PhillyFun4Kids

There may be more snow in the weekend forecast but there’s still plenty of fun to enjoy at one of these family fun events. Escape the wintery weather by thinking about summer camp options at the MetroKids Summer Camp Fair or learn more about Scottish culture at the Up Helly AA Day celebration at the Garden State Discovery Museum and lots more fun for the whole family!

Peanut Butter and Jams Welcomes Recess Monkey
Saturday January 24th
11:30am
World Café Live
3025 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss the nationally acclaimed “Recess Monkey” – a trio of teachers who make music for kids and families that really rocks this Saturday January 24th at 11:30am as part of the Peanut Butter and Jams kids music series at World Cafe Live. Tickets $10. Doors 11am. Show starts at 11:30am.

Up Helly AA Day: Scottish Festival
Saturday January 24th – Sunday January 25th
Garden State Discovery Museum
2040 Springdale Road
Cherry Hill, NJ

Head out to the Garden State Discovery Museum in Cherry Hill this weekend Saturday January 24th and Sunday January 25th for their next Passport to Discovery series highlighting cultures from around the world. The Scottish Festival will feature plaids, pips and processions that are integral to the Scottish Viking festival to ring in the end of the Yule season. $12.95 plus tax.

Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park
Friday January 23rd – Sunday January 25th
Dilworth Park
Broad and Market Streets
West Side of City Hall
Philadelphia, PA

Despite the weekend warm up, the wintery fun continues at the new Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park this Friday January 23rd through Sunday January 25th. Philly families will enjoy outdoor public skating against the backdrop of our landmark City Hall. Adults $4, children 10 and under $3, skate rental $8.

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Friday January 23rd – Sunday January 25th
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest fun runs all weekend long with a magical winter landscape including a dazzling light show, winter garden and forest, shopping and refreshments in the new “Lodge” with indoor fireplaces, rustic décor and outdoor heat lamps plus shopping at ArtStar with gifts and handmade items. And of course, the outdoor ice skating rink as the centerpiece of all the fun. Admission to Winterfest is free. Skate admission $3. Skate rental $10.

Free Admission on Sunday Mornings
Sunday January 25th
Brandywine River Museum of Art
1 Hoffman’s Mill Road
Route 1
Chadds Ford, PA

Enjoy free admission to the beautiful Brandywine River Museum on Sunday mornings including this Sunday January 25th between 9:30am – 12pm. Free.

Beauty and the Beast
Friday January 23rd – Sunday January 25th
Arden Theatre Company
40 N. 2nd Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss this bold re-telling of the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast at the Arden Theatre Co. This family friendly performance will mesmerize theatre goers of all ages with the story of two sisters Cassandra and Belle how their world is changed forever when their father loses the family fortune and Belle encounters the Beast. Run time is 1hr and 30mins. Geared for families with children ages 5 and older. Tickets $18 – $36.

MetroKids 7th Annual Summer Camp Fair
Sunday January 25th
1-4pm
Conshocken Marriott
111 Crawford Ave
W. Conshocken, PA

The MetroKids 7th Annual Summer Camp Fair takes place this Sunday January 25th from 1-4pm. Bring the whole family for this free event that will include hands on activities, prizes, demonstrations and more and of course learn about the wonderful array of local camps available for kids this summer. Free.

On Saturday night I had the chance to check out the Philadelphia Home Show when my friend Denise Sabia from The Painted Home interiors invited a few of us to her fabulous preview party to check out the great rustic outdoor space she designed. It was such a fun time and great to see what unique and different designs these talented local interior decorators were able to create! Denise was one of five participants in the 2015 Designer Challenge. Here is her beautiful design space “rustic outdoor charm” – isn’t it lovely? Don’t you just want to hang out here for hours sipping a cocktail and loving that outdoor fireplace?? She did an amazing job (as always)!

There is much to see and do at the Philadelphia Home Show which runs Monday January 19th and then wraps up next weekend Friday January 23rd – Sunday January 25th. Don’t miss celebrity and guest speakers, great vendors, and so more.

Today Monday January 19th is Hero Day at the Philadelphia Home Show Hero – get one free ticket for Military, Firefighters, Teachers, Nurses and Police Officers with valid ID or badge.

