A few weeks ago we were invited to see the Philadelphia Orchestra for the Carnival of the Animals is a fun, interactive musical program presented by The Philadelphia Orchestra at the Kimmel Center’s Verizon Hall. My daughter and her friend adored the program. The Kimmel center is beautiful.
During the Canival of animals we saw: Charlotte Blake Alston, a nationally-recognized storyteller, instrumentalist and singer who performs in venues throughout North America and abroad, will be narrating the performance—helping children learn about different instruments in the orchestra and their animal counterparts. In the magical musical adventure, woodwinds transform into delicate birds; double-basses imitate thundering elephants, and cellos paint an audible picture of beautiful and graceful swans.
Both the girls that concert was amazing the sat on the edge of there seats. They were very wided eyed and loved it. I thought the girls age of 7+ was perfect for the performance. They had the prefect attention span to listen to the performance. Also after the preformance the girls got to meet the performers.
A new performance is arriving on March 23rd. There family series is great because each month it is offered the performance is new and different.
THE FUN BEGINS AT 10 AM
The Philadelphia Orchestra, they are passionate about educating children and nurturing their love of classical music – from little tots to tweens and everyone in between. That’s why before each and every Family Concert, we host a pre-concert adventure. This music begins with a pre-concert adventure at 10 AM (although seating is continuous so arrival is encourages any time before 11 AM)—an interactive program .
For more information, visit http://www.philorch.org/family-concerts
Disclosure: I received the tickets in exchange for this review. The opinions in this post are of my own.
The British are coming To the Philadelphia Flower Show. This past week I attended the Philadelphia Flower shows press conference. It was such experience to hear what he show theme is this year Brilliance everything British. Such a fun Idea coming off the Olympics and in anticipation of the Princess Katies new baby.
So Pull out your Fasitnators, eat some tea sandwiches and head to the flower show.
Here are some Packages the Flower show told us about this year.
“Brilliant!” Flower Show Ticket Packages & Experiences
The 2013 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show, “Brilliant!” is just weeks away, making today a perfect time to discover fabulous new ticket packages and experiences.
Winning in Bloom Package with SugarHouse Casino and STARR Restaurants. For just $99, receive two (2) Flower Show tickets, a $50 STARR Restaurant Gift Card, $25 in free play and a FREE gift from SugarHouse Casino. Purchase your Winning in Bloom packages through February 18, by visiting SugarHouse Casino, 1001 North Delaware Avenue, Philadelphia, PA.
PHS Pre-Show Sneak Peek. For the first time, PHS offers special guests an exclusive view of the creation of the Philadelphia Flower Show prior to the official opening. All Pre-Show Sneak Peek packages come with one Flower Show ticket to be used during regular show hours. Guests must be at least 16 years of age to participate. Pre-Show Sneak Peek is available Monday, February 25 -Thursday, February 28, 2013 between the hours of 2- 6 pm. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.
DIY at the Flower Show. Check out the Flower Show’s new Make & Take Room, the perfect place to get crafty. In 2013 you’re invited to take home a piece of “Brilliant!” handiwork, such as a fabulous fascinator, fashionable floral wristlet, or magic wand. All the supplies you can imagine will be provided, and a DIY expert will be on-hand to help you design your creation. Looking for early inspiration? Check out the PHS Pinterest board on fascinators. Click here to learn more and gain access inside the all-new Make & Take Room. Please note, a Flower Show ticket is required for entry.
Back by Popular Demand: Flower Show Theme Nights!
LGBT Party – Sponsored by G Philly Sunday, March 3, 4 – 6 pm. PHS and G Philly invite members and friends of the LGBT Community for an afternoon of creative British-inspired cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Mingle with friends before taking in the sights and scents of the world’s most celebrated indoor Flower Show.
Wedding Wednesday – Sponsored by Philadelphia Wedding Magazine and Simply Naked Wine. Wednesday, March 6, 6 – 8 pm PHS and Philadelphia Wedding Magazine invite brides-to-be for an evening of royal treatment at “Wedding Wednesday.” Bring your bridesmaids and get advice (and take-aways!) from more than 50 local experts on fashion, music, catering, honeymoon planning, and much more. Meet celebrated wedding photographers and learn dazzling decor ideas while sampling creative British-inspired cocktails and hors d’oeuvres with your friends and family.
Girls Night Out – Presented by Philadelphia Style Magazine and Macy’s Center City. Thursday, March 7, 6 – 8 pm. Enjoy a special evening tailored just for the ladies, featuring exclusive food samplings, health & beauty tutorials, shopping with Philadelphia’s most coveted retailers, raffle prizes, takeaways and more!
