Our comprehensive listing of holiday events lets you and your family fully embrace all of the holiday spirit available in Delaware County and the surrounding areas. Please click on each link for the full detail on the cost and specifics of each event.
Happy Holidays from Fun Things.
On Going Holiday Events
Yuletide at Winterthur Museum
November 22, 2014–January 4, 2015
The beauty and inspiration of these traditions continue today at Winterthur with our treasured Yuletide tour. Glimpse into Yuletides past and be inspired to create your own spectacular celebrations. From sparkling trees to stunningly decorated rooms, there’s something for everyone. Join us to tour Henry Francis du Pont’s home decorated in holiday style!
Christmas at Hagley
November 28th through January 6th
This year Hagley returns to its historical roots during the holiday season. Our exhibits, events, and programs will feature early du Pont family holiday celebrations and traditions based on New Year’s and Twelfth Night. We hope you enjoy the new interpretation as much as we enjoyed creating it!
A Brandywine Christmas at Brandywine River Museum
November 28 - January 4
The museum celebrates the season with fabulous holiday displays including an extensive O-gauge model railroad, an elaborate Victorian dollhouse, and thousands of whimsical "critter"ornaments on holiday trees.
November 28th through January 6th
This year Hagley returns to its historical roots during the holiday season. Our exhibits, events, and programs will feature early du Pont family holiday celebrations and traditions based on New Year’s and Twelfth Night. We hope you enjoy the new interpretation as much as we enjoyed creating it!
A Brandywine Christmas at Brandywine River Museum
November 28 - January 4
The museum celebrates the season with fabulous holiday displays including an extensive O-gauge model railroad, an elaborate Victorian dollhouse, and thousands of whimsical "critter"ornaments on holiday trees.
November 28th– January 1st
Adventure Aquarium will be transformed into a holiday wonderland under the sea, featuring larger-than-life decorations, twinkling lights, glowing trees, gently falling snow and of course, appearances from the Aquarium’s beloved Scuba Santa (and his elf helpers!), who will delight children all ages as he dives the 760,000-gallon Ocean Realm exhibit among rare sharks, gigantic sea turtles, hundreds of schooling fish, massive stingrays and more.
Christmas Around the Farm & Christmas Open House at Linvilla
December 1st -23rd
December 1st -23rd
The Farm is decorated for Christmas. See our Christmasland display and visit with the animals in their winter coats. The Farm Market features wreaths, freshly cut trees, greens & holly, decorations, fruit and gift baskets, Christmas gifts, hot mulled cider & children's crafts.
Choo Choo Barn’s Holiday Display
Choo Choo Barn is celebrating the season with an enhanced holiday display from November 28th through January 4th. Look for 51 hidden Santas and watch as Santa’s sleigh flies above the gigantic model train display. Enjoy the holiday decorations throughout the display including holiday lights and the snow-covered landscape. Plus, take a close look at the zoo animals in Traintown to see how they’re getting into the holiday spirit! Choo Choo Barn is open daily from 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Closed Christmas Day).
Santa’s Paradise ExpressChoo Choo Barn’s Holiday Display
Choo Choo Barn is celebrating the season with an enhanced holiday display from November 28th through January 4th. Look for 51 hidden Santas and watch as Santa’s sleigh flies above the gigantic model train display. Enjoy the holiday decorations throughout the display including holiday lights and the snow-covered landscape. Plus, take a close look at the zoo animals in Traintown to see how they’re getting into the holiday spirit! Choo Choo Barn is open daily from 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Closed Christmas Day).
Night Before Christmas Train
November 28th
December 5th, 12th, and 19th
This very unique train recreates the excitement and anticipation of Christmas Eve. A reader dressed in a Victorian nightshirt and cap will read Clement Clarke Moore's classic poem, The Night Before Christmas, as passengers enjoy cookies and milk as the train rolls along. After the train ride, children are also treated to storybook readings of holiday classics aboard our Caboose (stationary) and visitors of all ages can enjoy a ride aboard the Tinsel Trolley, a self-propelled motor car.
