The holidays are now upon us with Christmas Day just right around the corner. But while many of you will be singing carols, opening presents and spending time with loved ones, there’s always more to do on December 25. 

Whether you’re looking to get out and move with the family, soak in some Christmas lights or save yourself from the dishes and catch a holiday bite. We’ve got you covered, with a list of what’s open on Christmas Day in Philly 

Lights and Entertainment

Miracle on South 13th Street

If you’re looking for an free light show, stop by South 13th. The festive neighbor goes all out each year creative the ultimate Winter wonderland. The lights go between 13th street on Tasker and Morris in South Philadelphia.

 

Ice Skating

Blue Cross Riverrink
101 South Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia

Rothman Rink
1 South 15th Street, Philadelphia (Dilworth Park)

 

Get active with outdoor Skating around Philadelphia. Both Blue Cross RiverRink and Rothman Rink are open for limited hours with timed tickets for Christmas Day Skating. If you choose Rothman Rink, catch the free Deck the Hall Holiday Light Show which plays on a continuous 30-minute loop! The Comcast Holiday Spectacular is a short walk away, too!

Shady Brook Farm

391 Stony Hill Road, Yardley

 

If you’re willing to take a trip up I-95 and head to Yardley PA, the Shady Brook Farm Holiday Light Show, is a delight for all ages. The Drive Thru is open on Christmas but please note that the Farm Market, Santa’s Village, Candy Cane Lane & bonfires are CLOSED on Christmas. 

Longwood Gardens

1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square

Visit A Longwood Christmas in Kennett Square! Stop by Longwood Gardens as they bring you a Fire and Ice Christmas. Walk through thousands of lights, grab a winter treat at the café, or sit around the fire pits to listen to holiday tunes and take in all the lights. Time tickets are required, and at the time of this publication tickets are available for the 10 and 10:30 am time slots. 

 

Washington Crossing Park

1112 River Road, Washington Crossing

 

The Crossing Reenactment at Washington Crossing Historic Park is perfect if you’re a history buff and would love to see your textbook come to life. There are no tickets required, river crossing reenactment begins at 1 p.m. 

For the Little Ones

If tearing through wrapping paper and Christmas cookies wasn’t enough to keep your little ones entertained, here’s some options to keep them engaged and hopefully wear them out for an early bedtime! 

 

 

Disney on Ice

3601 South Broad Street, Philadelphia

 

Disney on Ice Presents Let’s Celebrate at the Wells Fargo Center Join Mickey, Minnie and 50 of their closest friends and characters for a Christmas Day celebration at the Wells Fargo Center. Sing along to your favorite Disney classics and get an extra dose of the Christmas Spirit

 

Sesame Place

100 Sesame Road, Langhorne

 

Join Elmo, Big Bird and friends for A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place Langhorne. The park is transformed into a Sesame Street themed Winter Wonderland complete with 30ft tree, festive holiday tunes throughout the park, character shows and pictures with Santa!

 

Crayola Factory

30 Center Square, Easton

 

Add a little color to your Christmas day and head on over to the Crayola Colorful Christmas Experience. Your little ones can go through a themed adventure to help Santa, make beautiful crafts, take interactive photos, sing carols and more!

 

Holiday Eats and Treats

Chima Steakhouse

1901 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Dinner 4 – 8 pm

 

This Brazilian themed steakhouse is the perfect way to expand your pallet on Christmas Day. The restaurant is accepting reservations from 4 – 8pm. and if you’re looking for an inexpensive way to feed you and the littles, children under 6 eat free! 

 

Fogo De Chao 

1337 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Brunch and Dinner 11 am – 10:30 pm

 

If steak is still on your heart, another crowd favorite all year round is Brazilian Steakhouse, Fogo De Chao. Whether you’re looking for an early lunch or late dinner their expanded Christmas day hours of 11 am to 10:30 pm should suit your needs. 

 

Square 1682

121 South 17th Street, Philadelphia (inside the Kimpton Hotel), Brunch and Dinner 9 am – 2 pm, 5 pm – 10 pm

 

If you’re looking for a classic holiday brunch or a festive Christmas feast Square 1682 is a great option for all members of your party. Their locally sources menu also includes vegetarian and gluten-free options. 

 

Vernick Fish

1 North 19th Street, Philadelphia (inside the Four Seasons Hotel), Dinner 6 pm – 10 pm

 

Take in the beautiful decorations of the Four Seasons hotel and make your way to Vernick Fish for a specially themed holiday dinner.

 

Bocelli’s Doylestown

33 North Main Street, Doylestown, Dinner 4:30 – 10:30 pm

 

Savor this fine Italian cuisine with classics for the whole family from chicken parm to lobster ravioli, this delicious Italian comfort food is sure to put a smile on everyone’s face. 

 

Looking for more ideas of how to spend the day? Visit our sister site, Main Line Parent!

 

Lead Photo by J. Fusco for VISIT PHILADELPHIA