What To Do When It’s Chilly in Philly

 Blue Cross Riverrink
Blue Cross Riverrink

Though the temperature continues to drop, that’s simply not a good enough reason to stay indoors. Philly is full of extraordinary activities this winter – both indoors and out.

Sure, in the summertime we have rollerblading, but there’s something special about being able to glide on ice. There are some veteran ice-skating rinks like Class of 1923 Ice Rink on Penn’s campus and Blue Cross Riverrink on the Delaware that are top-notch, but this year we’re most excited about the brand new pop-up Skate at the Piazza.

After a long day of brisk skating (and perhaps a lot of falling), you’ll need to refuel. That’s where George Sabatino saves the day again with the new The Lodge at Waterfront Winterfest (conveniently right next to the Blue Cross Riverrink). An expert on bringing the best seasonal tastes to Philly, Sabatino reinvented the beloved summertime Morgan’s Pier into a winter wonderland of food and beer. Think hand pies, turkey legs, mashed potatoes, fudge, and popcorn.

Take part in the traditional Christmastime performance of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, performed by the Pennsylvania Ballet for the past 50 years. The Academy of Music is not only hosting this beloved holiday show, but is for the first time presenting the Nutcracker Market, this weekend on Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8, with an Opening Preview Party on Friday, December 6. Browse handmade and craft merchandise and gifts from over 50 vendors, and participate in activities such as origami lessons, raffles, the Fleisher Art Memorial’s arts van, live performances, and visits from some of The Nutcracker characters.

Christmas-Village-Love-Park

The holiday season would not be complete in Philadelphia without the iconic Christmas Village in Love Park. This celebration of festive culture speaks so true to the core of our city. This year, you’ll find over 60 wooden booths selling traditional European food and drinks such as waffles, gingerbread, bratwurst and mulled wine while shopping for holiday gifts, ornaments, jewelry and high-quality arts and crafts.

It seems like just yesterday that the 10-year-old movie Elf changed the world of Christmas movie classics. From now until January 5, enjoy the musical comedy rendition of Elf at the Walnut Street Theater based upon the New Line Cinema film written by David Berenbaum. Act quickly because tickets to this favorite are selling out!

It’s hard to believe that we’re in the final stretch of 2013, but there is still so much left to enjoy! Share your winter memories all season long with Philly PR Girl.