Need plans for Thanksgiving week? Staying in town for Thanksgiving, or hosting family? We’ve got something great, every day.

 

And we’re bringing you the whole week, including Thanksgiving weekend, all at once! Just one more thing to be thankful for!

Looking for more? Here’s what’s going on in Philly!

 

 

Go straight to: Monday        Tuesday       Wednesday      Thursday (Thanksgiving!)

THANKSGIVING WEEKEND

All Week

Young Sports Thanksgiving Week Camp

November 25–27, and 29

133 Sugartown Rd., Wayne 

 

If your kids have off school this week, Young Sports has a flexible day-off camp schedule. Pick your days and times, and your kids will have a fun day of sports, crafts, and more. Ages 2.5-8; pre-register online.

Little Red Robin Hood: A Musical Panto

November 13—January 5

People’s Light, 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern

 

Fairytales collide in this brand new panto — Robin Hood is dead, his merry men are in hiding, and Nottinghamshire is taken over by a greedy villainess. Can a new hero (or heroine) emerge from Sherwood Forest and save the day? This musical mashup is sure to delight all ages this fall, through the holidays.

Elf: The Musical

November 13—January 12

The Media Theatre, 104 E. State Street, Media

 

Call us cotton-headed ninny muggins, but it’s never too early to get into the spirit with this hilarious musical adaptation of the classic Will Ferrell film. After all, the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!

Happy Place

Through January 5, 2020

King of Prussia Mall, 160 N. Gulph Rd., King of Prussia

 

Step into a mind-bending, colorful, larger-than-life and interactive 15,000 square foot pop-up installation in the King of Prussia Mall. Tickets available online.

Wild Lights at Elmwood Park Zoo

November 22—January 5, 6—9 pm

1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown

 

Millions of lights illuminate the zoo, including animated installations, interactive elements, and themed attractions. Take a stroll through Snowflake Central, be dazzled by Rainbow Runway, and marvel at the custom decorations in the Wonder Way Christmas Tree exhibit. And of course, stop by Santa’s Workshop for photos—you may even see some live reindeer! Tickets are available online.

A Longwood Christmas

November 22—January 5

Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Rd., Kennett Square

 

Stroll among a winter wonderland of a half million lights, and see Longwood’s Main Fountain Garden illuminated for the season. Plus, catch holiday concerts, carolers, sing-a-longs, and more throughout the holidays. Timed admission tickets are required.

Shady Brook Farm’s Holiday Light Show

November 23—January 5

931 Stony Hill Rd., Yardley

 

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.

Christmas Around the Farm at Linvilla Orchards

November 23—December 23

137 W. Knowlton Rd., Media

 

Take your family on a hayride to the Christmas tree fields to select your tree. Plus, visit the Garden Center for a selection of holiday decorations, children’s toys, and other collectibles. And on the weekend, you can meet Santa from 1-3 pm!

Drop and Shop at Level 13

Mondays through Fridays through December 25

21 S. High St., West Chester

 

Bring your kids (age 8 and up) for some social esports action while you shop in downtown West Chester.

Monday

Make & Take Monday: Holiday Edition

November 25, 9:30 am—12:30 pm

Phoenixville Public Library, 183 Second Ave., Phoenixville

 

Children of all ages are invited to drop by and make a wreath, season’s greetings cards, wrapping paper, a snowy owl, and more.

Books and Beasts at Elmwood Park Zoo

November 25, 10:30 am

1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown

 

Come join EPZ’s Books and Beasts program every second and fourth Monday of the month. Enjoy storytime with zoo education staff, featuring stories about different animals. Guests will also get the chance to meet an education animal! Books are chosen for ages 6 years and under, but all ages are welcome. Free with admission; walk-ins welcome, but pre-registration is requested so they have a headcount.

Ardmore Music Training Presents: First Notes

November 25, 10:30 am

Gladwyne Library, 362 Righters Mill Rd., Gladwyne

 

This free class will introduce babies and toddlers First Steps in singing, rhythm, movement, and small instruments! Pre-register online.

