Enjoy picking and other family-friendly activities at Linvilla Orchard. Photo courtesy of the orchard
Apple Picking near Philly: Best Apple Orchards for Apple Picking with Kids
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Guide to Classes for Kids in Philadelphia
Build birthday memories brick by brick at LEGOLAND. Photo courtesy of LEGOLAND
32 Fun Indoor Birthday Party Places for Kids in Philly
Task-tackling service Taskrabbit is able to take on tons of back-to-school projects you may not have even considered outsourcing.
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Put your skills to the test on the obstacle course at Urban Air.. Photo courtesy of Urban Air
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Ultimate Archery is a great experience for families looking to have some fun together!
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Franklin Square Features Center City's only miniature golf course. Photo courtesy of Historic Philadelphia
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We've launched a partnership with Care.com to bring background-checked nannies and sitters to the Mommy Poppins Directory.
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Kids and parents will love the fresh ingredients and delicious flavors in the ice pops and pies and pies at Lil' Pop Shop..Photo courtesy of the shop
21 Top Things To Do with Preschoolers in Philly
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Make a splash at a Jersey Shore waterpark, like Ocean Oasis at Morey's Piers.. Photo by Kip Dawkins
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Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest is one of the Philadelphia Waterfront's favorite summertime traditions Photo courtesy of the Delaware-River-Waterfront
40 Summer Festivals and Fairs in Philadelphia for Kids
University City District presents free outdoor movies at Clark Park. Photo courtesy of University City District
Free Outdoor Movies in Philly this Summer with Kids
Bring the family to the first annual Rail Park Block Party where Noble Street will bustle with activities. Photo courtesy of the event
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Bass River State Forest. Photo courtesy NJ State Park Service
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Explore the Children's Discovery Garden at Sister Cities Park. Photo courtesy of Matt Stanley
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At Johnson's Corner Farm, it's all about the berries.
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The Pocono Mountains are a family-friendly destination with awesome activities for all ages. Photo of the Lehigh River by Mommy Poppins
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Fishtown families flock to Penn Treaty Park for the waterfront views, special events, and open space. Photo by M. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia
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Visit the African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP), located in the heart of Old City.
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Take in 300 years of history on Elfreth's Alley. Photo courtesy of the museum
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In addition to Pay-What-You-Wish First Sundays, kids 18 and under are always free at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Photo courtesy of the museum
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Join the Phillies Kids Club, just in time for the home opener!
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Ultimo Coffee serves up treats and pours hearts all day. Photo courtesy of the shop
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Turn your eye of the tiger into the eye of an artist at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
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Smith Memorial Playhouse is always free, with space for kids to make their own crafts. Photo courtesy of Smith
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Take a bikde ride through Doylestown. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala
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Six Flag Great Adventure brings big time thrills as one of our favorite amusement parks in New Jersey.
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Both babies and dogs love stroller walks for some fresh air. Photo courtesy of Gina Massaro for Mommy Poppins
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Parents eat while kids climb and slide at Craft Hall.
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Pony rides always bring out smiles at Linvilla Orchards. Photo courtesy of the orchard
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Try a whiz-wit at Tony Luke's, a reliable Philly cheesesteak spot with multiple locations. Photo courtesy of J. Varney for GPTMC
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Challenge the rope bridge and zip line at Elmwood Park Zoo. Photo courtesy of the zoo
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Blue Cross RiverRink is open for Summerfest in the warmer months and Winterfest in the colder months. Photo courtesy of J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
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Harriet's Bookshop is full of titles that represent Black kids and kids of color. Photo courtesy of the shop
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Explore a house at PlayArts. Photo by the author
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In addition to Pay-What-You-Wish First Sundays, kids 18 and under are always free at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Photo courtesy of the museum
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No one walks the plank, but everyone has fun with with Scallywag’s Pirate Adventures in Erie. Photo courtesy of Scallywag's Pirate Adventures.
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Take a hike: Family getaways are a great opportunity to reconnect with nature.
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Enjoy the wildflower meadow at Delaware Canal State Park near the Giving Pond. Photo courtesy of PA DCNR
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Don't miss closing weekend of Disney100, the magical world premiere exhibition at The Franklin Institute. Photo by @Disney
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The Visit Philadelphia Holiday Parade will send floats representing Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and the Chinese New Year marching down Market Street . Photo courtesy Visit Philly
The Visit Philadelphia Holiday Parade will send floats representing Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and the Chinese New Year marching down Market Street . Photo courtesy Visit Philly
12/4/22 - By Victoria Fox

The list of kid-friendly Christmas events is endless! There's no better way to spend time with family and friends than at an attraction that doesn't cost anything. All around the Philadelphia area, there are tons of places for families who want some holiday cheer without breaking their wallets. So we've put together this helpful list that will help you create memories this season.

For more ways to keep the season merry and bright, check out our Holiday Bucket List, Christmas lights, ice skating, volunteering opportunities, and more, which can all be found in our Guide to Holiday Events and Christmas Activities.

