With holiday family fun in mind, Philadelphia city officials have announced that the beloved Wanamaker Holiday Light Show will return to the Wanamaker Building. 

After the closure of Macy’s, the space’s longtime tenant, residents and visitors alike worried for the future of the light show. However, the Philadelphia Visitor Center has confirmed its return alongside organ performances and Dickens Village.

A Philadelphia Holiday Tradition Lives On

Started in 1956, the Wanamaker Light Show has long been a staple amidst the city’s holiday attractions. Narrated by Julie Andrews and featuring performances on the Wanamaker Grand Court Organ, its decades-long run has brought cheer to those of all ages. 

Accompanied by Dickens’ Village, an immersive experience into Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” these attractions kick off the holiday season every year. A highlight of Dickens’ Village is Santa’s office, where kids can visit and sit at his desk with him. Both bring in 2,000 and 10,000 respective visitors yearly, making them an integral part of Philadelphia’s seasonal festivities. 

The corporate owner of the Wanamaker building, TF Cornerstone (TFC) recognized the importance of retaining the holiday light show.

“We immediately…sought to honor that legacy and ensure these cherished traditions can continue in the hearts and holiday memories of Philadelphians,” said TFC  Senior Vice President, Jake Elghanayan.

Community Effort Saves the Show

The effort to save the light show was spearheaded by the Philadelphia Visitor Center, which launched a fundraising campaign to raise $350,000 in donations to pay for its return. Funds support both the installation and maintenance of the light show and Dickens Village. 

The Center has also partnered with TFC to reopen the space for the season. With the campaign’s current fundraising goal reached, donations remain open to support the light show for future years.

These beloved holiday traditions will take a break during the 2026 and 2027 holiday seasons while the Wanamaker Building undergoes renovations, with their return set for 2028. For now, let the holiday fun begin!

Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village 2025 Holiday Schedule

Both the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village officially open November 28, 2025. They are free to the public and are located in the Wanamaker Building at 100 E. Penn Square, Philadelphia, PA 19107. 

Free timed-entry tickets are required for Dickens Village and are released five days in advance. Reservations open November 24 at 12:01 am. Optional professional photo packages at Santa’s office in Dickens Village start at $40. 

Here’s when you can catch the nostalgic magic this holiday season with your family and friends. 

November 28–December 11

The Wanamaker Grand Court and Dickens Village will be open Wednesday–Sunday from 12–6 pm. Holiday light shows will run every hour on the half hour beginning at 12:30 pm and ending with the last show at 5:30 pm. 

December 12–December 23

The Wanamaker Grand Court and Dickens Village expands their hours from 12–8 pm daily. Holiday light shows run on the hour, every half hour beginning at 12:30 pm until the last showing at 6:30 pm.

December 24th

On Christmas Eve, the Wanamaker Grand Court and Dickens Village are open 12–4 pm. Shows run every hour, on the half hour starting at 12:30 pm, with the last show at 3:30 pm. 

The Amazing Wanamaker Pipe Organ

Hear the historic 28,750-pipe Wanamaker Organ in a “live finale” during featured performances. Organ concerts will follow most 12:45 pm and 4:45 pm shows. 

Shop, Snack, and Enjoy the Holiday Magic

Adding to the festive experience, families can also do some holiday shopping and snacking in the Wanamaker Grand Court. The makers of the popular Christmas Village in Love Park debut an indoor holiday market from November 28–December 24. Browse artisan gifts and handmade treasures while the kids soak up the holiday wonder. Grab holiday-themed food and beverages from pop-up vendor Holly and Humbug, also located inside the Wanamaker building.

Don’t Miss the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village in 2025

The beloved Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village returns in 2025, complete with holiday shopping. However, make plans to visit this year, because these beloved attractions will take a break in 2026-2027 during renovations to the Wanamaker building. 

Lead photo courtesy of George Widman Photography LLC.