And new this year, guests can park free at the South Philadelphia IKEA and take the PhillyPHLASH free to the Convention Center.

Now one lucky phillyfun4kids reader can score 4 free tickets to the Home Show! Just fill out this easy Rafflecopter form below. Flash giveaway ends on Wed. so enter soon! Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I was provided with four free tickets to the Philadelphia Home Show from A Painted Home for the purposes of giving away to one of my lucky readers. As always all opinions expressed about local Philly designers being talented or free tickets to the home show being awesome are my own! 

Horry for the weekend! There’s plenty of family fun to be had in Philly this weekend with celebrations of Benjamin Franklin’s 309th Birthday, remembering the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and plenty of Frozen fun for the whole family this long holiday weekend!!

Peanut Butter and Jams Welcomes Ken Waldman
Saturday January 17th
11:30am
World Café Live
3025 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss Alaska’s “Fiddling Poet” Ken Waldman when he returns to his native Philadelphia for a morning of family music and fun at World Café Live this Saturday January 17th at 11:30am as part of the Peanut Butter and Jams series. Tickets $10. Doors 11am. Show starts at 11:30am.

Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park
Friday January 16th – Sunday January 18th
Dilworth Park
Broad and Market Streets
West Side of City Hall
Philadelphia, PA

Despite the weekend warm up, the wintery fun continues at the new Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park this Friday January 16th through Sunday January 18th. Philly families will enjoy outdoor public skating against the backdrop of our landmark City Hall. Adults $4, children 10 and under $3, skate rental $8.

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest and Celebrate the Movies: Frozen
Friday January 16th – Sunday January 18th
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest fun runs all weekend long with a magical winter landscape including a dazzling light show, winter garden and forest, shopping and refreshments in the new “Lodge” with indoor fireplaces, rustic décor and outdoor heat lamps plus shopping at ArtStar with gifts and handmade items. And of course, the outdoor ice skating rink as the centerpiece of all the fun. And don’t miss Celebrate the Movies: Frozen on Saturday January 17th with a Frozen sing-along, giveaways and raffles, Royal Photo Booth and lots more Frozen fun for the whole family! Admission to Winterfest is free. Skate admission $3. Skate rental $10.

Benjamin Franklin’s Birthday Celebration
Saturday January 17th
Historic Philadelphia Center
6th & Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss Benjamin Franklin’s birthday celebration at the Historic Philadelphia Center this Saturday January 17th at 1pm. Celebrate our city’s favorite founding father with the Liberty 360 3D show, a special appearance by Ben, storytelling, crafts and of course birthday cake. Free.

Free Admission to the Benjamin Franklin Museum
Saturday January 17th – Monday January 19th
Benjamin Franklin Museum
317 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy free admission at the Benjamin Franklin Museum this Saturday January 17th through Monday January 19th as well as special programs celebrating the 309th Birthday of Philly’s beloved founding father on Saturday and Sunday too. Free.

Animal Mythology Weekend
Saturday January 17th – Monday January 19th
Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA

Head to the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University this weekend for animal mythology weekend running Saturday January 17th through Monday January 19th. Activities and crafts will let kids explore cryptozoology and learn about the real animals that inspire mythical beats. $15.95 for adults, $13.95 for children.

Free Admission on Sunday Mornings
Sunday January 18th
Brandywine River Museum of Art
1 Hoffman’s Mill Road
Route 1
Chadds Ford, PA

Enjoy free admission to the beautiful Brandywine River Museum of Art on Sunday mornings including this Sunday January 18th between 9:30am – 12pm. Free.

Beauty and the Beast
Friday January 16th – Sunday January 18th
Arden Theatre Company
40 N. 2nd Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss this bold re-telling of the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast at the Arden Theatre Co. This family friendly performance will mesmerize theatre goers of all ages with the story of two sisters Cassandra and Belle how their world is changed forever when their father loses the family fortune and Belle encounters the Beast. Run time is 1hr and 30mins. Geared for families with children ages 5 and older. Tickets $18 – $36.