We’re adding more events to our family activity calendar daily, so don’t forget to check it frequently. Get our picks for every weekend in your inbox—sign up for our newsletters.

 

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Get outside and enjoy the chill with a visit to Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn, which returns to Dilworth Park. Photo courtesy of Center City District
Get outside and enjoy the chill with a visit to Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn, which returns to Dilworth Park. Photo courtesy of Center City District

Free Holiday and Christmas Activities Near Philly in 2022

Electrical Spectacle Light Show in Franklin Square

Now through February 23, 2023
Philadelphia
Inspired by Benjamin Franklin's experiments with electricity, the Electrical Spectacle makes Franklin Square sparkle with its musical light show, reoccurring every 30 minutes. Enjoy 200,000 lights dancing to five festive songs that fill the square. READ MORE

Holidays on the Hill

Now through December 25, 2022
Philadelphia
Ride in a horse-drawn carriage, listen to a brass quartet, admire twinkling lights, festive window displays, and possibly catch Santa handing out candy canes–all while checking off holiday shopping lists at Chestnut Hill's 200+ businesses. READ MORE

Holidays in the Village

Now through January 8, 2023
Lahaska
One million lights are poised to be awfully merry and extremely bright. Take an open-air stroll through the enchanted village while taking in the beauty and magic of the season. There are 65 specialty shops and boutiques to explore, spectacular gingerbread houses to view, and a 1920s carousel to ride. Special programming will be held throughout the season. READ MORE

Wintergarden

Now through March 26, 2023
Philadelphia
Get outside and enjoy the chill with a visit to Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn, which returns to Dilworth Park. Guests to the garden will find whimsically crafted reindeer topiaries, seasonal plantings, twinkling lights, and outdoor seating.  READ MORE

Dilworth Park - Deck the Hall Light Show

Now through January 1, 2023
Philadelphia
The west facade of City Hall in Dilworth Park lights up nightly in festive scenes with this free choreographed show every hour on the half-hour during the week, and more frequently on weekends. READ MORE

Herr's Snack Factory Christmas Lights Display

Now through January 2, 2023
Nottingham
Visit the Herr's Snack Factory in Nottingham and drive through their campus to view 600,000 dazzling lights making up a spectacular holiday display. Guests will see decorated trees, shrubs, and even some reindeer. READ MORE

Visit Philadelphia Holiday Parade

Saturday, December 4, 2021
Philadelphia
The Visit Philadelphia Holiday Parade will send floats representing Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and the Chinese New Year marching down Market Street en route to City Hall, for a seasonal spectacular families won't want to miss. READ MORE

Christmas Village in Philadelphia

Now through December 24, 2022
Philadelphia
Held at LOVE Park, this outdoor holiday market reflects the feel of traditional Christmas markets found in Germany. Visitors can expect booths featuring conventional European food, sweets, drinks, and shopping. Kids can visit Santa and ride the carousel, Ferris wheel, and train. READ MORE

Yardley Olde Fashioned Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting

December 3, 2022
Yardley
Watch this old-fashioned Christmas parade which goes from Main Street to Afton Avenue. Afterwards, see Santa light the tree! Santa and Mrs. Claus are to visit with children at the pavilion in Buttonwood Park. READ MORE

The Comcast Holiday Spectacular

Now through January 1, 2023
Philadelphia
This year's Comcast Holiday Spectacular will display 15-minute kid-friendly shows every hour on an outdoor screen. Enchanting holiday scenes are set to seasonal music and feature performances by the Pennsylvania Ballet. READ MORE

Macy's Center City Holiday Traditions

Now through December 31, 2022
Philadelphia
A Philadelphia tradition, the Macy's Christmas Light Show is back. The department store's lineup of holiday events also includes Dickens Village–a 6,000 square-foot walk-thru experience, pictures with Santa, and its iconic holiday window displays.  READ MORE

Ambler Main Street’s Annual Holiday Parade

December 3, 2022
Ambler
The parade is a wonderful community event you don’t want to miss. Pro tip - arrive early to get your prime spot on Butler Ave and enjoy the bands, floats, Mummers, and more. And don’t forget who else will be there… SANTA! READ MORE

American Heritage's Grand Illumination

Now through January 2, 2023
Philadelphia
American Heritage Credit Union welcomes visitors to its annual Grand Illumination celebration featuring the lighting of two 40-foot Christmas trees, hundreds of wreaths, and over 400,000 lights. This month-long display always gets families into the spirit of the season. READ MORE

The Miracle on South 13th Street

Now through January 2, 2023
Philadelphia
The 1600 block of South 13th Street (between Tasker and Morris) morphs into the Miracle on South 13th Street. Residents in this neighborhood join together to put on one of the best residential community light displays in the area. Park nearby and walk, or roll down the block in your vehicle, taking it slow as you take in the sights. READ MORE

Smedley Street Christmas Light Spectacular

Now through January 2, 2023
Philadelphia
For over 50 years, South Philly residents on the 2700 block of Smedley Street have been wowing spectators with an impressive community display of blow-up decorations, beautifully lit trees, and sparkling string lights.  READ MORE

