Thanksgiving break is the perfect week to do whatever you want to do. Reconnecting with friends, seeing family, and taking time for yourself are all great opportunities that this break gives us. Whether you have a packed schedule or an empty week filled with relaxation and comfort, we have something for you to do.

Philadelphia is the City of Brotherly Love and a city known for being lively year-round. With one full week of no schoolwork coming up, we have compiled a list of events or activities happening around the area.

1. Morris Arboretum & Gardens

As the holiday season approaches, Morris Arboretum, located on Northwestern Avenue in Philly, is bringing the holiday magic to life. This botanical garden is rated #2 of “Things to do in Philadelphia,” and with comments such as “great place for adults and children,” and “so lovely and peaceful,” we know this place is enjoyable for folks of all ages.

From November 22 to the end of December, the arboretum has multiple events and experiences going on. Guests may choose different tickets, like a Winter Wellness Walk or a Holly Highlights & Winter Greenery Tour. As of now, there are seven ongoing events and most are free with general admission.

2. Christmas Village At LOVE Park

Around the famous location of ‘LOVE Park’ in Philadelphia, there is a yearly holiday-themed village going on. This is located in both LOVE Park and City Hall and is open on Thanksgiving Day, into the holiday season. There is no admission, making this easily accessible for any family, and it includes 87 vendors. Over Thanksgiving break, the village is offering pictures with Santa and early access to their market for guests to enjoy the Thanksgiving parade. They also have their fundraiser, The Festival of Trees, going on from November 29 – December 24. This is a fundraiser for the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and is also free of admission. Folks, don’t miss this!

3. 6abc Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade

It wouldn’t be Thanksgiving in Pennsylvania without the Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia. No, this isn’t the one you see in New York. This one is better, some might say. This special event is taking place on Thanksgiving from 8:30 a.m. to noon. This is America’s longest-running Thanksgiving Day parade and will soar over Center City and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. With special appearances from Santa Claus and his missus, these festivities will kick off the start of the most wonderful time of the year. There will be performances by Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White. A great way to watch this in person would be in the prime viewing area, along Benjamin Franklin Parkway. If not, you can always tune in to watch this event live on 6abc or stream it from Hulu.

4. Wanamaker Light Show

For over 50 years, many holiday figures have been brought to life through thousands of twinkling lights and festive music. This year, the world-famous Wanamaker Light Show (formerly the Macy’s Light Show) is happening from November 28 to December 24. Upstairs, in Dickens Village, there is a 6,000-square-foot animatronic retelling the story of A Christmas Carol. This beloved tradition is returning home on Black Friday and will be free to attend, with no tickets required, running every hour on the half hour. This will be your last chance to experience this attraction as it is set to go on hiatus for the 2026 and 2027 holiday seasons due to renovations. Watch snowflakes, snowmen, candy canes, and reindeer become illuminated by 100,000 LED lights. This is perfect for something to do after the excitement of Thanksgiving Day.

5. Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest

Finally, the classic ice skating! For more than 32 seasons, Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest has been Philadelphia’s favorite winter tradition, located on the Delaware River Waterfront. Visitors will have the opportunity to indulge in tons of fun beneath thousands of sparkling lights in what some call a “real-life winter wonderland.” Starting November 28, guests can get cozy in a heated cabin, experience boardwalk rides and games, and enjoy delicious hot food and beverages. Their signature attractions include their holiday tree and ice skating over their NHL-sized rink. The site is open to the public and free to enter. Amenities like ice skating, cabins, fire pits, Rinkside Lounge, and rental experiences can be reserved in advance. Parking on-site is limited, but there are many ways to access the Waterfront. You can share your favorite memories from your trip with the hashtags #MyPhillyWaterfront or #RiverRink.

6. Huda Sandwich Shop

To the foodies out there, we see you. We know the Thanksgiving holiday can work up an appetite, so we picked out a new sandwich spot in Philadelphia for you to try. We invite you to explore Huda, a restaurant/shop featuring specialty sandwiches made on house-made artisanal breads. Located in the heart of Rittenhouse, this fast-casual sandwich shop delivers something exciting and different. Chef-owner Yehuda Sichel brings fine dining and technique to his business. Their popular Huda Sandwiches are said to be soft and bold, yet full of flavor. Imagine: house-baked Japanese milk buns, short rib grilled cheeses, and spicy Korean-style chicken sandwiches. We know your stomach is grumbling. With top-notch customer experience and a lot of love, this spot believes sandwiches can be redefined as what you want them to be.

7. Comcast Holiday Spectacular

On JFK Boulevard in Philadelphia, the Comcast Holiday Spectacular comes back to life. Starting November 27, there will be daily shows from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the top of every hour. This holiday spectacular will be offered alongside a free cinematic experience at the Universal Sphere starring characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek. During the show, there is a free, 15-minute show presented on the video wall. This features holiday singalongs, performances by Philadelphia Ballet, and a special enchanted sleigh ride around the world. This spot has become a holiday tradition for millions of visitors, and there are sensory-friendly shows, as well as Audio Description shows available to listen through their app.

8. DreamWorks Shrek’s Festive Flight At The Universal Sphere

Visitors will be able to join Shrek, Donkey, Gingy, and friends on a journey from Philadelphia to the North Pole in this cinematic experience. Shortly after arriving at the North Pole Bakery, you will be able to decorate your own gingerbread cookies in a digital interactive experience. Sensory-friendly shows are offered multiple times daily. From November 28 to November 30, you can meet Shrek! Snap pics and hang out with the guy himself at the Comcast Center Campus, after you enjoy the show! These attractions are free to the public, and while you may think these are childish, they are very well known to be for adults as well!