How to Survive Winter Break with Family in Philly

Oh, there’s no place like home for the holidays. Winter break gives us a chance to spend some much-needed quality time with our families and loved ones. Make the most of this time by reliving some old traditions and creating new ones. This time of year, Philadelphia is full of activities that the whole group can enjoy. We’ve compiled a list of around the city, complete with last minute gifting ideas, too.  

Places to Visit

Dilworth Park

This winter, stop by Dilworth Park for their holiday festivities. Enjoy ice skating with the family at Rothman Ice Rink or stroll through the holiday Wintergarden (until February 24). Then, catch the shining lights of City Hall’s Deck the Lights Show (until January 1).

Sesame Place

Bring the whole family to A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place. All winter, Sesame Place transforms into a one-of-a-kind Christmas wonderland. Celebrate the season with your favorite Sesame Street friends at the many events happening this holiday season.

Linvilla Orchards

Spend Christmas Around the Farm at Linvilla Orchards from now until December 23. Special attractions include cutting down your own tree, visits with Santa, and caroling hayrides.

Shady Brook Farm

Light up your holiday at Shady Brook Farm’s 24th Annual Holiday Light Show! Now through January 6, Experience the magic of more than 3 million lights illuminating acres of farmland from the comfort of your own car.

 

Rittenhouse Square bookstores

Stop by the brand new Shakespeare & Co. for story time in at 1632 Walnut Street. You can even design your own notebook with personalized images on the cover – right in the store! Or visit the gigantic Barnes & Noble right off the square. There, you can find hundreds of family-friendly stories. Our favorite find is the local Where is Robin,” created and written by Robin Barone and illustrated by Daniel Lee.

 

Theater

It’s showtime! This holiday season, experience the inspiring story of an extraordinary girl who comes to life in Roald Dahl’s Matilda, the Musical. Now through January 6, the Broadway hit comes to The Walnut Street Theatre. Adults and children alike will marvel at the incredible story of the young and courageous Matilda.

 

Now until February 3, the Arden Theatre Company presents Charlotte’s Web, adapted from the book by E.B. White. Watch as this favorite childhood story comes to life. Experience the friendship between a lovable pig and a spider all while spending quality time with family.  

 

You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch. Now through Saturday, Dec 29, The Kimmel Center relieves Dr. Seuss’  tale of How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical. The show will feature the hit songs “You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas.” Sing along with the whole family this winter at The Kimmel Center’s opening night at Merriam Theatre.

 

Sports

Nothing brings the family together like watching the game together. Cheer on your Philadelphia sports teams at any of their upcoming home games. Get in the spirit as you watch them take on opposing teams at Lincoln Financial Field or Wells Fargo Center.  

  • Sixers
    • January 5 – Philadelphia Sixers vs. Dallas Mavericks at Wells Fargo Center
  • Flyers
    • January 3 – Philadelphia Flyers vs. Carolina Hurricanes at Wells Fargo Center
    • January 5 – Philadelphia Flyers vs. Calgary Flames at Wells Fargo Center
    • January 7 – Philadelphia Flyers vs. St. Louis Blues at Wells Fargo Center