Kristen Sullivan

Latest posts by Kristen

30 Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities in Philly for Kids

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 11/08/2024 - 8:42am

The zoo lights are aglow at LumiNature. Photo courtesy of the Philadelphia Zoo

Check this list twice for all the best holiday activities and Christmas events near Philly.

When the most wonderful time of the year arrives, in-the-know Philly parents appreciate a long list of ideas to celebrate with kids. November marks the arrival of twinkling lights, mesmerizing train gardens, and a jolly old elf from the North Pole. With that in mind, we've rounded up our favorite must-do holiday activities and Christmas events in Philly, including some new additions to the calendar, that are sure to make the season memorable.

For additional seasonal fun, review our Philadelphia Holiday Guide, which includes the best Polar Express winter train rides in the area and our favorite outdoor skating rinks.

Best Polar Express Train Rides and Christmas Trains near Philadelphia (2025 Guide for Families)

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 10/25/2024 - 8:23am

Journey through Chester Creek Valley aboard Santa's Express. Photo courtesy of the West Chester Railroad

Everyone loves a good Polar Express train ride!! Put on your PJs and get ready to ride the rails with Santa on a Christmas train ride near Philly.

The Best Ice Cream Shops in Philly and the Suburbs

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 06/28/2024 - 9:25am

What could be better than a tasty treat from Scoops de Ville?

The heat and humidity of the Philadelphia area can sometimes be unbearable. What better way to beat the heat than cooling off with delicious ice cream? We have rounded up some sweet ice cream spots to visit throughout the summer months. From cone and cups to sundaes and milkshakes, everyone in the family can find a refreshing treat.

Now the big questions: Which flavor will you chose, and more importantly, will you order jimmies or sprinkles to top it off? Read on to discover some of our favorite places to get frozen delights.

For other ways to stay cool, visit our posts on Best Swimming Lakes, Free Splash Pads, Spraygrounds, and Sprinklers, Best Free Swimming Pools, and Free Beaches in New Jersey.

Best Summer Day Trips from Philly: Quick Getaways for Families with Kids

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sun, 05/05/2024 - 8:08am

Take a splashy day trip to Morey's Piers Ocean Oasis. Photo by David Howarth

When a summer day with no play dates, soccer practice, or camp presents itself, Philly parents love to hit the road and change the scenery. To make your mini getaway easier, we've rounded up some of our favorite summer day trip destinations, where you'll find everything from amusement parks to beaches.

To extend your daycation into a true vacation, check out our top ten weekend vacay ideas in PA, or browse our list of 20 family road trips under ten hours from Philly.

Summer Art Camps for Philly Area Kids

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sun, 03/24/2024 - 10:17am

Summer Art Camp is back to its full schedule at Pennsylvania Academy of Fine arts historic landmark building and studios! Photo courtesy of the academy

Summer will be here before we know it, and many parents are starting to think about camps. If you have a budding artist in your family, there is no shortage of camp options available in the Philadelphia area. From museums and neighborhood art leagues to paint-your-own ceramic studios, we have assembled a list to fit all levels of artistic ability. Read on for our ideas and get your children registered for a new art experience.

Be sure to browse our camp directory for horseback riding, STEM, and sports camps.

12 Winter Festivals for Philly Families: Fire and Ice, Maple Sugaring, and More

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sun, 12/24/2023 - 10:00am

Enjoy ice carving demonstrations and lights galore at Fire & Frost Fun at Peddler's Village. Photo courtesy of Peddler's Village

Before cold winds, freezing temperatures, and shorter days lead to the wintertime blues, Philly families can enjoy some of the many amazing winter festivals to keep spirits high while we await warmer weather. We've rounded up some of our favorite festivals held in the area this time of year. So, bundle up and browse through our list to find the perfect festival for your family to enjoy this winter season.

If you're looking for more seasonal fun, check out our roundup of nearby snow tubing spots, or visit our Winter Activity Guide.

Breakfast with Santa in Philly

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sun, 11/12/2023 - 7:51am

Santa visits KOP for breakfast. Enjoy story time with Santa, face painting, a balloon artist, and delicious food. Photo courtesy of Neiman Marcus

It's that magical time of year again. Philly tots, tweens, and teens have been on their best behavior as they anticipate the jolly ol' elf from the North Pole's visit to the Delaware Valley. Of course, many Philly parents head to the mall so their children can share their wishlists with St. Nick. However, if you are looking for something special, consider taking the family to see Santa at a breakfast, brunch, or lunch.

Many venues from zoos to museums welcome Mr. Kringle. Some provide games, crafts, and stories, but you can be sure all events include photo ops so bring your phone or camera. Read through our list of upcoming events and schedule your breakfast with Santa today! Many of these are quite popular and often space is limited.

We're always updating our Guide to Holiday and Christmas Events in Philly, so be sure to check it twice for posts like the best holiday activities for Philly kids, our favorite outdoor skating rinks, and more.

Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade 2023: Start Time, Parade Route, and Info

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Thu, 10/19/2023 - 7:37am

The balloon brigade will be out at this year's 6abc Dunkin' Thanksgiving Day Parade!

Revelers can once again line the city's streets for this year's Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade. Celebrating more than 100 years, the Philly parade is one of the oldest local holiday traditions. Giant floats of every variety, bands, dancers, and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus, will join the route to help the City of Brotherly Love kick off the holiday season. Venturing out on Turkey Day morning to watch the show march through the city is a family Philly bucket list experience––but it definitely requires some planning and preparation.

For key details including the 6abc Dunkin' Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade start time, route, and more, read below for our comprehensive guide. Visiting from out of town? Check out these top Philly hotels for families.

Kristen Sullivan

Latest posts by Kristen

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