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Free Things to Do with Philly Kids in December

Photo of Macy’s Christmas Light Show by J. Fusco courtesy of Visit Philadelphia
Photo of Macy’s Christmas Light Show by J. Fusco courtesy of Visit Philadelphia
11/29/18 - By Kristen Sullivan

With all the expenses that December brings, free fun offered throughout the Delaware Valley comes as a welcomed gift to Philly parents. Whether your kids are mesmerized by watching a twinkling light show, fascinated by train garden displays, or excited by listening to the marching bands at a parade, there is something for everyone. We have rounded up options that are ongoing as well as many one time opportunities, perfect to get your family in the spirit of the season. So, read on to discover all the free events happening this month.

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Free Events

Coatesville Christmas Parade

December 1, 2018
Get ready to welcome this special time of year with the 2021 Coatesville Christmas Parade. The parade is set to march down Lincoln Highway so find a spot and celebrate the season! There is no snow/rain date for this event. Check the website for changes or cancellations. READ MORE

Jingle & Mingle with Santa

December 1, 8, 15, and 22, 2018
Children can visit with Santa near the fountain at Franklin Square to share their wish lists with him. Be sure to bring a camera or photo to capture the moment. READ MORE

Abington Lines Model Railroad Club Open House

December 1, 2, 8, 9, 29, and 30, 2018
Be mesmerized by the trains displayed by Abington Lines Model Railroad Club. During the season, families are invited to these free open houses to view the operating H.O. scale model railroad display. READ MORE

Narberth Dickens Festival

December 2, 2018
The quaint town of Narberth is transformed into the 1840's London as Ebeneezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim and the cast of characters from A Christmas Carol wander the streets for the afternoon. Children enjoy the popular scavenger hunt featuring a Dickens theme. READ MORE

South Street Winter Wonderland

December 2, 2018
It's the holiday season! South Street Headhouse District presents its annual extravaganza Winter Wonderland with Santa, Rudolph, Frosty, and a Christmas parade. READ MORE

Merry TubaChristmas Concert

December 2, 2018
Young and old are welcome to Railroad Plaza for a spectacular afternoon filled with sounds of seasonal music from sixty or more of the most talented tuba, sousaphone, and euphonium players in the area. North Penn High School Brass Ensemble plays at 1:15 PM, preceding TubaChristmas at 2 PM. READ MORE

Car Menorah Parade in Cherry Hill

December 2, 2018
Chabad of Camden and Burlington counties hosts this unique South Jersey celebration of the Festival of Lights. Fire and police department vehicles are on hand to lead the parade of menorah-adorned cars.  READ MORE

Pages to Pirouettes' The Nutcracker

December 2, 2018
As part of Sundays on Stage at Parkway Central Library, the whole family can enjoy "The Nutcracker" with the actors and dancers of Pages to Pirouettes. This year's performance is virtual. READ MORE

Storytime at Christmas Village

December 5, 12, and 19, 2018
Parkway Central Library visits the Christmas Village to share stories with boys and girls! Children can expect a variety of seasonal and holiday books to be read. Seating is provided for kids and parents to ensure a comfortable cozy storytime. READ MORE

Santa Arrives by Train in Ambler

December 6, 2018
As the train rolls into the station, children are excited to see Santa Claus himself arrive in Ambler. Upon arrival, Santa greets the children and walks to the new Borough Hall for milk and cookies. Santa and Mrs.Claus read stories to the children while they snack. READ MORE

Holiday Luminaria

December 8, 2018
Visit Lock 60 and view more than 1,000 illuminations lining the canal bank tow path. The Locktender’s House is open to celebrate the holidays with good cheer. Although this event is free, donations of $1 or more are greatly appreciated. READ MORE

Downingtown Good Neighbor Christmas Parade

December 8, 2018
Lancaster Avenue comes to life with the sights and sounds of Christmas. Guests can expect the parade which travels from west to east along Lancaster Avenue to feature musical performers, dancers, and floats. READ MORE

jkidphilly at Rick Recht Hanukkah Concert

December 8, 2018
Families can join jkidphilly and the Kehillah of BuxMont for a special community concert featuring Rick Recht. Stay afterwards for a special Hanukkah mitzvah project and dessert. READ MORE

Santa Paws

December 15, 2018
Four-legged friends are invited to Franklin Square for some holiday fun and a photo with Santa. Puppies can wear their best holiday outfit or ugly sweater for a pic with St. Nick. READ MORE

Washington Crossing the Delaware

December 25, 2018
Hundreds of reenactors dress in Continental military uniforms as they make their way across the Delaware River in three replica Durham boats. The actual crossing ceremony begins at approximately 1 pm. READ MORE

Family Day at the National Museum of American Jewish History

December 25, 2018
National Museum of American Jewish History's Family Days offer guests the chance to enjoy educational and public programs, hands on projects, story times, and family-friendly activities for free. READ MORE

Betsy Ross' Birthday Bash

December 31, 2018
Happy Birthday to you, Betsy Ross! Every year, guests to the Betsy Ross House enjoy a birthday celebration on New Year's Eve which includes family-friendly activities like storytelling and crafts.  READ MORE

New Years Eve in Kennett Square

December 31, 2018
Families with young children are invited to kick off the Kennett Square New Year's Eve celebration this year! Everyone can enjoy entertainment, food, and activities until 8 PM when "raising" and "lighting" the Mushroom takes place. READ MORE

Kids' New Year's Eve Countdown in Franklin Square

December 31, 2018
Count down to 2025 in Franklin Square. The event begins with crafts from 5-6pm and concludes with the Square Drop from atop SquareBurger at 6pm. READ MORE

Ongoing Free Events

Macy's Center City Holiday Traditions

Now through December 31, 2018
A Philadelphia tradition, the Macy's Christmas Light Show is back. The department store's lineup of holiday events also includes Dickens Village–a 6,000 square-foot walk-thru experience, pictures with Santa, and its iconic holiday window displays.  READ MORE

Dilworth Park - Deck the Hall Light Show

Now through January 1, 2019
The west facade of City Hall in Dilworth Park lights up nightly in festive scenes with this free choreographed show every hour on the half-hour during the week, and more frequently on weekends. READ MORE

Festival of Lights

Now through January 1, 2019
Shortly after sunset each night, Rose Tree Park comes alive with a beautiful light display. Dozens of illuminated trees and lit displays draw visitors back every year to walk in the winter wonderland and linger in the festive atmosphere.   READ MORE

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