B.J. Novak at Children’s Book World

November 25, 5 pm

17 Haverford Station Rd., Haverford

 

B.J. Novak, the author of The Book With No Pictures (and writer, actor, director, and executive producer of The Office), is coming to Children’s Book World to celebrate his new book My Book With No Pictures, where kids can fill in their own amazing words and make grown-ups say ridiculous, silly, preposterous things!

Tuesday

Fall School’s Out Art Camp

November 26, 9 am—3:30 pm

Wayne Art Center, 413 Maplewood Ave., Wayne

 

Children in kindergarten through fifth grade are invited for a fun morning, afternoon, or full day of arts and crafts, clay or drama. Pre-register online.

Did Dinosaurs Have Dentists?

November 26, 10—10:45 am

Newtown Public Library, 201 Bishop Hollow Rd., Newtown Square

 

Celebrate “DiNovember” with Berks County author Patrick O’Donnell as he does a special reading of his book followed by a Q&A and fun dinosaur-related activities! Best for ages 3-5, but all are welcome.

‘Playmobil: The Movie’ Red Carpet Spectacular

November 26, 10 am—noon

Learning Express of Havertown, 1305 West Chester Pike, Havertown

 

Meet Rex Dasher, Marla, and Robotitron! Fun Playmobil giveaways and a special discount on all Playmobil purchased during the event.

Storytime and Craft at Linvilla Orchards

November 26, 10 am

137 W. Knowlton Rd., Media

 

Every Tuesday, Miss Marcia reads an entertaining story featuring gardens, farming, animals, and nature; and children can also create a special craft each week. Free, no registration required.

Thanksgiving Craft at Tredyffrin Public Library

November 26, 10:30 am

582 Upper Gulph Rd., Strafford

 

Trot on over to the children’s department and make a special Thanksgiving themed craft. For ages 5 and under with a caregiver.

Family Movie Night: ‘The Lion King’

November 26, 6—8 pm

Phoenixville Public Library, 183 Second Ave., Phoenixville

 

Come to the library for a big-screen, surround-sound showing of the new The Lion King (2019).

Wednesday

Tyler Arboretum Toddlers in Nature

November 27, 9:30—10:30 am

515 Painter Rd., Media

 

Toddlers (and their caretakers) will learn why certain animals stay around in the winter and where others go. Pre-register online.

Thanksgiving Sign Language Story Time

November 27, 10:30—11 am

Village Play Space, 4 Midland Avenue, Berwyn

 

American Sign Language instructor Kelly Hosna will lead a Thanksgiving-themed storytime!

Day Before Thanksgiving Camp

November 27, 1—4 pm

The Handwork Studio, 35 N. Narberth Ave., Narberth

 

School’s out early! Whether you need to get a head start on the cooking, or if you need to get some last minute shopping done, drop your kids off for an afternoon of crafting so you can get everything you on your checklist done! For Grades K-10. Registration in advance required to ensure proper staffing and materials.

Preschool Explorers

November 27, 1:30—2:15 pm

Media-Upper Providence Free Library, 1 E. Front St., Media

 

Thanksgiving stories and activities for ages 3-5.

Big Kid’s Duct Tape Craft

November 27, 1:30 pm

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

 

Schools are letting out early this Thanksgiving eve, so kids ages 9 and up are invited to stop by the library for a fun craft—make something from one of the designs available, or come up with something new!

A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place

November 27, 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. Their 1-2-3 Christmas Tree show features an illuminated pixel-based tree, that will project festive animated images while guests can sing and dance along to the festive soundtrack. There are also three different holiday stage shows, an illuminated Christmas parade, and more. This year, Rudolph, along with his friends Clarice, Bumble and Sam the Snowman will be available for photos with guests in Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland.

Thursday: Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving! Heading into the city for the parade? Here’s what else is open in Philly on Thanksgiving Day, including the parade and restaurants serving Thanksgiving feasts!

Thanksgiving Weekend!

