Fun Things Top 10 Weekend Events for November 30th, December 1st and 2nd

Fun Things Kids breakfast with santa PA , Delaware family fun

Our top 10 picks for this weekend November 30th, December 1st & December 2nd

Friday

1. Get your tickets to see There’s No Place Like Home, Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz performed by Spotlight Theater

2. Head to Wayne this weekend for a Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday and a parade on Saturday during Wayne's Old Fashion Christmas

3. Celebrate the start of the holiday season at the Lansdowne Annual Tree Lighting

Saturday

4. Head to the Granite Run Mall for breakfast with Santa

5. A Delco tradition starts tonight with the Festival of Lights at Rose Tree Park

6. Visit with real reindeer and Santa at Old Ridge Village.

7. Make a holiday picture frame at the Home Depot Free Kids Workshop

8. Head to the Philadelphia Zoo for Zoo Noel: Santas of the World

Sunday

9. Take a train ride with Santa on the West Chester Railroad with the Santa Express.

10. Check out the Live Nativity at Neumann University.

Don't forget to check out the Fun Things Holiday Events Guide for all your family friendly holiday events!

* Check out our calendar for more ideas.

Free Admission to Museums for Bank of America Card Holders

Fun Things Kids Discount admission to PA museums , Discounts Phialdephia Museums

Get Culture for Free from Bank of America

If you are a Bank of America check, ATM, or credit card holder you can visit museums this weekend for free. Bank of America offers this Museums on Us program on the first weekend of every month and gives you free general admission to 70 museums nationwide. Art, science, history or nature - your card gets you in whatever you are into. Locate a museum near you.

Museums in the Philadelphia area: Philadelphia Museum of Art, National Constitution Center, African American Museum of Philadelphia , Please Touch Museum and Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts

Your ticket to culture and art may already be in your pocket! Free Museum offer details: This offer excludes special exhibitions, ticketed shows and fund raising events. Photo ID and any valid Bank of America Check, ATM, or credit card must be presented. Free admission limited to cardholder at participating institution.

Dr. Dolittle at the Media Theater

Fun Things Kids children entertainment Delaware county , Children's Theater Pa

Dr. Dolittle

at the Media Theater

November 20 - January 27

Based on the Hugh Lofting stories, and the classic film musical, DR. DOLITTLE follows the adventure of a kind but eccentric veterinarian who has an uncanny ability to talk to animals! The musical is a journey from a small English village to the far corners of the world in which the Dr. searches for The Great Pink Sea Snail, the oldest and wisest creature on the earth. Featuring Philadelphia actor Bill Vargus in the title role, this is a perfect family outing for the holiday season with a classic score that includes "Talk to the Animals".
For more information: http://www.mediatheatre.org

Location: 104 East State Street Media Pa

Cost: $37 - $54

Holiday Train Display at the Historic Grange Estate

Fun Things Kids Delaware County family fun , Delaware County Holiday Events

Holiday Weekends at the Grange Estate
December 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23 & 30 and January 5 and 6

Visit their Model Train Display in the Carriage House

Tour the beautifully decorated mansion and visit their delightful Gift Shoppe stocked with unique seasonal gifts

Admission is free to the Model Train Display

Admission to the Mansion is $5.00 for adults, $1.00 for students

For more information: www.thegrangeestate.org/

Location: The Grange is located at Myrtle Avenue and Warwick Road off of Route 1 in Havertown.

This event is appropriate for ages 5 and older

Cost: is $5 for adults and $1 for students. Viewing the model train exhibit only is free.

