Fall break is the perfect time to slow down, make memories, and kick off the holiday season with your kids - and Philly has so many festive things to do! Whether you’re staying local or planning a few day trips, here’s your ultimate guide to family fun during Fall Break 2025 (November 26–December 1). 🍁🎄
All aboard! Take a magical ride through Bucks County on Santa’s North Pole Express Train. Kids can meet Santa, enjoy cookies and cocoa, and take in the sparkling countryside views.
📅 Value Days: November 22, 23, 29 & 30 (lower ticket prices!)
📍 Location: New Hope, PA | Learn more here!
Nothing says “Philly winter magic” like ice skating at the Delaware River Waterfront. The rink opens on November 28, complete with cozy fire pits, cabins, and twinkling lights — a true winter wonderland for families.
📍 Location: 101 S. Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA
Get tickets here!
Starting November 20, the Philadelphia Zoo’s LumiNature returns with over a million lights, glowing animal sculptures, and music displays throughout the zoo. Bundle up, grab some cocoa, and enjoy a dazzling night out!
📍 Location: 3400 W. Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA
Get tickets here!
This year, the Wilma Theatre brings the magic of winter to life with The Snow Queen — a heartwarming story about friendship, courage, and adventure. Perfect for a cozy family outing!
📍 Location: 265 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
Get tickets here!
The classic holiday movie comes to life on stage! Laugh, sing, and relive Ralphie’s quest for the perfect Christmas gift.
📍 Location: 825 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Show details here!
A true Philly tradition! Head to Macy’s in Center City to watch the Wanamaker Light Show, featuring 100,000 lights dancing to holiday music. Bonus — it’s free!
📍 Location: Macy’s, 1300 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
More info here!
Elmwood Park Zoo’s Wild Lights transforms the zoo into a glowing holiday wonderland. Kids can enjoy light displays, animal encounters, and even a visit from Santa!
📅 Begins: November 28
📍 Location: 1661 Harding Blvd, Norristown, PA
Event details!
Ice skate beneath City Hall, shop at the Christmas Village, and sip hot cocoa under the lights — it’s everything we love about Philly in one festive stop.
📍 Location: Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th St., Philadelphia, PA
Learn more here!
On weekends, the Philadelphia Museum of Art hosts Art Kids Studio, a drop-in space for hands-on art activities designed for families.
📍 Location: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
More info here!
Bundle up and head downtown for the 6abc Thanksgiving Day Parade — a Philly favorite! Enjoy balloons, floats, marching bands, and local performances.
📍 Location: Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Lear more at 6abc.com
See the city sparkle from the top of a Philadelphia Big Bus Holiday Lights Tour! Families can take in the twinkling lights across Center City and South Philly.
Drive or walk through The Miracle on South 13th Street, where homes decked out in thousands of lights bring joy to every visitor. It’s a must-see tradition that officially kicks off Thanksgiving weekend.
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For a cozy, budget-friendly morning, head to the Kingsessing Library for an Artsy Crafty Storytime on Saturday, November 29. Kids can enjoy stories and creative crafts — for free!
📍 Location: 1201 S. 51st Street, Philadelphia, PA
💵 Cost: Free
Get hands-on with color and creativity at the Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM). On Saturday, November 29th, families can learn the basics of screen printing and make a take-home print (perfect rainy-day fun and great for school-age kids and teens). Spots are limited - reserve your spot here!
Location: 1214 Arch St., Center City
Whether you’re looking for twinkling lights, creative crafts, or cozy indoor fun, Philly has plenty to keep your family entertained this fall break.
Stay tuned — I’ll be updating this list as more local family-friendly events pop up (especially free ones!). And keep an eye out for our downloadable Fall Break Family Fun Guide, coming soon!
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The Stay Warm, Stay Strong Coat Drive is helping Philly families prepare for winter! From Oct. 17–Nov. 7, visit Strawberry Green Driving Range for free coats, hats, gloves, and scarves for all ages.
Mrs. B’s Catering is giving back to the community with a Turkey & Coat Drive on November 24! Families can pick up free coats, groceries, and turkeys - and enjoy $10 hot platters during this heartfelt holiday event.
Get ready to climb, jump, and play! The Cecil B. Moore Library is hosting a free Rock Climbing and Open Play event on November 11 - perfect for kids ages 7 and up who love adventure and movement.
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Amber Bowie
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