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Home / Family Fun by Season  / Holiday Guide Archive  / What’s Open on Thanksgiving in Philly?

What’s Open on Thanksgiving in Philly?

There's plenty of fun to be had around the city before turkey time

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What’s Open on Thanksgiving in Philly?

‘Tis the season to be thankful for all we have, for family — and that we live in a city where we don’t have to stay cooped up with that family all day! If you need to entertain the kids before turkey time, check out these fun things that are open and happening in Philly, even on Thanksgiving.

Things to Do on Thanksgiving in Philadelphia

Philly offers plenty of activities to enjoy before your turkey dinner. From parades to holiday markets, families can add these activities to their menu of Thanksgiving Day fun.

Thanksgiving Day Parade

8:30 am–12 pm
Begins at 20th St. and JFK Blvd., then heads east on JFK, left on 16th Street, then down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway before ending at the Art Museum

Bundle up and get the kids to the Parkway early for a holiday tradition. Giant balloons, live musical performances, Santa’s sleigh, and even Gritty (yes, Gritty!) feature in our country’s first and oldest Thanksgiving Day parade.

Christmas Village

9 am–5 pm
Love Park, 1500 Arch Street

Modeled after the traditional Christmas markets in Germany, this annual holiday market features dozens of vendors in wooden booths selling authentic European food, ornaments, crafts, clothing, and more from all over the world. They also have great food, from waffles to mulled wine (Pro tip: buy the commemorative mug for discount refills — you won’t be sorry). Plus you can ride a giant Ferris wheel and a new, double-decker carousel in the City Hall Courtyard.

Made in Philadelphia Market

9 am–5 pm
Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th St.

Head across the street from Christmas Village, because right outside City Hall more than 40 local artisans, designers, crafters, and confectionaries will offer unique selections for gifts and special holiday foods. This market was designed to complement Christmas Village — but only focuses on locally made gifts.

What’s Open on Thanksgiving in Philly?
Photo courtesy of Astra Lumina

Astra Lumina

5:15–9 pm
Arlington Art Center, 515 Meetinghouse Road, Jenkintown PA

Spend your Thanksgiving night walking amongst the stars. Astra Lumina is a magical night walk in a sculpture garden where visitors go on a multi-sensory, immersive astrological journey. Visitors “walk among the stars” discovering a celestial pathway of lustrous light, cosmic visions and astral song. This is a unique and artistic experience the whole family will enjoy.

Rothman Rink at Dilworth Park

12 pm–9 pm
Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th Street

After all that shopping at Christmas Village and Made in Philadelphia Market, lace up a pair of skates (or rent a penguin friend to help you balance), and skate around the Rothman Rink outside City Hall. It’ll help you work up an appetite for all that stuffing.

Comcast Holiday Spectacular

10 am–8 pm (hourly, at the top of the hour)
Comcast Center, 1701 JFK Boulevard

The Comcast Holiday Spectacular returns and opens on Thanksgiving Day. Every year, this 15-minute festive musical fills the Comcast Center lobby with holiday songs, expansive aerial footage of Philadelphia, parts of the Pennsylvania Ballet’s The Nutcracker, and more on one of the world’s largest highest-resolution LED displays. Celebrate the start of the holiday season as part of your Thanksgiving day.

Peddler’s Village

4–7 pm
2400 Street Road, New Hope, PA

Experience the magic of the season as you wander through Peddler’s Village and its breathtaking winter wonderland! This dazzling light experience creates a festive atmosphere perfect for making holiday memories with the whole family.

Holiday Garden Railway

10 am–4 pm
Morris Arboretum & Gardens, 100 E Northwestern Ave.

Enjoy the Holiday Garden Railway at daytime with thousands of twinkling lights for the season! Watch miniature trains journey through a festive display of lights and sounds that captivates visitors of all ages. It’s a memorable way to celebrate the holidays together.

Explore What Philadelphia Offers This Thanksgiving

Philadelphia offers a delightful mix of activities that bring families together during the holiday. Whether you’re starting the day at the parade, exploring holiday markets, or enjoying an evening light display, these traditions create meaningful moments with loved ones.

Looking for more events happening in November? Check out our calendar of events below:

Events

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Today

  • Daily: On the Land, In the Sea Exhibition

    On the Land, In the Sea Exhibition
    Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia South at The Navy Yard 1001 Intrepid Avenue, Philadelphia, United States

    An exhibition featuring artwork by Kathleen Greco and Andrea Bartine Caldarise exploring ocean life and natural landscapes will be on view starting from November 4, 2025 through April 14, 2026. Through their distinct styles, both artists explore patterns, textures, and forms found in nature. The […]

    Free

  • (Daily) Shaun the Sheep™: Flock This Way Exhibit

    Daily: Shaun the Sheep’s Flock This Way Exhibit
    Please Touch Museum 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Please Touch Museum welcomes the interactive traveling exhibit Shaun the Sheep™: Flock This Way, starting from February 7 until May 10. Children ages 3-9 can develop problem-solving skills and resilience through playful activities with the beloved film and television character. Created by Minnesota Children's Museum […]