Wayne Hotel's Old Fashioned Christmas Celebration

Fun Things Kids Delaware County family holiday Events , Delaware County free family fun

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Friday, November 30th 5:30 to 7:30 PM
4:00 to 8:00 First Friday Special Holiday Shopping Hours 5:30 to 6:30 Strolling Carolers on North Wayne Avenue 5:30 to 7:15 Face Painting & Ornament Decorating at Radnor Fire House 5:30 to 7:30 Horse Drawn Carriage Rides on South Wayne Ave. & Runnymede Ave. 7:30 Christmas Tree Lighting at Wayne Train Station led by 6ABC Action News Reporter Vernon Odom

Santa Parade

Saturday, December 1st 10:00 AM
Along Lancaster Avenue & ending at the Wayne Hotel Featuring Radnor High School Marching Band & Cheerleaders & Valley Forge Military Academy Field Music Group Visit with Santa on the Veranda of Wayne Hotel until 11:30 AM Enjoy Fresh Baked Cookies and Hot Chocolate compliments of Paramour

For more information: www.waynechristmas.com

Location: 101 W Lancaster Ave Wayne, PA 19087

This event is appropriate for: the whole family

Cost: free to attend

The Festival of Lights at Rose Tree Park

Fun Things Kids Delaware County family holiday Events , Delaware County free family fun

The Festival of Lights opens at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, December 1st, with a program of holiday music, guest speakers, refreshments, a visit from Santa Claus and the traditional lighting of the trees.

The Festival of Lights runs 5:30-9:30 nightly

Dec.3 through Jan. 31 in Rose Tree Park, Route 252, Upper Providence.

Free admission.

For information contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at (610) 565-7410

Live Nativity at Neumann University

Fun Things Kids Delaware County Christmas , Delaware County family holiday Events

Neumann University Presents

Greccio - Live Nativity

Sunday, December 2nd

5:00 PM

Liturgy at 5 p.m. in Our Lady of Angels Chapel
Children can pet Nativity animals 5:45 p.m. and after Live Nativity
Greccio Festival 6:15 p.m., Bachmann Bldg. front
Enjoy Christmas music and refreshments and meet Santa after Live Nativity
Gospel Choir Concert follows at 7:30 p.m., Meagher Theater

For more information: www.neumann.edu/ or call 610-558-5525

Location: Neumann University - Concord Rd, Aston PA

This event is appropriate for all ages

Cost: free

Breakfast With Santa at the Granite Run Mall

Fun Things Kids breakfast with santa PA , Delaware County family holiday Events

Breakfast With Santa

Saturday, December 1, 2012

Free Breakfast with Santa for all kids! Center Court from 10am-12pm on December 1st

For more information: www.shopgraniterunmall.com

Location: 1067 West Baltimore Pike, Media, PA 19063

Cost: free

Make Sandmans Plane from the movie Rise of the Guardians at Lowes

Fun Things Kids delaware county activities for older kids , Delaware County free family fun

On Saturday December 1st check out this fun indoor activity for the kids! Starts at 10am on Saturday morning . You need to register -click here to register

For more information: www.lowesbuildandgrow.com

Location: LOWE'S OF N. WILMINGTON, DE 3100 BRANDYWINE PKWY

This event is appropriate for: kids ages 6 and older

Cost: free

Make a Picture Frame at the Home Depot Free Kids Workshop

Fun Things Kids delaware county family activites , Delaware County free family fun

Build a picture frame

Saturday December 1st

9am - 12pm

Home Depot is having a FREE workshop this Saturday, December 1st from 9am to noon at all Home Depot stores. They are geared towards children age 5-12, but the younger children will likely need some help from you.

The workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, this fun time allows for quality one-on-one time between adults and children.

In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates' aprons, and an achievement pin.

* Find Your Local Store

For more information: http://www.homedepot.com

Locations:

Marple 700 Reed Road Broomall, PA 19008

Ridley Township 300 East Macdade Blvd Folsom, PA 19033

Upper Darby 5342 W Baltimore Pike Primos-Secane, PA 19018

Concord Township 200 Hatton Drive Glen Mills, PA 19342

This event is appropriate for ages 5 and older

Cost: free

Holiday Festival at Old Ridge Village

Fun Things Kids Delaware County Christmas , Delaware County Family Events

Holiday Festival

Santa and his live reindeer will be visiting Old Ridge Village Shoppes on Saturday December 1st from 12 pm to 2pm. Meet Santa and get free pictures from 12pm to 2pm. Santa's reindeer will be there too.

