PhillyFun4Kids

There might be a few clouds in the weekend forecast but that can’t stop all the spring fun happening in and around Philly this weekend. Get out and enjoy one of these great family fun spring events this April weekend!

Earth Day Festival
Saturday April 13
10am – 3pm
Bucks County Audubon Society
2877 Creamery Rd.
New Hope, PA

Enjoy the Earth Day Festival happening at Bucks County Audubon Society on Saturday April 13 from 10am – 3pm. View and purchase goods from environmentally friendly vendors and learn more about environmental organizations in the area. Activities live animals, artisan vendors, native plant sales, creek exploration, bird walks, bug hunts and lots more. Free.

Macy’s Family Fun Day
Saturday April 13
11am – 3pm
African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA

In honor of National Poetry Month and Jazz Appreciation Month, enjoy Macy’s Family Funday at the African American Museum in Philadelphia on Saturday April 13 from 11am – 3pm. Macy’s Family Fun Day program will incorporate an exciting lineup of interactive art activities and performances all relating to the Express Yourself April theme. Activities and performances during the celebration will explore the African Diaspora through art, music and more as a part of our PhilAesthetic program series. Free admission for the first 250 people.

East Passyunk Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday April 13
11am – 2pm
South Philadelphia Older Adult Center
1430 East Passyunk
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss the annual East Passyunk Easter Egg Hunt happening 11am – 2pm on Saturday April 13th. Kids decorate egg-collecting bags, enjoy treats, dance to family-friendly tunes and hunt for prize-filled eggs. Egg Hunt times are staggered by age group, with four and under at 11:00am, five to seven at 12:00pm and eight to ten at at 1:00pm. After the festivities, families are invited to enjoy special brunch menus and bakery discounts at eateries along East Passyunk. Free.

Marvel: Universe of Superheroes
Saturday April 13 – Sunday April 14
The Franklin Institute
222 N. 20th St
Philadelphia, PA

It’s opening weekend of the East Coast premiere of MARVEL: Universe of Super Heroes at The Franklin Institute this weekend. The exhibit features more than 300 artifacts, including some of Marvel’s most iconic and sought-after pages, costumes, and props. Immersive set pieces, soundscapes, and interactive elements bring the comic book world to life in this incredible exhibit for comic book fans of all ages. Tickets $35 adults, $31 children.

Family Fest
Saturday April 13
4-6pm
Free Library of Philadelphia
1901 Vine Street
Philadelphia, PA

This very special fundraising event Family Fest at the Parkway Central Library supports the Free Library while giving children and families a unique experience in the iconic Beaux-Arts building. Experience the Free Library as never before as you enjoy crafts, storytelling, a kid-friendly buffet, and adult-friendly beverages. Tickets $35 adults, $15 children.

Hayrides to Bunnyland 
Saturday April 13 – Sunday April 14
Linvilla Orchards
137 W Knowlton Rd.
Media, PA

Head to beautiful Linvilla Orchards in Media to hop aboard a hayride as it carries you through the woods to visit the Easter Bunny’s house. Be sure to bring your camera since the Easter Bunny likes to take pictures and give treats to everyone who visits. $9 per person.

Sakura Sunday
Sunday April 14
Fairmount Park Horticultural Center
100 N Horticultural Dr
Philadelphia, PA 

Enjoy the culmination of the annual Subarau Cherry Blossom Festival at Sakura Sunday in Fairmount Park. Celebrate traditional and contemporary Japan under the cherry blossoms in Fairmount Park at this all-day celebration of Japanese culture. Enjoy live music, dance, and martial arts performances to fashion shows, arts and crafts, karaoke, and much more. $15.

Easter Family Fun Day
Sunday April 14
2-4pm
American Swedish Historical Museum
1900 Pattison Ave.
Philadelphia, PA

Introduce your little ones to Swedish Easter traditions at Easter Family Fun Day at the American Swedish Historical Museum. Children can make Swedish Easter crafts, dress up as Swedish Easter witches, enjoy face painting and go on an egg hunt. $10

Enjoy the first weekend of April with spring fun and special first weekend of the months admission and events for the whole family.

Pinkalicious the Musical
Saturday April 6 – Sunday April 7
Walnut Street Theater
825 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA

Despite warnings from her parents, Pinkalicous Pinkerton eats too many pink cupcakes—and ends up turning pink from head to toe! But when things really begin to go too far, it’s up to Pinkalicous to find her true colors once again. This cupcake-tastic musical Pinkalicious is a fun and charming story for kids of all ages the whole family will enjoy. Admission $15-$18.