November 28th
December 5th, 12th, and 19th
This very unique train recreates the excitement and anticipation of Christmas Eve. A reader dressed in a Victorian nightshirt and cap will read Clement Clarke Moore's classic poem, The Night Before Christmas, as passengers enjoy cookies and milk as the train rolls along. After the train ride, children are also treated to storybook readings of holiday classics aboard our Caboose (stationary) and visitors of all ages can enjoy a ride aboard the Tinsel Trolley, a self-propelled motor car.
November 28th - December 2oth
Santa himself will climb aboard and visit with families as they travel down the tracks to Paradise, PA and back.
Scuba Santa at the Adventure Aquarium
November 28th - January 1st
Come and experience the excitement of Scuba Santa as he makes his grand appearance in the Adventure Aquarium Rotunda. And he wouldn't be Santa without bringing with him some surprise Christmas Magic! After he takes his place in the Christmas throne, you will have the opportunity to meet him in person and tell him your Christmas wish
Garden Railway at Morris Arboretum
November 28th - January 1st
Come and experience the excitement of Scuba Santa as he makes his grand appearance in the Adventure Aquarium Rotunda. And he wouldn't be Santa without bringing with him some surprise Christmas Magic! After he takes his place in the Christmas throne, you will have the opportunity to meet him in person and tell him your Christmas wish
Garden Railway at Morris Arboretum
November 28 - January 4: 10:00am - 4:00pm
Closed December 24, 25, and January 1
Closed December 24, 25, and January 1
Visitors of all ages will be wow-ed by a quarter mile of track featuring seven loops and tunnels with fifteen different rail lines and two cable cars, nine bridges (including a trestle bridge you can walk under), and bustling model trains, all set in the lovely winter garden of the Morris Arboretum. The display and buildings are all made of natural materials – bark, leaves, twigs, hollow logs, mosses, acorns, dried flowers, seeds and stones – to form a perfectly proportioned miniature landscape complete with small streams. Each building, while an exact replica of the original, is unique in its design. Philadelphia-area landmarks such as a masterpiece replica of Independence Hall are made using pinecone seeds for shingles, acorns as finials and twigs as downspouts.
Special Holiday Events
Wassailing Caroling Hayrides
Saturday Evenings in December at 5:30 pm
Celebrate the ancient tradition of Wassailing and singing Christmas Carols around the campfire! Enjoy roasting marshmallows and apple cider.
Saturday Evenings in December at 5:30 pm
Celebrate the ancient tradition of Wassailing and singing Christmas Carols around the campfire! Enjoy roasting marshmallows and apple cider.
Narberth Dickens Festival
Sunday December 7th Noon – 4 pm
Location: Downtown Narberth, Forrest & Haverford Ave, Narberth, PA
Radnor Hotel’s Holiday Tea
Sunday December 7th Noon – 4 pm
Location: Downtown Narberth, Forrest & Haverford Ave, Narberth, PA
Radnor Hotel’s Holiday Tea
Saturdays, December 6th
1 - 3 p.m
Children's Saturday Afternoon Tea at The Radnor
Bring your little ones to enjoy a themed Afternoon Tea!
Ideal for children ages 3-8.
Reservations
Advanced Ticket Purchase Required
Please call 610-341-3191
Bring your little ones to enjoy a themed Afternoon Tea!
Ideal for children ages 3-8.
Reservations
Advanced Ticket Purchase Required
Please call 610-341-3191
November 28th - December 24th
This heartwarming attraction includes a delightful ride on one of our sound equipped hay wagons, through the rolling hills of Arasapha Farm, which has been transformed into a winter wonderland filled with huge light displays, decorated trees and buildings, bridges and brooks. Come face to face with real, live Reindeer and see a beautifully animated Santa’s workshop. The hayride last about 20 minutes and is choreographed with all the favorite songs of the season. After the hay ride, relax by our bonfires or warm up with a cup of cocoa. This all new holiday hayride is perfect for all ages. Have your picture taken with Santa, and get an up close look at our famous live nativity scene that features real animals and actors. Choose from hundreds of beautiful, fresh cut Christmas Trees.