For more information: www.olderidgevillage.com or www.facebook.com/Olde-Ridge-Village

Location: Old Ridge Village Shoppes- Rt 202 & Ridge Rd Chadds Ford PA

This event is appropriate for all ages

Cost: free

Linvilla Orchards Christmas Around the Farm

Fun Things Kids christmas hayrides , christmas trees Delco

Linvilla Orchards is transforming into a festive wonderland from December 1^st to the 24^thfor Christmas Around the Farm. Come see the larger than life Christmasland decorations and displays and pay a visit to the animals dressed in their winter coats! The Christmas Shop and Garden Center will have all your favorite winter accessories, including wreaths, freshly cut trees, greens & holly, decorations, fruit and gift baskets, Christmas gifts, hot mulled cider and children's crafts. Santa Claus will also be making special appearances throughout Christmas Around the Farm on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., so make sure to bring your camera to capture all the excitement!

Still looking for more holiday cheer? Climb aboard one of the Wassailing Caroling Hayrides on December 1st, 8^th and 15^thand 22^nd at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sing all your favorite Christmas carols in the crisp winter chill, followed by a bonfire, marshmallow roasting and hot apple cider to keep your spirits warm.

Linvilla Orchards also offers the opportunity for you and your family to cut your own Christmas tree! Enjoy a hayride out to their Christmas tree fields to find the perfect tree for your holiday season. Saw it down yourself or ask one of Linvilla's friendly staff to do it for you. Linvilla is always there for all your holiday needs and entertainment, so come on by this Christmas to see why everyone is saying, "I love that place!"

Linvilla Orchards is a 300-acre family farm dedicated to agriculture, education and entertainment. To learn more, visit www.linvilla.com or call 610-876-7116.

Where: Linvilla Orchards

137 West Knowlton Road, Media, PA

610-876-7116

Closed Enter to win tickets to see Carrie Underwood in Philadelphia on November 28th

Fun Things Kids Activities for Delaware County Moms , Date Night Delco Pa

This is a really quick giveaway for 4 tickets to see Carrie Underwood's The Blown Away Tour on Wednesday November 28th at the Wells Fargo Center. I will choose the winner by Tuesday November 28th at 11am.

Tickets are still available at Comcast Tix

There’s No Place Like Home, Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz

Fun Things Kids Children Delaware county , children'sTheatre

There’s No Place Like Home, Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz

Based on the Wizard of Oz story

Nov 30, Dec 1, 2 , 7, 8, and 9, 2012

Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 11:00 a.m., Sundays at 2 p.m.

All seats $9.

Lunch with the cast on the 1st and the 8th $5.00

Reservations highly suggested

Adaptation of the delightful story of a girl whose big dreams takes her to magic lands only to find out what she’s been dreaming for is right there at home
For more information: http://mnplayers.co/

Location: Swarthmore United Methodist Church 129 Park Ave Swarthmore, PA 19081

Cost: All seats $9.

Arden Theatre Company presents Cinderella

Fun Things Kids Children Philadelphia Area , Children's Theater

November 28, 2012 – January 27, 2013

Arden Theatre Company, now celebrating its 25^th Anniversary Season, begins its 15^thyear of Arden Children’s Theatre with Cinderella.

Summary:

Join the Arden for a retelling of the classic story that will inspire and surprise the entire family. A defiant prince in disguise meets a strong-willed Cinderella in this adventurous adaptation – featuring a great bit of magic and set to the music of Mozart.

Following every performance of Cinderella, children participate in a post-show question and answer session with the cast, and then have an opportunity to meet the actors in the lobby. All children also receive a free commemorative show poster to take home.