Martin Luther King Day: Readings from the Letter and Family Activities
Saturday January 17th – Monday January 19th
Eastern State Penitentiary
2027 Fairmount Ave
Philadelphia, PA

Families are invited to Eastern State Penitentiary this weekend for free events and programming commemorating Martin Luther King Jr and his 1963 “Letter from Birmingham Jail” with special readings from this historic letter as well as family activities with Art Sanctuary. Free.

Sharing the Heritage and Celebration of Service Day
Monday January 19th
11am – 5pm
African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA

Join the African American Museum in Philadelphia and Citizens Bank Foundation for a free celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday January 19th from 11am – 5pm. Kids of all ages can participate in music, face paint, a scavenger hunt, and other activities as well as service and learn about the legacy of Dr. King. Free.

When Ken Waldman, Alaska’s “Fiddling Poet,” comes to World Cafe Live’s Peanut Butter and Jams concert series  this Saturday, January 17, it will mark Waldman’s first ever area appearance doing one of his kids’ programs, and first metro Philly appearance in six years. The upcoming show this Saturday January 17th at 11:30am at the World Cafe stage will feature Ken Waldman, who’s been touring nationally since 1995 along with accompanist, Brian Vollmer, and other special guests.

Ken Waldman combines old-time Appalachian-style fiddling, poetry, and Alaska-set storytelling for a show uniquely his. What makes this Saturday’s World Cafe Live show extra-special is that Waldman is a Philadelphia native who grew up in Lafayette Hill in Montgomery County, and rarely returns to the region.

Brian Vollmer, Waldman’s primary accompanist for the Saturday show, is a stellar banjo player, fiddler, and guitarist. A scholar of American roots music, he’s studied with some of the finest musicians in the country.

A 29-year Alaska resident, Waldman has eight books, including the children’s book, D is for Dog Team, and nine CDs, including two for children. His live performance has been described by Austin Chronicle writer, Ric Williams, “Feels like a Ken Burns movie. . . . Always recommended.” More recently, Shepherd Express Weekly in Milwaukee termed Waldman, “A one-man Prairie Home Companion,” and The Denver Post has called Waldman’s mix of music and words, “Renegade Americana.” Angela Seals, programmer for the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh has compared Waldman to Mr. Fred Rogers, and wrote, “In a generation where so much entertainment for children is frenetic, loud, and overblown, he stands as a timeless reminder in the power of authenticity, words, and music to connect people of all ages.”

Waldman’s show appeals to anyone who enjoys traditional Appalachian-style fiddling, smart poetry, acclaimed storytelling, or Alaska.

And now one lucky phillyfun4kids reader will have a chance to win Ken Waldman’s two children’s CDs! Simply enter the rafflecopter form below for your chance to win! And don’t forget to check out Ken and Brian this Saturday January 17th at World Cafe Live too!

GIVEAWAY:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you go: 
Peanut Butter and Jams Welcomes Ken Waldman is happening this Saturday January 17th at 11:30am at World Cafe Live. World Cafe Live is located at 3025 Walnut Street in Philadelphia, PA. Tickets for the show are $10 for kids and adults. Doors open at 11am. Show starts at 11:30am.

Disclosure: Ken Waldman generously provided two copies of his two children’s CDs and a copy of his children’s book for my family to enjoy and for a giveaway for phillyfun4kids readers. As always, all opinions expressed about independent children’s music being a treasure for families and how cool it is to welcome back Philly natives are our own. 

The temps may make you want to hunker down and stay indoors but there is just too much fun to be had this weekend in Philly to hibernate! Bundle up the kiddos and head to one of these great family events happening in and around Philly this weekend.

Passport to Discovery: Canada, Let It Snow
Saturday January 10th – Sunday January 11th
Garden State Discovery Museum
2040 Springdale Road
Suite 100
Cherry Hill, NJ

Kids didn’t get enough snowy fun this week? Take them to the Garden State Discovery Museum on Saturday January 10th and Sunday January 11th to learn all about snowy animals and enjoy snow activities throughout the museum with a focus on our friends to the north in Canada. Admission $12.95 plus tax.

Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park
Friday January 9th – Sunday January 11th
Dilworth Park
Broad and Market Streets
West Side of City Hall
Philadelphia, PA

The wintery fun continues at the new Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park this Friday January 9th through Sunday January 11th. Philly families will enjoy outdoor public skating against the backdrop of our landmark City Hall. Adults $4, children 10 and under $3, skate rental $8.