Click here to learn more and purchase your Theme Night ticket package.
Arrive in Style with Amtrak’s PA Trips by Train and save! (for Pennsylvania riders only)
PA Trips by Train is reinventing the road trip! Get away on Amtrak’s Keystone Service® line for a day, night or weekend. When you book a Trip by Train, you’ll enjoy one of the most relaxing ways to travel – all while saving money along the way. Visit PaTripsbyTrain.com to learn more about the special Flower Show package.
Buy one Amtrak Ticket, get one 40% off
Take 50% off Amtrak Ticket for Kids ages 2 through 15
So we got to attend a preformance of Rockin Ever After Disney on Ice sponsored by Hallmark this past weekend, It was trip to get there because we were in Northern PA visiting the inlaws and left at 9am to make sure we arrived for the 3pm show. It was no easy feat we drove through the snow arriving right on time. Were we glad we did. The Disney On Ice show was super fun.
The Disney skaters performed the Little Mermaid. It was a great adaptation version with Ariel, Prince, Flounder, Sebastian and even Ursala, But it was kept light for the kids to enjoy. The skaters flowed across the ice like they were in water.
Then Rapunzel danced and twirled. The 2 person skating Horse was a super fun addition to the ice. I loved Rapunzel finale the village coming in with lanterns.
Then Brave.. I have not seen the movie yet the kids got it for Christmas. It was a great shorten version. Even my husband said since he has had the time to sit down and watch it with the kids.
The Lovely Bell and Beast made a showing, My daughter loved it she has watched the movie alot lately.. over and over again . Even Gaston, chip and the host of characters were present. It was really neat how they transitioned the set to a castle complete with a chandelier .
During the show Micky, Minnie, Goof, and Donald made appearances so it was great seeing them. We took my daughter age 7 and my son age 11. My daughter of course was thrilled, my son enjoyed the show they had some pyrotechnics. It was really pretty show and lively music. Very well done.
The parking was $15 at the Wells Fargo
Souvenir run from $10 up, small plush for $12 and light spin things were $22. (so you might want to bring a glow stick) After the show they were selling Disney Show souvenir packs for $10 which had 5 items in them (not necessarily related to the ice show but Disney)
Food: Determined by venue: Chicken Fingers and Fries (enough to feed 2) was $9.50. Hot Pretzel was $4.50, Large fry was $8.50 I cream cone $5.50. Snow cone in collector cup was $10. We did bring in bottles of water in. FYI always make sure they are unopened. If they are opened sometime they will not let you bring them in.
We did love the show and I would recommend taking your kids.. they will love Disney on ice. (we went a few years ago and sat in the nose bleed seats I do recommend if you can afford it going to a lower level.)
Rock in Disney on Ice is at the Wells Fargo Center till Jan 6th. Tickets range from $22.50-$90
Disclosure: I did receive tickets from Hallmark for this post. The opinions represented in this post are mine.
My Review of Pa Ballet Nutcracker: I took my sister, daughter,and niece. What a great da, it took me right back to when my sister and I were little and my grandparents would take us to see the Ballet. Our Day stared with girls getting dressed up in their holiday best for the occasion, they were going to the ballet (fancy as my daughter would say). My daughter planed for weeks for this day. I kept thinking “as vision of sugar plums danced in there head”.
We arrive early to pick our tickets, so we stop across the street to get Shirley Temples (ginger ale w/ a cherry) for the girls. Just like our grandparents use to do for my sister and I when we were kids. The girls felt so grown us to have a drink with us in the fancy hotel prior to the show. The hotel was filled with other little girls excited for the show, the air was electric in anticipation.
We walked across the street and entered the PA Academy of Music. The music hall is grand and elegant (fancy). We stopped and took a picture with the Sugar Plum Fairy- the girls swooned. The Pa Ballet is taking the photos with your choice of he SugarPlum Fairy or the Mouse king for $20 for one of the ballet characters or $30 for both and of course you can use your own camera as well to get an extra photos once you paid. The proceeds of the photos benefit the Pa ballet, you can pick up the photo during intermission or after the performance.
We were fortunate to sit on the lower level for this performance. My daughter and niece were so excited as we entered the performance hall. The Academy of music is gorgeous and glittery gold. Once the ballet started the girl sat entranced.. loving every second. From the tree growing, and the ballerina dance on there toes. It was amazing the costumes where fabulous. The children that preformed were enchanting. The music enveloped you and made you want to dance with grace and posie. Both my sister and I had tears in our eyes as the Sugerplum Fairy danced with her prince. You could feel the love, she feels for ballet as she spun. Lovely and stunning.
