What to Do in Philadelphia This Week & Weekend

PHILADELPHIA, PA - Planning your week in Philadelphia? Look no further! We've curated a list of the must-attend events happening in the city, including special Halloween celebrations, wine tastings, unique yoga experiences, and holiday markets. Don't miss out on these unforgettable experiences.


What to Do in Philadelphia This Week & Weekend
What to Do in Philadelphia This Week & Weekend

Philly's Calling: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Week Ahead

Here's a taste of what awaits you:

  • November 21st to January 4th: LumiNature returns to the Philadelphia Zoo with a dazzling display of over a million holiday lights! Experience 16 illuminated zones celebrating wildlife and the beauty of our planet. This year's event is more interactive than ever, with new zones like "LumiNature 360", "Beary Sweet", and "Polar Play". Enjoy a brand-new menu of treats as you make magical memories this holiday season.
  • Novembe 1st to November 23rd: Loch Bar's "The Hamilton" Cocktail - In celebration of Hamilton at the Academy of the Arts, Loch Bar introduces "The Hamilton." This limited-edition cocktail, available during the show's run, features Loch Bar's exclusive Rittenhouse Rye Barrel Bourbon, Yellow Chartreuse, blackberry puree, and lemon, garnished with a fresh blackberry. Priced at $19, "The Hamilton" offers a sophisticated sip for theatergoers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

November-December: 2024 Events in Philly

Ongoing

  • Square 1682 (Center City): Celebrate Halloween with the "Mischief Night" cocktail and seasonal dishes like "Bone Fruit & Harmony" and "RIP (Rest in Pasta)."
  • Senor Grinch Christmas Pop-up Bar: Taqueria Amor transforms into a Grinch-themed bar with festive décor, food, and drinks.
  • Manayunk Meals and More (December 15th): Local restaurants come together to provide holiday meals for those in need.

NOVEMBER 2024

November 8-11th:

  • Fogo de Chão (King of Prussia) gives veterans and active duty military 50% off their Full Churrasco Meal. Plus, their guests get an extra 10% off!

November 9-11th:

  • Veterans Day Weekend at the Museum of Illusions Philadelphia - Honor our veterans and active military personnel with a free visit to the Museum of Illusions Philadelphia. Explore mind-bending exhibits and enjoy a unique and memorable experience.

November 10th:

  • Celebrate National Mussels Day in Philly! - Calling all seafood lovers! This Sunday, November 10th, is National Mussels Day, and Philadelphia is the perfect place to celebrate. Dive into delicious mussel dishes at these top spots:
    • Loch Bar: This classic seafood tavern offers Black Diamond Mussels with garlic white wine broth, as well as a Seafood Bake and Seafood Tower featuring mussels.
    • Parc: Enjoy the quintessential French experience with Moules Frites, featuring fresh mussels steamed in white wine, shallots, and garlic, served with crispy fries.

November 11th: Hard Rock Cafe Philadelphia offers a free Legendary® Burger to all active and retired military personnel with valid ID. Family and friends can also enjoy a 15% military discount.

Ongoing: The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City has a Veterans Program with perks like room upgrades, free parking, car washes, buffet discounts, and more. Enrollment requires valid military ID.

November 14th:

  • HOWL AT THE MOON YOGA at Two Locals Brewing - Unleash your inner wolf with an evening of moonlight yoga and handcrafted cocktails. Join Meredith Rebar for an all-levels flow followed by spirit tastings from Art in the Age. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just looking for a unique night out, this event promises a howling good time.
  • Manayunk Tree Lighting Ceremony (5:30-7:00 PM): Kick off the season with live performances, a visit from Santa, and a brand new tree! Don't forget to wear your Eagles green!

November 16:

  • Philly Wine Fest - Immerse yourself in a sophisticated wine-tasting experience at the Philly Wine Fest. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and a curated selection of wines from around the globe.

November 17th:

  • At The Table Celebrates 8 Years with an Exclusive Tasting Menu - Join At The Table in Wayne for their 8th anniversary celebration! Enjoy a complimentary cocktail hour at 6pm followed by an exquisite eight-course tasting menu featuring fan-favorite dishes from the past eight years. This special event starts at 7pm on Sunday, November 17th.

November 18th:

  • Fashion Touchdown for Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence - Experience the intersection of fashion and football at the Fashion Touchdown event. See stylish outfits presented by Boyds, modeled by Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence (BBBSI) matches and notable VIPs, all while supporting BBBSI's mission to empower youth through mentoring.

November 20th

  • 5:30 pm to 9 pm: Kick off the holiday season at Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia's Holiday Night Market! This vibrant event features local makers, festive cocktails, live music, and an opening reception for Philadelphia artist Jessie Husband. Enjoy a unique shopping experience and a taste of Philly culture in the heart of Rittenhouse Square. Free and open to the public.