Family Fishing Derby
Saturday April 6
Linvilla Orchards
137 W. Knowlton Road
Media, PA

The annual Family Fishing Derby at Linvilla Orchard gives kids the chance to reel in their first catch for all to celebrate. There are more than 1,000 trout swimming around in Orchard Lake so the family fishing derby allows for a less competitive atmosphere where every child has an opportunity to participate. Many prizes are given throughout the day in a variety of different categories. Feel free to bring your own rod or they are available for rent. No license required. The event is rain or shine. Free. $19.99.

PNC Grow Up Great
Saturday April 6
11am
Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
300 South Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 

The PNC Grow Up Great interactive program teaches kids the basics of jazz and musical theatre. Kids will enjoy the hour of interactive fun as children are introduced to the vibrant world of jazz and/or musical theater, where kids will learn to sing, dance, and use their imaginations during a fun-filled, monthly adventure! This month, Luke Carlos O’Reilly will take kids on a New Orleans Jazz-themed adventure. Free.

Philadelphia Kite Festival
Saturday April 6
12pm – 5pm
Penn Treaty Park

The Philadelphia Kite Festival will fill the sky with colorful kites this Saturday April 6th from 12pm – 5pm at Penn Treaty Park in Fishtown. Enjoy live music, face painting, food and beverage and of course kite flying for enthusiasts of all levels. Free.

Hayrides to Bunnyland
Satruday April 6 – Sunday April 7
Linvilla Orchards
137 W Knowlton Rd.
Media, PA

Head to beautiful Linvilla Orchards in Media to hop aboard a hayride as it carries you through the woods to visit the Easter Bunny’s house. Be sure to bring your camera since the Easter Bunny likes to take pictures and give treats to everyone who visits. $9 per person.

Family Arts Academy
Sunday April 7
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
118-128 N Broad St
Philadelphia, PA

The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts’ Family Arts Academy workshops are FREE monthly programs that aim to strengthen initiatives in family development and art education. Bring the whole family to PAFA this Sunday afternoon from 2 – 4 p.m. to meet local artists, learn new skills, and make a different project every week. In this month’s program called Smart Phone Cinema, kids learn to use smart phones to make and share movies. Free.

Pay What You Wish First Sunday of the Month
Sunday April 7
Philadelphia Art Museum
2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy Pay What You Wish admission to the Philadelphia Museum of Art this Sunday April 7.

Lots of family fun to be had this chilly weekend in Philly – enjoy Groundhog Day Celebrations, Lunar New Year fun and more!

Groundhog Day Festival
Saturday Feb. 2
9am – 1pm
John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge At Tinicum
8601 Lindbergh Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

Punxsutawny has Phil but Philly has Tinicum Tim, the resident weather-prognosticating groundhog at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge. Will Tim see his shadow and herald in six more weeks of winter? How do animals survive the winter? What tools do scientists use to predict use to predict the weather? Find out the answer at this festival that features food, music, crafts and guided walks. Walks begin at 9am, and the Groundhog Burrow Parade kicks off at 12:30pm. Free.

Lunar New Year
Saturday Feb. 2
11am – 3pm
Independence Seaport Museum
211 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

Head to the Independence Seaport Museum for Lunar New Year celebrations to learn about the heritages of Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese and Japanese cultures while honoring the Year of the Pig. Try your hand at calligraphy, test out martial-arts moves and drum along to a performance by KyoDaiko. $17 adults, $12 kids, free ages 2 and younger.

Winter Wonderland
Wagner Free Institute of Science
Saturday Feb. 2
12pm – 4pm

How long is winter going to last this year? Can groundhogs accurately predict the weather? Come to this event at the Wagner Free Institute of Science to find out. Meteorologist Kelly Flanigan from Penn Environment and other climate scientists will discuss this popular tradition that started in Pennsylvania more than 170 years ago. There will also be hands-on science activities throughout the building focused on Groundhog Day and weather folklore, too. Free.

Chinese New Year Celebration
Saturday Feb. 2
12pm – 1pm
Elmwood Park Zoo
1661 Harding Blvd.
Norristown, PA

Kick off the Year of the Pig with an educational program, crafts, live animal greetings and an “animals of the zodiac” presentation” at Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown. $10.95. Free with Zoo Admission.

