Free Holiday Lights Events in Philadelphia
As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, there’s a magical transformation that takes place across the City of Brotherly Love. Philadelphia, a city steeped in history and tradition, comes alive with a dazzling display of holiday lights that illuminates the streets, parks, and iconic landmarks. From the twinkling trees of Rittenhouse Square to the grandeur of the historic district, the holiday season in Philadelphia is a time of enchantment and wonder. In this blog, we’ll provide you with some free options and locations to enjoy the holiday light displays with the entire family.
Franklin Square:
November 16, 2023 – February 25, 2024
Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO: every half hour with seasonal tunes and choreographed light shows from November 16, 2023 through February 25, 2024
Manayunk Gets LIT:
November 16, 2023 – December 31, 2023
Manayunk businesses are decking the street, and we’ll need your help deciding which display should win Best Overall, Most Creative, and Most LIT! Manayunk Gets LIT officially launches on November 16.
Peddlers Village:
November 17, 2023 – January 14, 2023
1 million twinkling lights, set to cover its buildings and trees beginning on the 17th of November. Gingerbread Competition & Display, featuring over 100 handcrafted gingerbread creations on display for free, and Holly Jolly Weekend, two days of free Santa-themed festivities and parades December 2-3, 2023.
Christmas Village in Philadelphia @ LOVE Park:
November 18 – December 24, 2023 (select dates)
The authentic German Christmas Market in Philadelphia! Christmas Village is an open-air European marketplace during the annual free-to-explore, pay-as-you-go event at Love Park and City Hall. Each year, the Christmas Village features holiday vendors, food and beverage stands, rides, tastings, activities and more!
Wintergarden @ City Hall:
November 3, 2023 – March 17, 2024
The Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn is a picturesque and whimsical outdoor sanctuary for visitors to relax amid the bustle of Center City. Highlights include rustic décor, playful reindeer topiaries and twinkling lights. Children and adults are free to explore the Wintergarden at no cost all season long.
Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
November 24, 2023 – February 19, 2024
The Lights here include thousands on a festively decorated holiday tree and the bright bulbs illuminating a 60-foot-tall Ferris wheel. A star-studded tree lighting ceremony is set for Friday, December 1, 2023. Entry into Winterfest is free, tickets are required to ice skate, and cabins and fire pits must be reserved in advance.