  • Black Girls Love Math Pi Day Family Fun Run

    Fairmount Park (Pi Day Run) Address: 41st and Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, United States

    Join Black Girls Love Math for their 3rd Annual 5K! Black Girls Love Math invites families to be a part of their Pi Day event, featuring fitness, fun, and a celebration of mathematics! This family-friendly walk/run will take place on Saturday, March 14th at 41st […]

    $31.40

  • Sensory-Friendly Mornings at the Academy of Natural Sciences

    Sensory-Friendly Mornings at the Academy of Natural Sciences
    The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Sensory-friendly mornings at the Academy of Natural Sciences can be a comfortable way for museum visitors, especially those with sensory sensitivities, to explore the museum. These mornings feature smaller crowds, quiet and relaxing spaces, noise cancelling headphones, fidget toys, and more. Guests of all ages […]

  • Backyard Bash at Please Touch Museum

    Please Touch Museum 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Come together for Backyard Bash and enjoy classic backyard games, creative crafts, an indoor bounce house, and interactive experiences throughout the Please Touch Museum!

  • Mini Makers Robotics Class with Brooklyn Robot Foundry

    Mini Makers Robotics Class
    SnowBot Philly East, LLC 12 West Glenside Avenue, Glenside, PA, United States

    Brooklyn Robot Foundry Philly's Mini Makers program brings the joy of building and creating to young learners ages 3–6 through weekly Saturday STEAM robotics classes in Glenside, PA, where little hands explore engineering and creativity in a screen-free environment—and every child takes home something they […]

    $25.00

  • Craft Workshop for Kids

    Craft Workshop for Kids
    Pennypacker Mills 5 Haldeman Road, Schwenksville, PA, United States

    These Craft Workshop for Kids invites children to create themed crafts at their own pace. Come by on February 7th for a Valentine's Day event or on March 3rd for a Spring themed workshop. All materials are provided. Call 610-287-9349 for pre-registration. Learn more here.

    Free

  • Stories of Science at Science History Institute

    Stories of Science at Science History Institute
    Science History Institute 315 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    At Science History Institute, families can enjoy an engaging program that highlights spellbinding and surprising stories of science history. Saturday’s fun, interactive activities are designed for science lovers of all ages. Stories of Science takes place weekly on Saturdays, with each story varying every week. Admission […]

  • Open Play Saturdays

    Open Play Saturdays
    Baby Gear Group Jenkintown 2278 Mt Carmel Ave, 2nd Floor, Glenside, United States

    Open Play hours at Baby Gear Group Jenkintown are the perfect outing for the family. With a train table, a play kitchen, costumes, books, and a variety of gross motor and creative and imagination toys for your walker, toddler and preschoolers will have no shortage […]

    $15

  • Science Storytime at the Academy of Natural Sciences

    Science Storytime at the Academy of Natural Sciences
    The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Join Academy educators and other young natural history fans for science story time! Each week features a family-friendly science story and an interactive craft to try. For March 2026: March 7–8, Shark Lady by Jess Keating March 14–15, Spring After Spring by Stephanie Roth Sisson March 21–22, Dinosaur Lady by […]

  • Lunar New Year at Parkway Central Library

    Parkway Central Library 1901 Vine Street, Children's Department Ground Floor - Room 22, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Parkway Central Library welcomes families to celebrate Lunar New Year with the vibrant sounds of Kyo Daiko drumming, traditional dances, opera performances, and a colorful fashion show featuring cultural attire. With more than ten performances across two floors, guests of all ages can experience the […]

  • Kids Makerspace at Morgan Log House

    Morgan Log House 850 Weikel Road, Lansdale, PA

    Join Morgan Log House this year for a new Makerspace experience! Their Kids' Makerspace is a hands-on zone and free family event where children can enjoy an engaging storytime and then complete a make-and-take project. From building simple machines to trying out recycled art projects, […]

    Free

  • DIY Snuffle Toys for Cats and Dogs at Chestnut Hill Library

    Chestnut Hill Library 8711 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Get crafty and enrich the lives of beloved pets! At Chestnut Hill Library, come together to make snuffle pet toys. This project involves sewing and steps range from simple to moderately challenging, and is best for ages 8 and up. Adults are recommended to attend […]

  • (Daily) Shaun the Sheep™: Flock This Way Exhibit

    Daily: Shaun the Sheep’s Flock This Way Exhibit
    Please Touch Museum 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Please Touch Museum welcomes the interactive traveling exhibit Shaun the Sheep™: Flock This Way, starting from February 7 until May 10. Children ages 3-9 can develop problem-solving skills and resilience through playful activities with the beloved film and television character. Created by Minnesota Children's Museum […]

  • Shake Your Shamrock (Scoogie Fun Run)

    Peddler’s Village 100 Peddlers Village, New Hope, PA, United States

    This St. Patrick's Day race event includes a 5K and 8K runs for adults, a 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk, and a Little Leprechaun Half-Mile Kids' Fun Run for younger runners. Plan ahead and park at Giggleberry Fair for easy access, and register early as spots are […]

  • St. Patrick’s Day Parade

    St. Patrick's Day Parade Starts at 16th & JFK Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    On March 15, kick off the celebrations with the Philadelphia St. Patrick's Day Parade! This year, the beloved city tradition celebrates 250 Years of Irish Contributions to America, featuring marching bands, dancers, and festive floats strolling through Center City.

