Cabin at the RiverRink. Source: riverrink.com
The Holiday season is here upon us and with the season comes the usual flurry of activities for the city of brotherly love. With twinkling lights and hearty cheers welcoming every visitor, customer, patron, family, and loved one, whether it be in a local business store or a social gathering, the yuletide season promises memorable moments for all to share and enjoy.
For many Black families and Africans in the Diaspora, Christmas is an opportunity for family gatherings, cook-outs, picnics, barbeque hangouts, Christmas carol nights, and any other social activity that strengthens family bonds. More importantly, as a season that acknowledges the gift of Christ to humanity, Christmas is also a season to express and reignite love.
When it comes to stirring the strings of romance and enjoying scintillating moments with that special one, Philly offers great date locations for Black couples and Africans in the diaspora seeking a perfect romantic getaway spot to visit and create those cherished memories that last for a lifetime.
Here are 5 great places in Philly that Black and African Diaspora couples can visit to ignite love this Christmas.
Philadelphia’s Famous Love Park
Photo by @kylehuff on Instagram, via Facebook | Visit Philly
Also known as John F. Kennedy Plaza, the park which was built in 1964 has become a destination for social gatherings where couples can explore interesting locations like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Franklin Institute, purchase tickets for local shows, hunt for that perfect romantic gift at various stores around the area, take a stroll through its beautiful mowed grasses or enjoy a quiet and intimate seat-out and most importantly, share a romantic moment under the famous Robert Indiana’s Love Statue.
Lumi Nature at The Philadelphia Zoo
Image Source: Philadelphia Zoo
While animals sleep at the famous Philadelphia Zoo the night sky becomes illuminated with Philadelphia’s signature light show famously known as the Lumi Nature Light Show. Stretching to over 16 zones of illuminated lights covering the 42 acres of the Zoo, couples can enjoy the thrill of magical lights transporting them through various animal habitats with handcrafted light sculptures of animal life from across the world.
A perfect atmosphere for Black and visiting Africans in Diaspora couples to stroll hand-in-hand along brightly illuminated pathways that provide a romantic ambiance as they enjoy the presence of each other’s company while also leveraging the opportunity to take memorable photographs.
Blue Cross River-Rink Winterfest
Source: Instagram | Delaware River Waterfront
Celebrate love this season at the famous Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest. As a yearly wintertime activity, couples can enjoy the enchanting view of the Delaware River surrounded by a beautiful display of lights.
The event also provides family-friendly activities that Blacks and African in Diaspora couples can enjoy such as ice skating, fun games, joy-filled rides, and best of all, the Philadelphia New Year’s Eve fireworks at the Delaware waterfront.
Greater Philadelphia’s Hot Air Balloon Rides
Image source: Lancaster Balloon Rides
For Black and African couples looking for a closer and more intimate moment away from the boisterousness all around them, then Air Balloon rides around the Greater Philadelphia area offer a serene escape from the cacophony of city activities.
A perfect opportunity for intimacy and adventure, hot air ballooning offers couples an opportunity to experience a part of the city of brotherly love that they may be unaware of. With breathtaking views of the countryside that showcase various wildlife, ranches, and spectacular vineyards, couples can reflect on their shared journey while enjoying the beauty of Philly.
Philadelphia’s South Jazz Kitchen
Image Source: Facebook | SOUTH
What better way for Black and visiting Africans in Diaspora couples to set the tone for love than to pay a visit to Philadelphia’s famous South Jazz Kitchen? Enjoy soothing jazz music from various artists while also savoring the wide array of menus available along with a splendid collection of wine, beer, and cocktails.
Situated in the South Street area, this venue is a perfect getaway spot for couples seeking a cozy and romantic spot to spend quality time together. At the South Jazz Kitchen, music and food provide a stimulating love experience to cherish.
Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures. okechukwu.onicima@gmail.com