Philadelphia Zoo Noel
December 6 & December 7
December 13 & December 14
December 20 & December 21
Philadelphia Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland as Santa travels to exotic places around the globe for a holiday celebration! Embark on a scavenger hunt around the Zoo, encountering unique scenes of Mr. Claus exploring the world. The adventure will take you to the rainforest, the Outback, the Arctic, on safari, and home on the farm. Stop by the Treehouse to get your picture taken with Santa Claus himself,* and be sure to visit the Hot Chocolate Bar and Little Elves' Gift Shop. Enjoy crafts and activities, and take home a special gift!
Lansdale Menorah Lighting
December 16th at 6:00 in the Railroad Plaza (West Main & Green Streets).
The public is invited to Railroad Plaza on the first night of Hanukkah for the annual lighting of the Menorah.
Santa Events
December 16th at 6:00 in the Railroad Plaza (West Main & Green Streets).
The public is invited to Railroad Plaza on the first night of Hanukkah for the annual lighting of the Menorah.
Santa Events
Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting in Kennett Sq.
Friday, Nov. 28th.
Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting on Friday, Nov. 28th. This year along with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Friday, Nov. 28th.
Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting on Friday, Nov. 28th. This year along with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Friday November 28th at 5:00 PM
Santa arrives @ 6pm at the Court House
Makin' Music from 5-6pm
Media's 1st Annual Santa's State Street Fun Run & Walk will begin the festivities! It's open to all participants, no matter your age or ability. Dress up in your favorite holiday gear - as Santa, an elf, a Christmas tree, even light yourself up! Here's the best news, the event is FREE for everyone! Just bring either an unwrapped toy for the Toys For Tots drive OR canned goods for the Food Bank. The run will be followed by The 1st Annual Santa's Parade. Dozens of magical floats and musical entertainment will get us all into the true Christmas spirit. And you know who will be our special guests, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, of course! The fun begins at 3pm on State Street.
Saturday, November 29th
at 11:45 am
Holiday Fun at Glen Eagle
Take a break from your Thanksgiving leftovers to join us for our annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 29th From 5:30–8:00 pm, spread the cheer with Santa, toy soldiers, music, food and more!
at 11:45 am
Holiday Fun at Glen Eagle
Take a break from your Thanksgiving leftovers to join us for our annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 29th From 5:30–8:00 pm, spread the cheer with Santa, toy soldiers, music, food and more!
Saturdays & Sundays starting 12/6
1 - 3 pm
Bring your camera!
1 - 3 pm
Bring your camera!
Scuba Santa at the Adventure Aquarium
Come and experience the excitement of Scuba Santa as he makes his grand appearance in the Adventure Aquarium Rotunda. And he wouldn't be Santa without bringing with him some surprise Christmas Magic! After he takes his place in the Christmas throne, you will have the opportunity to meet him in person and tell him your Christmas wish
Come and experience the excitement of Scuba Santa as he makes his grand appearance in the Adventure Aquarium Rotunda. And he wouldn't be Santa without bringing with him some surprise Christmas Magic! After he takes his place in the Christmas throne, you will have the opportunity to meet him in person and tell him your Christmas wish
Breakfast with Santa at Chester County Historical Society
December 6th
Two seating's: 8:30 am & 10:00 am
Must register for this event!
For more information, please contact the West Chester Parks and Recreation Department at 610-436-9010.
December 6th
Two seating's: 8:30 am & 10:00 am
Must register for this event!
For more information, please contact the West Chester Parks and Recreation Department at 610-436-9010.
Santa Trades in his Sleigh for a Helicopter
December 13th
American Helicopter Museum
Come see Santa arrive by helicopter at 11:00 a.m. and again at 1:30 p.m. to greet and meet with children. Bring your own camera!