  • Science Storytime at the Academy of Natural Sciences

    Science Storytime at the Academy of Natural Sciences
    The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Join Academy educators and other young natural history fans for science story time! Each week features a family-friendly science story and an interactive craft to try. For March 2026: March 7–8, Shark Lady by Jess Keating March 14–15, Spring After Spring by Stephanie Roth Sisson March 21–22, Dinosaur Lady by […]

  • Family Funday with PopUpPlay

    Spruce Street Harbor Park 401 S Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Activities include boat building, puppet making, and even constructing a working catapult. Each week promises captivating experiences for kids of all ages with a new make-and-take activity. This event is free and open to the public, and all ages are welcome. Activities are available on […]

  • FREE Running and Sports Program for Kids K-8! – Run Your City Philadelphia

    FREE Running and Sports Program for Kids K-8! – Run Your City Philadelphia
    FDR Park 1500 Pattison Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Run Your City Philadelphia is a free, fully volunteer-run, running & outdoor game-based organization for kids K–8. Since they are approaching their inaugural season, they are looking for more sign ups! Run Philadelphia is a non-profit organization that aims to build an inclusive community around […]

    Free

  • Irish Traditional Music Sessions at The Plough & The Stars

    Irish Traditional Music Sessions at The Plough & The Stars
    The Plough & The Stars 123 Chestnut St Entrance on 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Dive into the heart of Irish culture with lively traditional music sessions every Sunday in March. Listen to jigs, reels, and hornpipes played on fiddles, flutes, and more as musicians take turns calling tunes in an informal, ever-changing musical conversation. Everyone is welcome!

  • Daily: On the Land, In the Sea Exhibition

    On the Land, In the Sea Exhibition
    Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia South at The Navy Yard 1001 Intrepid Avenue, Philadelphia, United States

    An exhibition featuring artwork by Kathleen Greco and Andrea Bartine Caldarise exploring ocean life and natural landscapes will be on view starting from November 4, 2025 through April 14, 2026. Through their distinct styles, both artists explore patterns, textures, and forms found in nature. The […]

    Free

  • (Daily) The Declaration’s Journey at the Museum of the American Revolution

    (Daily) The Declaration’s Journey at the Museum of the American Revolution
    Museum of the American Revolution 101 S 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    At the Museum of the American Revolution, families can view The Declaration’s Journey exhibit, presented by Griffin Catalyst, which marks the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding. Come together to explore the history and global impact of the Declaration of Independence from 1776 to current […]

  • Family Pet Photos with the Bunny at Cherry Hill Mall

    Bunny Photos at Cherry Hill Mall
    Cherry Hill Mall 2000 Route 38, Cherry Hill, NJ, United States

    The whole family can get Easter Bunny photos at Cherry Hill Mall, along with their pets. Professional spring portraits and Easter Bunny pictures are available in Grand Court from March 6 to April 4, 2026, which is perfect for the upcoming season. Book time slots […]

    $20

  • Rock to the Future Lyric Lab

    Rock to the Future Lyric Lab
    One Art Community Center 1431-39 North 52nd Street, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Lyric Lab is Rock to the Future’s new rap and songwriting program designed for young artists ready to turn their thoughts, feelings, and stories into real music. Whether students are already writing bars or just getting started, participants build skills in writing powerful lyrics, finding […]

    Free

  • Knitting with Ms. Merrily at Charles Santore Library

    Charles Santore Library 932 South 7th Street, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    At Charles Santore Library, Ms. Merrily will share their knitting skills with children of all school ages and their caregivers. Materials will be provided.

  • Twilight Tales Family Story Time at Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library

    Twilight Tales Family Story Time at Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library
    Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library 125 S 52nd St, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Bring the family at Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library for an interactive storytime. Every Monday, this event includes favorite read-aloud books, songs, and craft that's fun for the whole family!

  • (Daily) Shaun the Sheep™: Flock This Way Exhibit

    Daily: Shaun the Sheep’s Flock This Way Exhibit
    Please Touch Museum 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA, United States

    Please Touch Museum welcomes the interactive traveling exhibit Shaun the Sheep™: Flock This Way, starting from February 7 until May 10. Children ages 3-9 can develop problem-solving skills and resilience through playful activities with the beloved film and television character. Created by Minnesota Children's Museum […]

Photograph courtesy of Visit Philadelphia.

 

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