Photos are not allowed during the performance, so you have to see it in person.
If you have not seen a Ballet this is a great one to start with. The PA Ballet Nutcracker is lively and runs at a great pace to keep the children attention and you will love the music and costumes. The Pa Ballet does a spectacular job. This was my second time seeing it I took my son when he was 9 – he loved it too, so lets not forget those boys.
We purchase ornament for the girls for $15 of a dancing Carla at the souvenir stand in the ballet.
PA Ballet Nutcracker Tickets are still on sale and some start at $20 (when I went with my son we sat in the upper seats he still loved it – also you can bring binoculars)
Here is the girls reviews after the performance;
I would make a day of going to see the PA Ballets Nutcracker. Philadelphia is so alive with the holiday spirit.
After the performance we did go for dinner Olive Garden is around the corner on Chestnut Street off Broad street . Then a quick walk to headed to Macys (one block in on chestnut, aka old Wanamaker building) to see/hear the Wanamaker organ and light show runs every hour on the hour. Girls loved it.. the store shoppers stops and watches the lights for the 10 minute, Free
The afterwards we headed up to Macys 3rd floor to see the Charles Dickens Village “Twas the night be for Christmas” exhibit, FREE open till 7pm (also you do walk through the holiday dept at Macys when heading to Dickens Village exhibit so you can always pick up a souvenir there as well).
End of the Dickens Village which can end with you meeting Santa. if you want the picture staring 5×7″ picture was $16.95- or use you own camera Free Enjoy you holiday and explore all the culture and fun philly has to offer.
Disclosure: I received the tickets from the PA ballet. But the opinions in this post are my own.
At A time when we are all holding our children close. I have been finding things that create memories with my children. I love the Disney Hallmark’s newest Disney Recordable Storybook titles, including “The Wish My Heart Makes for You” and “You’re a Hero! All the Ways You Save the Day.” And to bring the enchantment of Disney Recordable Storybooks to life, Hallmark is sponsoring the Disney on Ice tour hitting cities across the nation, including the Philadelphia area!
I heard Hallie Berry took her daughter this past weekend to Disney on Ice and it was a huge hit with her daughter.
Recordable Storybooks – Hallmark added two new Disney titles to its popular library of Recordable Storybooks this year, including “The Wish My Heart Makes for You” and “You’re a Hero! All the Ways You Save the Day.” They join other Classic Disney Recordable Storybooks like Lightning McQueen and His Winning Team, Winnie the Pooh’s Plan Bee and What Makes a Princess. We’d love to provide one of the new titles of your choice to review.
Want to check out the Rockin’ Ever After Disney on Ice performance in Philadelphia at the Wells Fargo Center in Philly:
With Merida from Braves 1st time on the ice!
Tickets range from $22.50-$90
Thurs, Dec 27 2012 3:00PM
Thu, Dec 27 2012 7:00PM
Fri, Dec 28 2012 11:00AM
Fri, Dec 28 2012 3:00PM
Fri, Dec 28 2012 7:00PM
Sat, Dec 29 2012 11:00AM
Sat, Dec 29 2012 3:00PM
Sat, Dec 29 2012 7:00PM
Sun, Dec 30 2012 11:00AM
Sun, Dec 30 2012 3:00PM
Sun, Dec 30 2012 7:00PM
Hallmark Disney Experience Giveaway!!!
Hallmark Disney recordable storybook and a family four-pack of tickets for a giveaway.
Giveaway runs from Dec 17-Dec 20
Mandatory: So leave a comment below letting me know what is your favorite Disney Story?
Additional entry Tweet : Hey #Philly Disney on Ice is here want to win Tickets and Halmark Storybook ? frm @babypop & @hallmark http://ow.ly/gbpaw
Please leave a comment and link to tweet you did so below.
Disclosure: I received a Disney Recordable Storybook and four Disney on Ice tickets in exchange for this review.
Longwood Gardens, is one of my most favorite places to visit during the holidays. Every year my family and I make the very worth while trip to visit Longwood to see the Christmas lights and beautiful plants. Every year the staff transforms the gardens with millions of lights . My children marvel at the lights.
So my recommendation for coming with the kids is to come around 3:00 in the afternoon. Take a walk around the outside gardens make sure you make you way to the tree houses. Then start walking back towards the main building as darkness begins to set in. Then prepared to be amazed I recommend checking out the water fountain light show. The grounds keeps have also added many many more outside light displays make for exciting walk through the lighted outside gardens. Then walk through the Pierre du Pont home and see the resident cats. Then finally stroll through the observatory and be sure to see the the table the poinsettia and also walk through the bonsai, jungle and desert area all being decked out with the holiday theme.
