Photo: Facebook / Christmas Village in Philadelphia
Is it too early to start singing “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas?” Definitely not! The holiday season is officially upon us, and this year, Philadelphia is going all out to capture the mood of the season with the return of the enchanting Christmas Village at Love Park.
The annual Christmas Village, which has become a popular holiday destination for families, couples, and holiday gifters alike, is an authentic holiday market that is modeled after the traditional Christmas markets in Germany.
Now in its 18th year, the Christmas Village will take place from November 27 (Thanksgiving Day) through Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025, with a preview weekend on November 22 and 23, 2025.
With over 120 vendors offering their signature wares and holiday merch, the market, made up of dozens of illuminated wooden booths, will light up the iconic Love Park in Philadelphia, as well as the courtyard and north apron of City Hall. Expect handmade holiday gifts, ornaments, jewelry, high-quality arts and crafts, wintry apparel, as well as edible and hot drinkable treats to keep yourself warm.
Get ready for a memorable moment as the season comes alive with thousands of holiday lights and the delicious smell of yummy treats, creating the perfect, joyous Christmas spirit for you and your family.
Photo: Facebook / Christmas Village in Philadelphia
What to Expect at the 2025 Philly Christmas Village
New Gigantic German Pyramid
This year, Philadelphia is taking the celebration to the next level with the debut of a massive 30-foot German Christmas pyramid, inspired by the rotating windmill-like Christmas structures from Germany’s Ore Mountains. The holiday fixtures typically have a wooden frame, multiple tiers, and a propeller on top that’s powered by heat from candles.
The towering four-level German Christmas pyramid in Love Park will be adorned with over 3,000 lights, classic figures, and festive decorations. It will also feature Philly-inspired symbols.
To kick off the marketplace’s monthlong celebration, a lighting ceremony will be held on Sunday, November 30, from 4-5 p.m.
“It is a project we have been working on for many years, and we can’t wait to see it take over everyone’s social media feeds,” Christmas Village President Thomas Bauer said in a statement.
Wine Tastings and Something New for the Food Lovers
There is also something for the foodies. New food offerings will include meals like loaded baked potatoes and sweet churros. Guests can enjoy a mouthwatering lineup of European treats like charcoal-grilled Bratwurst, melted Swiss cheese sandwiches, and sweet treats, all paired with the market’s famous Glühwein (hot mulled wine) from Pennsylvania’s Mazza Wines or kid-friendly apple cider and hot chocolate.
For beverage lovers, the Snowflake Cocktail Bar, featuring local Boardroom Spirits, will be serving festive craft cocktails in ornament-shaped glasses, perfect for a holiday toast. There will be wine tastings presented by Mazza Wines on Tuesdays and spirit tastings with Boardroom Spirits on Thursdays (except Thanksgiving).
Rides and Family-friendly Activities
The City Hall side is offering something special for kids and families. The North Broad section will transform into a magical winter wonderland for kids and families. Favorites like the 65-foot-tall illuminated Ferris wheel, historic double-tier carousel, and the Kids Train presented by SEPTA will be returning this year. There will be special appearances from the attraction’s official mascot, Phil the Reindeer.
If you are a lover of arts and crafts, you can get creative at the Holiday Greenery Workshop Series, presented in collaboration with Terrarium Therapy. Each week, guests will have the opportunity to craft festive décor that brings a touch of seasonal magic into their home.
Another thing to look forward to is the Festival of Trees fundraiser, which will be returning with a record-breaking two dozen beautifully decorated trees to raise money for the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Santa Claus will return in the middle of the Festival of Trees for wish-taking and heart-warming photo opportunities. Families can come share the holiday cheer with Santa Claus while he’s still in town. It’s the perfect chance for a warm smile, a photo, and holiday wishes.
Photo: Facebook / Christmas Village in Philadelphia
Live performances and Ugly Sweater Contest
There will be lots of entertainment, from live performances to choirs, and special themed weekends such as the German American Weekend on December 13 – 14, that will keep the air lively.
The Christmas Village will also feature the first annual Ugly Sweater Contest on December 19. This is your chance to show off your wildest, wackiest, most festive holiday sweater. The contest starts at 6 p.m., and there are awesome prizes for the best, boldest, and most hilarious looks.
Gingerbread Christmas Village by Bredenbeck’s
Crafted entirely from real gingerbread by the talented Philadelphian bakers at Bredenbeck’s Bakery, the Gingerbread Christmas Village, a miniature replica of the classic Christmas Village, will debut on December 1 at the Festival of Trees. This is the perfect spot for festive photos and a guaranteed delight for all ages.
Christmas Village is open Sunday through Thursday from noon to 8 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays until 9 p.m., with special hours on Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve. Entry to Christmas Village is completely free. Food, drink, shopping, and rides are pay-as-you-go.
The Philadelphia Christmas Village does more than just deliver holiday cheer; it also boosts Philly’s local economy and small businesses.
With its array of charming attractions, this is where the holiday magic truly comes alive. Whether you’re looking for the perfect, cozy date night or trying to bond with family, the Christmas Village offers an authentic dose of holiday cheer and all the best Christmas vibes.
Don’t miss the opportunity to create lasting memories with loved ones this festive season at Christmas Village Philadelphia 2025.
