Winter in Philadelphia: Cozy traditions and rituals
Celebrate winter in Philadelphia with the Mummers Parade, festive ice-skating rinks, and holiday markets.
Edited by Kaitlyn Dreyling | December 18, 2025
In Philadelphia, winter is a season of tradition and warmth, where visitors can seamlessly blend outdoor adventures with cozy rituals. From the spectacle of the Mummers Parade on Broad Street to skating beneath City Hall’s twinkling lights, the city’s compact neighborhoods make it simple to pivot from brisk walks to stops for indoor cocoa. Center City and Penn’s Landing come alive with festive markets, glowing rinks, and quick escapes to classic comfort food. Here’s how to make the most of a winter trip to Philly.
In this article: Explore winter in Philadelphia
Warm up by City Hall: Dilworth Park
LOVE Park lights and Christmas Village
Mummers Parade
On New Year’s Day, Philadelphia’s Mummers Parade transforms Broad Street into a dazzling stage of costumes, music, and tradition. The parade begins in the morning, with judging near City Hall and the famous Fancy Brigade Finale at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Get there early for the best views, bundle up against the winter chill, and bring cash or cards for nearby warm-up stops. Family-friendly viewing is easiest earlier in the day, while the Two Street after-party in South Philadelphia picks up energy after dark and is ideal for those seeking a lively scene. Between parade blocks, it’s easy to slip into a museum or cafe around City Hall, or head to Dilworth Park for a skating break. For a quick walk to the festivities, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City offers a warm retreat right on Broad Street, with spacious guest rooms, an on-site restaurant, and the signature cookie welcome.
Warm up by City Hall: Dilworth Park
Winter at Dilworth Park brings the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink and Cabin to the heart of Center City, open daily from mid-November through mid-February. Go ice skating, enjoy the Wintergarden’s illuminated pathways, and shop for unique gifts at the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market. Off-peak skate sessions and nearby restrooms make it easy for families to plan a stress-free outing, with quick pivots to indoor stops like Reading Terminal Market or local cafes within a 10-minute walk. Across the street, LOVE Park sparkles with holiday lights and photo ops. Canopy by Hilton Philadelphia Center City is a boutique base located just a short stroll from City Hall, offering vibrant design, local touches, and walkable access to top attractions.
LOVE Park lights and Christmas Village
LOVE Park’s Christmas Village brings European-style holiday magic to Philadelphia, with artisan stalls, seasonal treats, and weekend programming like Santa visits. The market typically operates from late November through just before Christmas, with festive lights and the iconic LOVE sculpture just steps away for photo moments. It’s easy to hop between LOVE Park, City Hall, and the Wintergarden for a full day of holiday cheer. The Logan Philadelphia, Curio Collection by Hilton is an ideal stay for enjoying the festivities, featuring an indoor pool and spa to help you thaw out and a rooftop lounge offering stunning city views.
Waterfront glow at RiverRink Winterfest
The Delaware River waterfront shines during Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest, open each year from late November through early March. This seasonal destination offers ice skating, firepits, cozy cabins, and festive food and drink, complete with golden-hour skyline views. You’ll want to layer up to stay comfortable in the waterfront breeze and book off-peak skate times for a more relaxed experience. Enjoy a short walk to the rink from Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing, where waterfront guest rooms, an indoor pool, and an [on-site restaurant] provide the perfect reset after a day outdoors.
Reading Terminal Market: Classic warm-up
Reading Terminal Market is a beloved indoor retreat, perfect for warming up with hot cocoa, sweet and savory bites, and quick meals before or after outdoor adventures. Families can find seating for a relaxed break, and the market’s location across from the Pennsylvania Convention Center makes it an easy stop between winter events. Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia - Convention Center, PA is just steps away, offering suite-style comfort, free hot breakfast, and convenient access to the city’s favorite market.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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