With the weather turning colder, it’s only a matter of time before the jingle-jangle of holiday bells are ringing and there is a Santa Claus on every corner.
It also means the return of Christmas Village at Love Park in Philadelphia.
For the 17th season, Christmas Village, which will officially be open Nov. 28 to Dec. 24, will showcase more than 120 vendors offering a curated selection of handmade treasures, artisanal goods, and mouth-watering treats. Visitors can expect to find cozy holiday decor, unique gifts and more.
“We are excited to welcome everyone back to Christmas Village in Philadelphia for 2024 for our 17th season,” said Christmas Village President Thomas Bauer. “This year promises to be very special with the introduction of our first-ever vegan booth and delightful new flavors of Glühwein (mulled wine). With the annual return of the original Christkind and our partnership with CHOP for the Festival of Trees, we look forward to creating cherished memories for families and friends this holiday season. A heartfelt thank you to the City of Philadelphia and our partners for their unwavering support.”
Guests will be enchanted by thousands of twinkling lights, as European market lights that will not only illuminate Love Park but will also make their debut at the events in the City Hall Courtyard and North Broad sections this year.
Visitors are also invited to follow the smell of hot chocolate, Swiss raclette cheese, and other European delicacies to Philadelphia’s largest holiday attraction. The festivities also include live performances, children’s activities, and rides such as the double-decker Christmas Village Carousel, the majestic Ferris wheel, and the kids train.
Shoppers can explore high-quality international and local goods, perfect for holiday gift-giving. A variety of handcrafted beverages will be available, including Glühwein, spiked hot beverages featuring local Boardroom Spirits, and non-alcoholic offerings like hot chocolate and apple cider.
The highly anticipated German American Weekend, Dec. 14-15, will be presented by the German Consulate General in New York.
Guests can share their Christmas wishes at the cherished Make-a-Wish wall, partake in signature Spirits Tasting Events, and enjoy live music on weekday evenings and throughout the weekends. All guests can create lasting memories by posing in front of the enchanting Angel Wing Wall located in the North Broad section and other photo opportunities scattered around Christmas Village.
Visit www.philachristmas.com for more information.
Dilworth Plaza
Meanwhile, across the street at Dilworth Plaza, the region’s largest outdoor holiday market for local artists, makers, and crafters is returning with exciting new surprises and enhancements for the 2024 holiday season.
The Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market is back at Dilworth Park through Jan. 1. This year, the market will continue to offer extended hours, allowing visitors more time to shop, sip and soak in the festive atmosphere after work and into the evening.
Visitors can look forward to a delightful array of handmade holiday decorations, unique gifts, home goods, apparel, and specialty foodie treats, with over 40 vendors from the greater Philadelphia and tri-state area offering a curated selection perfect for holiday shopping.
This season carries forward the refreshed look introduced last year, with vendors showcasing their goods in elegant white wooden booths, each topped with a radiant Moravian star. This modernized design adds to the festive charm. For additional information, visit www.madeinphila.com.
“The Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market is thrilled to celebrate its 10-year anniversary this season,” said Bauer. “This milestone reflects our commitment to showcasing local talent and craftsmanship right in the heart of Philadelphia. We invite everyone to join us this season for a festive experience that highlights the creativity of our vibrant community.”
