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Things to Do in Philly this Weekend: Lucia Fest, Narberth Festival, Trains December 7-8

Pennsylvania Ballet presents George Balanchine's The Nutcracker. Photo by B. Krist for Visit Philadelphia
Pennsylvania Ballet presents George Balanchine's The Nutcracker. Photo by B. Krist for Visit Philadelphia
12/4/19 - By Kristen Sullivan

This December weekend allows Philly families a chance to prepare for the holidays. Pick the perfect tree, hang twinkling strands of lights around the house, and deck the halls with garland and wreaths to get into the spirit of the season. Once completed, head out to some of the fantastic holiday events happening throughout the Delaware Valley. There is no way to be a Scrooge with what's in store for young and old alike.

Wake up early to have Breakfast with the Trains at Brandywine River Museum. Experience the Swedish tradition of Lucia Fest at the American Swedish Historical Museum. Roast marshmallows and drink hot cocoa at Smith's annual Winter Wonderland  Find a spot to enjoy a holiday parade in Coatesville or Yardley. Once the sun sets, bundle up for a Wassailing Caroling Hayride at Linvilla Orchards or view the fully-decorated boats at Penn's Landing during the annual Seaport Parade of Lights.

Make the most of your time by viewing our events calendar which is literally overflowing with ideas for every good little boy and girl. Enjoy!

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Things To Do All Weekend

Abington Lines Model Railroad Club Open House

Richboro, PA- FREE
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

Philadelphia Ballet: George Balanchine's The Nutcracker

Philadelphia, PA
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

Festival of Lights

Media, PA- FREE
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

North Pole Express on the New Hope and Ivyland Railroad

New Hope, PA
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
Breakfast with the Trains. Photo courtesy of Brandywine River Museum
Breakfast with the Trains. Photo courtesy of Brandywine River Museum

Things To Do On December 7, 2019

Breakfast with the Trains

Chadds Ford, PA
This special "behind-the-scenes" event starts before the Brandywine River Museum even opens to the general public. Visitors have the opportunity to see one of the world's largest train layouts up close. Brandywine Railroad engineers are on hand to answer guest's questions. READ MORE

Independence Seaport Museum Parade of Lights

Philadelphia, PA
The most nautical light show around takes place at Independence Seaport Museum, where a fleet of boats all dressed up for the holidays will parade down the Delaware River. Before the parade at sundown, kids can make crafts and participate in other seasonal activities. READ MORE

World War II Western Front Event

Philadelphia, PA
Visit Fort Mifflin to explore the Western Front of World War II and visit with Axis and Allied armies. Guests can expect to watch two exciting battles, experience living history moments and see vintage gear, weapons, and vehicles. READ MORE

Winter Wonderland at Smith Playground

Philadelphia, PA
Visit Smith's annual Winter Wonderland celebration and get into the holiday spirit. Children and their caregivers can enjoy winter crafts, s'more making, and live music. READ MORE

Make an Animated Bracelet with Micro:bit

Downingtown, PA- FREE
In this free workshop held at Downingtown Library, students use the micro:bit’s drag and drop interface, MakeCode, to learn how to code the device. Students learn how the code they create can activate animation, temperature sensing, radio buttons and motion sensors. READ MORE

Deck the Alley

Philadelphia, PA
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

Yardley Olde Fashioned Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting

Yardley, PA- FREE
Watch this old-fashioned Christmas parade which goes from Main Street to Afton Avenue. Afterwards, see Santa light the tree! Santa and Mrs. Claus are to visit with children at the pavilion in Buttonwood Park. READ MORE
Photo courtesy of Narberth Dickens Festival
Photo courtesy of Narberth Dickens Festival

Things To Do On Sunday, December 8, 2019

Pages to Pirouettes' The Nutcracker

Philadelphia, PA- FREE
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

Breakfast with Santa at The Inn at Villanova University

Villanova, PA
The Inn at Villanova University in partnership with the Club of Greater Philadelphia and MBA Alumni Association celebrate the season at this breakfast starring Santa Claus himself! READ MORE

Merry TubaChristmas Concert

Lansdale, PA- FREE
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

Narberth Dickens Festival

Narberth, PA- FREE
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

Fonthill Castle Holiday Lights Meander

Doylestown, PA- FREE
Families can visit Fonthill Castle to enjoy the holiday decorations and lights during this 30-minute meander. Guides answer questions along the route. Tours are timed and capacity is limited. READ MORE

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