Skip to content
Link copied to clipboard

Photos: Christmas in Philadelphia

A photographer's view of the city lighted up for the holidays.

City Hall tower rises over the lights of the Christmas Village in LOVE Park. The days are getting shorter but the holiday lights of Center City brighten the way.
City Hall tower rises over the lights of the Christmas Village in LOVE Park. The days are getting shorter but the holiday lights of Center City brighten the way.Read moreTOM GRALISH / Staff Photographer

Philadelphia can be full of holiday cheer, whether you are shopping at Christmas Village in LOVE Park, where staff writer Bethany Ao picked eight booths you shouldn't miss, or strolling through Rittenhouse Square or Franklin Square. Looking for a jolly old elf? Christmas Village has a Santa in a shack. He allows kids to pull on his beard for a "beard check!" 

If you don't see what you want at the Christmas Village, columnist Elizabeth Wellington suggests giving an experience, such as theater tickets, a chance to design a custom shirt, or a rock-climbing or helicopter adventure.

Searching for a festive place to go for a drink with friends? Inquirer Food Critic Craig LaBan shared his recommendations.

In the meantime, enjoy the city sidewalks, busy sidewalks, dressed in holiday style. Even SEPTA is getting into the spirit with "jolly trolleys," decorated with "hundreds of lights, yards of garland and tons of ornaments."