This December weekend allows Philly families a chance to prepare for the holidays. Pick the perfect tree, hang twinkling strands of lights around the house, and deck the halls with garland and wreaths to get into the spirit of the season. Once completed, head out to some of the fantastic holiday events happening throughout the Delaware Valley. There is no way to be a Scrooge with what's in store for young and old alike.

Wake up early to have Breakfast with the Trains at Brandywine River Museum. Experience the Swedish tradition of Lucia Fest at the American Swedish Historical Museum. Roast marshmallows and drink hot cocoa at Smith's annual Winter Wonderland  Find a spot to enjoy a holiday parade in Coatesville or Yardley. Once the sun sets, bundle up for a Wassailing Caroling Hayride at Linvilla Orchards or view the fully-decorated boats at Penn's Landing during the annual Seaport Parade of Lights.

Make the most of your time by viewing our events calendar which is literally overflowing with ideas for every good little boy and girl. Enjoy!

Although it may be difficult to tell from the holiday ads on television and Christmas music on the radio, one would suspect Thanksgiving's late arrival this year affords Philly families a little extra time to enjoy the month of November and fall activities before Christmas takes over. After all, there are turkey trots to train for, fall productions to see, and centerpieces to create for the Thanksgiving table. Thankfully, this weekend's line-up includes ways to savor fall or get a jumpstart on the winter holidays.

Kids can race their hearts out during the Dunkin' Munchkin Kids Fun Run which is a part of the Philadelphia Marathon Race Weekend. Those eager for the launch of the new Frozen 2 movie can participate in release events held both in the city and in the suburbs. Families interested in seeing a ballet can watch the Metropolitan Ballet Company bring not one but two stories to life on stage at Abington Friends School.

Of course, there is plenty of Christmas fun if your family can't wait. Children can find Santa in Chestnut Hill or at Sesame Place. Parents can book a holiday train ride or brunch with Santa. And, everyone can enjoy the magical holiday lights at the Philadelphia Zoo or Elmwood Park Zoo. No matter how you spend your weekend, make it a great one with some of our top picks.

Now that November is in full force, Philly families can expect to find many seasonal activities popping up throughout the Delaware Valley as well as in our events calendar. Franklin Square's Holiday Festival is open, the trains at Longwood Gardens are running along the tracks, and Photo Pop's Winter Wonderland at The Bourse is ready to make the perfect backdrop for holiday cards.

This weekend boasts a few holiday productions on stages throughout the region. Music Mountain Theatre presents Frosty & Rudolph, American Music Theatre showcases its Christmas show entitled Joy To The World, and Walnut Street Theatre features The Gifts of the Magi. Not quite ready to make the plunge into the season? Non-holiday performances include Alice in Wonderland at Ambler Theater, Little Red Robin Hood: A Musical Panto at People's Light, and Frozen Jr. at Delaware Children's Theatre. Families looking for thrills are sure to flip over the acrobatic tricks found at UniverSoul Circus. Those who love animals can cheer on their favorite breed at The National Dog Show held at the Greater Expo Center. Round out the fun with a fall walk to celebrate National Take A Hike Day.

Whether you are in the holiday spirit and have been watching Hallmark Christmas movies for weeks or aren't ready for the season and still eating leftover Halloween candy, there are plenty of ways to have fun with our top picks below.