All Weekend

See: Holiday Lights on the Main Line and Beyond

Annie

November 29–December 1

The Players Club of Swarthmore, 614 Fairview Road, Swarthmore

 

This family musical reminds you that “you’re never fully dressed without a smile,” and that the sun will always come out tomorrow!

Matilda: The Musical

November 29—December 15

SALT Performing Arts, 1645 Art School Rd., Chester Springs

 

Inspired by the genius of Roald Dahl, this Tony Award-winning musical is the captivating masterpiece that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life–and is packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs! Tickets available online.

A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place

Weekends through January 1

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. Their 1-2-3 Christmas Tree show features an illuminated pixel-based tree, that will project festive animated images while guests can sing and dance along to the festive soundtrack. There are also three different holiday stage shows, an illuminated Christmas parade, and more. This year, Rudolph, along with his friends Clarice, Bumble and Sam the Snowman will be available for photos with guests in Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland.

West Chester Railroad’s Santa Express

November 29–December 1; 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm

230 E. Market St., West Chester

 

Santa’s Express, a 90-minute ride on the heated and decorated train car, will feature an appearance by Santa, as well as live music. Tickets available online.

Santa’s Paradise Express

November 29–December 1

Strasburg Railroad, 301 Gap Road, Ronks

 

Santa himself will climb aboard and visit with families as they travel down the tracks to Paradise, PA and back. Kids will get a surprise from Santa, and hop aboard the Candy Cane Trolley for holiday stories. Mrs. Claus will be available at the Station from noon–4 pm to help children finalize their letters to Santa. Tickets available online.

LEGOLAND Holiday Bricktacular

November 30-December 1

Plymouth Meeting Mall, 500 W. Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting

 

Enjoy seasonal build activities and holiday activities—meet LEGO Santa, build a LEGO ornament and decorate the holiday tree, see MINILAND Philadelphia as a Winter Wonderland, go on a holiday scavenger hunt, and more!

West Chester Griswolds

November 28—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 it 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.

Christmas at Colonial Gardens

Weekends from November 30 through December 29, 5:30—8:30 pm

745 Schuylkill Road, Phoenixville

 

Take a stroll through the decorated landscape and enjoy the spectacular lights and displays throughout the grounds. And make sure to catch the light show synchronized to music. Admission includes a free hot chocolate, make your own ornament, meet-and-greet with Santa and a free candy cane.

Friday

Sweet Mabel Kids’ Studio Camp

November 29, 9 am—noon

41 N. Narberth Ave., Narberth

 

Drop off the kids (ages 8-15) for the morning while you shop Black Friday! Advance registration required. Email sweetmabelstudio@gmail.com

Family Art Studio Day

November 29, 10 am—2 pm

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

 

Art projects for all ages – families are encouraged to come to the Children’s Room and created something wonderful with Miss Gail.

Music Play Patrol at Bala Cynwyd Library

November 29, 10:30—11 am

131 Old Lancaster Rd., Bala Cynwyd

 

Meet in the Junior Room for this toe-tapping fun preschool music event.  No registration required.

Drop-In Winter Crafts

November 29, noon—2 pm

Penn Wynne Library, 130 Overbrook Pkwy, Wynnewood

 

Celebrate the upcoming winter season with some simple snow crafts. There will be several crafts to complete; supplies are all provided. No registration required.

Black Friday Drop and Shop at Bounce U

November 29, noon—3 pm

130 W. Main St., Collegeville

 

Go shopping while the kids enjoy giant indoor inflatables, games, and nonstop fun. Reservations strongly recommended; walk-ins won’t be accepted if it fills up.

Kids’ Cooking Adventure at Sur la Table

November 29, 1—4 pm

690 W. Dekalb Pike, King of Prussia

 

While you’re out holiday shopping, drop the kids (ages 8-12) off for a cooking class. Young chefs will learn the ins and outs of making fresh pasta and finish off with snowman cookies. Pre-registration required online.