Visit Santa at Santa's Village in Media
Location: Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union (FMFCU)
Skip the mall lines and visit Santa at Santa's Village located at Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union of Media. The dates are December 13th-23rd. Weekdays the times will be from 3 to 7 pm, weekends from 12-4pm, and an additional evening time of Saturday December 13th (2nd Saturday) from 6 to 9pm.
December 13th
American Helicopter Museum
Come see Santa arrive by helicopter at 11:00 a.m. and again at 1:30 p.m. to greet and meet with children. Bring your own camera!
Visit Santa at Santa's Village in Media
Location: Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union (FMFCU)
December 19th & 20th
The Upper Darby Summer Stage Shooting Stars – a performance group featuring the region’s most talented teens – brightens the holiday season with the family show.
Audiences of all ages will enjoy the Shooting Stars as they light up the stage with the annual Holiday Show
Nutcracker
International Ballet Classique Performs Nutcracker Ballet
Tis the season for magic, family, and fun as the beauty and joy of the Nutcracker Ballet comes alive at the beautiful 300 seat Meagher Theatre, Neumann College , Aston. International Ballet Classique (IBC) presents IBC productions of this holiday favorite.
Dates:Thu, Dec 11, 2014 10:00 AM (Act II Children’s Abridged Performance)
Thu, Dec 11, 2014 11:30 AM (Act II Children’s Abridged Performance)
Fri, Dec 12, 2014 7:30 PM
Sat, Dec 13, 2014 2:00 PM
Sat, Dec 13, 2014 7:30 PM
Sun, Dec 14, 2014 2:00 PM
Sat, Dec 13, 2014 2:00 PM
Sat, Dec 13, 2014 7:30 PM
Sun, Dec 14, 2014 2:00 PM
The Philadelphia Dance Academy’s Nutcracker is an expertly choreographed and beautifully executed masterpiece that is as family friendly as it is unique. This “Children’s Nutcracker” showcases the breadth of talent being cultivated within the studios of the academy, with soloist and semi-soloist roles being played by pre-teen and teen ballerina’s in training.
There will be four performances that will take place at the Mandell Theater at Drexel University Philadelphia, PA
Friday December 12th 7:00pm
Saturday, December 13th 12:30pm, 3:00pm and 6:00pm
Saturday, December 13th 12:30pm, 3:00pm and 6:00pm
December 13 @ 12 p.m. & 4 p.m.
December 14 @ 6 p.m.
December 18 @ 10 a.m.
December 20 @ 12 p.m. & 4 p.m.
December 21 @ 2 p.m.
Performance are at The Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall, West Chester University
A magical tea time with the cast!
December 20 @ 2:30 p.m.
December 21 @ 12:30 p.m.
Join Clara, The Sugar Plum Fairy and many other characters of The Nutcracker for a special pre-performance tea party full of delights! Enjoy tea sandwiches, fruit tray, cookies, favors and don't forget to bring your camera! The Tea is held at The Philips Memorial Library. Simply walk downstairs to the Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall for the performance of The Nutcracker!
December 6th - 31st
Be enchanted by the Philadelphia region's most beloved holiday tradition,George Balanchine's The Nutcracker™. For 45 years, families have created yuletide memories with Pennsylvania Ballet's production of this classic tale. The simple story of a girl, a gift, and a fanciful dream is made magical by opulent sets and costumes by Peter Horne and Judanna Lynn and the impassioned artistry of Pennsylvania Ballet dancers. The renowned Philadelphia Boys Choir raises their voices with the magnificent Pennsylvania Ballet Orchestra to bring Tschaikovsky's unforgettable score to life.
Tea with the Sugarplum Fairy
Join the star of Philadelphia's most anticipated holiday tradition for a magical afternoon of tea and tutus. Enjoy a delectable buffet and photo opportunity with the Sugarplum Fairy and experience a captivating matinee performance of George Balanchine's The Nutcracker™! Tickets start at $85.