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Friday January 9th – Sunday January 11th
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest fun runs all weekend long with a magical winter landscape including a dazzling light show, winter garden and forest, shopping and refreshments in the new “Lodge” with indoor fireplaces, rustic décor and outdoor heat lamps plus shopping at ArtStar with gifts and handmade items. And of course, the outdoor ice skating rink as the centerpiece of all the fun. Admission to Winterfest is free. Skate admission $3. Skate rental $10.

Free Admission on Sunday Mornings
Brandywine River Museum of Art
1 Hoffman’s Mill Road
Route 1
Chadds Ford, PA

Enjoy free admission to the beautiful Brandywine River Museum on Sunday mornings including this Sunday January 11th between 9:30am – 12pm. Free.

PECO Family Jams: Beaded Snowflakes
Sunday January 11th
12pm
Philadelphia Magic Gardens
1020 South Street
Philadelphia, PA

Snow is in the air as kids and families can makeir their own beaded snowflake creations at the PECO Family Jams series this Sunday January 11th at 12pm at the Philadelphia Magic gardens. After the art activity, take a family friendly tour at 1pm or 3pm. $7 adults, $3 kids ages 6-12, free for kids 5 and under.

Shofuso Japanese House and Garden
Sunday January 11th
1pm
100 N. Horticultural Dr.
Sakura Classroom Behind Horticultural Center
Philadelphia, PA

Learn about the arts of Japan together with the kids at this hands on workshop at the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden on Sunday January 11th at 1pm. You will create sewn books using traditional Japanese rice papers. $25 per adult/child combo. $10 for each additional child.

Beauty and the Beast
Friday January 9th – Sunday January 11th
Arden Theatre Company
40 N. 2nd Street
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss this bold re-telling of the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast at the Arden Theatre Co. This family friendly performance will mesmorize theatre goers of all ages with the story of two sisters Casandra and Belle how their world is changed forever when their father loses the family fortune and Belle encounters the Beast. Run time is 1 hr and 30 mins. Geared for families with children ages 5 and older. Tickets $18 – $36.

Before the holidays my family and I had the pleasure and privilege of attending our first show at the Arden Theater Company when we got to see their Children’s Theatre production of the classic Beauty and The Beast. It was an utterly gorgeous production with such a unique theatrical quality to it that my kids and I were just mesmerized. While my two Disney loving little girls were excited to see anything called Beauty and the Beast we had no idea how very different the Arden version would be nor did we anticipate how much we would all love it. Take a little peek at this video from Arden to see just how very unique this production is!

When we arrived at the Arden Theatre, there was someone offering face paint and a vending stand with popcorn and other snacks so the kids immediately felt like it was something fun for them. We got our snacks (yes, I realize you are supposed to get snacks during intermission but we were hungry) and had a seat and waited to be allowed in to the main theater. (I did not realize but there are actually two stages at the Arden and the upstairs stage had another show going during the Beauty and the Beast performance.)

Once we got in the theater, we took our seats and I was immediately struck by how intimate the theater is. There really is not a bad seat in the house and all had great views and felt very much a part of the production. The stage was set and there was a live girl “sleeping” on a table in the center of the stage which lent a real air of excitement to being there before the show even started.

The show began and the use of props and lighting was stunningly gorgeous. I don’t want to give too much away but this was unlike anything I’d seen before and we all just loved it. The production was, as I said, rather different from the original classic telling but still so wonderful. The story focuses on two two sisters, Cassandra and Belle and the twists and turns their lives take as their father loses his family fortune and then Belle meets the Beast and she is on an adventure unlike any other. As the Arden calls it this is a “bold new telling of the classic tale” and is from the same team that created the Arden’s Cinderella which we did not see but I heard rave reviews about last year. All of the acting by the cast was just superb. After a brief intermission, we immersed ourselves back in the conclusion of the tale and enjoyed every moment. Despite how different this was from any Beauty and the Beast performance we had seen before, it was immersive and captivating and even my two squirmy girls were able to sit still and enjoy for the entire show because it was so engaging.