Holiday Stroll and Tree Lighting in Media

November 29, 4—8 pm

12 E. State St, Media

 

Holiday music by The Brass Works starts at 4 pm by the Town Tree, which will be lit at 5 pm. Then, Media’s Strolling Postman will be up and down State Street collecting letters to Santa.

Conshohocken AMBUCS Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

November 29, 5:45 pm

Mary Wood Park House, 1 E. Fifth Ave., Conshohocken

 

The Conshohocken AMBUCS are hosting their annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony with Santa, hot cocoa, and more.

Santa and Tree Lighting in Ardmore

November 29, 6 pm

Schauffele Plaza, Ardmore

 

Santa arrives on a fire truck for the Ardmore Tree Lighting! Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, caroling, and then stay for dinner at one of Ardmore’s many restaurants.

Skippack Village Tree Lighting

November 29, 6 pm

Skippack Pike, Skippack

 

Festivities take place at the Floral and Hardy complex, including the lighting of the village tree.

Kennett Square Holiday Light Parade

November 29, 6:15 pm

State Street, Kennett Square

 

See bands, floats, farm equipment, fire trucks, and Santa himself, lit up to welcome the holiday season.

Saturday

Small Business Saturday in Media

November 30

 

Patronize your neighborhood businesses that are small and local. Plus, enjoy live music and free popcorn throughout the day, and Carriage Rides from 6-9 pm at Orange and State streets.

‘Frozen 2’ Events at Sweet and Sassy

November 30, 11 am and 3:30 pm

250 Plaza Drive, Collegeville

 

Celebrate the next Frozen chapter with a Frozen-themed makeover, dance party, coronation with tiara and wand to take home, and more. Book online.

BMFI Family Matinee: ‘Charlotte’s Web’

November 30, 11 am

Bryn Mawr Film Institute, 824 W. Lancaster Avenue, Bryn Mawr

 

BMFI screens the animated/live-action adaptation of E.B. White’s classic children’s book. Tickets available online.

‘The Nutcracker’ by Valley Forge Dance Theatre

November 30, 2 pm (Santa Tea Party from noon — 2 pm)

Upper Merion Middle School Theater, 450 Keebler Rd., King of Prussia

 

This 60-minute, no-intermission performance is in a small theater, so it’s a close-up experience for kids. Tickets are $20 and include a tea party with Santa.

Young Sports Drop and Shop

November 30, noon–3 pm

133 Sugartown Rd., Wayne 

 

Drop off kids ages 3-10 for an afternoon of sports fun while you do your holiday shopping! Pre-register in advance to reserve your spot.

Winterfest at King of Prussia Town Center

November 30, noon–5 pm

155 Village Drive, King of Prussia

 

King of Prussia Town Center will come alive with carriage rides, arts and crafts,  live music, and a visit from Queen Elsa and Santa Claus!

Japanese Food Festival at Maido

November 30, 11 am—4 pm

5 E. Lancaster Ave.

 

Maido will be sampling and demonstrating a variety of Japanese food for you to try. Yum!

Academy of International Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’

November 30, noon and 4 pm

Upper Merion High School, 450 Keebler Rd., King of Prussia

 

A combination of students and professional dancers makes this a “hidden gem,” according to one of our readers.

Santa Arrives by Helicopter 

November 30, noon—1 pm

The Market at DelVal, 2100 Lower State Rd., Doylestown

 

There will be music playing, inflatable attractions, and yard games, so arrive early to get the best spot to see Santa descend from the sky! He’ll stay and take pictures, so bring your cameras!

Kids Cupcake Decorating and Create Your Own Apron Workshop

November 30, 1—3 pm

Pallets and Paints, 3938 Ridge Pike, Collegeville

 

Schwartz & Sprinkles Custom Cakes will teach techniques to design fun, fall-themed cupcakes. Kids will also create their own apron. Class is ideal for children 6 years and older. Class is drop-off only. Pre-registration is required, online.

