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 19–January 8
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 25th through January 1st
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 25 - January 8
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 25th through January 1st
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 25 - January 8
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.
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 is celebrating the season with an enhanced holiday display from November 25th through January 16th. 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).
November 25th
December 1st, 2nd, 8th, 9th, 15th and 16th
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.
December 1st, 2nd, 8th, 9th, 15th and 16th
November 25th - December 18th
Santa himself will climb aboard and visit with families as they travel down the tracks to Paradise, PA and back.
November 25 - January 4
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 pine cone 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 4th Noon – 4 pm
Location: Downtown Narberth, Forrest & Haverford Ave, Narberth, PA
Radnor Hotel’s Holiday Tea
Sunday, December 4th Noon – 4 pm
Location: Downtown Narberth, Forrest & Haverford Ave, Narberth, PA
Radnor Hotel’s Holiday Tea
Saturday, December 10th & 17th
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 25th - December 23rd
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 3 & December 4
December 10 & December 11
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!
December 25th at Sundown
Celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah with our annual menorah lighting and celebration.
Celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah with our annual menorah lighting and celebration.
Santa Events & Parades
Friday, Nov. 25th.
Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting on Friday, Nov. 25th.
December, 2nd & 3rd
Face painting and tree ornament crafts at the Radnor Fire Co. 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Carolers stroll the streets of Wayne. Hot chocolate and goodies at the Wayne Senior Center
5:30 – 8PM
Santa arrives and Tree lighting – 7:30pm
Santa Parade along Lancaster Avenue and ending at Wayne Hotel – 10:00 am
Santa rides into Wayne with the Radnor Fire Co. and meets with children on the veranda of the Wayne Hotel until 11:30 am
Sunday November 27th at 5pm
Media's 3rd Annual Santa's State Street Fun Run & Walk will begin the festivities at 3pm!
The run will be followed by The 3rd 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 parade begins at 5 sharp!
Saturday, November 26th
at 11:00 am
Holiday Fun at Glen Eagle
Saturday, Nov. 26th
Take a break from your Thanksgiving leftovers to join us for our annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 26th From 5:30–8:00 pm, spread the cheer with Santa, toy soldiers, music, food and more!
at 11:00 am
Holiday Fun at Glen Eagle
Saturday, Nov. 26th
Take a break from your Thanksgiving leftovers to join us for our annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 26th From 5:30–8:00 pm, spread the cheer with Santa, toy soldiers, music, food and more!
Santa Trades in his Sleigh for a Helicopter
December 10th
American Helicopter Museum
Come see Santa arrive by helicopter at 11:00 a.m. to greet and meet with children. Bring your own camera!
Phoenixville Parade & Tree Lighting
December 2nd
Join us for the annual Christmas Parade at 7pm.
The parade will take place between the 100 - 300 blocks of Bridge Street.
The tree lighting is around 8pm.
December 10th
Come see Santa arrive by helicopter at 11:00 a.m. to greet and meet with children. Bring your own camera!
Phoenixville Parade & Tree Lighting
December 2nd
Join us for the annual Christmas Parade at 7pm.
The parade will take place between the 100 - 300 blocks of Bridge Street.
The tree lighting is around 8pm.
Friday December 2nd
This annual West Chester tradition, hosted by the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce, will kick off Friday, December 2nd at 7:15 pm! The parade promises to provide a seasonal mix of traditional elements with a modern twist—local schools, businesses, volunteer fire companies, and other service organizations will join the many marching bands, floats, and antique vehicles that have cemented themselves as mainstays in the Old-Fashioned Christmas experience.
December 3rd
The 2016 Coatesville Christmas Parade will march down Lincoln Highway in Coatesville Pennsylvania on Saturday December 3rd at 10 AM.
December 10th
The Christmas Committee is working hard to bring you the best Christmas celebration ever. Come join us on Saturday, December 10 when Lancaster Avenue comes alive with the sights and sounds of Christmas! The Christmas Parade will be begin at 3:00 pm traveling from west to east along Lancaster Avenue.
Breakfast With Santa
Breakfast with Santa at the Brandywine Zoo
December 10th & 11th
Celebrate the holidays by enjoying a pancake breakfast with Santa. Share your holiday wishes with Santa and bring your camera to take photos. Make decorations and enjoy a few up-close animal encounters, all before the zoo opens. Plus, watch a few animals get their breakfast! Space is very limited for this event, so please register early.
Breakfast with Santa at Chester County Historical Society
December 3rd
Enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast with Santa! Children get to sit with Santa, share their Christmas lists, and of course, take photos.
Must register for this event!
Brunch with Santa at the Springfield Country Club
December 11 & December 18th
Enjoy a yummy brunch with Santa. Reservations required
Holiday Concerts
The Upper Darby Summer Stage Shooting Stars
December 16th & 17th
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
December 17th & 18th
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.
December 10 12 p.m. & 4 p.m.
December 11 2 p.m.
December 15 10 a.m.
December 17 12 p.m. & 4 p.m.
December 18 6 p.m.
Performance are at The Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall, West Chester University
A magical tea time with the cast!
Sun, Dec 11th, 2015 at 12:30 pm
Sun, Dec 17th, 2015 at 12:30 pm
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!
Be enchanted by the Philadelphia region's most beloved holiday tradition,George Balanchine's The Nutcracker™. For 46 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™! .