Deal Alert

The following performances are part of the Target 2 for 1 Family Series:

Fridays at 7pm: November 30, December 7, 14, 21 and January 4, 18, 25

Plus: Saturday, December 2 at 12pm and 4pm

Target 2 for 1 Tickets are just $8-$18 each (standard prices $16-$36). Tickets can be ordered online at www.ardentheatre.org, by calling 215.922.1122, or by visiting the Box Office at 40 N. 2^nd Street, Philadelphia PA 19106. There is a limit of four discounted orders (8 tickets) per transaction, available while supplies last.

For more information: www.ardentheatre.org,

Location: Arden Theatre Company 40 N. 2^nd Street, Old City Philadelphia 19106

This event is appropriate for: ages 5 and older

Cost: Weekday Performances (Tuesday – Friday, excluding Friday nights at 7pm)

Adults: $32; Teens (13-17 yrs): $20; Kids (12 yrs and under): $16

Weekend Performances (Friday nights at 7pm; Saturdays and Sundays)
Adults: $36; Teens (13-17 yrs): $22; Kids (12 yrs and under): $1

ICE! featuring DreamWorks Shrek the Halls

Fun Things Kids Children Delaware county , field trip ideas with kids

If you have been following me on twitter you may have read about an amazing attraction I had the chance to visit called ICE! featuring DreamWorks Shrek the Halls at the Gaylord National hotel in Maryland.

Ice! featuring DreamWorks Shrek the Halls is a one of a kind exhibit made from 2 million pounds of ice and kept at a frigid 9 degrees. I have never seen anything like this before, it's amazing how they carve the ice and add lights and color to each piece.

Our ICE! experience started off with a movie showing how the ICE! exhibit was created. They will also go over safety inside the exhibit, no heels are allowed on the ice slides, don't touch the ice and a few others. Then you move into the next room where you are given a blue parka jacket that goes over your coat to keep you extra warm. Remember it's only 9 degrees inside! Each room is filled with sculptures made completely of ice.The larger than life scenes that recreate the 'Shrek the Halls" TV special. You will see plenty of your favorite Shrek characters like Donkey, Puss in Boots, the Three Little Pigs and the Pink Dragon. My kids favorite part was the ice slide, they have both little and big slides. Be prepared to be in that room for a little while because the kids will want to experience the slides multiple times!

Tip: Wear your winter coat, hats and gloves, just like you would to go play in the snow outside.


Here is a video peak of my visit to ICE!

Does this sound like something you want to experience with your family? You may be in luck. Fun Things is giving away 4 tickets to experience ICE! with you family this holiday season.
**Please note this contest is for four ticket vouchers only to experience ICE!

Since this attraction is in National Harbor (right outside of D.C.) you should consider an overnight stay. If you would like to book a hotel room during your visit click here for rates.

Also the tickets are only good during "Non-Peak" dates Monday -Friday and not valid on 12/24, 12/26 - 28, 12/31 or 1/1 (considered peak days).

Please fill out the form below for your chance to win before December 1st

For more information:   http://www.gaylordhotels.com

Location: Gaylord National Hotel and Convention Center: 201 Waterfront Street
National Harbor, MD 20745

This event is appropriate for:   the whole family

Cost: $13.99 -$29.99

Ticket Giveaway for the Delaware County Symphony Concert a Russian Fairy Tale

Fun Things Kids Children's Music PA , delaware county activites for older kids

Sunday December 2, 2012

at 3:00pm

The concert will feature a performance of Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's opera Snegurochka (The Snow Maiden). Snegurochka is a Russian fairy tale about the daughter of the Spring Fairy and the King of Frost who yearns to live with people. The opera, sung in English, explores love and the interactions of mythological characters and humans.

For more information: http://www.dcsmusic.org

Location: Meagher Theater at Neumann University in Aston

This event is appropriate for: children ages 12 and up.

