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All Week

See this: Holiday Lights on the Main Line and Beyond

Linvilla Orchards’ Christmas Around the Farm

Through December 23

598 Linvill Rd., Media

 

Cut your own Christmas tree, visit the Christmas shop, and even see Santa (he’s there Saturdays and Sundays at 1 pm and 3 pm).

‘Cinderella: A Musical Panto’

Through January 6, 2019

People’s Light, 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern

 

Enjoy this musical tradition as People’s Light puts their signature spin on the magical tale of fairy godmothers and glass slippers. Best for kids ages 5 and up.

Shady Brook Farm’s Holiday Light Show

Through January 6, 2019

931 Stony Hill Rd., Yardley

 

More than more than 3 million lights illuminate the farm with fantastic displays. You can drive through in the comfort of your own car, or enjoy the show on an open air wagon ride. After the show, sit by the bonfire, take in the sounds and sights of the Tree of Hope, and enjoy some s’mores and hot cocoa (available on site at the Farm Market). You can even visit with Santa at the market.

Garden Railway at Longwood Gardens

Through January 6, 2019

1001 Longwood Rd., Kennett Square

 

Find this yearly favorite right near the restaurant at Longwood—it includes almost 400 feet of track, and beautiful models of favorite Longwood buildings constructed from natural materials.

West Chester Griswolds

November 22—January 1; Monday—Thursday 4:45—9:45 pm, Friday—Sunday 4:45—10:15 pm

304 Dutton Mill Rd., West Chester

 

The Plummer Family’s annual display features over 85,000 LED lights, and is gets bigger and better every year. They start working on their holiday spectacle each fall, and it runs from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day. The Plummers suggest that if you visit, to tune your car radio to 87.9 for Christmas songs and information about the display.

‘Rosie the Reindeer and the Case of the Stolen Snowglobe’

Select dates through December 30

Act II Playhouse, 56 E. Butler Avenue, Ambler

 

The magical snow globe was stolen from Santa’s sleigh … and Mrs. Claus needs Rosie to crack the case! Two actors play all the roles in this hilarious quick-change comedy for the family. Tickets available online.

Monday

Sensory Storytime

December 10, 10:30—11 am

Belmont Hills Library, 120 Mary Waters Ford Rd., Bala Cynwyd

 

A special storytime for children with special needs and/or sensory issues (they’ll keep the bright lights off and have soft music playing).

Music Monkey Jungle at cBOP

December 10, 10:30—11 am

393 W. Lancaster Ave., Haverford

 

Kids age 4 and under will love MMJ’s weekly singalong. $12; babies under 6 months old are free.

Teen Art Club

December 10, 2:30—4 pm

Haverford Township Free Library, 1601 Darby Rd., Havertown

 

Middle school and high school aged patrons can have fun while hanging out and exploring artistic mediums.

Tuesday

Storytime and Craft at Linvilla Orchards

December 11, 10—11 am

598 Linvill Rd., Media

 

Miss Marcia reads an entertaining story featuring gardens, farming, animals, and nature.  Children can also create a special craft each week. Primarily for preschoolers, but your entire family is welcome to join. Free; no registration required.

Teddy Bear Story Time

December 11, 10—10:30 am

Ludington Library, 5 S Bryn Mawr Ave., Bryn Mawr

 

Join Miss Jackie for a special Teddy Bear Story Time in the Children’s Room – bring your favorite stuffed animal bear to read stories and sing silly songs.

‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ at Ardmore Library

December 11, 1–3 pm

108 Ardmore Ave., Ardmore

 

This week’s Tuesday matinee will get you and your family in the holiday spirit with a true classic.

Evil Genius Lab

December 11, 2:30—4 pm

Haverford Township Free Library, 1601 Darby Rd., Havertown

 

Evil Genius Lab invites teens to drop in on a Tuesday to test out lots of different STEM and maker materials. Activities include building roller coasters or robots, creating music with sound engineering equipment, exploring virtual reality games, and more.

Ho Ho Happy Hour at Village Play Space

December 11, 5—7:30 pm

4 Midland Ave, Berwyn

 

While the little ones sit and share their wishes with Santa, parents can snap photos and enjoy “jolly hour” with BYOB beverages and friends. There will be pizza , snacks, and sweets for all, as well as festive crafts and merry music. Register in advance.

Pajama Storytime

December 11, 7—7:30 pm

Haverford Township Free Library, 1601 Darby Rd., Havertown

 

Come in your PJs and bring a cuddle friend to enjoy good night tales with Ms. Danielle before heading to bed.

Wednesday

Donuts with Santa

December 12, 9—11 am

Village Play Space, 4 Midland Ave., Berwyn

 

While the little ones sit and share their wishes with Santa, parents can snap photos and enjoy complimentary coffee and good company. There will be donuts for all, as well as festive crafts and merry music. $15 tickets grant admission to the play space for the day. Register online.

