Philadelphia's Christmas Village Opens On Thanksgiving

PHILADELPHIA — The Christmas Village is returning to Philadelphia on Thanksgiving Day.

This year's open-air German Christmas Market will run from Nov. 28 through Dec. 24, with a special Preview Weekend scheduled for Nov. 23 and Nov. 24, in LOVE Park and in City Hall's Courtyard.

For the 17th season, Christmas Village will showcase more than 120 vendors offering a curated selection of handmade treasures, artisanal goods, and foods.

More than 120 local and international vendors will be showcasing their goods in wooden cottages around Philadelphia's iconic LOVE Park, City Hall’s Courtyard, and the North Broad area.

Additionally, 40 local vendors set up at Dilworth Park as part of the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market, featuring a curated selection of local merchants from the tri-state area.

The park and couryard will be decorated with thousands of twinkling lights during live performances, children’s activities, and rides such as the double-decker Christmas Village Carousel, the majestic Ferris Wheel, and the Kids Train presented by SEPTA.

Food options include grilled sausages, raclette, Germany’s take on mac’n’cheese, Belgian fries, schnitzel, and a new vegan booth, offering vegan bratwurst, blooming onions, and more.

A variety of handcrafted beverages will be available, including mulled wine, spiked hot beverages featuring local Boardroom Spirits, and non-alcoholic offerings like hot chocolate and apple cider.

Family Weekend at the village is scheduled for Dec. 7 and Dec. 8.

Dec. 14 and Dec. 15 will mark German American Weekend, presented by the German Consulate General in New York.

"We are excited to welcome everyone back to Christmas Village in Philadelphia for 2024 for our 17th season," Christmas Village President Thomas Bauer said. "This year promises to be very special with the introduction of our first-ever vegan booth and delightful new flavors of Glühwein. With the annual return of the original Christkind and our partnership with CHOP for the 'Festival of Trees,' we look forward to creating cherished memories for families and friends this holiday season. A heartfelt thank you to the City of Philadelphia and our partners for their unwavering support."

"Christmas Village has become a beloved family tradition in the heart of Center City, bringing together generations in one of Philadelphia’s most cherished public spaces," Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Susan Slawson said. "This annual event not only spreads holiday spirit but also provides an incredible opportunity for small business vendors to showcase their unique offerings, helping to boost the local economy while celebrating the rich culture of our city. It’s a cornerstone event that connects our community and highlights the best of Philly during the holidays."

Christmas Village in Philadelphia is once again partnering with the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for the second annual 'Festival of Trees' fundraiser at the LOVE Park Welcome Center.

The full details for the new season will be released in early to mid-November including menus, vendor lists, event details and more.

Hours are noon to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and noon to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The village will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day and on Christmas Eve.