When the show was over, the cast took their bows and then immediately sat down informally on stage for an interactive post-show Q&A with the audience. Once of the actors ran up and down the aisles and relayed questions from children in the audience. How cool is that, huh? My two are way too shy to have asked a question but it was fun to hear the other questions from the children and the actors’ responses too. Then after the Q&A everyone got to meet the cast and get autographs and photos in the lobby which was so fun! Kids also got to take home a free poster from the show too which is included in every Arden Children’s Theatre performance.

This was truly a magical experience for my family and we cannot wait to go again. The world premier of The Jungle Book opens on April 15th and runs through June 21st so we will surely be back to experience that show as well.

If you go: 
The Arden Theatre Co. is located at 40 N. 2nd Street in Philadelphia. There is metered street parking or lot parking nearby. Beauty and the Beast runs through February 1st. Check the website for full show dates/times and ticket availability/pricing.

GIVEAWAY:
And now one lucky phillyfun4kids reader can experience the magic of the Arden Children’s Theatre too! Enter this giveaway for four tickets to see Beauty and the Beast at the Arden Theatre before it closes on February 1st. Simply fill out this rafflecopter form below to win. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

It’s a New Year in Philly and there’s still much fun to be had for the whole family! Check out these great events and happenings from musical fun for families to free museum admission taking place in and around Philly this weekend to keep the holiday fun going strong and ring in 2015!

Gustafer Yellowgold in Concert
Saturday January 3rd
11:30am
World Café Live
3025 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA

Kids of all ages will enjoy Gustafer Yellowgold in concert on Saturday January 3rd at the World Café Live in Philadelphia. This live multi-media concert will feature stories, animation, and award-winning music and fun for the whole family. $10. Show starts at 11:30am, doors at 11am.

Holiday Garden Railway
Saturday January 3rd – Sunday January 4th
Morris Arboretum
100 E. Northwestern Ave
Philadelphia, PA

Morris Arboretum’s Holiday Garden Railway wraps up this weekend running its final days Saturday January 3rd and Sunday January 4th. Don’t miss your last chance to view the quarter mile of track featuring seven loops and tunnels with fifteen rail lines and more. $16 adults, $8 children.

Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park
Friday January 2nd – Sunday January 4th
Dilworth Park
Broad and Market Streets
West Side of City Hall
Philadelphia, PA

The wintery fun continues at the new Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park this Friday January 2nd through Sunday January 4th. Philly families will enjoy outdoor public skating against the backdrop of our landmark City Hall. Adults $4, children 10 and under $3, skate rental $8.

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Friday January 2nd – Sunday January 4th
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest fun runs all weekend long with a magical winter landscape including a dazzling light show, winter garden and forest, shopping and refreshments in the new “Lodge” with indoor fireplaces, rustic décor and outdoor heat lamps plus shopping at ArtStar with gifts and handmade items. And of course, the outdoor ice skating rink as the centerpiece of all the fun. Admission to Winterfest is free. Skate admission $3. Skate rental $10.

Bank of America Museums on Us
Saturday January 3rd – Sunday January 4th
Participating Museums in the Philadelphia area

Bank of America again is sponsoring Museums on Us with free entry to many of the region’s best museums on the first full weekend of each month including this weekend this Saturday January 3rd and Sunday January 4th for valid Bank of America cardholders. Select participating museums from the region include African American Museum, National Constitution Center, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Allentown Art Museum, Garden State Discovery Museum, Wheaton Arts & Cultural Center, Noyes Museum of Art, Delaware Art Museum, Delaware Museum of Natural History, and Winterthur. Check the website for full list of participating museums. Free.

Free Admission on Sunday Mornings
Sunday January 4th
9:30am – 12pm
Brandywine River Museum of Art
1 Hoffman’s Mill Road
Route 1
Chadds Ford, PA

Enjoy free admission to the beautiful Brandywine River Museum on Sunday mornings including this Sunday January 4th between 9:30am – 12pm. Free.

Free First Sunday at The Barnes Foundation
Sunday January 4th
10am – 5pm
The Barnes Foundation
2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA

Ring in the new year with free First Sunday at The Barnes Foundation presented by PECO. Tickets are limited and cannot be reserved in advance. Tickets available starting at 9am.