Philadelphia Auto Show
Saturday Feb. 2 – Sunday Feb. 3
9am – 10pm (Sat.), 9am – 6pm (Sun)
Pennsylvania Convention Center
1101 Arch St.
Philadelphia, PA

Race on over to the 2019 Philadelphia Auto Show to view more than 700 vehicles from 45-plus manufacturers. $14 adults, $12 ages 7-12, free ages 6 and under.

Philadelphia Suns Lion Dance
Saturday Feb. 2
4-6pm
King of Prussia Mall
160 N. Gulph Rd.
King of Prussia, PA

Celebrate Lunar New Year with a Lion and Dragon Dance performed by The Philadelphia Suns. The performance will begin at the Clock Tower court and travel to Nordstrom court and end at Macy’s Court.

Lunar New Year Family Festival
Sunday Feb. 3
10am – 3pm
Philadelphia Museum of Art
2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy
Philadelphia, PA

Celebrate the Year of the Pig by making a lunar calendar and watching a performance inspired by ancient Chinese legends from the Nai-Ni Chen dance company at the Lunar New Year Family Festival at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Pay what you wish admission.

Puppy Bowl Viewing Party
Sunday Feb. 3
3-6pm
Devil’s Den
1148 S. 11th Street
Philadelphia, PA

Join Morris Animal Refuge to watch the Puppy Bowl with adorable, adoptable puppies. Get your picture with some MVPs (Most Valuable Pups) and enjoy great food & drinks benefiting the rescue. Donations welcome.

Don’t let the weather get you down! Enjoy the long weekend celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. and lunar new year festivities in and around Philly this weekend.

Lunar New Year Festival
Saturday Jan. 19
1-5pm
Penn Museum
3260 South St.
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy Lunar New Year festival at the Penn Museum with a daytime festival and evening performances. This family-friendly day features traditional dance and music, contemporary Asian film, tangram workshops, martial arts demonstrations, storytelling, calligraphy, and art-making for all ages. And join in the traditional Lion Dance, then grab a cocktail as the festival kicks into high gear with Korean pop music, and performances to ring in the new year. Adults $15, kids $10. Food and drink will also be available for purchase. 

Dr. Martin Luther King Weekend
Saturday Jan. 19 – Monday Jan. 21
Eastern State Penitentiary
2027 Fairmount Ave
Philadelphia, PA 

Head to Eastern State Penitentiary to commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. & his 1963 “Letter from Birmingham Jail” with readings from the landmark text and opportunities for visitors to respond to its relevance today. Professional actors, youth readers, & community leaders read excerpts from King’s letter three times a day on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday at 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, & 3:30 pm. An informal Q&A moderated by a civil rights scholar follows each reading, giving visitors an opportunity to respond to the letter’s relevance today. On Monday, children ages 7-12 & their families are invited to to create art in response to themes found in the letter, & read stories about Dr. King’s life and legacy.

MLK Weekend Celebration
Friday Jan. 18 – Monday Jan. 21
African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch St
Philadelphia, PA

Celebrate MLK at the African American Museum in Philadelphia with family programming on Saturday, and a Sunday jazz presentation with international vocalist and composer Ruth Naomi Floyd. Monday highlights include the Citizens Bank Scavenger Hunt, a visit from the Phillie Phanatic, and more.Throughout the weekend, guests can also explore the core exhibit, Audacious Freedom: African Americans in Philadelphia, 1776-1876, the special exhibition, Cotton: The Soft, Dangerous Beauty of the Past ( now extended through February 2019), and the newly opened exhibition Photographic Memory. $2 general admission Sat-Mon.

MLK Day Celebration
Monday Jan. 21
9am – 5pm
National Liberty Museum
321 Chestnut St.
Philadelphia, PA

The National Liberty Museum hosts an MLK Day Celebration featuring a variety of hands-on activities for all ages like creating your own “I Have a Dream” speech, civil-rights trivia, and a take home Liberty Bell craft. All visitors will receive a “Heroes Who Inspire Heroes” gallery guide for the museum. Pay what you wish admission.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service
Monday Jan. 21
9am – 5pm
National Constitution Center
525 Arch St
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy a day of service in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. at the National Constitution Center on Monday Jan. 21. Families sort supplies to be distributed to local schools, watch students perform MLK’s “I Have a Dream” speech and partake in an interactive show about his legacy. $5.

Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Lancaster Ave.
Monday Jan. 21
9:00 – 11:30am
North 38th Street and Lancaster Ave
Philadelphia, PA

Head to West Philadelphia to enjoy a multi-block celebration and service project on Martin Luther King Jr. Day along Lancaster Ave. Enjoy live music, spoken-word performances and more while helping to clean the avenue. Free.