Cost: General $15; Seniors/ Students $12

Win a Family Pack (4 tickets) to see the show on December 2nd at 3pm

Max & Ruby: Nutcracker Suite 2012

Fun Things Kids Activities for Delaware County Moms , childrens shows Delaware County

December 8th

1 pm and 4 pm

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.

It’s Christmas Eve, and Ruby is busy trimming the tree, while Max is chasing the delicious scent of Grandma’s freshly baked gingerbread cookies! A knock at the door reveals a huge parcel from their Great Uncle Droselmeyer. As the package is unwrapped, Ruby realizes that each new toy is from the story of the Nutcracker Ballet, including a Nutcracker doll!

Grandma reads the bunny siblings the story of the Nutcracker so vividly that Ruby’s imagination whisks her away as she becomes one of the characters in the beloved ballet. Max joins his sister but has ideas of his own that lead the story in a sweet direction. Whether it was the sweets, or their lively imaginations, the bunny siblings head off to bed with visions of candy canes dancing in their heads!

Max & Ruby’s adventure, guided by the classic notes of Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece, is full of delectable dance and holiday magic perfect for the whole family.
For more information: www.livenation.com

Location: Upper Darby, PA Tower Theater -69th & Ludlow, Upper Darby, PA 19082
Cost: $25 -$45

Ticket Giveaway

Parent & Teen Driving Seminar

Fun Things Kids delaware county activities for older kids , Parents PA

Parent & Teen Driving Seminar

Tuesday, Nov. 27th

6:30—7:30p.m.

Featuring a Q&A session
FREE & open to all ages
Presented by Defensive Driving Academy

Find out all you need to know about the process of getting a teen his or her permit and driver's license. We will go over the procedures, safeties, dangers, insurance discounts, and more regarding teen driving.

Registration at (610) 494-3454

For more Information: please call 610) 494-3454
Location: J. Lewis Crozer Library ~ 620 Engle Street ~ Chester

This event is appropriate for: 15yr thru Adults

Cost: Free

Fun Things Top 10 Weekend Events for November 23, 24, & 25

Fun Things Kids children entertainment Delaware county , Children Philadelphia Area

Our top 10 picks for this weekend November 23rd, 24th & 25th

Friday

1. A holiday tradition with Delco families to watch Santa arrive in Media

2. Join Santa on his journey to spread the magic of the season to thousands of families who believe on the Strasburg Railroad's Santa Express

Saturday

3. Take a break from Holiday shopping and head to Patriots Day at Brandywine Battlefield.

4. Welcome the holiday season in with Glen Eagle Square during their Holiday Square Celebration.

5. Support local businesses during Small Business Saturday

6.Cinderella's Princesses and Wizards Costume Party at Hedgerow Theatre

7. Stop by Brandywine River Museum and check out their train display

8. Take a Holiday Hayride at Arasapha Farms.

Sunday

9. Take a train ride with Santa on the West Chester Railroad with the Santa Express

10. Get yourr tickets to see Dr. Dolittle at the Media Theater

Don't forget to check out the Fun Things Holiday Events Guide for all your family friendly holiday events!

* Check out our calendar for more ideas.

West Chester Rail Road Santa Express

Fun Things Kids Delaware county weekend fun , holiday train ride PA

Santa Climbs Aboard The West Chester Railroad

November 23, 24, 25
December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16
11AM, 1PM, 3PM

New for 2012! - Additional 5PM departures on Dec 8, 9, 15, 16

Jolly Old St. Nick will be On board a Heated, Lighted, and Decorated Train with a Treat for All the Kids. Featuring Holiday Entertainment.Trains Depart Market Street Station at 11:00 am , 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm

* Please note the train will not depart from Glen Mills this season, you can only pick up the train in West Chester

For more information: http://www.westchesterrr.net/

Location: Trains Depart Market Street Station

Cost: Adult Fare: $20.00 Children: $12.50 (Ages 2-12 yrs) Toddlers (not on adult lap) $5.00

Happy Thankgiving

Fun Things Kids

Happy Thanksgiving

Enjoy your day with family and friends.

