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Holiday Markets, Elf the Musical, Nutcracker, FEZtival of Lights, and More Fun Things To Do in Philly this Weekend

Over a million lights illuminate the Philadelphia Zoo with LumiNature as it transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland. Photo by Georgi Anastasov
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11/20/24 - By Nicole O'Donnell

Looking for the best things to do in Philadelphia this weekend? Here are some family-friendly events and activities to add to your must-do list.

The holidays are in full swing in Philadelphia, and there are plenty of festive events throughout the city and suburbs. Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market or at the Christmas Village in Love Park. Take in a show like Elf at the Walnut Street Theater or the Nutcracker at Upper Darby High School. Make sure to get out there and enjoy all the city has to offer.

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More Things To Do in Philly this Week with Kids:

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Best Things To Do in Philly this Weekend with Kids

FEZtival of Trees & Lights with Santa

Thursday, November 21 through Sunday, November 24, 2024
Plymouth Meeting
LuLu Shriners hosts the FEZtival of Trees and Lights with Santa. This annual family-friendly event features a forest of uniquely decorated trees, children's activities, shopping, raffles, and free digital photos with Santa. READ MORE

Yuletide at Liberty Hill

Opening Weekend!
Now through Sunday, January 5, 2025
Lafayette Hill
Each admission ticket grants entry to Yuletide at Liberty Hill 2024 and includes incredible live music, free amusement rides, and free photos with Santa. You'll also find farm-to-table food and craft drinks and over 35 unique vendors to finish your holiday shopping. READ MORE

Wild Lights at Elmwood Park Zoo

Opening Weekend!
Now through Sunday, December 29, 2024
Norristown
Elmwood Park Zoo's Wild Lights is back with dazzling new displays covering the zoo's 16 acres. Santa will be in attendance for photos, and kids can make cards and crafts outside of his workshop. Enjoy holiday music while sipping hot chocolate and munching on seasonal treats as your family takes in live performances and animal encounters. READ MORE

Dashin' thru the .... Lights!

Friday, November 22. 2024
Yardley
Help Local Families in Need by participating in a 2 Mile Walk or Run on November 22 2024 from 5 to 9pm. Funds generated benefit the Fleming Family Foundation, who’s goal is to assist local individuals and organizations experiencing financial hardship. READ MORE

A Longwood Christmas

Now through Sunday, January 12, 2025
Kennett Square
Walk through the gardens to see the lights, flowers, and trees, and stop into the conservatory to view the seasonal poinsettias. Don't miss the fountain show set to music. READ MORE

The Nutcracker presented by the Pennsylvania Academy of Ballet

Friday, November 22, 2024
Drexel Hill
Presented by the Pennsylvania Academy of Ballet, this beloved holiday tradition has been captivating audiences for over 30 years, offering a magical experience for families. With professional guest artists and talented local dancers, it’s a chance to enjoy world-class ballet at an affordable price. READ MORE

LumiNature at The Philadelphia Zoo

Opening Weekend!
Now through Sunday, January 5, 2025
Philadelphia
Over a million lights illuminate the Philadelphia Zoo as it transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland. LumiNature takes guests on a magical journey featuring 200+ illuminated penguins, a 100 ft-long aquarium tunnel, and special surprises each night. Kids can also ride a new Wilderness Express Train, watch strolling performers, and sip hot chocolate. READ MORE

Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market

Now through Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Philadelphia
Dilworth Park hosts the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market, a chance to patronize local businesses that offer their unique selections for gifts and special foods.  READ MORE

Elf the Musical – Walnut Street Theater

Now through Sunday, December 29, 2024
Philadelphia
Based on the beloved movie starring Will Ferrell and Zoey Deschanel, this show first premiered on Broadway in 2010 and has since been inducted into the canon of classic Christmas shows. READ MORE

Christmas Village in Philadelphia

Opening Weekend!
Now through Tuesday, December 24, 2024
Philadelphia
Running for its 17th season, Christmas Village in Philadelphia will transform LOVE Park and City Hall’s Courtyard and North Broad section into an authentic German Christmas Market. The event is free to attend and will run from November 23rd through Christmas Eve, December 24th, 2024. READ MORE

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