It’s the last weekend of 2018! Get out and enjoy fun family festivities before the new year rolls around next week.

Kwanza Celebration
Saturday Dec. 29
10am – 2pm
African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch St
Philadelphia, PA

Join the African American Museum in Philadelphia for the Kwanza Celebration and ceremony as to welcome the first fruits of harvest into your home. $14 for adults, $10 for kids.

BlueCross Riverrink Winterfest 
Friday Dec. 28 – Sunday Dec. 30
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The BlueCross Riverrink Winterfest seasonal winter park includes ice skating, a beautifully lit landscape featuring a holiday tree, outdoor seating area with fire pits, warming cabins, the Franklin Fountain Confectionary Cabin, the Kids’ Lodge with arcade games and a chalet-inspired Lodge with food and beverages from local restaurants and fun theme nights and events. General admission free. Skating admission $4, skate rental $10.

Christmas Underwater
Friday Dec. 28 – Sunday Dec. 30
Adventure Aquarium
1 Riverside Drive
Camden, NJ

Experience the magic of the holiday season deep beneath the surface during Adventure Aquarium’s Christmas Underwater. There’s also magical indoor snow expected to fall every hour, on the hour, to dance and play in. $29.99 adults, $21.99 children.

Brandywine Christmas 
Saturday Dec. 29 – Sunday Dec. 30
Brandywine River Museum of Art
1 Hoffman’s Mill Rd
Chadds Ford, PA

The Brandywine Christmas holiday experience for all ages includes a gallery filled with an expansive model train display, a special exhibition featuring a selection of illustrations from three seasonal children’s books, towering trees decorated with whimsical Critter ornaments, and a selection of holiday events and programs. $6 children, $18 adults

Mummers Day at the Market
Saturday Dec. 29
11am – 2pm
Reading Terminal Market
51 N. 12th Street
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy Mummer Day at the Reading Terminal Market with live performances, a cooking demo, and more. Free.

Winter at Dilworth Park
Friday Dec. 28 – Sunday Dec. 30
Dilworth Park
1 S. 15th Street
Philadelphia, PA

The Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink and the Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin are in high gear for winter fun at Dilworth Park. And don’t miss the Deck the Hall Light Show presented by Independence Blue Cross illuminating City Hall with vibrant colors and festive scenes that are sure to get your whole family in the holiday spirit. General admission free. Ice Skating $3 kids, $5 adults. Skate rental $10.

So much to do in and around Philly this weekend, get your family to one of these great holiday happenings this weekend to take advantage of all the festive fun!

Christmas Tea and Pastry Reception
Saturday Dec. 15 – Sunday Dec. 16
Historic Strawberry Mansion
2450 Strawberry Mansion Drive
Philadelphia, PA

Historic Strawberry Mansion will host a gourmet tea and pastry reception on Saturday December 15 and Sunday December 16.  Visitors are invited to stay for a cup of Christmas tea in the mansion’s Tea Room.  The reception is included with admission. $8 Adults, children 12 and under free. 

Caroling Hayride
Saturday Dec. 15
Linvilla Orchards
137 W Knowlton Rd
Media, PA

Celebrate the ancient tradition of Wassailing and sing Christmas Carols around a campfire at the beautiful Linvilla Orchards in Media, PA. Hayrides depart promptly at 5pm & 6:30pm Tickets $5 per person.

Christmas Underwater
Friday Dec. 14 – Sunday Dec. 15
Adventure Aquarium
1 Riverside Drive
Camden, NJ

Experience the magic of the holiday season deep beneath the surface during Adventure Aquarium’s Christmas Underwater. Visit Scuba Sant in Ocean Realm as he spreads the magic of Christmas to every child and animal and stops for underwater selfies with kids of all ages. There’s also magical indoor snow expected to fall every hour, on the hour, to dance and play in. $29.99 adults, $21.99 children. 

Winter at Dilworth Park
Friday Dec. 14 – Sunday Dec. 16
Dilworth Park
1 S. 15th Street
Philadelphia, PA

The Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink and the Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin are back for another season of winter fun at Dilworth Park. And don’t miss the Deck the Hall Light Show presented by Independence Blue Cross illuminating City Hall with vibrant colors and festive scenes that are sure to get your whole family in the holiday spirit. General admission free. Ice Skating $3 kids, $5 adults. Skate rental $10.

