PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The Philadelphia Visitor Center is welcoming tourists to a festive season with a series of holiday-themed events and markets in the heart of the city’s busiest tourist areas.
“Christmas in Philadelphia is like no other — because we have the lights, we have the magic, we're the city of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection. And there's no time of year that you feel that more than around the holidays,” said Maita Soukup, vice president of experience and engagement at the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation.
Old City District is transforming into a vibrant holiday destination, inviting locals and visitors to experience a number of outdoor festivals, shopping strolls, Christmas Village pop-up shops, and other ways to find some unique holiday merch.
This is also the second year for the Rocky Shop and Parkway Visitor Center at the base of the Art Museum steps.
Also this year at the Independence Visitor Center, the Art Star Holiday Procrastinators Market — a great place to pick up last-minute gifts — will be paired with a two-day opportunity to meet Santa.
Holiday markets
Visitor Center Pops Up in Philadelphia’s Christmas Village in Philadelphia
Daily through Christmas Eve: Sunday – Thursday, 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.; Friday – Saturday, 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
In Philadelphia’s Christmas Village at LOVE Park and City Hall, the Philadelphia Visitor Center has a pop-up location at at Hut 122, offering maps, information and exclusive merchandise.
Highlights:
— Rocky photo op and exclusive merchandise from the Sly Stallone Shop
— Limited-edition Philly streetwear in collaboration with local lifestyle brand Yowie
Sisterly Love Collective Holiday Market at Independence Visitor Center
Dec. 14 – 15, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
A holiday market featuring hand-crafted gifts from local makers, plus festive music from local school choirs.
Art Star Procrastinator’s Market at Independence Visitor Center
Dec. 21 – 22, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Art Star represents working studio artists and crafters from the Philadelphia area and beyond. Free gift wrapping is available for all purchases.
Highlight: Meet Santa Claus on both days from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
New “Philadelphia Experiences” candle collection
The Visitor Center recently launched a new line of scented candles that celebrate Philadelphia’s unique neighborhoods and traditions, produced in partnership with Color & Flame, a minority-owned, woman-led business.
Where to purchase:
— Independence Visitor Center (599 Market Street)
— LOVE Park Visitor Center (1569 JFK Blvd.)
— Parkway Visitor Center and Rocky Shop (2501 Benjamin Franklin Parkway)
— City Hall Visitor Center (1400 JFK Blvd, Room 121)
— Christmas Village at City Hall Courtyard (Hut 122) through Dec. 24
More details are available at phlvisitorcenter.com.