Holiday Lights in Philadelphia

Published: November 18, 2021

By: Frances Ellison & Phillyfunguide Staff

One of the best local holiday traditions is seeing all of the beautiful light displays across the city and Philly has some of the best. If you're traveling around Philadelphia during the holiday season, you won’t be disappointed! From local businesses to entire residential neighborhoods--everyone goes above and beyond in holiday decorating.

Below is our list of the top holiday light displays, the cream of the crop if you will. Light shows, spectaculars and festivals, oh my!*

Did we miss any? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @Phillyfunguide!

*Please be sure to view and participate in these holiday spectaculars safely. For up-to-date information on the City of Philadelphia's COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines, visit their official website.

Macy's Christmas Light Show

Macy's Center City

A Philadelphia tradition since 1956, the Christmas Light Show at Macy's in Center City illuminates a large wall inside the Wanamaker Building, a National Historic Landmark, with almost 100,000 LED lights that dance to the sounds of the Wanamaker Organ. This year, the Christmas Light Show and popular Dickens' Village will be virtual! Find out how to enjoy both on their official website.

The Miracle on South 13th Street

South Philadelphia

In South Philly, just a few blocks off of bustling East Passyunk Avenue, the 1600 block of South 13th Street is known in Philadelphia as the Miracle on South 13th Street. The elaborate lights hung on neighborhood homes along this stretch has been a must-see holiday lights destination for many years!

Jewelers' Row Holiday Lights

Jewelers' Row

Many Philadelphia neighborhoods go all out for the holidays, creating spectacular presentations of lights and decorations. The city’s Jewelers’ Row, comprising 300 retailers, wholesalers and craftsmen on Sansom Street between 7th and 8th Streets and on 8th Street between Chestnut and Walnut Streets, features a light display rivaled only by the gems that adorn the shops’ windows. Fun fact: this display can be seen in Silver Linings Playbook.

A Longwood Christmas

Longwood Gardens

Stroll through Longwood Gardens' spawling Christmas wonderland with cozy fire pits, beautifully adorned trees and their beloved Holiday Garden Railway. Admission this year is ticketed; make sure to read over their visiting guidelines before attending.

Boathouse Row Lights

Boathouse Row

The lights of Boathouse Row can be seen reflecting on the Schuylkill River throughout the year, but with them having recently been updated with brand new lights last year, now is the perfect time to check them out!