Christmas Village 
Friday Dec. 14 – Sunday Dec. 16
Love Park
N. 15th and Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA

It’s opening weekend at Christmas Village in Philadelphia’s iconic Love Park this weekend. Christmas Village is a daily outdoor holiday market selling all sorts of gifts, food, crafts and more right in the heart of Center City. Enjoy 80 vendors amidst the magic of a German style Christmas village. Free.

Polar Express Family Festival 
Saturday Dec. 14
9am – 5pm
Please Touch Museum
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss the Polar Express Family Festival at the Please Touch Museum on Saturday Dec. 14  from 9am – 5pm. Families meet Santa, make train collages, watch a theatrical performance, enjoy storytime and learn all about locomotives. $19 per person.

Merry Grinchmas
Saturday Dec. 14
10am – 4pm
The Bourse
Philadelphia, PA

The Bourse, and Morris Animal Refuge have teamed up to offer Merry Grinchmas on Saturday Dec. 14 from 10am – 4pm. Guests can eat, drink, shop and get their photo taken with the infamous Grinch. For $10, guests will receive a 4×6 photo and all proceeds benefit Morris Animal Shelter. Select food hall vendors will be offering special all afternoon for Merry Grinchmas attendees, including hot chocolate from Chocodiem and a Grinch-themed sundae from Scoop DeVille. $10 donation.

BlueCross Riverrink Winterfest 
Friday Dec. 14 – Dec. 16
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The BlueCross Riverrink Winterfest seasonal winter park includes ice skating, a beautifully lit landscape featuring a holiday tree, outdoor seating area with fire pits, warming cabins, the Franklin Fountain Confectionary Cabin, the Kids’ Lodge with arcade games and a chalet-inspired Lodge with food and beverages from local restaurants and fun theme nights and events. General admission free. Skating admission $4, skate rental $10.

Comcast Holiday Spectacular
Friday Dec. 13 – Sunday Dec. 16
Comcast Center Lobby
1701 JFK Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy the Comcast Holiday Spectacular this holiday season. Visitors can enjoy classic holiday performances of Carol of the Bells, Jingle Bell Rock, The 12 Days of Christmas  and The  Nutcracker by the Philadelphia Ballet, all shown on The Comcast Experience video wall, one of the world’s largest highest resolution LED displays. You’ll watch a magic flying sleigh ride through the Pennsylvania countryside and above the city of Philadelphia, and take part in a sing-along. Shows run daily from 10am – 8pm, excluding 5pm on weekdays. Free.

It’s a beautiful December weekend in Philly so get outside and enjoy all the holiday fun this weekend from holiday festivals to visits with Santa and so much more!! 

Winter Wonderland 2018
Saturday Dec. 8
10am – 12pm
Smith Memorial Playground
3500 Reservoir Drive
East Fairmount Park
Philadelphia, PA

Families are invited to take part in Winter Wonderland 2018 festivities at SMITH Memorial Playground that include a petting zoo, s’mores roasting, an ice-carving demonstration, messy arts and live music by the Emmy Award-winning Alex & the Kaleidoscope Band. $10 per child. 

Winter at Dilworth Park
Friday Dec. 7 – Sunday Dec. 9
Dilworth Park
1 S. 15th Street
Philadelphia, PA

The Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink and the Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin are back for another season of winter fun at Dilworth Park. And don’t miss the Deck the Hall Light Show presented by Independence Blue Cross illuminating City Hall with vibrant colors and festive scenes that are sure to get your whole family in the holiday spirit. General admission free. Ice Skating $3 kids, $5 adults. Skate rental $10.

Fishtown Freeze 
Saturday Dec. 8
Fishtown, PA

It’s the first ever Fishtown Freeze featuring 25+ Custom Ice Sculptures hand carved by Icesculpturephilly.com on display Saturday Dec. 8th from 9am – 2pm at Fishtown area businesses. Plus, families can enjoy holiday shopping, refreshments, free breakfast and photos with Santa at Sugar House Casino, crafts, hot cocoa and much more! Free.

Christmas Village 
Friday Dec. 7 – Sunday Dec. 9
Love Park
N. 15th and Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA

It’s opening weekend at Christmas Village in Philadelphia’s iconic Love Park this weekend. Christmas Village is a daily outdoor holiday market selling all sorts of gifts, food, crafts and more right in the heart of Center City. Enjoy 80 vendors amidst the magic of a German style Christmas village. Free.

