If you’re building your holiday bucket list this year, go ahead and put a big star next to Longwood Gardens at Christmas. It’s one of those holiday experiences that feels straight out of a movie — glowing lights, gorgeous conservatories, fire pits, fountains, music, and enough beauty to keep your kids (and you!) wide-eyed the entire time.
Longwood during the holidays is a true Philly-area tradition, and it’s one I think every family should experience at least once. It’s peaceful, magical, and the perfect break from the holiday chaos.
From November through early January, Longwood transforms into a winter wonderland. We’re talking:
Thousands of sparkling lights wrapped around trees, dancing across pathways, and woven through the gardens
The Conservatory filled with poinsettias, fresh florals, decorated trees, and stunning arrangements
Outdoor firepits for warming up between exploring
The illuminated fountain garden, which steals the show every single year
Holiday music and performances that give you that cozy, nostalgic feeling
Kid-friendly walkways with tons of spaces to explore and take photos
It’s festive, it’s breathtaking, and most importantly - it’s family-friendly without feeling overwhelming.
If you want slightly quieter crowds, try:
Weeknights
Later evening time slots
Early in the season (before mid-December)
Tickets often sell out, so grab them early - especially if you’re going with family or bringing guests from out of town.
This is the perfect outing to pair with your holiday jammies, hot cocoa at home afterward, or even a quick stop at a local café.
You can turn it into your family’s “official kickoff” to the holiday season - a beautiful, grounding moment before the December chaos takes over.
Longwood Gardens doesn’t disappoint. It’s magical for kids, relaxing for moms, and full of the kind of memories we actually want to keep.
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Grab the kids for a fun outdoor adventure this November: S’mores Outdoors at Lawncrest Recreation Center - marshmallows, good company, and Philly fall fun.
Discover a fun, short-and-sweet Philly outing for families: “Wayfinding by the River!” at Fairmount Water Works - a treasure-hunt style event for kids and moms this November.
Looking for a fun and free way to spend a Sunday with your kids in Philly? Join us at the Barnes Foundation’s Free First Sunday Family Day on December 7 - art, music, and memory-making, no cost required.
Amber Bowie
Author