The end of Thanksgiving and the start of December mark the most wonderful season of the entire year—the holiday season! But as a college student, the three weeks of school between Thanksgiving break and finals are a challenge. Professors bombard you with your last projects and exams. To get you through the next few weeks, here are a couple great holiday attractions in Philly that are definitely worth a visit when you need a break from school work. No ride? No problem? Remember that Rowan has Zipcar available to students. For approximately $10, you can borrow a car for a day trip to see any of these attractions.
Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
For those who enjoy Blue Cross RiverRink’s Summerfest at Penn’s Landing, this Winterfest will not disappoint. The winter transformation brings an Olympic-size skating rink that overlooks the Delaware River, a ski lodge with a beautifully lit Christmas tree, and outdoor seating areas complete with fire pits. It’s perfect for going ice skating with your friends and then taking a break to enjoy food and drinks in the chalet! Winterfest runs from November 25, 2016 to March 5, 2017.
The Rothman Ice Rink at Dilworth Park
If ice skating at a rink overlooking the Delaware River isn’t for you, then maybe ice skating with a view of the Philadelphia skyline will be. Located just outside of City Hall, Rothman Institute’s third annual ice rink gives skaters an amazing view for just $5 admission and $10 skate rental fee if you don’t have your own. Plus, after a cold skate, the Rothman Cabin offers a heated tent with seasonal cocktails and a variety of craft beers to enjoy for those age 21 and older. The Rothman Rink opened on November 11 and will stay open through February 26, 2017.
Franklin Square Holiday Festival & Electrical Spectacle Holiday Light Show
If you’re one of those individuals who can be put into a good mood with just a holiday light show, Franklin Square’s Electrical Spectacle Holiday Light Show is for you. With more than 50,000 twinkling lights and a spectacular holiday soundtrack, Franklin Square houses a beautiful light show to accompany its many holiday events. The free show pays tribute to Benjamin Franklin with a centerpiece that shows off a 12-foot tall kite. From Sunday through Thursday starting at 4:30 p.m., two alternating shows take place every 30 minutes all the way through 8 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays, the shows run until 9 p.m. In addition to enjoying the light show, you can enjoy hot chocolate, warm cider and eggnog under a heated tent or grab food and drinks from SquareBurger and the Winter Beer Garden.
Christmas Village in Philadelphia
Need to get some holiday shopping done before you head home for break? The Christmas Village in Philadelphia is an outdoor shopping center boasting more than 80 vendors with all sorts of giftable holiday items like ornaments, jewelry, toys, arts and crafts and more. The market is open from November 24 until December 24 at City Hall adjacent to the Rothman Ice Rink!
Longwood Gardens Christmas
The last featured holiday attraction is a personal favorite. Each year, Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA transforms its grounds to stunning reds, whites and greens, featuring 500,000 twinkling lights, beautifully decorated trees and colorful fountains. Many indoor and outdoor displays are musically inspired by holiday songs. Stop in from now until January 8 and let the beautiful array of lights, cheerful music and carefully curated displays get you in the holiday spirit. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended. You can visit the Longwood Gardens website to plan your trip.
The next time you need a break from studying or want to celebrate the fact that you finished a final project or exam, grab some friends and pick one of these holiday attractions to visit!
Which local holiday attraction is your favorite? Share with us in the comments below!
By: Vivian Wang