A roundup of holiday events in the River Wards
By Melissa Komar
What’s Christmas in Philadelphia without a stop at Macy’s Light Show or a stroll down South Philly’s 13th Street? Where else on Earth can you find the wattage of lights in use exceed that of the 4200 block of Greeby Street in Mayfair? And, let’s not forget the most recently added holiday tradition of epic proportions, Christmas Village at City Hall, complete with commemorative mugs and a carousel. But, the River Wards are rife with opportunities to make Yuletide traditions and memories, some as close as a quick walk around the corner. Be sure to make your list and check it twice for these festive events.
NKCDC holiday lighting ceremony
The NKCDC Garden Center, 1825 Frankford Ave., holiday lighting ceremony will take place on Friday, Dec. 8, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Join NKCDC and neighbors for some holiday cheer and a cup of hot chocolate as the Garden Center is lit up for the season.
Fishtown Christmas tree lighting
The 7th annual Fishtown Christmas tree lighting will be held on Saturday, Dec. 9, at 7 p.m. at Palmer Cemetery, Palmer and Memphis streets. Christmas wreaths will be available for purchase for $10 prior to the lighting. Place a wreath on a veteran’s grave or take one home. There will be a visit from Santa and St. Laurentius students will sing carols.
Powers Park tree lighting ceremony
Powers Park Conservancy will hold its annual tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 9. The tree lighting will take place at dusk. Children ages 3 to 8 can make Christmas crafts, sings carols and take pictures at the holiday scene in the Richmond Library, 2987 Almond St., at 2:30 p.m. Please use Almond Street entrance. Children must be registered by Thursday, Dec. 7. Email [email protected] to register. Pizza and beverages will be served to children at 3:30 p.m. Hot chocolate and cookies will be served outside at 4:15 p.m. Santa arrives for pictures at 4:30 p.m.
Parade of Spirits Liberty Lands 2017
The 7th annual Parade of Spirits Liberty Lands will take place on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 4 to 7 p.m. starting at Liberty Lands Park, 913 N. 3rd St. # 961. Anyone can come, in costume or not. A lantern or banner will be given to participants if desired. After a neighborhood procession to greet diners and shoppers, there will be fire bellydancing by Lux Arati and snacks and cider by the fire pit. For more details about the history of the event, visit krampuslaufphiladelphia.com.
Campbell Square tree lighting ceremony
The Friends of Campbell Square will host the annual tree lighting ceremony at Campbell Square on Friday, Dec. 15, at 6:30 p.m. Santa will be at the ceremony for photos with children.
Is your group hosting a holiday lighting ceremony? Email us at [email protected] to be included in our roundup.