November 23 - December 24, 2024:

  • Christmas Village in Philadelphia - Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at Philadelphia's beloved Christmas Village. Returning to LOVE Park and City Hall, this festive market offers twinkling lights, charming decorations, live music, delicious treats, and unique gifts.

November 23rd:

  • Ms. Pat: The Hot & Flashy Tour Get ready to laugh with Emmy-nominated comedian, actress, author, and host Ms. Pat as she brings her "Hot & Flashy Tour" to The Live! Event Center.
  • Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Miracle on American Street Holiday Gift Market! This event, hosted by NextFab and Olde Kensington Boutique, will feature over 80 local vendors offering unique, handmade gifts. Enjoy make-and-take activities, live demonstrations, and more. The market takes place from 11am to 5pm at NextFab North (1800 N. American Street).

November 25 - December 20

  • CBS Philadelphia Joy of Giving Holiday Drive - Donate toys for children in need at the Kimmel Center, Academy of Music, and Miller Theater.

November 26:

  • 23rd Annual WMGK Turkey Drop - Donate frozen turkeys or money to CityTeam Philadelphia outside the Kimmel Center.

November 26 - December 1:

  • Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical - The Broadway holiday classic comes to the Miller Theater.

November 28th (Thanksgiving Day):

  • 6ABC Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade - Catch Ensemble Arts performing on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
  • Looking for a delicious and stress-free Thanksgiving meal? Several top Philadelphia restaurants are offering dine-in and take-out options this Thanksgiving. Enjoy a festive feast with family and friends at At The Table, Famous 4th Street Delicatessen, Jansen, Patchwork, Red Owl Tavern, Seaview Hotel and Golf Club, Sofitel Philadelphia, Square 1682, The Twisted Tail, or Urban Farmer.

November 30th:

  • Small Business Saturday: Support local businesses and enjoy special deals and events. Pick up a Manayunk Shop Small Passport for a chance to win prizes!
  • Operation Santa Claus Launch: Help families in need by donating gifts at 106 Grape Street.

DECEMBER 2024

December 1:

  • The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show - Enjoy a hilarious holiday show at the Academy of Music.

December 5th - 21st:

  • Manayunk Gets Lit & Jolly Trolley: Thursdays-Saturdays, enjoy twinkling lights, festive entertainment, and food and drink specials. Hop on the free Jolly Trolley for a magical ride down Main Street!

December 6-29:

  • George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker - Philadelphia Ballet presents this holiday classic at the Academy of Music.

December 6-8:

  • Classic Nutcracker - The Rock School performs this classic ballet at the Miller Theater.

December 7:

  • Children’s Holiday Spectacular - A family-friendly concert with sing-alongs and special guests at Marian Anderson Hall.

December 10:

  • A Soulful Christmas - Gospel music and holiday spirit with special guest Ricky Dillard at Marian Anderson Hall.

December 8th:

  • Santa Paws Pet Photos (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Get your furry friend's photo taken with Santa at Pet Friendly Dog Bakery!

December 12-13:

  • Yannick’s Holiday Mixtape in Concert - A festive orchestral concert with classic holiday tunes at Marian Anderson Hall.

December 13:

  • WRTI Silent Night Sing-In - Join a community sing-along of "Silent Night" at Commonwealth Plaza.

December 13th & 14th:

  • Lincoln Mill Haunted House's Twisted Christmas: Experience a spooky holiday twist at this haunted attraction.

December 14th:

  • 10th Annual Rudolph Run (9:00 AM): Join this festive fun run along the towpath. Bring a canned good to benefit North Light Community Center.

December 14-15:

  • The Glorious Sound of Christmas - The Philadelphia Orchestra performs holiday classics at Marian Anderson Hall.

December 18-19 :

  • Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert - Enjoy this classic film with live orchestral accompaniment at Marian Anderson Hall.

December 21-22:

  • Messiah - The Philadelphia Orchestra performs Handel's masterpiece at Marian Anderson Hall.

December 23:

  • Samara Joy: A Joyful Holiday - GRAMMY-winning jazz vocalist Samara Joy performs holiday favorites at Marian Anderson Hall.

December 25th - January 1st:

  • Eight Crazy Nights of Hanukkah: Celebrate Hanukkah with Instagram giveaways, a candle lighting, and treats at the Manayunk Welcome Center.

December 26-29: 

  • STOMP - The percussion sensation returns to the Miller Theater.

December 31st: 

  • New Year’s Celebration - Ring in the new year with an orchestral concert and dance performances at Marian Anderson Hall.

JANUARY 2025

January 10th:

  • Lunar New Year - Celebrate the Year of the Snake with the Philadelphia Orchestra at Marian Anderson Hall.

 This is just a glimpse of the exciting events happening in Philadelphia this October. Check with the venues for the most up-to-date details and any potential changes.