Sunday, December 11 at 2:30 pm
Saturday, December 17 at 12 pm
Theater/ Holiday Shows
November 25th - December 24th
This year marks our 23rd 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 17th - 29th
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.18-27
"Winnie-The-Pooh's Christmas Tail at the Media Theater
November 12th - December 31st
There's a lot of goings on in the Hundred Acre Wood, especially because of Eeyore. It seems he has lost his tail so everyone gets into the act to help find it in "Winnie-The-Pooh's Christmas Tail", which is at The Media Theatre November 12 to December 31. The hour long musical has performances on Saturdays at 11am and Sundays at Noon each weekend, but there is no show on Christmas Day because Winnie-The-Pooh and the gang will be resting.
November 23, 2016-January 29, 2017
Frog and Toad are back! In a revival of one of the Arden’s most treasured children’s theatre productions, an unlikely friendship between the cheerful Frog and the rather grumpy Toad blossoms and grows as they travel through four fun-filled seasons learning life lessons along the way. Barrymore Award winners Jeff Coon and Ben Dibble return as the amphibious best friends in this charming musical that promises to delight the whole family!
December 23rd - January 2nd
Follow your heart straight to adventure at Disney On Ice! Just keep swimming with Dory and new pal Hank from Disney•Pixar’s Finding Dory as they set out to find her parents and discover the devotion of family. Cheer with Joy, Sadness, and the rest of the Emotions from Disney•Pixar’s Inside Out as they work together to boost Riley’s spirit and win the big hockey game. Venture to wintery Arendelle where Olaf and Kristoff help reunite royal sisters Anna and Elsa from Disney’s Frozen and learn love is the most powerful magic of all. See Cinderella, Rapunzel, Ariel and the Disney Princesses make their dreams possible through virtues of bravery, kindness and perseverance. And celebrate true friendship with Buzz Lightyear, Woody and the Toy Story gang. Make unforgettable memories with Mickey, Minnie and all your Disney friends when Disney On Ice presents Follow Your Heart skates into your hometown!Train Rides With Santa
Santa’s Paradise Express
November 25th - December 18th
Santa himself will climb aboard and visit with families as they travel down the tracks to Paradise, PA and back.
November 19, 20, 25, 26, 27
Dec 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18
11AM, 1PM, 3PM
Additional 5PM departures on Dec 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18
Dec 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18
11AM, 1PM, 3PM
Additional 5PM departures on Dec 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18
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!
The Polar Express on The Delaware River Railroad
Inspired by the run-away hit movie produced by Warner Bros. Entertainment, Inc. and the award winning book by Chris Van Allsburg, this holiday favorite comes to life as you and your family take a ride on The Polar Express.
Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, families are sure to enjoy their trip complete with hot chocolate and cookies served on board the train. Passengers will then be entertained by a reading of the Polar Express. Santa will greet the children and each child will receive their own sleigh bell, just like in the movie, to those who BELIEVE.
Experience the joy of singing songs with our roaming hobos, be amazed at our Juggling Chef and make your wishes in person to Santa himself!
Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, families are sure to enjoy their trip complete with hot chocolate and cookies served on board the train. Passengers will then be entertained by a reading of the Polar Express. Santa will greet the children and each child will receive their own sleigh bell, just like in the movie, to those who BELIEVE.
Experience the joy of singing songs with our roaming hobos, be amazed at our Juggling Chef and make your wishes in person to Santa himself!
Saturdays & Sundays between Thanksgiving & Christmas
Why stand in line at the mall and wait to see Santa, when you can ride our train and have Santa come to you? The Jolly Old Elf himself rides the train and greets everyone on board, and gives all children a chocolate treat. Be sure to bring your camera and have Santa pose for pictures with your child during this 1½-hour round-trip to Ashland.
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 the 22nd season on November 25th .
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 24th - January 8th
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
Why stand in line at the mall and wait to see Santa, when you can ride our train and have Santa come to you? The Jolly Old Elf himself rides the train and greets everyone on board, and gives all children a chocolate treat. Be sure to bring your camera and have Santa pose for pictures with your child during this 1½-hour round-trip to Ashland.
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 the 22nd season on November 25th .
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. 2 through Jan. 1 in Rose Tree Park, Route 252, in Upper Providence. Free admission. For information contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at 610-891-4455
Christmas at Longwood Gardens
November 24th - January 8th
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 2065 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 2016
Daily, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
15-minute shows at the top of each hour
(Shows are not presented on weekdays at 5:00 p.m.)
The magic of the holidays come alive in “The Comcast Holiday Spectacular,” a must-see holiday tradition in Philadelphia, entertaining people of all ages and spreading holiday cheer.
Herr's Christmas Snacktacular
December 11-18
Take a ride in the comfort of you car and drive through the beautiful light displays on the Herr's property.
Franklin Square Holiday Festival
Experience the magic of the holidays and celebrate traditions new and old at the Franklin Square Holiday Festival. From November 17 - December 29, 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.
Independence Seaport Museum annual Parade of Lights returns to the Delaware River on December 10 at 5:30 p.m. The lighted boat parade features our working port, with tugboats and other vessels decorated in lights. Before the parade, spend the day inside the Museum for holiday activities and entertainment. Museum visitors will get the best view of the parade from the 2nd floor balcony overlooking the Delaware River.
Malvern's Victorian Christmas
December 2nd & 3rd
Get in the holiday spirit with caroling, a puppet show, a jazz ensemble, bake sale, Santa visit, tree lighting, horse and carriage rides, hayrides, gingerbread house making and much more
2016 Holiday Light Show at Shady Brook Farm
Open EVERY NIGHT from Nov. 19 through Jan. 8
5 pm to 10 pm
Experience the magic of more than 3 million lights illuminating acres of farmland at the Shady Brook Farm 2016 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 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 19th - January 1st
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 19th - 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 11th - January 1st
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!