Holiday Event Guide in the Philadelphia Area 2012

Fun Things Kids christmas hayrides , Holiday Events Philadelphia

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 17, 2012–January 6, 2013

Experience traditions of the past and dazzling entertaining displays in this special wintertime tour. Yuletide at Winterthur will delight you with visions of holidays of old and inspire you to create your own spectacular celebrations. Be transported to a 19th-century market square to see how preparations for winter festivities began, and in celebration of the exhibition Uncorked! Wine, Objects & Tradition, see the scrumptious evolution of the holiday meal from the colonial period to the early national period. Enjoy Winterthur’s unique version of a winter wonderland as you meander through a re-created woodland path offering vistas of the Winterthur Garden enveloped in snow.

Christmas at Hagley
November 23rd through January 6th

Hagley’s Workers’ Hill will be buzzing with fun for visitors. Like the nineteenth-century families who lived on Workers’ Hill, visitors can enjoy making Victorian Christmas paper decorations and ornaments, savor scrumptious holiday cookies, admire the “Dear Old Tree”, and experience Christmas family traditions. These activities are offered 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Programs are included in the cost of admission.

A Brandywine Christmas at Brandywine River Museum
November 23 - January 6

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.

Adventure Aquarium’s Christmas Celebration

November 23rd – January 1^st

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 1^st -24th

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 23 through December 31, 2012. 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 TrainNovember 30, December 7 and 14
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.

Special Holiday Events

Wassailing Caroling Hayrides
December 1, 8, 15 & 22 ~ 5 & 6:30 pm

Celebrate the ancient tradition of Wassailing and singing Christmas Carols around the campfire! Enjoy roasting marshmallows and apple cider.

Gingerbread House Making in West Chester
Gingerbread House Making
December 1st
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
West Chester Municipal Building
*Must pre-register.

Narberth Dickens Festival
Saturday December 8^th Noon – 4 pm
Location: Downtown Narberth, Forrest & Haverford Ave, Narberth, PA

Radnor Hotel’s Holiday Tea
Saturdays, December 8th and 15th
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

Gingerbread Fun at The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia
Saturdays, December 8 & 22, 2012, 1 to 3 p.m.

Philadelphia families are invited to create their very own gingerbread winter wonderland bedecked with gumdrops, icing, and candy galore during Family Gingerbread Delight on December 8 & 22 at The Ritz Carlton, Philadelphia.
Children and families will delight in decorating their own keepsake gingerbread houses with all the trimmings. The afternoon events include complimentary holiday sweets, a make-your-own hot chocolate station, champagne bar for adults, caroling and a visit from Santa. Additionally, participating children will receive their very own chef hat and embroidered chef apron to wear and keep as a memento of the festive event.

For more information or to make reservations for this event, please call 215.523.8273.

Hanukkah Events

Lansdale Menorah Lighting
December 8th at 6:30 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. 23rd.

Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting on Friday, Nov. 23rd. This year along with Santa and Mrs. Claus

Santa's Arrival & Festival of Lights in Media
Friday November 23rd at 5:00 PM
Santa arrives @ 6pm!
Makin' Music from 5-6pm

Santa's Arrival and Parade at Suburban Square

Saturday, November 24th
at 12:30pm

Holiday Fun at Glen Eagle
Visit Glen Eagle Square on Saturday November 24^th at 5:50 for Santa's Arrival and our Holiday Tree Lighting! Beginning at 5:30 PM, they will have horse drawn carriage rides, crafts and much more.

