park for the waterfront views, special events, and open space. Photo by M. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia

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Grand Slam U.S.A. challenges you to a game of laser tag! Photo courtesy of the center

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Build birthday memories brick by brick at LEGOLAND. Photo courtesy of LEGOLAND

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Ricketts Glen State Park is a family-friendly destination with awesome activities for all ages. Photo of Ricketts Glen by the author

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Put your skills to the test on the obstacle course at Urban Air. Photo courtesy of Urban Air

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Visit the African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP), located in the heart of Old City.

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Take in 300 years of history on Elfreth's Alley. Photo courtesy of the museum

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In addition to Pay-What-You-Wish First Sundays, kids 18 and under are always free at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Photo courtesy of the museum

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Ultimo Coffee serves up treats and pours hearts all day. Photo courtesy of the shop

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Turn your eye of the tiger into the eye of an artist at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

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Learn all about fire safety and the history of firefighters in Philly at the Fireman's Hall Museum.Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

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Take a bikde ride through Doylestown. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

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Six Flag Great Adventure brings big-time thrills and is one of our favorite amusement parks in New Jersey.

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Both babies and dogs love stroller walks for some fresh air. Photo courtesy of Gina Massaro for Mommy Poppins

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Parents eat while kids climb and slide at Craft Hall.

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Pony rides always bring out smiles at Linvilla Orchards. Photo courtesy of the orchard

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Try a whiz-wit at Tony Luke's, a reliable Philly cheesesteak spot with multiple locations. Photo courtesy of J. Varney for GPTMC

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Challenge the rope bridge and zip line at Elmwood Park Zoo. Photo courtesy of the zoo

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Blue Cross RiverRink is open for Summerfest in the warmer months and Winterfest in the colder months. Photo courtesy of J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

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Kids can zoom down the slide and, of course, launch scarves at Kith + Kin. Photo courtesy of Kith + Kin

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No one walks the plank, but everyone has fun with with Scallywag’s Pirate Adventures in Erie. Photo courtesy of Scallywag's Pirate Adventures.

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Take a hike: Family getaways are a great opportunity to reconnect with nature.

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Elmwood Park Zoo's Wild Lights is back with dazzling new displays covering the zoo's 16 acres. Photo courtesy of the zoo

11/21/23 - By Nicole O'Donnell

Looking for the best things to do in Philly this Thanksgiving weekend? We're grateful for these family-friendly activities and events to add to your holiday plans.

The annual 6 ABC 'Dunkin Thanksgiving Day Parade is a huge Philly tradition that viewers can enjoy from the warmth of their living rooms or bundled on the Parkway, this year includes appearances fromPhiladelphia Eagles star Jordan Mialata, and Philly's own Lady Alma, Omar Jose Cardona, finalist from "The Voice", as well as Tito Puente Jr., son of legendary Latin mambo icon Tito Puente, plus performances from the casts of "Mrs. Doubtfire", Cirque Dreams Holidaze, and so much more. After your turkey day feast, enjoy ice skating with the family at Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest.

This weekend is full of holiday cheer to kick off the season, including a A Very Furry Christmas, where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the season and hugs from Sesame friends and Santa. Get a start on your holiday shopping at the Christmas Village in Dilworth Park. Other events not to be missed that return this weekend are Wild Lights at the Elmwood Park Zoo and Holidays in the Wildwoods featuring bonfires, parades, light shows, tree lightings, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Find all the must-do activities of the season in our G uide to Holiday and Christmas Events in Philly, where you can browse our lists of top holiday activities, Christmas tree farms, local neighborhoods for a drive to see holiday lights, and more. However you spend your holiday weekend, the team at Mommy Poppins Philadelphia wishes you and your family a very happy Thanksgiving!

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