This year the theme is the stars at Longwood. The main entrance of the observatory has hundreds of paper star hanging from the ceiling.
Th middle of conservatory is a amazing table seats over 100 people.
Even the Kids garden get in to the holiday spirit.
Is there a place to eat at Longwood Garden. Yes they have a beautiful cafe and also fin dinning. I find the cafe always has great food for kids and adults. They also adapt the menu for the season. Also they do grow some of the food served in the cafe.
So when is the best time to come visit? With over 250K people traveling to see the beauty at Longwood when is the best time to take the kids. Longwood garden staff shared some tips that make the most out of family tip spent at Longwood. Family Membership night is reserved for Monday nights. During the week Tues Wed and after Jan 1st is also a great time because the decorations are still up . So you can extend the spirit into the new year.
Disclosure : I did receive entrance to Longwoood gardens in exchange for this post, it is a family tradition we have been doing for years so I am so excited to be working with Longwood.
So for year my family has done many things around Philadelphia for a Christmas Tradition: Here is a complete list of things to do for the holidays Christmas Philadelphia, Lancaster, New Hope and Atlantic City for your Family to start a Holiday Christmas Tradition of your own.
Philadelphia Christmas Holiday:
From November 20-January 6, visitors to historic Pennypacker Mills enjoy guided tours of the richly decorated mansion. And on select Saturdays, they can learn how to make Christmas wreaths and see how Victorian candy was made, among other activities. 5 Haldeman Road, Schwenksville, (610) 287-9349, historicsites.montcopa.org/pennypackermills
A Philadelphia tradition since 1956, the Christmas Light Show at Macy’s in Center City illuminates a large wall inside the Wanamaker building, a National Historic Landmark, with almost 100,000 LED lights and finishes with sounds from the Wanamaker Organ, November 23-December 31. 1300 Market Street, (215) 241-9000, wanamakerorgan.com
At Pottsgrove Manor from November 23-January 6, guided Twelfth Night Tours enable visitors to experience the historic mansion when it’s dressed in its traditional English holiday best. Then, on December 9, costumed 18th-century “residents” lead candlelight holiday tours through the manor. 100 W. King Street, Pottstown, (610) 326-4014, historicsites.montcopa.org/pottsgrovemanor
Old City gets into the holiday spirit with Deck the Alley, an annual holiday tradition on Elfreth’s Alley, the nation’s oldest residential street. Taking place on December 1, the event gives visitors a chance to explore the historic homes all decked out for the holiday season, tour the museum or enjoy the sounds of carolers. 2nd Street & Elfreth’s Alley, (215) 574-0560, elfrethsalley.org
Every year, the EastFairmount Park Mansions (Laurel Hill, Lemon Hill, Mount Pleasant, Strawberry Mansion, Sweetbriar and Woodford) are adorned in holiday finery for yuletide tours. Visitors can wander through one or all of these architectural masterpieces the first two weekends of December (December 1-2 and December 8-9). Mount Pleasant and Woodford will also be open most days from December 11 to December 31. (215) 763-8100, fairmountpark.org
History buffs get into the spirit of the season in their own way when they witness Washington Crossing the Delaware River, a free, annual reenactment staged at 1:00 p.m. on Christmas Day at Washington Crossing Historic Park. A day of family-friendly activities accompanies the full dress rehearsal on December 9 beginning at 11:00 a.m. Routes 32 & 532, Washington Crossing, (215) 493-4076, ushistory.org/washingtoncrossing
The holidays go red, white and green at Longwood Gardens during A Longwood Gardens Christmas, taking place Thanksgiving Day through January 6. Visitors can wander through half a million glowing lights to see thousands of poinsettias, vibrantly decorated trees and dancing fountains, which brighten the gardens’ vast grounds and conservatory. 1001 Longwood Road,
Kennett Square, (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
Morris Arboretum debuts its Holiday Garden Railway display on November 24. This miniature winter wonderland amid the evergreens features a quarter-mile of model-train track with twinkling lights, seven loops and tunnels with 15 different rail lines, cable cars, bridges and trains that cruise past scaled replicas of historic monuments and Philadelphia-area landmarks made from all-natural materials. 100 E. Northwestern Avenue, (215) 247-5777, morrisarboretum.org
Linvilla Orchards looks more like the North Pole from December 1-24. The decorated farm features a Christmasland display and petting zoo, while the market section is stocked with all-things holiday and crafts for younger guests. Santa makes an appearance every Saturday and Sunday in December, and on select afternoons, visitors can sing along during Caroling Hayrides, marshmallow roasting and apple cider. 137 W. Knowlton Road, Media,
(610) 876-7116, linvilla.com
The traditional German Christmas Market runs from November 3-December 31 at Byers’ Choice. In the village-like setting, shoppers can find gingerbread houses, advent calendars and handcrafted toys, plus workshops, live animals and a nativity scene. On December 15-16, guests can also enjoy A Christmas Carol, a one-man show performed by Charles Dickens’ great-great grandson, Gerald Charles Dickens. 4355 County Line Road, Chalfont, (215) 822-6700, byerschoice.com
Sesame Place Very Furry Christmas– Park is open 1-8 most weekends after Thanksgiving – and a full week during the Dec 25-31. The parades and characters dressed up in holiday attire and the park is filled with lights. Themed holiday shows and more.
