Cold weather is here and snow will be here shortly. The trees have no leaves, just beautiful ice crystals hanging off the branches. Every house is decorated with beautiful lights – either all white or a mixture of colors. Walking down the street, you will see almost every house decorated for the holidays! I love seeing the wide variety of different decorations, especially the houses with all the fun and weird inflatables. Homes are decorated like gingerbread houses, winter villages, and many more.
At my house, we do not have a theme; we are one of the families with wild inflatables and random decorations. We add a new inflatable to our collection every year and we alternate them. Ever since I was a kid, we always had various inflatables. The first one I can remember is a medium-sized Spongebob Squarepants sitting on a vibrant red present with a green bow. They do not sell that exact one anymore, but they do sell other cool versions of Spongebob Squarepants. I love seeing these because it allows my inner child to shine even though I know I have to help put up those inflatables. Decorating can be hard work, but it’s also fun because you are making memories that you and your children will remember forever just by looking at a specific object. As we get older, we might forget those little moments, but the memories are instilled in our hearts.
Many families take pride in their unique light displays, often competing with neighbors to create the most spectacular showcase. However, many communities have public light displays by transforming parks and town squares into festivity. While seeing these light shows, you can also shop at local vendors or even have a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows. There are many beautiful places that are local to us, and each place has a story to tell.
#1 Macy’s Light Show in Philadelphia, PA
Macy’s Center City, located in the historic Wanamaker Building—a National Historic Landmark—welcomes visitors to experience the renowned Christmas Light Show daily from November 22 to December 30. Held in The Grand Court, this display features a complimentary light show showcasing twinkling snowflakes, dancing snowmen, and more, all accompanied by classic tunes played on the famous Wanamaker Organ.
This light show is amazing around the holiday season, especially for kids. When I was growing up, I used to see this light show every year, and I thought it was magical. Now I get to share this magical experience with my niece and nephew to get them into the holiday spirit.
#2 Dickens Village in Philadelphia, PA
If you love Charles Dickens’s book A Christmas Carol, then this is a place for you to visit. Walk through a village of animatronics that will make you experience 1840s London while seeing the heart-warming scenes from A Christmas Carol. This fantastic “walk through the village” is a wonderful sight for kids and adults because you see the story in animation and feel like you are a part of it.
#3 The Holiday Comcast Spectacular in Philadelphia, PA
This digital holiday show is displayed on one of the world’s largest LED video walls. This free 15-minute video show takes you on a festive, musical journey featuring classic holiday songs, performances, and a sleigh ride around the world.
#4 The Festival of Light in Media, PA
Rose Tree Park shines brightly at night in the dark days of December with its yearly Festival of Lights. Numerous illuminated trees and enchanting displays each year attract visitors to stroll through this winter wonderland and enjoy the festival. The Festival of Lights has been a Delco tradition, offering the ideal chance to embrace the holiday spirit with family and friends. I have only been here once and seeing all the lights while shopping at the local vendors was beautiful.
#5 Christkindlmarkt in Bethlehem, PA
It is a unique family event that embraces the joy of the season. This heartwarming holiday celebration includes handmade creations from some of the country’s top artisans, The delightful sounds of live Christmas music performed by local school and community groups, featuring handcrafted ornaments/nutcracker collectibles from Germany, Festive food and beverages, and an abundance of holiday cheer and activities! This is a fun festival about German culture and how they celebrate the holidays. They have beautiful lights all around the festival, and everyone has big smiles on their faces.
These are just some of the beautiful festivals that my family and I go to celebrate the holidays and see all the fantastic lights. I believe the tradition of holiday lights serves as a celebration and a beacon of hope and joy. It symbolizes the warmth of togetherness and the light that communities can bring to one another especially during the cold winter months. Seeing dazzling lights can bring nostalgia and happiness, reminding us of the joy the holiday season brings to our lives. I hope you go and make memories with your family this winter season.