Last week my fellow Fairy, Holly, wrote about all the some great places in the Mid-Atlantic region to visit during the holidays. This week I am going to do a deeper dive into the Philadelphia Christmas Village. This holiday tradition is something I do not like to miss because of all the great crafters, vendors, and food. The best part of it all is the Rothman skating rink and the Merry Go Round that is right by City Hall.
The Christmas Village is located at 1500 John F. Kennedy Blvd in the center of Philadelphia that runs from November 23 to December 24, 2024 this year. I visited right after Thanksgiving and a few days after they lit the City Hall Christmas Tree. One of my stops is visiting the tree to see it lit in all its glory. The tree rivals New York City’s tree and is definitely worth the trip by itself. So, between the shopping, the tree, and skating rink there is plenty to see and do for the whole family.
My first stop was hitting the booth that has Hot Beverages and Spiked drinks. I have wanted to purchase the special boot mug each time I visited but the booth was either closed or the lines were too long. This trip I hit it just right! I got my spiked Hot Chocolate with whipped cream and it was delicious. This is just one of the many different German food booths located throughout the village. They have bratwurst, schnitzel, spaetzle, raclette, Belgium fries, strudel, mazza wine, beer and other hot beverages. “The Alm” is a traditional Beer Garden that has some great German beers and other mulled drinks. You will not be disappointed with any of the food and drink. Several booths are located throughout the village as well.
My sister works at one of my favorite booths at the festival which is True Honey Teas. These are teas that are infused with honey. I was able to see her in action when I went this year. They have several different teas to try and also some to take home. Some of the flavors are Hibiscus Lemon Lift, Ginger Lemon Zest, and Lavender Lemonade. This is just one of the artisan booths that showcase local and not so local vendors. You can even order some of the vendors' products online if you are not able to purchase them when you visit the Christmas village. Everything you can imagine from clothing booths to ornament booths to food and everything in between. You will be able to find unique gifts for holiday gifting.
Not interested in food or gift booths? Why not go ice skating? Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink is located near the village in Dilworth Park and is open from November 23, 2024 to February 23, 2025. You must book your 90 minute session in advance because walk up slots are limited. The cost to skate is $9 for adults and $7 for children under 10. If you do not have skates you can rent them for $10. The prices are very affordable and it is so fun to skate with your family.
So the next time you come to Philadelphia for the holidays do not miss out on visiting the tree and the Christmas Village. You definitely will not be disappointed. I had a great time and I went alone this year. This really put me in the holiday spirit and I got some gifts to give my granddaughter and grandson. When they get older I hope to bring them to visit this awesome treasure in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Until Next Time!
Your Bibbidi Bobbidi Bestie,
Celeste
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