BlueCross Riverrink Winterfest 
Friday Dec. 7 – Dec. 9
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The BlueCross Riverrink Winterfest seasonal winter park includes ice skating, a beautifully lit landscape featuring a holiday tree, outdoor seating area with fire pits, warming cabins, the Franklin Fountain Confectionary Cabin, the Kids’ Lodge with arcade games and a chalet-inspired Lodge with food and beverages from local restaurants and fun theme nights and events. General admission free. Skating admission $4, skate rental $10.

Santa Fest 
Saturday Dec. 8
10am – 1pm
American Helicopter Museum & Education Center
1220 American Blvd.
West Chester, PA

The annual Santa Fest takes place on Saturday Dec. 8th when Santa will be arriving in a helicopter to hear childrens’ wish lists in his workshop. The event will feature face painting, music by Makin’ Music and mini cupcakes and water. Helicopter rides are available for an extra $60. $10 per person.

Christmas Around the Farm
Friday Dec. 7 – Sunday Dec. 9
Linvilla Orchards
137 W Knowlton Rd
Media, PA

Head to beautiful Linvilla Orchards in Media for Christmas Around the Farm. Enjoy apple cider, sing carols around a fire and choose from more than 40,000 Douglas and Canaan firs to cut down. General admission is free. Attractions are ticketed.

Parade of Lights
Saturday Dec. 9
1-6pm
Independence Seaport Museum
211 S. Columbus Ave
Philadelphia, PA

It’s the annual Parade of Lights along the Delaware River at the Independence Seaport Museum. Take in the illuminated views from Penn’s Landing or from the Independence Seaport Museum’s second-floor terrace. Warm up at the Holiday Hut in the second-floor terrace with warm seasonal drinks and food. And don’t miss Santa’s arrival at the museum at 2pm. Museum admission is $17 adults, $12 children 3-12, and free for under 3.

Comcast Holiday Spectacular
Friday Dec. 7 – Sunday Dec. 9
Comcast Center Lobby
1701 JFK Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy the Comcast Holiday Spectacular this holiday season. Visitors can enjoy classic holiday performances of Carol of the Bells, Jingle Bell Rock, The 12 Days of Christmas  and The  Nutcracker by the Philadelphia Ballet, all shown on The Comcast Experience video wall, one of the world’s largest highest resolution LED displays. You’ll watch a magic flying sleigh ride through the Pennsylvania countryside and above the city of Philadelphia, and take part in a sing-along. Shows run daily from 10am – 8pm, excluding 5pm on weekdays. Free.

Hanukkah Celebration
Sunday Dec. 9
2-3:30pm
Elmwood Park Zoo
1661 Harding Blvd
Norristown, PA

Enjoy a Hanukkah Celebration at Elmwood Park Zoo on Sunday Dec. 9th from 2-3:30pm. The fun begins at 2pm at the Trail of the Jaguar exhibit where guests can make themed crafts and play games. At 3pm on the Eagles Deck, listen to the Temple Brith Achim Choir perform, followed by lighting the menorah.

West Craft Fest
Sunday Dec. 9
10am – 4pm
The Rotunda
40th & Walnut
Philadelphia, PA

It’s West Philadelphia’s biggest craft event of the season – West Craft Fest – happening at the Rotunda from 10am -4pm. Local artisans and crafters will have their handmade with care items available for sale making perfect gifts for everyone on your list! Free.

Happy December!! The most magical month of the year is here and there is much festive fun to be had in and around the city this weekend. Get out and enjoy all the family friendly holiday events and make some great memories together this season!

Lucia Fest and Christmas Market
Saturday Dec. 1
11am – 4pm
American Swedish Historical Museum
1900 Pattison Avenue
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss the annual Lucia Fest and Christmas Market at the American Swedish Historical Museum this Saturday Dec. 1st. Stroll through the Julmarknad, or Christmas Market, where Swedish delicacies, crafts, decorations, and imported gifts may be purchased, before the musical entertainment begins culminating with the procession of Lucia.  $12 for non-members/$8 for members/$5 for children.

Cricket Cringle
Friday Nov. 30 – Sat. Dec. 1
Cricket Ave.
Downtown Ardmore
Ardmore, PA

The Downtown Ardmore business community is serving up the holiday cheer at the 5th annual Cricket Cringle. Don’t miss 40 unique merchants and vendors in the style of a European holiday market offering food, gifts, crafts, beverages and lots of fun for the whole family. Free.