Saturday with Santa

December 1, 2012, 9 am to 11 am

Make sure Santa knows what you want for Christmas this year! Bring the whole family, and spend Saturday morning with Santa on December 1, 2012, from 9 to 11 am at the Narberth Presbyterian Church Gymnasium. There'll be music, dancing, coloring and stories for the kids, donut holes and fruit to nibble on, and beverages (including coffee for the grown-ups). Best of all, you don't need to go to the mall in order to get some one-on-one time with the big guy. All children will have the chance to sit on Santa's lap and tell him what they want for Christmas. Parents and grandparents are encouraged to bring a camera and take pictures. Tickets are $5 per person or $20 for the entire family and can be purchased online at narberthwomensclub.org.

Visit with Santa at Linvilla Orchards
Saturdays & Sundays 12 - 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

Breakfast with Santa at Chester County Historical Society
December 1st
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 15th
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)
Dec. 8, 6-9pm
Dec. 17, 3-7pm

Dec. 18, 3-7pm
Dec. 19, 3-7pm
Dec. 20, 3-7pm
Dec. 21, 3-7pm
Dec. 20, 3-7pm
Dec. 21, 3-7pm
Dec. 22, 12-4pm
Dec. 23, 12-4pm

Call for more Information 610-566-5039

Holiday Concerts

The Upper Darby Summer Stage Shooting Stars

December 14th

7:30pm
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, “The Best Time of the Year!”

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:
December 13 @ 10:00am (children's abridged performances)

December 13 @ 11:30am (children's abridged performances)

December 14 @ 7:30 pm
December 15 @ 2:00 pm
December 15 @ 7:30 pm
December 16 @ 2:00 pm

The Philadelphia Dance Academy’s Nutcracker

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 Prince Music Theater, located at 1412 Chestnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19102:

Friday December 14th 7:00pm
Saturday, December 15^th 1:30pm and 4:30pm

Sunday, December 16^th 1:30pm

The Brandywine Ballet Company
Friday, December 7 - 10 am
Saturday, December 8 - 12 pm
Saturday, December 8 - 4 pm
Sunday, December 9 - 2 pm
Thursday, December 13 - 10 am
Saturday, December 15 - 12 pm
Saturday, December 15 - 4 pm
Sunday, December 16 - 6 pm

Performance are at The Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall, West Chester University

The Nutcracker Tea with the Brandywine Ballet

A magical tea time with the cast!

December 8 - 2:30
December 9 - 12:30
December 15 - 2:30

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!

The Nutcracker Tea tickets - $25/person (you will also need to purchase tickets to see the Nutcracker)

Pennsylvania Ballet's George Balanchine's The Nutcracker
December 8th - 30th

Be enchanted by the Philadelphia region's most beloved holiday tradition,George Balanchine's The Nutcracker™. For 43 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.

Theater

A Christmas Carol at Upper Darby Performing Arts Center
December 21st @7:30
Theatreworks USA brings us the timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his midnight visitors who transform him from a selfish old fool to a man of generosity and caring. Tiny Tim and his family share great music and fun for all ages right before Christmas!

Snow Queen at The Players Club of Swarthmore Theater
December 1st -16^th
The Snow Queen rules her magical kingdom with a heart of ice and a grip as cold as steel. When shards of an enchanted mirror fly into Cei’s eye he falls under its spell. He becomes cold-hearted and the Snow Queen steals him away to her far-away land. With Cei as her helper, The Snow Queen has a chilling plan: to freeze the hearts of all living things and rule supreme over a world of snow and ice. Only little Gerda, Cei’s childhood friend, believes he can still be rescued and sets out on a life-changing journey to save Cei and defeat the Snow Queen.

Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol at Hedgerow

December 7th -24th

This year marks our 20th 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.

Train Rides With Santa
Santa Arrives at Strasburg Rail Road
November 23rd -December 16th
Just in time for the holidays, Santa’s Paradise Express is pulling in to Strasburg Rail Road Thanksgiving weekend, starting November 23rd. Join Santa on his journey to spread the magic of the season to thousands of families who believe.

West Chester Rail Road Santa's ExpressNovember 23, 24, 25
December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16
11AM, 1PM, 3PM

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!

