This Week in Philly

this week in philly

The holidays are in full swing this week as Hanukkah ends and Christmas begins. Catch all the festive events before they come to an end. Tag your events out and about in Philadelphia with #ThisWeekinPhilly.

Monday, December 18

  • SWEAT to end hunger! Through Christmas, you can get into any Sweat Fitness class for free! All you need to do is bring two non-perishable cans that will be donated to Philabundance.
  • Visit the Academy of Natural Sciences to see the breathtaking Winter Wonderland in Butterflies exhibit! Observe over six dozen butterflies including the  breathtaking and unique pale white white morpho species.

Tuesday, December 19

  • The annual Philly Pops Christmas comes to an end tonight. Get in the holiday spirit with the sounds of amazing musical arrangements at the Kimmel Center.
  • Cheer on the Philadelphia Sixers as they face off against the Sacramento Kings. Dress your best in your proudest Sixers’ gear for the game that starts at 7 p.m.  

Wednesday, December 20

  • Head over to the Wells Fargo Center to root for the Philadelphia Flyers. They take on the Red Wings and you don’t want to miss it! Face off is at 8 p.m.
  • From 6  to 9 p.m., walk along the festive Germantown Avenue and soak in the holiday fun. Take advantage of extended store hours from local retailers, holiday sales, and more in the beautiful Chestnut Hill.  

Thursday, December 21

  • The 20th annual Reindeer Romp in Fairmount starts at 7 p.m. Bring an unwrapped toy to donate to CHOP patients and grab a pair of antlers or a Santa hat to partake in festivities. Buy tickets in advance to save on drink specials at 9+ participating bars.
  • The Franklin Institute hosts their last Science After Hours of the year with an Ugly Sweater theme. Roam the halls filled with experiments, demonstrations, games, and innovative and engaging science.
  • Well-known comedian Chanel Ali is coming back to Philly to be the host of a stand-up comedy showcase. Don’t miss the Christmas Edition of “It Sounds Crazy” featuring some of Philly’s best at Good Good Comedy.

Friday, December 22

  • Tomorrow is the last day for BOGO admission to Eastern State Penitentiary via their Holiday Toy Drive. Celebrate the season of giving to benefit local children whose parents are incarcerated.
  • Philadelphia Young Democrats is hosting a holiday party just in time for Christmas! From 6 to 8 p.m., guests can network and enjoy refreshments and appetizers at Chickie’s and Pete’s.
  • FringeArts presents the drag cabaret, Martha Graham Cracker’s Soulstice Spectacular! Backed by her stellar band and with her killer voice, Martha Graham Cracker takes you on a raucous, joyous, uninhibited sleigh ride around her world.

Saturday, December 23

  • The Craft Hall pop-up restaurant at City Hall ends today! Don’t miss your last chance to taste expertly-crafted beers, breads, and barbeque they close for the season. Find them again in Northern Liberties later next year.
  • Disney On Ice takes over the Wells Fargo Center! This year’s “Dare to Dream” spectacular will feature your kid’s favorites such as Moana, Beauty and the Beast, Mickey Mouse, and so much more.
  • Victory Brewing is taking over City Tap House for a far-out, epic takeover. Tap Into the Force: Last Jedi Edition features fresh brews, two new one-of-a-kind special edition beers, lightsaber battles, wookies, and a costume contest. Pre-show party begins at 5 p.m. and movie starts at 7:30 p.m.
  • Reading Terminal Market is the place for all things food, but visit this weekend for festive holiday activities. Meet Santa next to Wursthaus Schmitz for pictures and selfies. Then, check out five interactive model train vignettes celebrating the history of the market. Visit this Philly hotspot before it comes to an end!
  • Nothing taste as good as homemade food. Try Let’s Eat Philadelphia, a cooking class that teaches you how to recreate some of your Philly favorites. (This also makes a great experiential gift!)

Sunday, December 24 (Merry Christmas Eve!)

  • Christmas Village in Philadelphia ends tonight! Enjoy a last chance at ice skating, drinking hot chocolate, or finishing up some last minute shopping. There’s no better way to spend the day before Christmas than at the newly renovated LOVE Park.
  • Sail along the Delaware River while spreading holiday cheer with the man of the hour, Santa Claus. All aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia for a Christmas Eve Lunch with Santa cruise.