Deck the halls! Well, er, streets! And buildings! And giant trees! Here’s your unofficial guide to Philadelphia‘s holiday lighting ceremonies.
Twinkling lights and sparkling garlands are just a few things that make holidays brighter. The city and its suburbs will have a stunning lineup of ceremonies for the highLIGHT of the holiday season; lights! Philadelphia is fulfilling the goal of making the season bright.
There’s something about the feeling of a lighting ceremony. You huddle together with your loved ones on a chilly night, wrapped in scarves and the thickest coat you own. With red cheeks and hand warmers in hand, you stare up at the unlit promise of a beautiful holiday season. Then, all at once, with a “3, 2, 1!” the lights turn on, creating a dazzling display of cheer. The holiday season is here at last, full of family, fun, and magic.
Don’t miss out on a moment like that! It’s a ceremonious and fitting way to ring in the season of giving and cheer. Thousands of tiny light bulbs can warm your soul in a way unlike any other thing. It’s a fun time to spend with those you love on a night leading up to the holidays.
So here’s your guide to Philadelphia’s holiday lighting ceremonies:
City Hall
The big tree on the north side of City Hall is back. On Thursday, November 30, 2023, at 7 pm the beautiful tree will be lit once more. The event also features a performance by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Jordin Sparks. The tree is lit at the beginning of the celebration this year — so get there early! If you can’t make it, the lighting will be live-streamed on 6abc.com.
Manayunk
The Manayunk Tree Lighting Ceremony AND the debut of Manayunk Gets Lit is on Thursday, November 16, 2023. It will be at Canal View Park, 4418 Main Street. Festivities start 5:30 pm and run to 7:15 pm. Main Street will be transformed for the holidays with a giant holiday tree, dozens of buildings will be lit up, and there are even snow flurries in the forecast!
Northern Liberties
The Northern Liberties Tree Lighting Ceremony and Party is on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. It takes place at Figo Ristorante, 1033 N. 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA. The giant live Christmas tree will arrive on N. 2nd Street and light up the Northern Liberties Restaurant Row.
Old City
In Old City, there is the Historic Holidays Tree Lighting Presented by The Ryland on Wednesday, November 29, 2023. It takes place near Old City District and Betsy Ross House The celebration is from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Santa arrives by fire truck at 6:00 pm at the Betsy Ross House courtyard. The celebration will feature musical and dance performances, special guests including Santa and Betsy Ross, and a holiday tree designed by Old City’s Petit Jardin en Ville, a Parisian Florist and Garden Designer.
East Passyunk
The East Passyunk Annual Tree Lighting is on Wednesday, November 29, 2023. The tree is located at the Singing Fountain. All of the festivities start at 5:30 pm. The lighting of the Christmas Tree is the kick-off to the Deck the Ave month-long holiday campaign on East Passyunk. Santa will help light the tree and take photos with children of all ages.
Evil Genius
Evil Genius Beer Company Fishtown Tree Lighting is on Thursday, November 30, 2023, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The lighting itself is at 7:30 pm Head over to Evil Genius Beer Company at 1727 N Front St, Philadelphia, PA. Evil Genius will light up the nearly 20-foot tree inside, and feature decorations across The Lab for the holidays.
Roxborough
The Roxborough Tree Lighting Ceremony and Happy Holidays from Rox Kick-Off takes place on Friday, December 8, 2023. The tree lighting is at 5:30 pm. Happy Holidays from Rox will happen from Friday to Sunday – All three days. The Roxborough Pocket Park will have over 20 unique crafters, artists, treats, and beverages filling the space.
