The Rittenhouse hotel lobby decorated with a Christmas tree, garland, and flowers

Best Places in Philadelphia to Get You into the Holiday Spirit

Philadelphia is one of the most exciting cities in the world during the holiday season. Not only are the decorations, lights, and events all spectacular, but we are also home to several of the top Christmas markets, ice-skating rinks, and theatrical productions out there. For a little more specificity, check out this guide on the best places in Philadelphia to get you into the holiday spirit. 

The Rittenhouse & Rittenhouse Square

The Rittenhouse is a one-of-a-kind hotel to get you in the holiday spirit in Philadelphia. We decorate our luxurious and elegant property with an artful arrangement of festive lights, ornaments, and artwork. Outside our doors, Rittenhouse Square is also lit up with gorgeous lights and festive cheer throughout the season. 

Blue Cross RiverRink 

Opening on November 25th, the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest will continue its 29-year tradition of bringing winter cheer to Philadelphia. Families traveling here this winter can come to the Delaware River WaterFront for skating on an outdoor, NHL-sized rink alongside games, fire pit stations, as well as delicious food and drinks from local vendors. 

Delaware River Waterfront. Philadelphia, PA 

Dilworth Park Winter Wonder

Every year, Winter at Dilworth Park features a run of events and attractions that are musts for travelers looking to get into the holiday spirit. This year, the Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn will run from November to April with displays of “reindeer topiaries and seasonal plantings.” In addition, Dilworth Park will have the Rothman Orthopedics Ice Rink open, the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market, and the Deck The Hall Holiday Light Show this winter. 

Dilworth Park. Philadelphia, PA 

Christmas Village

Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, and so it’s super exciting that Philadelphia has an authentic one right in town at LOVE Park every year. This year’s Christmas Village will run from November 19th through Christmas Eve. You can find traditional European food such as mulled wine and bratwurst among many vendors selling gifts created abroad and in town. 

LOVE Park & City Hall. Philadelphia, PA 

A Philly POPS Christmas

What better way to celebrate the holidays in Philadelphia than with a show from America’s largest standalone POPS orchestra? This special holiday show will feature vocalists Jordan Donica and Hamilton star Mandy Gonzales. Showcasing spectacular sounds of the season, the Philly POPS runs from December 3-17.

Verizon Hall, Kimmel Cultural Campus. Philadelphia, PA