Before we all head home for the highly anticipated holiday break, take advantage of Arcadia’s close proximity to Philly and visit these holiday attractions that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit. Philadelphia hosts spectacular attractions, including light shows, holiday bazaars, and skating rinks that can be enjoyed by all ages as long as you have the holiday spirit and leave the “bah humbug’s” at home.

Macy’s Christmas Light Show

A holiday tradition since 1956, the Macy’s Christmas Light Show in Center City illuminates the building with thousands of lights in sync with holiday music played on the department store’s legendary organ. This light show is spectacular and, perhaps best of all, it’s free! It runs every day on each even hour from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Blue Cross River Rink

Another festive place to visit this holiday season is the Blue Cross River Rink located on Penn’s Landing. This revamped venue now includes ice skating, a light show, and incredible views of both the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and Delaware River.

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Dilworth Park Ice Skating Rink

If you’d rather be in the business district of Philadelphia, head on over to Dilworth Park, a new park near City Hall. This park will also includes an ice skating rink and more seasonal attractions.

Christmas Village

If shopping is more your style, the Christmas Village in Love Park is another Philadelphia holiday tradition to check out. The village hosts over 50 booths selling handmade gifts, ornaments, arts and crafts, and food. After you finish shopping, head over to Franklin Square for an outdoor light show and holiday market.

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Koziar’s Christmas Village

If you don’t mind a bit of a drive, Koziar’s Christmas Village is about an hour and a half drive from campus. The village is lit up by over a million lights and is surrounded by a lake. This little town in the country is unlike anywhere else and will make you feel like you’re in the North Pole for real. Some of the attractions within the village include an old-fashioned bakery shop, toy shop, and various other buildings covered in Christmas lights and decorations.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Penn’s Landing

If you’re still around the Philadelphia area for New Year’s Eve, be sure to check out the fireworks at Penn’s Landing that draw thousands of people every year. This holiday spectacle is the perfect way to ring in the New Year. Whatever you choose to do this holiday season.

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  • Ali

    I'm currently a sophomore with a major in Education and a minor in Psychology. Last spring, I went to Austria and completely fell in love with travel. I aspire to be a teacher or school counselor, who also has time to fulfill my wanderlust and travel the world.

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