Philadelphia’s Iconic Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village Return for 2025 Holiday Season
Philadelphia’s holiday season just got brighter. After a groundswell of support and months of behind-the-scenes effort, the Philadelphia Visitor Center has officially announced that the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens…
Philadelphia’s holiday season just got brighter. After a groundswell of support and months of behind-the-scenes effort, the Philadelphia Visitor Center has officially announced that the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village, now presented by PECO, will return to the Wanamaker Building for the highly anticipated 2025 holiday season. The beloved Center City traditions, which nearly faded after Macy’s closed its flagship, are making a major comeback, beginning Friday, November 28, 2025.
For decades, generations of families have flocked to the historic Wanamaker Building at 13th and Market Streets to witness the dazzling LED spectacle of the Wanamaker Light Show, serenaded by the mighty Wanamaker Organ and enchanted by the immersive Dickens Village, a journey through Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” This year, thanks to the community’s outpouring of memories and donations, and the rallying of major partners like PECO and PowerPay, these traditions will be free and open to everyone once again.
What’s New for 2025: Expanded Partnerships, Markets, and Experiences
This season’s return was made possible by the incredible generosity of PECO, serving as Presenting Sponsor and reinforcing its legacy commitment to Philadelphia’s people and culture. Major Supporting Sponsor PowerPay, along with organizations such as the William Penn Foundation, Connelly Foundation, Visit PA, IBEW Local 98, and others, helped make 2025’s festival a reality.
To create a full-building holiday experience, the Philadelphia Visitor Center is debuting several new activations:
- Shops at the Wanamaker Light Show: In partnership with the renowned Christmas Village, the Wanamaker Building’s Grand Court transforms into an indoor holiday market. From November 28 to December 24, browse artisan gifts, specialty foods, and festive finds daily from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Christmas Eve closes at 4 p.m.; closed Dec 1-2, Dec 8-9).
- Holly and Humbug! Pop-Up: FCM Hospitality unveils this new on-site festive food and beverage destination. Warm up with craft beers, seasonal cocktails, mac & cheese, Bavarian pretzels, and desserts, served in a cozy, family-friendly setting daily from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Christmas Eve to 4 p.m.; closed Dec 1-2, Dec 8-9).
2025 Show Schedule: Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village
Wanamaker Light Show (Grand Court, Free and Open to All):
- Nov 28–Dec 11: Wed-Sun, hourly shows 12:30–5:30 p.m.; organ “live finales” select hours Wed-Sat.
- Dec 12–Dec 23: Mon-Sun, hourly shows 12:30–6:30 p.m.; organ “live finales” select hours Mon-Sat.
- Christmas Eve (Dec 24): Shows from 12:30–3:30 p.m.; organ performances noon–1:30 p.m.
Dickens Village (3rd Floor, Wanamaker Building):
- Nov 28–Dec 11: Wed-Sun, 12–6 p.m. (last entry 5:30 p.m.)
- Dec 12–Dec 23: Mon-Sun, 12–8 p.m. (last entry 7:30 p.m.)
- Christmas Eve (Dec 24): 12–4 p.m. (last entry 3:30 p.m.)
- Timed-entry tickets required—available free, five days before each date at phlvisitorcenter.com/savethelightshow.
Making the Season Shine: Support and What’s Next
The 2025 return was accomplished by true community effort. Over 1,000 Philadelphians championed the “Save the Light Show” campaign, helping cover a $600,000 production budget. Guests can continue to support these cherished traditions with on-site and online donations at SaveTheLightShow.org to help secure their future.
Due to upcoming building renovations, both attractions will pause for 2026 and 2027, but the Visitor Center is actively working to bring them back in subsequent seasons. Ongoing fundraising and sustained civic enthusiasm remain vital to keeping these icons alive.
Plan Your Visit: Full Holiday Experience
- Where: Wanamaker Building, 13th & Market Streets, Center City Philadelphia
- What to do: Take in breathtaking light shows, wander Dickens Village, shop at the market, and enjoy festive fare.
- Who should come: Everyone! The events are free, fun, family-oriented, and invite new and old Philadelphians to build joyful memories.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Philadelphia holiday history and help keep its brightest traditions shining for years to come.