Old City Menorah Lighting at Betsy Ross House

Sunday, November 28, 2021
Philadelphia
Betsy Ross House joins Old City Jewish Arts Center to light the menorah and celebrate the first night of Hanukkah. Visitors can expect traditional foods like latke and doughnuts and menorahs for the younger guests. READ MORE

Boathouse Row Festival of Lights

Sunday, November 28, 2021-Saturday, January 1, 2022
Philadelphia
The iconic rowing clubs lining the banks of the Schuykill River are all dressed up in colorful lights to mark multi-cultural holiday celebrations–from Hanukkah to Christmas to Kwanzaa. Fairmount Water Works and Martin Luther King Drive both offer great vantage points. READ MORE

Quakertown Tree Lighting

Friday December 3, 2021
Quakertown
Celebrate the start of the season at the tree lighting in downtown Quakertown. Guests can expect lots of seasonal fun as the tree is lighted for the holidays.  READ MORE

Holiday Rockwood Park & Museum

Friday, December 3, 2021-Saturday, December 4, 2021
Wilmington, DE
Rockwood Park and Museum will get the holidays rolling at their Holiday Open House, where children can visit with Santa, make crafts, watch a tree-lighting ceremony, listen to live music, and ride a train through the gardens. The museum will be festively decorated and open for first-floor tours.  READ MORE

Festival of Lights

December 2 through January 1, 2023
Media
Shortly after sunset each night, Rose Tree Park comes alive with a beautiful light display. Dozens of illuminated trees and lit displays draw visitors back every year to walk in the winter wonderland and linger in the festive atmosphere.   READ MORE

Visit Philadelphia Holiday Parade

Saturday, December 4, 2021
Philadelphia
The Visit Philadelphia Holiday Parade will send floats representing Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and the Chinese New Year marching down Market Street en route to City Hall, for a seasonal spectacular families won't want to miss. READ MORE

Holiday Lights Festival

Saturday, December 4, 2021
Lansdale
Visit Fischer's Park in Lansdale for Towamencin Township's annual Holiday Lights Festival. In addition to the festive decor, families can enjoy entertainment, refreshments, and horse-drawn surrey rides through the park, based on availability. READ MORE

Car Menorah Parade

Sunday, December 5, 2021
Cherry Hill, NJ
Chabad of Camden and Burlington counties hosts this unique South Jersey celebration of the Festival of Lights. Fire and police department vehicles are on hand to lead the parade of menorah-adorned cars. READ MORE

Christmas Caroling in Clark Park

Sunday, December 19, 2021
Philadelphia
Clark Park's annual carol sing draws neighbors from all over to lift their voices and spread holiday cheer with classic songs. Enjoy cookies and hot-cider refreshments courtesy of the Friends of Clark Park. READ MORE

New Year's Day Fireworks Spectacular - CANCELED

Saturday, January 1, 2022
Philadelphia
Kick off 2022 with a colorful bang at a brand new fireworks display over the water at Penn's Landing. Love & Grit is the musical theme for the first-ever Visit Philadelphia New Year's Day Fireworks Spectacular. See the show for free along the Delaware River Waterfront from Blue Cross RiverRink, Race Street Pier, or the Great Plaza at Penn's Landing. READ MORE

Souderton Holiday Parade

December 3, 2022
Souderton
“Be Creative” is the theme for this year’s Souderton Holiday Parade featuring an exciting lineup of floats, parade vehicles, performances, and appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus atop a festive red firetruck. READ MORE

West Chester Griswolds Light Display

Now through January 2, 2023
West Chester
If the name sounds familiar, that's because this West Chester family takes after Clark Griswold and company from National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. Trust us when we say this home does not disappoint, and this year's display features over 133,000 lights, 800 smart pixels, and a newly-added Cosmic Color Ribbon Tree set to music. Kids can also drop off letters for Santa at the home's special mailbox. READ MORE

East Gate Square Photos with Santa

Saturdays through December 17, 2022
Mt Laurel Township
Santa is coming to town at East Gate Square. Come to Santa's workshop, and take a free photo with Santa and his elves. READ MORE

Happy Holidays from Roxborough

December 10, 2022
Roxborough
Ridge Avenue gets festive at Roxborough's annual holiday event, with special guests Santa and Elsa and a slew of family-friendly activities. Kids can enjoy treats and hot chocolate from local food vendors, while grown-ups grab a drink from New Ridge Brewing Company. READ MORE

Festival of Lights

December 2 through January 1, 2023
Media
Shortly after sunset each night, Rose Tree Park comes alive with a beautiful light display. Dozens of illuminated trees and lit displays draw visitors back every year to walk in the winter wonderland and linger in the festive atmosphere.   READ MORE

Places featured in this article:

Ambler Main Street’s Annual Holiday Parade
American Heritage Credit Union Campus
Miracle on South 13th Street
Smedley Street Christmas Light Spectacular
Great Plaza at Penn's Landing