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Mrs. Claus Sing-along, Holly Nights, Deck the Alley, and More Fun Things To Do in Philly this Weekend

Students at the Philadelphia Dance Academy put on an impressive classic production of The Nutcracker. Photo by Victoria Bastian Photography
Students at the Philadelphia Dance Academy put on an impressive classic production of The Nutcracker. Photo by Victoria Bastian Photography
12/5/25 - By Nicole O'Donnell

Looking for the best things to do in Philadelphia this weekend? Here are some family-friendly events and activities to add to your must-do list.

December is here, and Philly is glowing with holiday events. Don’t miss the epic Mrs. Claus’s Christmas Singalong Celebration in Kempton or Pennsbury Manor’s Holly Nights in Morrisville. Looking for some free holiday fun? We have you covered with Handmade Holidays at Bartram’s Garden or The Nutcracker with the Philadelphia Dance Academy at the Parkway Central Library. Also, since its the first weekend in the month, don't miss Barnes Free First Sunday Family Day or Cherry Street Pier First Friday. Whatever you do, don't miss a thing!


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More Things To Do in Philly this Week with Kids:

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Best Things To Do in Philly this Weekend with Kids

Mrs. Claus’s Christmas Singalong Celebration

Friday, December 5, 2025
Kempton
The elves Snickerdoodle and Jingle are ready to sing Christmas songs to children while riding this special train at Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern Railroad. The journey takes passengers to the North Pole to meet Mrs. Claus.  READ MORE

Cherry Street Pier First Friday

FREE
Friday, December 5, 2025
Philadelphia
Visit the Cherry Street Pier on the First Friday of each month for exhibition openings, artist studio tours, markets, and stunning views of the Delaware River. Don't miss the beautiful views from the pier.   READ MORE

Pennsbury Manor's Holly Nights

Thursday & Friday, December 4 & 5, 2025
Morrisville
Come and experience the enchantment of Pennsbury Manor by candlelight! Enjoy crackling bonfires, the merry sound of carolers, candlelit tours of the Manor House, and colonial craft demonstrations. READ MORE

Deck the Alley

Saturday, December 6, 2025
Philadelphia
Guests can meander down Philadelphia’s most historic residential street for a glimpse of 21st-century life in historic houses from the 1700s and 1800s. Visitors can peek inside these historic homes for a glimpse into the past. READ MORE

Cape May City Craft Shows

Saturday & Sunday, December 6 & 7, 2025
Cape May
Come visit 50+ handmade craft vendors and artists on weekends in Cape May. Summer shows are held outdoors, while December events take place inside Convention Hall. READ MORE

Family Carnival Fundraiser @ Cradles to Crayons

Saturday, December 6, 2025
Philadelphia
Cradles to Crayons Philadelphia’s Family Leadership Circle (FLC) provides a unique opportunity to instill the values of charity and community service in families and children. This n-Gala Family Day is a fun-filled morning of philanthropy and hands-on service that brings Family Leadership Circle families together in the spirit of giving. READ MORE

Handmade Holidays at Bartram’s Garden

FREE
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Philadelphia
Attend a free event in the Garden. The annual celebration of winter where local artists and makers and the community come together to create. This free public event is for the whole family, rain or shine. READ MORE

Lucia & Christmas Market at American Swedish Museum

Saturday & Sunday, December 6 & 7, 2025
Philadelphia
Don’t miss this unique magical holiday experience. The outdoor Christmas Market includes your favorite holiday deli items, Christmas decorations and gifts, and SWEA bakery treats. READ MORE

The Nutcracker with the Philadelphia Dance Academy

FREE
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Philadelphia
Bring the whole family to enjoy the beloved story of Marie and the Nutcracker Prince, performed by students at The Philadelphia Dance Academy. This performance will feature excerpts from the classic Nutcracker ballet. Children, teens, families, and adults are welcome!  READ MORE

Christmas in Kensington

FREE
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Philadelphia
Get ready to step into the holiday spirit at the 5th annual Christmas in Kensington event. This festive, all-day, indoor holiday market is the perfect way to shop, sip, and celebrate the season — safe from the winter chill. READ MORE

Happy Holidays from Rox

Saturday, December 6, 2025
Philadelphia
Roxborough Development Corporation is jingling into the season with Happy Holidays from Rox 2025 a one-day neighborhood celebration filled with festive fun, local shopping, and community cheer!   READ MORE

Barnes Free First Sunday Family Day

FREE
Sunday, December 7, 2025
Philadelphia
On the first Sunday of each month, the Barnes offers free admission and creative programming to its visitors with a full day of family-friendly activities. Themes change monthly, with new art activities, performers, and guest artists each month. READ MORE

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About the Author

Nicole O'Donnell
Nicole O'Donnell is a marketing and social media expert with over 20 years of media experience and a proud mom to twin girls. A fan of writing, yoga, and exploring Philly, Nicole loves sampling the city's best treats with her girls in tow.
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