Pay What You Wish Admission
Sunday January 4th
Philadelphia Museum of Art
2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA

It’s the first weekend of the month so that means Pay What You Wish admission all day at the Philadelphia Museum of Art on Sunday January 4th. Enjoy the Museum’s vast galleries and treasures. Kids 12 and under always free. Adult admission is Pay What You Wish on the first Sunday of the month.

There is much fun to be had in Philly for families who want to ring in the New Year together! Enjoy a balloon drop or New Year’s cruise and of course head to the Mummers Parade on New Years Day for a uniquely Philly way to ring in 2015!

5th Annual Countdown to Noon and Balloon Drop
Wednesday December 31st
10:30am – 12:00pm
Swarthmore Community Center
Swarthmore, PA

The Swarthmore Community Center hosts its 5th Annual Countdown to Noon Balloon Drop event on Wednesday December 31st from 10:30am – 12:00pm. Families will enjoy New Year’s themed activities, food, crafts, and of course a family friendly Balloon Drop to countdown till Noon. $10 per family. Pay at the door. RSVP online at http://swarthmorecommunitycenter.wordpress.com/

Nest Countdown T0 Noon
Wednesday December 31st
10:30am – 12:30pm
Nest
Philadelphia, PA

Join Nest to celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Coutndown to Noon with kids ages 9 and under on Wednesday December 31st from 10:30am – 12:30pm. There will be a DJ, photo booth, and activities to decorate 2015 hats and noisemakers. Plus light refreshments including sparkling cider for the whole family! Tickets $20 for day pass (for non-members), $10 or members. $5 for each additional child.

Betsy Ross’s Birthday Bash
Wednesday December 31st
11am – 3pm
Betsy Ross House
Philadelphia, PA

Celebrate the 263rd Birthday of Betsy Ross on Wednesday December 31st from 11am – 3pm with special crafts and activities and of course cake to celebrate her big 263rd day. Free with admission to the Betsy Ross House. $5 for adults, $4 for children.

New Year’s Eve Family Fireworks Cruises
Wednesday December 31st
Cruising 4:30pm – 6:30pm (Boarding at 4:00pm)
Spirit of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, PA

Bring the whole family out for this Family Friendly Fireworks Cruise along the Delaware on the Spirit of Philadelphia for a unique and fun way to ring in the new year with the kiddos. Enjoy a soda and juice bar, the grande dinner buffet, holiday themed decor, spectacular riverfront views and a rockin’ DJ for dancing for the whole family. And of course enjoy fireworks along the Delaware with the best views from the ship for the early 6pm fireworks show. Tickets $59.90 per child (ages 3-12), $99.90 for adults. Save 15% on tickets with promo code NEWYEAR15!

Countdown To New Years at Sesame Place
Wednesday December 31st
Sesame Place
Langhorne, PA

Enjoy ringing in the New Year with your favorite furry friends at Sesame Place on Wednesday December 31st. C is for Celebrate Fireworks take place from 6:25-6:35pm immediately following the evening performance of the street parade with a unique fireworks display set to Sesame Street music. And don’t miss the Count’s Countdown to New Year’s at 12pm, 2:30pm and 5pm in Dine with Me. Enjoy a celebratory meal, dancing, and lots of quality time and photos with your favorite characters. Park Admission $24.99+ tax ($21.99 if you buy online). Count’s Countdown to New Year’s tickets are separate admission $16.99 + tax or children ages 2-12, $26.99 + tax for adults.

Square Drop
Wednesday December 31st
3-8pm
Franklin Square
Philadelphia, PA

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Square Drop Celebration at Franklin Square with the whole family for this free family celebration with a kid friendly dance party at the indoor pavilion, great viewing of the Penn’s Landing early fireworks show and Square Burger Square Drop at 6pm, and the final electrical spectacle light show of the year at 8pm. Plus enjoy rides on the Philadelphia Park Liberty Carousel, mini-golf and tasty treats available at Square Burger. Admission to Square Drop Celebration is free. Some attractions ticketed.

