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10 Holiday and Christmas Events in Philadelphia to Book Now!

Take a drive down Shady Brook Farms drive-thru light show! Photo courtesy of Shady Brook Farms
Take a drive down Shady Brook Farms drive-thru light show! Photo courtesy of Shady Brook Farms
10/24/25 - By Nicole O'Donnell

The time to book the best holiday and Christmas events in Philadelphia is now! These popular holiday events go on sale early and sell out quickly. 

The holiday season is magical, but for parents whose to-do list is longer than Santa's, it can be hard to track when to buy tickets to all the big holiday and Christmas events in Philly. Set your alarms, mark your calendars (view our Philadelphia calendar while you're at it), and prepare those ugly Christmas sweaters for all the festive family outings. 

From incredible light walk-throughs to holiday train rides and the dates they go on sale, keep reading for all the Philly holiday events intel. 

Holiday and Christmas Events in Philly to Book Now

LumiNature at The Philadelphia Zoo

Philadelphia
November 20, 2025 to January 3, 2026
Tickets on sale now
Over a million lights illuminate the Philadelphia Zoo as it transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland. LumiNature takes guests on a magical journey featuring 200+ illuminated penguins, a 100 ft-long jungle tunnel, and special surprises each night. Kids can also enjoy s'mores over a campfire, watch strolling performers, and sip hot chocolate. READ MORE

A Longwood Christmas

Kennet Square
November 21, 2025 to January 11, 2026
Tickets on sale now
Walk through the gardens to see the lights, flowers, and trees, and stop into the conservatory to view the seasonal poinsettias. Don't miss the fountain show set to music. READ MORE

North Pole Express on the New Hope and Ivyland Railroad

New Hope
November 15, 2025 to December 30, 2025
Tickets on sale now
Wear your pajamas and climb aboard the North Pole Express at New Hope and Ivyland Railroad. Children can enjoy riding the rails pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive and a visit from Santa at the end of the journey. READ MORE

Philadelphia Ballet: George Balanchine's The Nutcracker

Philadelphia
December 5 to December 31, 2025
Tickets on sale now
For years, families have been enjoying George Balanchine's Nutcracker at the Academy of Music. Make this a tradition in your family this season by attending one of the many performances available. READ MORE

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at the Walnut Street Theater

Philadelphia
December 6 to December 21, 2025
Tickets on sale now
Based on the story by Charles Dickens, adapted by Bill Van Horn. On one remarkable Christmas Eve, Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three ghosts who show him the past, present—and possible future. READ MORE

Children's Holiday Spectacular with the Philadelphia Orchestra

Philadelphia
December 20, 2025
Tickets on sale now
A joyful holiday celebration filled with sing-alongs, your favorite sounds of the season, and special guests! Delight in the warmth of the holiday season at the Kimmel Center and create cherished memories with the whole family at this heartwarming event that is perfect for all ages. Plus, you might want to listen closely for sleigh bells—you never know who might pay a special visit all the way from the North Pole! READ MORE

Shady Brook Farm Holiday Light Show

Yardley
November 23, 2025 to January 6, 2026
Tickets on sale now
Experience the magic of more than 3 million bulbs illuminating acres of farmland at Shady Brook Farm's holiday light show. Drive through in the comfort of your car or enjoy the show on an open-air wagon ride. Then, set off on foot through Candy Cane Lane, where dancing lights are set to music. Visit Santa and tell him about your wishes before or after enjoying the Holiday Light Show.  READ MORE

A Very Furry Christmas

Langhorne
November 15, 2025 to January 4, 2026
Tickets on sale now
Sesame Place hosts A Very Furry Christmas celebration, featuring a Christmas wonderland with millions of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and whirling rides. See Santa, Rudolph, and the whole Sesame Street gang. Don't miss the 1-2-3 Christmas Tree Show featuring holiday music and lights. READ MORE

2025 Original Holiday Light Tour – Founding Footsteps

Philadelphia
November 29 to December 30, 2025
Tickets on sale now
Experience the holiday season like never before with Philly's original BYOB Holiday Light Trolley Tour. Immerse yourself in festive cheer and enjoy talented local musicians serenading you with delightful holiday tunes. READ MORE

Deck the Alley

Philadelphia
December 6, 2025
Tickets on sale now
Guests can meander down Philadelphia’s most historic residential street for a glimpse of 21st-century life in historic houses from the 1700s and 1800s. Visitors can peek inside these historic homes for a glimpse into the past. READ MORE

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About the Author

Nicole O'Donnell
Nicole O'Donnell is a marketing and social media expert with over 20 years of media experience and a proud mom to twin girls. A fan of writing, yoga, and exploring Philly, Nicole loves sampling the city's best treats with her girls in tow.
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