Sunday, December 14 at 2:30 pm
Saturday, December 20, 2014 at 12 pm
Theater/ Holiday Shows
December 5th -28th
This year marks our 22ndt annual presentation of the classic Dickens tale about the transformation of Ebenezer Scrooge from miser to man who honors Christmas in his heart, as adapted by internationally known playwright Nagle Jackson. Come find out why this has become a Delaware Valley holiday tradition.
Murray the Elf and the Case of the Terrifying Tinsel
December 20th - 26th
Act II Playhouse in Ambler presents the world premiere of Murray the Elf and the Case of the Terrifying Tinsel, a new comedy for kids and their families, from Dec. 20-26
Max & Ruby Nutcracker Suite Live on Stage
December 19th
Max & Ruby bring to life a wonderful tradition this holiday season as they take to the stage their most magical performance yet! Inspired by one of the greatest musical scores ever composed – Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite – the beloved bunny siblings star in Koba Entertainment’s brand new musical production Max & Ruby in the Nutcracker Suite.
December 25th - January 4th
Enter a fantastical winter wonderland beyond all imagination atDisney On Ice presents Frozen Presented by Stonyfield YoKids Organic Yogurt. The heartwarming, Academy Award®-winning film is now LIVE and skating into your town with dazzling special effects, astonishing skating, and inspiring songs like “Let It Go.” Join Elsa and Anna, Olaf, Kristoff and Sven as they journey to discover that true love is the most magical power of all, with special guest appearances by your most beloved Disney Princesses and favorite Disney characters. This unforgettable celebration of love and friendship will leave your family with memories to last a lifetime.Train Rides With Santa
Santa’s Paradise Express
November 28th - December 2oth
Santa himself will climb aboard and visit with families as they travel down the tracks to Paradise, PA and back.
November 28, 29, 30
Dec 6, 12, 13, 14, 20, 21
11AM, 1PM, 3PM
Additional 5PM departures on Dec 13, 14, 20, 21
All aboard Santa's Express! Join Santa for a 90 minute journey on our heated decorated train through the Chester Creek Valley. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be greeting everyone at Market Street Station and then going along for the ride to Glen Mills. Once at Glen Mills passengers can disembark and explore the historic station. There are plenty of photo opportunities on Santa's lap inside the station. Remember your cameras! Upon return to West Chester, all passengers receive treats from Santa!
Family Fun
Blue Cross River Rink
Opens November 28th
The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation is proud to continue to present a wintertime tradition in Philadelphia, as the Blue Cross River Rink will re-open for a 20th season on November 28th .
The Blue Cross River Rink at Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia’s only outdoor public ice rink, is located on Columbus Boulevard at Market Street.
Call 215-925-RINK for current rink and weather conditions
Christmas Lights
Rose Tree Park Festival of Lights
Christmas at Longwood Gardens
November 27th - January 11
Half a million outdoor lights and holiday magic await you during Longwood's incomparable Christmas display. Enjoy dazzling trees and seasonal concerts. The Music Room hosts a special, themed holiday display. Kids of all ages will delight in a miniature Garden Railway decked out for the holidays. Thousands of poinsettias accented with amaryllis, artemesia, begonias, cyclamen, hybrid lilies, kalanchoes, paperwhites, red-berried plants and many other flowers flourish inside acres of heated glass conservatories. Living wreaths, swags and live floral trees adorn rooms throughout the Conservatory. Included in Gardens admission.
Holiday Light Show and Dickens Village Macy's Center City
Dec 6, 12, 13, 14, 20, 21
11AM, 1PM, 3PM
Additional 5PM departures on Dec 13, 14, 20, 21
All aboard Santa's Express! Join Santa for a 90 minute journey on our heated decorated train through the Chester Creek Valley. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be greeting everyone at Market Street Station and then going along for the ride to Glen Mills. Once at Glen Mills passengers can disembark and explore the historic station. There are plenty of photo opportunities on Santa's lap inside the station. Remember your cameras! Upon return to West Chester, all passengers receive treats from Santa!
