Your tour of Philadelphia’s holiday lights and sights begins with a focus on Center City, with its towering skyscrapers and vast holiday markets. One of the highlights of this time of year is, of course, the tree at City Hall, an annual favorite that illuminates the area with decorations that honor the neighborhoods of Philly. The traditional holiday market and Love Park are always a hit with locals and visitors alike and, depending on time, you may be able to hop out for a quick walk, making your mental list of goodies to pick-up later.

After exploring the huge displays of Center City, we’ll be off again, weaving through the streets of Philadelphia to a couple of our favorite smaller, neighborhood light displays. One is nothing short of a “Miracle” with lights spanning the street, homes decorated to the max, and trees covered in twinkling lights. This display is quintessential South Philly - an all-out celebration of the most festive time of the year. Across town, a newer light show is quickly building a reputation as the destination for families looking for some seasonal fun. This timed show, played to a Christmas soundtrack, takes place in one of the original city squares, now a popular park.

While timing (or traffic) may limit the number of these fantastic displays you can squeeze in, you’re sure to leave your tour feeling ready for the holidays and filled with the spirit of the season.