Philly and South Jersey Shine Bright: 10 Top Tree Lighting Celebrations for 2025
Get ready to “rock around the Christmas tree”—from city neighborhoods to South Jersey and the picturesque suburbs, some of the area’s best traditions are back as Philadelphia and the region…
Get ready to “rock around the Christmas tree”—from city neighborhoods to South Jersey and the picturesque suburbs, some of the area’s best traditions are back as Philadelphia and the region glow to life with dazzling tree lightings, holiday markets, and family fun. Each celebration promises memorable moments with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and a holiday cast that brings magic, music, and lights to every corner.
Here’s your guide to the can’t-miss tree lighting events for 2025.
1. Manayunk Tree Lighting & Gets Lit Launch
Manayunk promises snow-filled magic at Canal View Park with the city’s and Pennsylvania’s largest tree lighting, dazzling lights, live music, glow giveaways, crafts, hot cocoa, and Eagles Green Santa leading festive cheers. The November 20 celebration also marks the start of the beloved Gets Lit decorating contest among over 40 local businesses.
2. Philadelphia Zoo LumiNature & Pherris Wheel Debut
Thanksgiving Eve kicks off a jaw-dropping spectacle as LumiNature returns and the Zoo’s new 110-foot Pherris Wheel lights up—with over a million LED lights, whimsical immersive displays, Santa’s Lodge, and the city’s largest Ferris wheel for holiday views through January 3.
3. New Hope Annual Tree Lighting
A 40-year tradition continues on December 30 at Logan Inn with live music and Santa and Mrs. Claus arriving by firetruck. Enjoy cocoa, cookies, and the warmth of a close-knit community, plus a toy drive for those in need.
4. Love Park Festival of Trees
From December 1–24, the Festival of Trees takes over LOVE Park with more than two dozen artist-decorated trees, a highlight on the city schedule that benefits CHOP. Santa appears on weekends, and public voting for trees funds the hospital’s Children’s Fund. Entry is free for all.
5. Northern Liberties Tree Lighting Party
On December 2, the giant Christmas tree on N. 2nd Street is the centerpiece for a night of music, crafts, dancing, Santa photo ops, tasty treats, and local giving—perfect for the whole family.
6. Fishtown Christmas Tree Lighting
Mamajuana Cafe hosts a community favorite with a 25-foot lit tree totaling 10,000 sparkling lights. Festivities include special guests, holiday music, and food and drink—all to light up the corner of Frankford and Columbus.
7. Evil Genius Beer Company Tree Lighting
Fishtown’s ultimate brewery party arrives December 4 with triple the décor, live tunes, Christmas caroling, and the return of their festive Saison “Santa!! I Know Him!”—all taking place under an epic nearly 20-foot tree inside The Lab.
8. Renault Winery Vintner Wonderland & Barrel Tree
Egg Harbor City’s historic winery illuminates its wooden barrel tree and kicks off Vintner Wonderland—complete with photos with Santa, ice skating, markets, and warm memories for families and friends.
9. Roxborough Happy Holidays from ROX
December 6 brings community fun with a winter market, concerts, caroling, Santa’s firetruck entrance, and the cherished Wishing Trees tradition—plus an ugly sweater contest to add to the merriment.
10. City of Camden Tree Lighting
Wrap up the season December 6 along the Aquarium Loop in Camden, where families enjoy the annual tree lighting, live performances, fire pits, and festive activities by the water.
Make Your Season Sparkle
No matter your neighborhood, these celebrations are filled with magic, community cheer, and opportunities to make holiday memories. Confirm event details as dates approach and prepare for Philly’s brightest season yet!