Family Fun
Blue Cross River Rink
Opens November 28th
The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation is proud to continue to present a wintertime tradition in Philadelphia, as the Blue Cross River Rink will re-open for a 20th season on November 28th .
The Blue Cross River Rink at Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia’s only outdoor public ice rink, is located on Columbus Boulevard at Market Street.
Call 215-925-RINK for current rink and weather conditions
Christmas Lights
Rose Tree Park Festival of Lights
The Festival of Lights runs 5:30-9:30 pm nightly Dec. 6 through Jan. 4 in Rose Tree Park, Route 252, in Upper Providence. Free admission. For information contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at 610-565-7410
Christmas at Longwood Gardens
November 27th - January 11
Half a million outdoor lights and holiday magic await you during Longwood's incomparable Christmas display. Enjoy dazzling trees and seasonal concerts. The Music Room hosts a special, themed holiday display. Kids of all ages will delight in a miniature Garden Railway decked out for the holidays. Thousands of poinsettias accented with amaryllis, artemesia, begonias, cyclamen, hybrid lilies, kalanchoes, paperwhites, red-berried plants and many other flowers flourish inside acres of heated glass conservatories. Living wreaths, swags and live floral trees adorn rooms throughout the Conservatory. Included in Gardens admission.
Holiday Light Show and Dickens Village Macy's Center City
THE 2014 CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW runs hourly from the day after Thanksgiving through New Year's Eve day check website for times. The DICKENS VILLAGE (Floor 3) is open continuously during the same period from 10am to 7pm.
The Comcast Holiday Spectacular 2014
Thanksgiving Day through New Year’s Weekend 2015
Shown daily; 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
15-minute shows at the top of each hour
(Shows are not hosted on weekdays at 5:00 p.m.)
Franklin Square Holiday Festival
Experience the magic of the holidays and celebrate traditions new and old at the Franklin Square Holiday Festival. From November 13 - December 31, dazzle in the lights of the Electrical Spectacle Holiday Light Show; warm up with comfort food, local beers, and hot beverages at Ben's Bites & Brews; and shop for handmade, artisanal gifts at the Holiday Market.
2014 Holiday Light Show at Shady Brook Farm
Open EVERY NIGHT from Nov. 22, 2014 through Jan. 4, 2015
5 pm to 10 pm
Experience the magic of more than 3 million lights illuminating acres of farmland at the Shady Brook Farm 2014 Holiday Light Show!
Encounter whimsical holiday displays and familiar characters.
Drive through in the comfort of your own car or enjoy the show on an open air wagon ride (weather permitting).
Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa and and cook up some s’mores at a toasty bonfire (cocoa, marshmallows, and more treats available for purchase in the Farm Market).
Amusement Parks
Sesame Place A Very Furry Christmas
November 22nd - December 31st
A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place! For a one-of-a-kind family-friendly celebration with everyone's favorite furry friends. The fun starts with 3 special Christmas shows, awesome music and twinkling lights all around. Plus, you'll find more than 300 Christmas trees, including a huge celebratory tree decorated Sesame Street-style. The street will glow with festivities and come to life at night with our illuminated Street Party Parade. And the fun continues with a special Christmas menu, super holiday shopping and, of course, a visit with Santa.
Dutch Winter Wonderland
November 22nd - December 30th
Dutch Winter Wonderland offers themed rides, games, and holiday entertainment under thousands of twinkling lights! Indoor activities include cookie decorating, voting for your favorite gingerbread house, and sharing holiday wishes with Santa.
Hershey Park Christmas Candyland
November 14th - December 31st
The magic of the holidays comes to life at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. With two million twinkling lights, rides for all ages, festive decorations, and Hershey's Product Characters decked out in their holiday best, there is something for all to enjoy!
Christmas Candylane features many attractions for guests of all ages including over 30 rides including the family-favorite, Twilight Express.
