This weekend kicks off many Holiday activities and events for Families to enjoy, from light displays to Santa appearances layering it with a Hot Chocolate from your local coffee shop we are ready to get into the Holiday spirit! Here are some of our favorites so far for 2023!
West Chester Christmas Light Display is a local, must-see attraction created by West Chester resident Gavin who donates the proceeds to Brandywine Valley SPCA. His Winter Wonderland has been showcased on 6 ABC news and brings families from all over to see the many lights and inflatables plus a Santa Letter writing area! The display is up every night through Sunday 12/31 and running 5-10:30pm. On Select nights there are special events that include Santa himself, food trucks and more. This year Gavin is looking to raise $13,500 and you can help him reach this goal while providing a fun, holiday outing for your family for just $5/pp or $10/family cash or check. Parking can be found on the neighboring road of Marple Drive, check the website for more info and stay up to date on operating hours in the event of inclement weather on the Facebook page.
Location: 895 S Concord Road, West Chester, PA 19382
Website: www.westchesterchristmaslightdisplay.com
Luminature at Philadelphia Zoo presented by PNC Bank is happening on select nights now through January 6th. Get ready to experience the zoo like never before, a self-guided tour takes you through 16 illuminated zones. Along the way you will see light performers, a shimmering vine wall, more than a million lights, walk through a 100 foot long jungle tunnel and more. Take a ride on the Septa PZ Express Train for just $4/rider.
Admission starts at $20/Children and $25/ Adults, Free for Children under 2
Parking is $17 and I recommend using the zoo garage which was just a short walk to the zoo.
While you visit, the animals will be sleeping, but the gift shop and food vendors will be open and ready for you.
Location: 3400 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Website: https://www.philadelphiazoo.org/luminature/
New this year, a family-friendly festival named Yuletide in Devon! Families will feel as if they have been transported to their own Hallmark Village with high-end shops outlined in Holiday decor and lights, carnival rides, Santa himself, farm-to-table food and craft drinks, Live music and more. Open 5 days a week, this ticketed event also offers the option of a Season Pass. Included with admission is unlimited carnival rides, meet and photo ops with Santa, access to 35+ high-end vendors and delicious food and beverage options (additional cost to purchase). The website recommends ride shares and offers information on a free shuttle service. Some parking areas are paid entry, see the website for more information. Day tickets start at $22.99/ Kids & $34.99/Adults. Season Passes start at $59.99. Another perk to mention is you can leave and re-enter during operating hours on the day(s) your admission is available. Going on through 12/31 check out the list of artists who will performing throughout this festival.
Location: Devon Horse Show Fair Grounds
Website: www.yuletidedevon.com
Another local, family-owned spot to see this season is Burkholder Holiday Market in Malvern, PA. Consider this one a one-stop shop literally! Browse live Christmas trees and fresh wreathes, photo ops, s’mores and snacks available, shop Holiday and Home Decor plus on select dates you can attend one of their special events which include visits from Santa himself.
Coming up:
12/2 Stop by and write a letter to Santa, he will be in attendance from 12-3pm plus food vendors!
12/9 Santa Visits from 12-3pm plus food vendors!
12/10 Merry Grinchmas – The Grinch will be in attendance from 12-3pm, face painting from 12-3pm, plus food vendors!
12/16 Magic of Christmas – Philly Santa 11a-3pm, Spruce Ridge Reindeer from 11a-3pm, Face Painting 12-4pm, and Food Trucks!
12/23 Santa Visits from 12-3pm
- $10-$15 per family – Please purchase wristbands for entry at our snack shack for select events.
Location: 359 Paoli Pike, Malvern, PA