Promenade of Trees
Saturday Dec. 1
5- 6:30 pm
Main Street
Manayunk
Philadelphia, PA

Stroll down Main Street in Manayunk for the Promenade of Trees to vote for your favorite trees by dropping coins in the jars in front of each tree. Trees will be decorated in the themes of Christmas past, present, and future, which will be put on display outside of their storefronts all month long. At sundown, guests, celebrity judges and Welcome America representatives will be lead by Christmas carolers down the sidewalks of Manayunk for the official viewing and judging, including the “People’s Choice” award! Pick up your bag of coins and a map at Style Me in Mananyunk. Free.

Winter at Dilworth Park
Friday Nov. 30 – Sunday Dec. 2
Dilworth Park
1 S. 15th Street
Philadelphia, PA

The Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink and the Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin are back for another season of winter fun at Dilworth Park. And don’t miss the Deck the Hall Light Show presented by Independence Blue Cross illuminating City Hall with vibrant colors and festive scenes that are sure to get your whole family in the holiday spirit. General admission free. Ice Skating $3 kids, $5 adults. Skate rental $10.

Christmas Village 
Friday Nov. 30 – Sunday Dec. 2
Love Park
N. 15th and Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA

It’s opening weekend at Christmas Village in Philadelphia’s iconic Love Park this weekend. Christmas Village is a daily outdoor holiday market selling all sorts of gifts, food, crafts and more right in the heart of Center City. Enjoy 80 vendors amidst the magic of a German style Christmas village. Free.

Sundays on Stage: The Nutcracker by Pages to Pirouettes
Sunday Dec. 2
Parkway Central Library
Montgomery Auditorium
1901 Vine Street
Philadelphia, PA

It’s Sundays on Stage: The Nutcracker at the Free Library of Philadelphia this weekend. The story of the Nutcracker Prince and the Land of the Sweets is brought to life with the enchanting music of Tchaikovsky, plus a special ballet lesson for the audience, too. Free.


Dickens Festival 
Sunday Dec. 2
Noon – 4pm
Forrest & Haverford Aves.
Downtown Narberth
Narberth, PA

​The Narberth Dickens Festival is a free family event held each December on the streets of downtown Narberth. In this Dickens-themed event, the town of Narberth is transformed into 1840’s London, as Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and all the characters from A Christmas Carol roam the streets for an afternoon engaging with families and spreading holiday cheer. Free.

BlueCross Riverrink Winterfest 
Friday Nov. 30 – Dec. 2
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The BlueCross Riverrink Winterfest seasonal winter park includes ice skating, a beautifully lit landscape featuring a holiday tree, outdoor seating area with fire pits, warming cabins, the Franklin Fountain Confectionary Cabin, the Kids’ Lodge with arcade games and a chalet-inspired Lodge with food and beverages from local restaurants and fun theme nights and events. General admission free. Skating admission $4, skate rental $10.

Comcast Holiday Spectacular
Friday Nov. 30 – Sunday Dec. 2
Comcast Center Lobby
1701 JFK Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy the Comcast Holiday Spectacular this holiday season. Visitors can enjoy classic holiday performances of Carol of the Bells, Jingle Bell Rock, The 12 Days of Christmas  and The  Nutcracker by the Philadelphia Ballet, all shown on The Comcast Experience video wall, one of the world’s largest highest resolution LED displays. You’ll watch a magic flying sleigh ride through the Pennsylvania countryside and above the city of Philadelphia, and take part in a sing-along. Shows run daily from 10am – 8pm, excluding 5pm on weekdays. Free.

We had so much fun earlier this month at the National Dog Show that I thought I would end the month of November with another post about dogs. But this time, not about watching them on display or in national competition but about finding the perfect dog for your family. In full disclosure our house is currently a cats-only house. We have three cats – two from a rescue we got together 12 years ago and one that was a “feral” cat in our neighborhood that ended up part of our feline brood, too about four years ago. But, we all desperately want a dog. We talk about getting a dog, we look at shelters and think about what dog we might get, we go to animal rescue events and hold and pet dogs and generally are dog owner wanna-bes. Someday we will proceed with getting a dog when the time is right but for now we are just dog fans, admiring them from afar and planning for when we might get our own.

It’s hard to imagine, but 7.5 million animals are put in shelters every year and 2.5 million of those are from people that had to give up their pet. Of the 7.5 million animals put in shelters, 2.6 million of the animals are euthanized. By helping keep pets needing a new home out of shelters, we can potentially save 2.5 million pets a year!

Thankfully, sites like Get Your Pet make it easy to adopt a new pet from a shelter and help give these deserving animals their forever homes.

