What’s Happening in Philadelphia | The Triangle

What’s Happening in Philadelphia

Philadelphia Magazine’s Thinkfest

This two‐day event will spotlight the boldest thinkers in our region. Take a look at Philadelphia’s bright future, and meet the thought leaders making it all happen. Shift your perspective. A VIP Reception will be held Friday, Nov. 30, featuring cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a candid conversation with Stephen Starr. Tickets are limited and available only with the purchase of a two-day ticket. Hear from the city’s boldest thinkers Dec. 1 on technology, the arts, food, medicine, economics, urban development and more. Tickets include access to all sessions, complimentary breakfast and a roundtable lunch.

The Rittenhouse Hotel, 210 W. Rittenhouse Square

Friday, Nov. 30, 6:30-8:30 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 1, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Cost: Two-day ticket $85, Saturday ticket $50

www.phillymag.com/thinkfest

 

Municipal Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Love Park

Dec. 5 is the day we have been anticipating for almost two weeks. Finally, the huge municipal Christmas tree will be lit in the traditional Tree Lighting Ceremony by Philadelphia first lady Lisa Nutter! The show, which will be organized by the city, is always a crowd puller. Be sure to get there early to get a good spot to see how Mrs. Nutter lights the huge tree!

Love Park, 15th St. and John F. Kennedy Boulevard

Wednesday, Dec. 5, 5 p.m.

Cost: free admission

www.philachristmas.com

 

Holiday Tours of the Charms of Fairmount Park

Each year, the Charms of Fairmount Park dress up in holiday finery for two festive weeks of joyful celebration. Decorated by various interior designers and garden clubs, the historic houses will delight visitors with festive adornments and stunning interiors. Greeters at each house warmly welcome guests to see the thematic holiday decor. This is a perfect way to share the season with friends and family. There are plenty of ways to visit these beautiful homes this holiday season. Visit the houses at your own pace during open-house hours, take a guided trolley tour on select dates, or reserve a group tour through the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Each of the Charms has free parking onsite and is decorated with a featured theme.

Locations vary

Saturday, Dec. 1, through Sunday, Dec. 9

Cost: $5 per person, per house 

parkcharms.com

 

Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” at the Walnut Street Theatre

The Walnut Street Theatre is proud to present Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” The holiday magic begins when a troupe of actors appear at the historic Walnut Street Theatre to set up and perform the heartwarming tale of Ebenezer Scrooge. We all know this grumpy old miser’s response to holiday cheer is “Bah, humbug.” Scrooge is a bitter old man who can no longer feel joy or affection, even for his family. But on one remarkable Christmas Eve, he is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. With their help, can Scrooge change his ways? You and your favorite kids are in for a treat with a special hourlong adaptation that uses original and traditional songs to highlight Dickens’ powerful story. Deck the halls as our holiday spirits travel beyond the footlights, right into your very own heart.

Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St.

Saturday, Dec. 1, through Saturday, Dec. 22

Cost: $10-$16

www.walnutstreettheatre.org

 

South Street Headhouse District Winter Wonderland

South Street Headhouse District’s annual winter extravaganza is back! Each year, hundreds of area families attend this celebration, and this year’s event promises great entertainment and activities for the whole family. Join the South Street Headhouse District for the annual Holiday Tree Lighting, a festive market underneath the Historic Headhouse Square Shambles and much more. The award-winning Society Hill Dance Academy will perform holiday ballroom dances for the crowds. The seasonal sounds of a brass quartet will help get people in the holiday spirit. Kids of all ages will be able to make their own ornaments at the Expressive Hands table. Over 20 South Street Headhouse retailers and restaurants will be under the Headhouse Shambles to create a holiday market that will meet the interests and needs of area shoppers.

2nd Street between Pine and Lombard streets

Sunday, Dec. 2, 4-7 p.m.

Cost: free admission

www.southstreet.com