Tyler Arboretum Winter Special Storytime: ‘The Nutcracker’

December 12, 10—11 am (age 18 months-3 years); 1—2 pm (age 4-6)

515 Painter Rd., Media

 

Storytime programs are for children and their favorite adult. These indoor programs include a story, craft and a snack. The morning session is for toddlers, and the afternoon session is for preschoolers. This week, listen to The Nutcracker, and then make a nutcracker of your own. Register online.

Bilingual Storytime and Music Circle

December 12, 10—10:30 am

Lulu’s Casita, 6 Cricket Ave., Ardmore

 

Come for a mini fiesta and bilingual storytime, then stay and play at Lulu’s.

Storytelling Yoga

December 12, 10:30—11 am

Haverford Township Free Library, 1601 Darby Rd., Havertown

 

Through storytelling incorporating song, art, and movement, explore yoga poses together. Wear comfortable clothing, and bring a water bottle, yoga mat (if you have one), light blanket for relaxation, and your child’s favorite stuffed animal or blanket.

$5 Drop-In Mommy and Me Art Class

December 12, 11 am

260 Exton Square Pkwy., Exton

 

Chester County Art Association hosts $5 drop-ins at its gallery in Exton Square Mall. This class is for kids age 5 and under with a caregiver.

$5 Drop-In Art Classes (Ages 4+)

December 12, 1 pm and 2 pm

260 Exton Square Pkwy., Exton

 

Chester County Art Association hosts $5 drop-ins at its gallery in Exton Square Mall.

‘Cinderella: A Musical Panto’

December 12, 2 pm

People’s Light, 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern

 

Enjoy this musical tradition as People’s Light puts their signature spin on the magical tale of fairy godmothers and glass slippers. Best for kids ages 5 and up.

Super Smash Bros Ultimate Tournament

December 12, 2:30—4 pm

Haverford Township Free Library, 1601 Darby Rd., Havertown

 

Celebrate the release of Super Smash Bros Ultimate for the Nintendo Switch with a tournament, snacks, and lots of fun gameplay! For teens in grades 6-12.

Christmas Party at Charming Star Playroom

December 12 and 13, 5—7:30 pm

4627 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square

 

The kids will all have a chance to sit and chat with Santa, and take pictures. There will also be pizza, drinks (plus BYOB), desserts, music, dancing, and crafts. $20 for kids, $8 for adults. Email  info@charmingstarplayroom.com to register for this event.

Stories and Songs of the Season

December 12, 7 pm

Swarthmore Public Library, 121 Park Ave., Swarthmore

 

Enjoy favorite stories, treats, and live music by friends, neighbors, and librarians. RSVP at 610-543-0436.

Thursday

Brandywine Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’

December 13, 10 am

Emilie K. Asplundh Hall, West Chester University, 700 S. High St., West Chester

 

Travel to the Land of Sweets with the classic holiday ballet.

Merge Dance Studio at Marple Public Library

December 13, 10:30—11:15 am

2599 Sproul Rd., Broomall

 

Music, movement, and dance for kids ages 3-6.

$5 Drop-In Mommy and Me: Ornaments

December 13, 11 am

260 Exton Square Pkwy., Exton

 

Chester County Art Association hosts $5 drop-ins at its gallery in Exton Square Mall. This class is for kids age 5 and under with a caregiver.

Tyler Arboretum’s Tiny Trackers

December 13, 1—2:30 pm

515 Painter Rd., Media

 

Use nature’s gifts of leaves, seed pods, cones, and nuts to make woodland animal decorations. For kids ages 4-6 with a caregiver. Pre-register online.

S.M.Art Kids Club

December 13, 4 pm

Radnor Memorial Library, 114 West Wayne Avenue, Wayne

 

This weekly after-school club for kids in grades 1-5 will explore a different STEM topic each month through books, experiments, crafts, and hands-on fun. Read a book, make an inspiring mess, and learn something new! No registration required.

Sewing: Back to Basics

December 13, 4—5 pm

Tredyffrin Public Library, 582 Upper Gulph Rd., Strafford

 

Join the maker revolution and get back to basics with this hand sewing workshop. Children ages 8-12 are invited to learn the basics. Online registration required.

Christmas Party at Charming Star Playroom

December 13, 5—7:30 pm

4627 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square

 

The kids will all have a chance to sit and chat with Santa, and take pictures. There will also be pizza, drinks (plus BYOB), desserts, music, dancing, and crafts. $20 for kids, $8 for adults. Email  info@charmingstarplayroom.com to register for this event.

Historic Kennett’s Tinsel on the Town

December 13, 6—9 pm

State Street, Historic Kennett

 

This holiday shopping soiree will include music, a beer garden, food trucks, outdoor vendors, visits with Santa, and more festiveness.

