Photo: Facebook | Christmas Village in Philadelphia
December is here again, and for many, this month offers relaxation, celebration, and exploration, especially for those who enjoy visiting and experiencing historical sites, as well as for tourists who travel and never miss the chance to see the iconic locations that give the city they are visiting its unique character.
One of such cities is Philadelphia.
Named and known as the “birthplace of America”, Philadelphia is a city of firsts, the first capital of the United States where two historical documents – The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States were written. It also houses the first African Methodist Episcopal Church, the first lending Library, University, Hospital, Art Museum, and a host of other firsts.
The city of brotherly love as it is fondly referred to is a city that reads like a historical storybook of culture, and tradition. For those travelling or visiting Philadelphia for the first time this December, here are some iconic landmarks and sites to add to your catalogue of activities to engage in this December.
Independence Hall
Image: lukemcurley, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Formerly known as the Pennsylvania State House, the Independence Hall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as its history spans to more than 275 years of struggle and active participation of the American people in the determination of their future and contribution to the founding principles like the declaration of independence and the constitution, historical and treasured document that makes the United States what it is today.
Located at 520 Chestnut Street, between 5th and 6th Streets, the history of the Hall began in 1729 when authorization for the construction of a new “House of Assembly” was given by the Pennsylvania Assembly. Led by Assembly speaker Andrew Hamilton (1676-1741), the committee selected Chestnut Street as the location of the House which was completed and ready for use by the Assembly in 1736.
As activities in the House began to evolve especially with the signing of the key US foundational documents, the building would transition from a state capitol and meeting place to a national shrine. Below are several milestone achievements
1698 – The first public school was built by the American colonies, 1751 – The Liberty Bell was created to commemorate the Charter of Privileges (a local governing body to create and execute laws), 1776 – Adoption of the Declaration of Independence on 4th July Continental Congress, 1777 – The first U.S. flag made by Elizabeth Ross, 1787 – Writing of the United States Constitution and creation of three separate branches of government – executive, legislative and judicial, 1780 – Abolishment of slavery was signed into law. The first state to do so.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Image: Wikimedia Commons
Founded in 1876 as a museum of decorative arts in commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the founding of the United States of America. The museum became the center point to mark the Centennial Exhibition which was the International Exhibition of Arts, Manufacturers, and products of the soil and mine.
Located inside Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park, the museum was intended to host up to 4000 works of art in its gallery but due to its growing collections, a new building had to be constructed to house the numerous artworks.
Inspired by Greek architecture, the Philadelphia Museum of Art was opened in March 1928 and holds over 240,000 works of art. Attracting over 800,000 visitors annually, the building consists of 200 galleries, a sculpture garden, a 14th-century Buddhist temple, and several ancient artifacts.
Visitors would have the opportunity to view the Museum’s detailed collection that includes armour, paintings, sculptures, textiles, and other historical, cultural, and artistic works that cut across American, European, East, and South Asian cultures as well as costumes, textiles, drawings, photographs of historical value as well and a sculpture garden.
Visiting hours at the Museum are from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm on Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, while on Friday the hours are a bit longer from 10:00 am – 8:45 p.m. The museum remains closed to the public on Tuesday and Wednesday. Tickets to gain entrance to the museum range from $35 for adults to $19 for students. Youths under the age of 13 and children under the age of 12 are not required to pay for tickets. Another option is to register as a member which costs up to $95.
Reading Terminal Market
Photo: Instagram | Reading Terminal Market
Markets have always held an important place in many cities across the world, not only as a place of commerce alone but also because they offer visitors the privilege of experiencing culinary delights that are native to the cities being visited.
In Philadelphia, the Reading Terminal Market introduces visitors to not just a wide range of exceptional produce, but also to its rich history and people. Officially opened for business in 1893, the market used to be a chaotic sort of gathering of farmers, huntsmen, and fishermen who would gather to hawk their wares.
Under the leadership of William Penn’s managers, these groups of traders were herded together in what would later be called “Jersey Street”. As the city grew, the general public became agitated with the nuisances the market posed as well as the concern of the potential health hazard. This would lead to its dismantling and the creation of two markets in its place which are the farmers’ market and Franklin markets.
These two markets would later grow to become what is known today as Reading Market.
Located on the 1100 block of Market Street, the Reading Terminal Market is a popular destination for both tourists and locals attracting up to one hundred thousand visitors every week. Among the many local produce of milk, meats, seafood, poultry, clothing, handmade jewelry, visitors can also have a taste of some of the best street foods being sold in Philadelphia. Do not miss out on trying Philly cheesesteak and the freshly baked Amish goods.
Other Holiday Attractions to Explore
Christmas Village in Philadelphia
Photo: Instagram | Christmas Village Philadelphia
An annual outdoor Christmas event which is modelled after the traditional Christmas markets in Germany will be held at the Love Park and City Hall from November 22 – December 24, 2025. The event will feature a collection of international and local vendors providing visitors the opportunity to select from an array of unique holiday gift items like jewelry, ornaments, unique art and craft works while also ensuring that guests savour the sweet and delicious drinks and meals on display by the vendors. There will also be a carousel, Ferris and train rides for the kids, a greenery workshop as well as a festival of trees to ensure families are fully engaged this Holiday season.
The Christmas Village can be located at 1500 Arch Street, Philadelphia PA 19102, USA, The venue can be accessed by foot, as well as a car. Public transportation is also provided by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) and offers free rides for children under the age of 12 as well as seniors who are 65 years and older. Admission to the market area is free but you are required to pay for whatever you purchase.
Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Photo: Facebook | Independence Blue Cross RiverRink
Looking to participate in a fun-filled family activity this December in Philadelphia, the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest which opened on November 28, 2025, and runs through December into March of 2026 is the place to experience fun and excitement with your loved one.
Set along the Delaware River, the RiverRink Winterfest combines an ice skating rink along with beautiful waterfront views and other outdoor fun activities that include, live music, food and drinks, arcade games for the family, art exhibitions, as well as wooden cabins where visitors can relax and enjoy the view of the riverfront.
Admission into the ice skating rink goes for about $5 and renting a skate goes for about $12. Tickets are limited so it is advisable to make reservations ahead. Don’t know how to skate? Private lessons are also made available and go for up to $30 – $55.
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
