Weekend Fun for Philly Kids December 13/14: Ugly Sweaters, Seaport Parade of Lights and Santafest

12/11/14 - By Kristen Sullivan

It's the most wonderful time of the year... or so the song goes. Some may feel stressed through the holidays. Others look forward to December with great anticipation. Either way, the Mommy Poppins calendar has something for everyone.

Put on your ugliest Christmas sweater and run off holiday tension at the Ugly Sweater 5K at Fairmount Park. Be still and star gaze at the Delaware Museum of Natural History or enjoy the peacefulness of the Holiday Luminaria at Lock 60

Or, if your family has been stoked for the holidays for months, has already seen The Nutcracker twice, put the tree up weeks ago and is looking for a twist to the traditional holiday fun, consider watching a boat parade, see Santa arrive helicopter style or take a lunch cruise with Santa himself. No matter what you chose, enjoy the holiday as there are only two weeks left.

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

Be sure to receive the latest event information by signing up for our weekly newsletter. Don't see your event? Please add it to our calendar.

Weekend

Mummenschanz- Philadelphia, PA
The Annenberg Center proudly presents the creative storytelling of Mummenschanz, a Swiss troupe known for its visual effects and props. 

Skate with Santa- Philadelphia, PA
Visit the Blue Cross River Rink to skate with Santa, take pictures with the Big Guy and even get a complimentary Santa hat, while supplies last.

Santa's Paradise Express- Ronks, PA
Hurry over to Strasburg Railroad and climb aboard Santa's Paradise Express. Children receive a special treat while riding the rails. And, make sure to stop by to visit Mrs. Claus as she offers help writing letters to Santa at the station.

The Nutcracker- West Chester, PA
The Brandywine Ballet performs the classic holiday tale of Clara and her beloved nutcracker at Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall.

Breakfast with Santa at The Hard Rock Cafe- Philadelphia, PA
This Santa breakfast is sure to please children and adults alike. Visit with Santa while enjoying the music memorabilia at the restaurant.

Saturday

Winterfest- Philadelphia, PA
The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education hosts an afternoon full of nature. Children make star ornaments and moon journals, watch a live animal demonstration, take a night hike, roast marshmallows and view the stars with the center's telescopes. 

Live Ice Carving Demonstration- Ardmore, PA
While doing your holiday shopping at Suburban Square, be sure to visit the ice carvers as they create holiday-themed works of art.

Santafest- West Chester, PA
It's a bird, it's a plane, no... it's Santa Claus arriving in a helicopter to share Christmas joy with all the good little boys and girls! Guests can take a ride in a helicopter and enjoy the American Helicopter Museum during Santafest.

Caroling Hayrides- Media, PA
Bundle up and cozy into the wagon as guests journey to the campfire at Linvilla Orchards. Once there, families can sing traditional Christmas carols and enjoy roasting marshmallows.

Star Party: Meteors- Wilmington, DE
Astronomers from the Delaware Astronomical Society visit the Delaware Museum of Natural History to teach visitors about the celestial bodies in the sky. Hopes are high to see the Geminid meteors.

Sunday

Philadelphia Santa Lunch Cruise- Philadelphia, PA
Board the Spirit of Philadelphia and set sail with Santa. Enjoy a delicious lunch while being entertained with holiday music and fun.

The History of the Christmas Tree- Norristown, PA
Visit the Historical Society of Montgomery County for a family-friendly program examining the history and legends of the Christmas Tree.

Family Workshop- Wilmington, DE
Children visiting Winterthur Museum have the chance to build a mason bee box from recycled materials. In addition, children learn how to take care of their mason bee box at home. This special family workshop does require advance registration.

Upper Darby High School Winter Concert- Drexel Hill, PA
The sounds of the season are upon us as the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center welcomes the Upper Darby High School to showcase its winter musical selections. 

Sundays on Stage- Philadelphia, PA
The Free Library of Philadelphia hosts Sundays on Stage and features a variety of cultural performances. This Sunday's program highlights Selections from the Nutcracker to get everyone in the holiday spirit.

 


Photo courtesy of the Independence Seaport Museum