OLD CITY PHILADELPHIA INVITES VISITORS TO WARM UP TO THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH EVENTS & NEW GIFT IDEAS IN THE HISTORIC DISTRICT
Philadelphia, PA - - Santa knows that the best place to spend the holiday season is Old City Philadelphia and that is why he will arrive in style via a Philadelphia Fire Truck on Saturday, November 28th at 11 am at the Omni Hotel at 401 Chestnut Street!
Before his arrival at the Omni Hotel, Santa will let shoppers know he is coming to town by driving throughout Old City on Chestnut and Market Streets! Once at the hotel, he will meet with children and the young at heart and will be making a list and checking it twice! Fortunate for Santa, there are great places to shop in Old City for everyone on his and your list!
The shops, restaurants and galleries of Old City Philadelphia are encouraging shoppers to declare their independence from malls this season and stroll the cobble stone streets for the latest holiday gifts in the region’s most historic area. With over 270 independently owned businesses in one great neighborhood there is much to see, do and explore! Park on the cheap throughout the season with reduced rates at participating lots with RED signs or at the meters which will also offer discounted or free parking!
Storefronts will be illuminated for the season and businesses will be competing in a contest where you are the judge of the best holiday window! The sounds of the season will be heard throughout Old City which will feature strolling musicians throughout the neighborhood!
Give yourself a gift by entering to win a gift basket filled with lots of goodies and gifts from Old City merchants and restaurants.
Weekends are especially wonderful this time of year when Old City invites guests to warm up every Saturday beginning November 28 through December 26 and enjoy traditional holiday carrolers
Of course friends and family can gather around the beautiful Christmas Tree at Bird Park, 3rd Street just below Arch Street, to capture the perfect holiday photo! The tree will be on display beginning November 28.
There is always something to sing about or be sung to this season and throughout December the historic Bourse 21 South Fifth Street, will offer live musical performances at noon featuring some of the areas best individuals and school performances. Enjoy your munchies to music at lunch time in the Bourse beginning at noon Tuesday, December 1 – Tuesday December 22, each Monday – Thursday.
If you prefer to make your holiday gifts then you will certainly want to visit The Clay Studio 137-139 North Second Street in Old City,
Opening Reception, First Friday: Hands on Demo: Ornament making December 4 • 5pm – 9pm The public is invited to attend, discuss the work and partake in light refreshments. The Clay Studio’s Annual Holiday Exhibition has grown to become a Philadelphia tradition, offering the public access to well over one hundred highly talented ceramic artists from across the United States and Canada. This year, the exhibition focuses on tableware, tile, and small sculptures perfect for both holiday gift giving and home furnishing needs.
Holiday Delights Family Workshop December 5 • 10am – 12pm: Have fun together with a seasonal clay experience! Make and decorate a special luminaries or treats to keep or give as a gift! Whether you celebrate Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanza or your own special event, create a treasure to remember the holiday. Work will be fired and ready for pick up by December 18.
Stop by one of the galleries of Old City where you can make your list and check it twice, perhaps Santa will bring you that beautiful sculpture! The galleries of Old City offer an array of mediums in all price points. From oils to jewelry, few things make a more original gift than art!
And when the kids need a break, why not make it a magical one with a visit to the Arden Theater, 401 N. 2nd Street for their production of Peter Pan December 2, 2009 – January 24, 2010. Ever since J.M. Barrie's story first appeared in 1904, countless versions have been produced on stage and in film. Now, Arden Children's Theatre presents a brand-new adaptation; one that celebrates the joy of storytelling and the power of imagination.
Join eternally young Peter on his adventure to Neverland, a magical island where there are no parents, no rules, and fairies and pirates rule! Introduce your children and grandchildren to the characters you loved from J.M. Barrie's timeless masterpiece:
Old City Philadelphia is a vibrant community of unique people, significant history, charming shops, intriguing night life, and endless entertainment options. A great place to visit, work and live, there is always something new happening in Old City. From significant historic sites such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Center to great shopping, world class art galleries and acclaimed restaurants, Old City offers the perfect getaway, daytrip, family outing, date night or place to live and conduct business. For more information about the Old City log onto oldcitydistrict.org