All Aboard the Santa Express
Nov 23rd
Join The Gallery and SEPTA for a fun filled ride with Santa and his cast of merry characters. Check website for stations and departure times:

Family Fun
Blue Cross River Rink
Opens November 23rd
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 18th season on November 23^rd.
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. 1 through Jan. 2 in Rose Tree Park, Route 252, in Upper Providence. Opening ceremony is 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3. Free admission. For information contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at 610-565-7410

Christmas at Longwood Gardens
December 22 - January 6
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 2011 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 2012
Thanksgiving Day through New Year’s Weekend 2013
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.)

The Comcast Holiday Spectacular 2012” debuts Thanksgiving Day at 10:00 a.m., marking the fifth year it will dazzle and delight audiences throughout the holiday season. A new “Snowman Symphony” helps strike up the orchestra and kick-off the show this year. Favorite scenes from The Nutcracker, beautifully performed by the renowned Pennsylvania Ballet, a magical sleigh ride through the snow covered Pennsylvania countryside, a world-class 1940s swing-style dance of Jingle Bell Rock featuring Broadway stars, the majestic sounds of a 64-piece orchestra, the harmony of the Commonwealth Youth Choir’s Keystone State Boychoir and Pennsylvania Girlchoir, and more, will delight people of all ages.

The free Comcast Holiday Spectacular has quickly become a “must see” Philadelphia holiday tradition. Since its debut in 2008, more than a half million people have seen the 15-minute show. Full of stunning original holiday imagery and music and created by using cutting-edge technology, it appears on the 83’ x 25’ Comcast Experience video wall in the Comcast Center lobby, which is the world’s largest four-millimeter LED screen with incredible resolution that’s five times that of an HDTV.

Amusement Parks

Sesame Place A Very Furry Christmas

November 17th - 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 17th - 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 16th - 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.

Visit the Fun Things advertising page to find out more about how you can promote your holiday event on Fun Things.

Fun Things Top 10 Weekend Events for November 30th, December 1st and 2nd

Our top 10 picks for this weekend November 30th, December 1st & December 2nd

Free Admission to Museums for Bank of America Card Holders

Dr. Dolittle at the Media Theater

Holiday Train Display at the Historic Grange Estate

Wayne Hotel's Old Fashioned Christmas Celebration

The Festival of Lights at Rose Tree Park

Live Nativity at Neumann University

Breakfast With Santa at the Granite Run Mall

Make Sandmans Plane from the movie Rise of the Guardians at Lowes

Make a Picture Frame at the Home Depot Free Kids Workshop

Holiday Festival at Old Ridge Village

Linvilla Orchards Christmas Around the Farm

Closed Enter to win tickets to see Carrie Underwood in Philadelphia on November 28th

There’s No Place Like Home, Dorothy’s Adventures in Oz

Arden Theatre Company presents Cinderella

ICE! featuring DreamWorks Shrek the Halls

Ticket Giveaway for the Delaware County Symphony Concert a Russian Fairy Tale

Max & Ruby: Nutcracker Suite 2012

Parent & Teen Driving Seminar

Fun Things Top 10 Weekend Events for November 23, 24, & 25

Our top 10 picks for this weekend November 23rd, 24th & 25th

West Chester Rail Road Santa Express

Happy Thankgiving

Holiday Event Guide in the Philadelphia Area 2012

On Going Holiday Events
Yuletide at Winterthur Museum

November 17, 2012–January 6, 2013

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Our top 10 picks for this weekend November 30th, December 1st & December 2nd

Our top 10 picks for this weekend November 23rd, 24th & 25th

On Going Holiday Events Yuletide at Winterthur Museum November 17, 2012–January 6, 2013

Visit our other sites

Visits to this blog

Best Local Blog for Families

On Going Holiday Events
Yuletide at Winterthur Museum

November 17, 2012–January 6, 2013