Wild Lights at Elmwood Park Zoo

December 13, 6—9 pm

1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown

 

Millions of lights illuminate the zoo, including animated installations, interactive elements, and themed attractions. Follow the lighted path to visit Disco Ball Way and Candy Cane Lane, and stop by Santa’s Workshop for photos—you may even see some live reindeer! Be sure to add on a visit Bubby’s Dessert Party and enjoy seasonal treats with Bubby the Bison. Tickets are available online.

‘Cinderella: A Musical Panto’

December 13, 7 pm

People’s Light, 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern

 

Enjoy this musical tradition as People’s Light puts their signature spin on the magical tale of fairy godmothers and glass slippers. Best for kids ages 5 and up.

Friday

Longwood Gardens’ Breakfast with Santa

1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square

December 14, 9–10:30 am

 

Enjoy a tasty breakfast buffet with Santa at The Terrace at Longwood Gardens. The event is likely to sell out, so reserve your seats early.

Roots with Ruark at Lulu’s Casita

December 14, 10—10:30 am

6 Cricket Ave., Ardmore

 

Come for a weekly music circle for little ones, then stay and play!

BYOB and Pizza Night at Lulu’s Casita

December 14, 4—7:30pm

6 Cricket Ave., Ardmore

 

Lulu’s is open until 7:30 pm for more fun, BYOB, and pizza starting at 4 pm. Parents can relax with some adult beverages while kids tire themselves out before bedtime.

Dirty Cup Pour Art (Grades 6 and up)

December 14, 4 pm

Radnor Memorial Library, 114 West Wayne Avenue, Wayne

 

Kids in grades 6 and up can create a stunning piece of art simply by pouring paint. Register online in advance.

Winterfest at King of Prussia Town Center

December 14, 5—8 pm

155 Village Drive, King of Prussia

 

King of Prussia Town Center will come alive with fun holiday activities all month long! This week, there’s ice sculpture carving and a magic show.

A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place

December 14, 4–8 pm

100 Sesame Rd., Langhorne

 

During the holidays, Sesame Place is transformed into a Christmas wonderland with millions of twinkling lights and festive decorations all around. New for this year, their 1-2-3 Christmas Tree show, has a brand-new illuminated pixel-based tree, that will project festive animated images while guests can sing and dance along to festive soundtrack. There are also three different holiday stage shows, an illuminated Christmas parade, and more.

Workshop: No-Sew Fleece Blanket

December 14, 4:15—5:45 pm

Wayne Art Center, 413 Maplewood Ave., Wayne

 

Participants choose from an array of fleece patterns and create a quick, no fuss, no sew, throw for the winter. Each child leaves the workshop with a fleece blanket, as well as instructions on how to create no-sew blankets at home. For ages 8-16. Pre-register online.

‘Art Market’ at Paoli Library

December 14, 4:30—5:30 pm

18 Darby Rd., Paoli

 

Miss Stephanie will provide the money, kids provide the creativity and learn the value of their dollars. For kids age 3 to 5, make a bracelet or necklace by purchasing beads. For kids age 6 to 8, purchase materials to create an art or architecture piece from a variety of materials. Registration required.

Holiday Swim and Give

December 14, 6—8 pm

Greater Plymouth Community Center, 2910 Jolly Road, Plymouth Meeting

 

The leisure pool will be decorated for the season and holiday music playing for a festively fun swim! Firefighters will be on hand to receive the toys from children who wish to make the holidays brighter for others. Santa will be making an appearance at the end of the event to give out candy canes to all the good boys and girls! The price of the event is $1 plus a new unwrapped toy per person.

Parents’ Night Out at Upper Providence Township Recreation

December 14, 6—10 pm

499 Hopwood Road, Collegeville

 

Kids (ages 4-13) will enjoy pizza dinner, fun games, activities, and a movie while you enjoy an adult night out. Register online.

Paint with Santa at Color Me Mine

December 14, 6:30—8 pm

109 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne

 

Choose from a set of ornaments or a plate to paint, then enjoy storytime and refreshments, and let your kids tell Santa what they’d like for Christmas (and take photos). Tickets available online.

Live Nativity at St. Matthew’s

December 14, 6:30—8:30 pm

600 Walker Rd., Wayne

 

At this free event, there will be a live nativity scene outside on the front lawn of the church. Inside, there will be snacks, and crafts, and games for children.

‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’

December 14, 7:30 pm

Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge Street, Phoenixville

 

The very talented local young actors of Firebird Theatre Company will perform the Andrew Lloyd Weber and Tim Rice musical retelling the biblical story. Tickets available online.

Weekend Events

See our High Five weekend event planner!

Photograph by Jacques-Jean Tiziou.