Get Your Pet is a match-making type website offering direct rescue & adoption of pets, from one good home to another. Rehoming a pitbull or other animal keeps them safe and out of shelters. Of course, we are huge rescue fans and often support local shelters such as Morris Animal Refuge, Providence Animal Shelter, Pennsylvania SPCA, Main Line Animal Rescue, and so many others doing great work to help animals of all kinds find their forever homes.

So this season, if you are in the market for a new pet or even if you need to find a loving forever home for your current pet, be sure to check out Get Your Pet first and help rehome a pet in need.

Disclosure: This post is in partnership with Nakturnal. As part of this partnership I have been provided with products and/or compensation in exchange for this post and campaign. As always, all opinions expressed about how important it is to do our part to save animals in shelters are our own. 

Enjoy holiday fun for the whole family this weekend including the annual National Dog Show, holiday family performances, and much more!

The National Dog Show 
Saturday Nov. 17 – Sunday Nov. 18
100 Station Ave
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
Oaks, PA

Don’t miss the return of The National Dog Show happening this Saturday Nov. 17th from 8am – 6pm and Sunday Nov. 18 from 8:30am – 5pm at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks. The National Dog Show gives families an opportunity to “go behind the scenes” and see over 2,000 dogs from 200 breeds getting ready to strut their fluff. Only at a “benched’ show like this one are the dogs at designated locations all weekend long so visitors can see and meet all the amazing breeds. And there are only four benched shows left in America – New York (Westminster), Philadelphia, Chicago and San Francisco. Tickets just $16 for adults, $7 for kids, ages 3 and under free.

PNC Grow Up Great
Saturday Nov. 17
11am
Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
300 South Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA

The PNC Grow Up Great  interactive program teaches kids the basics of jazz and musical theatre.  Kids learn to sing, dance, & use their imaginations and best of all, it’s free!

Chestnut Hill Circle of Trees
Saturday Nov. 17
5:30 – 7pm
Woodmere Art Museum
9201 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia, PA

Get in the holiday spirit at the Chestnut Hill Circle of Trees on Saturday Nov. 17th. Family and friends come together to meet Santa and celebrate the beginning of the holiday season. Enjoy live music, the hay maze, hot chocolate, cookies and the opening of the museum’s holiday exhibition. Families are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to a charity for underprivileged children.

The Nutcracker
Friday Nov. 16 – Sunday Nov. 18
Upper Darby Performing Arts Center
601 N. Lansdowne Ave
Upper Darby, PA

Enjoy the Pennsylvania Academy of Ballet performance of this holiday classic ballet “The Nutcracker” at the Upper Darby Performing Arts stage.  This fun way for families to kick off the holiday season, the annual tradition features professional soloists and many of the region’s best dancers.  The enchanting music by Tchaikovsky is one of his best-known works and the ballet, set at Christmas time, has become an American holiday tradition. Show times Friday at 7pm, Saturday 11am and 3pm and Sunday at 1:30pm and 5:30pm. Tickets $10 – $13, children under 12 save $1.

Christmas Village Preview Weekend
Friday Nov. 16 – Sunday Nov. 18
Love Park
N. 15th and Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA

It’s preview weekend at Christmas Village in Philadelphia’s iconic Love Park this weekend. Christmas Village is a daily outdoor holiday market selling all sorts of gifts, food, crafts and more right in the heart of Center City. Enjoy 80 vendors amidst the magic of a German style Christmas village. Free.

Mickey Mouse 90th Birthday Party 
Sunday Nov. 18
11am – 3pm
Franklin Mills Mall
1455 Franklin Mills Cir
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy a free Mickey Mouse Birthday party at Franklin Mills Mall on Sunday Nov. 18th from 11am – 3pm. Sponsored by Osmo, the company that sparked the New Play Movement the event will allow kids to test drive all their games at their 4-day pop-up. Games kids can play with include: Super Studio, Coding Awbie and Pizza Co. And of course, a special birthday party for Mickey Mouse which includes demos and 10 giveaways per hour of the newest game Super Studio with an Osmo base set, special guests, fun activities, balloons, and a photo opp at Mickey’s Birthday Corner. Free.

Family Arts Academy
Sunday Nov. 18
2-4pm
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
118-128 N Broad St
Philadelphia, PA

Take the whole family to Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts for Family Arts Academy on Sunday Nov. 18th from 2-4pm. Explore a variety of techniques used to depict space and participate in a science experiment that will test your depth perception with teaching artists Kara Rutledge and Adam Durant. Free.