Countdown to Noon
Wednesday December 31st
12pm and 1pm
Please Touch Museum
Philadelphia, PA

Philly’s hands-on museum for families, the Please Touch Museum, hosts its wildly popular Countdown to Noon event on Wednesday December 31st at 12 noon and 1pm. Bring the kiddos out for music, activities and a special appearance by King Countdown, the museum’s official marshall of of the New Year. Two countdown to Noon shows at 12 Noon and 1pm accommodate schedules of the littlest party-goers. Free with museum admission. $16 for children and adults.

New Year’s Eve Splash
Wednesday December 31st
5:00-8:30pm
Adventure Aquarium
Camden, NJ

Ring in the New Year at the Annual New Year’s Eve Splash at the Adventure Aquarium on Wednesday December 31st from 5-8:30pm. Families will love this special event with a Countdown dance party, breath-taking views of the City of Philadelphia’s fireworks display and of course amazing animal experiences and exhibits, too. $25 for adults, $18 for children ages 2-12. Under 2 free.

Free at The Kimmel New Year’s Day Celebration
Thursday January 1st
9am – 6pm
The Kimmel Center
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss one of our city’s best celebrations for families the free New Year’s Day Celebration at the Kimmel Center this New Year’s Day Thursday January 1st from 9am – 6pm. Get great views of the Mummers as they strut down Broad Street while taking a break from the cold. Enjoy family musical performances, kids crafts and activities, balloon artists, face painting, free hot chocolate bar, much more. Free.

And just like that it’s the last weekend before Christmas and the final days of Hanukkah! Don’t miss a moment of the excitement and all the holiday fun to be had in and around Philly this weekend. There are holiday celebrations plus live music and theater too. Enjoy all that this city has to offer families at the holidays!

The Christmas Village
Friday Dec. 19 – Sunday Dec. 21
Love Park (JFK Plaza)
1500 Arch St.
Philadelphia, PA

The holiday fun continues at The Christmas Village in Love Park this weekend. Feel festive as you wander through the authentic German Christmas market with over 60 vendors from all over the world offering crafts, food and more. Plus enjoy special entertainment and even visits with Santa! Free.

Holiday Garden Railway
Friday Dec. 19 – Sunday Dec. 21
Morris Arboretum
100 E. Northwestern Ave
Philadelphia, PA

Morris Arboretum’s Holiday Garden Railway continues this Saturday December 20th and Sunday December 21st. View the quarter mile of track featuring seven loops and tunnels with fifteen rail lines and more. $16 adults, $8 children.

Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park
Friday Dec. 19 – Sunday Dec. 21
Dilworth Park
Broad and Market Streets
West Side of City Hall
Philadelphia, PA

Icy fun continues at the new Rothman Skate Rink at Dilworth Park this Friday December 19th – Sunday December 21st. Philly families can now enjoy outdoor public skating against the backdrop of our landmark City Hall. Adults $4, children 10 and under $3, skate rental $8.

Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Friday Dec. 19 – Sunday Dec. 21
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest fun runs all weekend long with a magical winter landscape including a dazzling light show, winter garden and forest, shopping and refreshments in the new “Lodge” with indoor fireplaces, rustic décor and outdoor heat lamps plus shopping at ArtStar with gifts and handmade items. And of course, the outdoor ice skating rink as the centerpiece of all the fun. Admission to Winterfest is free. Skate admission $3. Skate rental $10.

Winter Solstice with King Winter
Saturday Dec. 20th
5:30pm
Angora Fruit Farm at Antietam Lake Park
502 Angora Rd.
Lower Alsace Township

Celebrate the longest night of the year at Angora Farm on Saturday December 29th at 5:30pm around a blazing bonfire after strolling the candlelit path to the main event in the woods. Once around the bonfire listen to the storyteller, meet King Winter and enjoy a short night hike followed by snacks. Bring a flashlight! Geared for kids ages 3-12. Free.

A Very Furry Christmas
Saturday Dec. 20th – Sunday Dec. 21st
Sesame Place
100 Sesame Road
Langhorne, PA

The seasonal festivities are still in full swing at Sesame Place this Saturday Dec.20th and Sunday Dec. 21st with A Very Furry Christmas featuring all of your favorite furry Sesame Street pals. The park is transformed into a Christmas wonderlands with millions of lights, festive decorations, plenty of rides and fun and of course special visits with all your favorite Sesame Street characters and event Santa in his Furry Workshop! Tickets $24 online, $29 at the gate.