Sunday

Culinary Family Workshop: Holiday Cookie Tin

December 1, 9:30 am and 1:30 pm

Wayne Art Center, 413 Maplewood Ave., Wayne

 

Learn the basic tips and tricks to making “from scratch” cookie doughs. With your family (ages 5 and up), make a variety of cookies, and fill tins with your creations to take home to eat or gift! Pre-register online.

Winter Wonderland Tea at a Taste of Britain 

December 1 (timed reservations required)

A Taste of Britain, 503 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne

 

A Taste of Britain’s festive menu includes holiday-themed treats and a limited edition seasonal scone. Adults get a mimosa alongside their tea, and there is a special kids’ menu in case the adult one isn’t in line with your toddler’s palate. Kids will enjoy the whimsical decor and mismatched place settings, as well as little surprises like Christmas crackers (containing paper crowns, naturally). On your way out, grab some unusual British candy from the shop!

Santa at Goshen Fire Company

December 1, 10 am—3 pm

Goshen Fire Company, 1320 Park Avenue, West Chester

 

This year, instead of escorting Santa to all of the neighborhoods, he is coming to the firehouse for a special day of fun! Holiday treats, drinks, crafts, and tours of our fire trucks and ambulances will be available for all of Santa’s visitors; plus a photo with Santa for a $10 donation to the fire company.

Gingerbread House Decorating Party

December 1, 10 am and 1 pm

Cedar Grove Park, 100 Cedar Grove Rd., Conshohocken

 

Participants will have the chance to decorate their very own gingerbread house while enjoying holiday-themed music. Pre-registration required. Recommended for kids ages 4 and up.

Jack Frost Saves Christmas

December 1, noon

The Media Theatre, 104 E. State Street, Media

 

This popular one-hour musical for children, now in its fifth year on stage at The Media Theatre, tells the story about a boy who freezes everything he touches, and learning to accept and embrace differences. Tickets available online.

Chanukah Story Hour

December 1, 1—2 pm

Media-Upper Providence Free Library, 1 E. Front St, Media

 

Enjoy an interactive hour of Chanukah stories, crafts, and games. Free of charge and open to all! Best for ages 2-7. Pre-register online.

Media Fun Run and Santa Parade

December 1; block party at 2:30 pm, run starts at 4:15 pm, parade at 5 pm

State Street, Media

 

Santa and Mrs. Claus lead the way. See Mummers, drummers, musicians, dancers, classic cars, fire engines and plenty of surprises. There will be a special meet-and-greet photo opportunity with Santa at Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union immediately following the parade. Before the parade, there will be a Fun Run—in costume! Register to run, or just watch the fun! And prior to that, a block party at 2:30 pm with exhibits, giveaways, refreshments, music, and activities on Veterans Square between State and Front streets.

Sunday Family Ice Skating

December 1, 1—2:30 pm

Philadelphia Skating Club and Humane Society, 220 Holland Ave., Ardmore

 

Bring your family ice skating at the Philadelphia Skating Club in Ardmore on Sunday afternoons through the end of the year!

Graham Cracker House Workshop

December 1, 3—4:30 pm

Greater Plymouth Community Center, 2910 Jolly Road, Plymouth Meeting

 

Make your home more festive by displaying your own unique creation made out of graham crackers and candy. All supplies provided.  Each person wishing to decorate a house must register by November 27.

Garrett Hill Tree Lighting

December 1, 5:30 pm

Clem Macrone Park, 810 Conestoga Rd., Bryn Mawr

 

Feel free to bring an ornament to decorate the tree and your singing voice for carols! After the tree lighting, head to All Seasons Produce and Flowers for an open house with hot cocoa and snacks.

Berwyn Tree Lighting

December 1, 5:30 – 7:30 pm

654 E. Lancaster Ave., Berwyn

 

Come and see the big tree at the Berwyn Train Station get all twinkled up for the holidays! Event includes an ugly sweater contest, free food, and drinks from local vendors, and more. There will also be visits from special guests Santa and Mrs. Claus!

 

Looking for more? Here’s what’s going on in Philly!

 

Photograph by Sarah Bond.