Franklin Square Holiday Festival and Electrical Spectacle
Friday Dec. 19th – Sunday Dec. 21st
Franklin Square
6th & Race Streets
Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia’s oldest square, Franklin Square, is transformed into a magical holiday setting starting this weekend with the Electrical Spectacle holiday light show and more. Plus new this year, shop for handmade gifts at the Holiday Market and sample local beers and snacks in Ben’s Bites and Brews, too. Festivities are offered 4-8pm daily. Entrance is free. Some attractions ticketed.

Free Admission on Sunday Mornings
Sunday Dec. 21st
Brandywine River Museum of Art
1 Hoffman’s Mill Road
Route 1
Chadds Ford, PA

Enjoy free admission to the beautiful Brandywine River Museum on Sunday mornings including this Sunday December 21st between 9:30am – 12pm. Free.


Hanukkah Extravaganza
Sunday Dec. 21st
12-2pm
Kaiserman JCC
45 Haverford Rd
Wynnewood, PA

Celebrate Hanukkah with family fun activities at the Kaiserman JCC this Sunday Dec. 21st including Dreidel Mania, face painting, story time, arts and crafts, themed games and more. Plus cookie decorating, latkes, apple sauce and jelly donuts for themed refreshments. $5.

Chanukah Bowling
Sunday Dec. 21st
10am
Thunderbird Lanes
1130 York Road
Willow Grove, PA

Come out for Chanukah Bowling on Sunday December 21st starting at 10am at Thunderbird Lanes in Willow Grove for bowling, Menorah lighting, arts and crafts and live entertainment. Food and refreshments available for purchase.

You guys remember how I recently had the privilege of attending my very first Eagles game, right? And then what you may not know is that I was also so honored and thrilled to be invited to play a little charity flag football on the Lincoln Financial Field (you know, the very one where the Eagles play!) to help raise money for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. It was a media charity game sponsored by NRG and each of the players was raising money for their favorite charity. It was so much fun and a true thrill to be playing football on the field at the Linc. While I didn’t win MVP (there’s always next year) I WAS able to raise $1,000.00 for ALSF and I am delighted to say that I even got to have this incredible donation go to the ALSF end of year campaign in honor of Dan Hammond who lost his 13 year battle with cancer in February at age 22. While I wish I could do so much more, my heart is full from being able to play in this charity game because of NRG’s generosity and to have that wonderful donation be made in Dan’s memory.

And I wanted to share how cool it is that NRG is helping Philly be one of the greenest cities in the country because of their efforts to “green” The Linc!

Check it out:
o  NRG’s smart energy installations at The Linc combine both wind and solar solutions.
o  Lincoln Financial Field has more than 11,000 solar panels.
o  NRG’s 14 micro wind turbines atop the stadium perimeter have become an iconic feature at The Linc.
o  The amount of energy generated by the solar arrays and wind turbines at Lincoln Financial Field annually is equivalent to more than 4 times the power consumed during regular season game days.*
o  At 3 MW of peak power, Lincoln Financial Field is the largest array of its kind in Philadelphia as well as any other football stadium.

Isn’t that incredible? I adore our great city and am so proud of Philly for so many reasons and this is just yet another reason to love us, right?

NRG is the Official Energy Provider that powers the Philadelphia Eagles and Lincoln Financial Field. NRG Home offers an energy solution that is customized for the Philadelphia Eagles Fan called the Eagles Fan Plan that lets you power your home and show your team pride all at the same time.

Thanks NRG for all that you do for Philly and for the incredible opportunity to raise money for charity again this year at the Media Charity Game. I already can’t wait till next year!!

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I received a pair of Eagles tickets for myself as well as a pair to give away to one of my lucky readers in addition to some other fun goodies and Eagles fan gear. I also received a $1000.00 donation to my favorite charity from NRG for playing an awesomely fun game of flag football. As always all opinions expressed about Philly being green, the Eagles being awesome, or donations to my favorite charity Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation being the best gift ever are my own.