Please Touch Museum® presents the Enchanted Colonial Village Supported by The Philadelphia Foundation, with intricately restored Colonial scenes depicting the Bakery, Blacksmith Shop, Toymaker, Tailor Shop, Watchmaker and others. Open November 16-
January 2, the village first made its home at the Lit Brothers department store from 1962
until 1975. 4231 Avenue of the Republic, (215) 581-3181, pleasetouchmuseum.org
Philadelphia Area Christmas Shows
The Philadelphia Orchestra Saturday, December 1, 2012 11:30 am Verizon Hall Deck the halls and come-a-caroling with The Philadelphia Orchestra for a festive celebration filled with your favorite sounds of the season, sing-alongs, and of course, Santa! Kick your holidays off right with music from The Nutcracker, Sleigh Ride, and ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, narrated by award-winning storyteller Charlotte Blake Alston. You never know what surprises may appear, so jingle all the way to Verizon Hall and don’t miss out!
New this year! Pennsylvania Ballet is proud to partner with The Salvation Army. At performances of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™, audience members are invited to bring a new, unwrapped toy for a child in need. Once collected at the theater, these toys will be distributed to families across the Delaware Valley throughout the holiday season and beyond.
Starting at just $20, tickets to all 23 performances of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™ at the Academy of Music are on sale now. Tickets are available online at paballet.org, by phone at 215.893.1999, and in person at the Kimmel Center Box Office Check out my full Ballet post
Rockin’ Ever After Disney on Ice performance in Philadelphia at the Wells Fargo Center Disney on Ice tour
Abington Presbyterian Church Christmas by Candlelight service. Abington Presbyterian Church is one of the oldest churches in North America. The Preformance has 3 choirs from children through adults. Plus a full orchestra. Free performance. Dec 16th 4:30 & 7:00
The Keswick Theatre keeps the holiday season humming all month long. The lineup includes: Rockin’ Holiday Celebration with The Duprees, Shirley Alston Reeves and many others, December 1; The Pink Martini Holiday Show, featuring vocalist China Forbes singing classics from Hollywood musicals from the1940s and 50s, December 2; The Irish Tenors’ holiday celebration, December 6; Home for the Holidays, starring beloved singer/songwriter Judy Collins and legendary songwriter Jimmy Webb, December 7; Vegas icon Wayne Newton, performing classic hits and holiday favorites, December 11; Manhattan Transfer Holiday Show, December 13; Philly Nutt Crak-Up, a fun and funny holiday dance spoof, December 15.
291 N. Keswick Avenue, Glenside, (215) 572-7650, keswicktheatre.com
This year’s holiday calendar at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, the Merriam Theater and the Academy of Music is chock-full of old-fashioned favorites. Highlights include: Holiday Spectacular by the Philadelphia Orchestra, December 1; The Rock School’s Nutcracker 1776, December 1; A Celtic Christmas at the Kimmel, December 2; and Holiday POPS! by Peter Nero and the Philly Pops, December 7-22. Kimmel, Broad & Spruce Streets; Academy, Broad & Locust Streets; Merriam, 250 S. Broad Street, (215) 790-5800, kimmelcenter.org
Those in the mood for a magical holiday musical can stop by the Walnut Street Theatre, the oldest theater in the country, to catch a one-hour, kid-friendly adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol, December 1-22. Also on stage, Plaid Tidings, featuring 1950s tunes and holiday gems, November 20-December 30. 825 Walnut Street, (215) 574-3550, walnutstreettheatre.org
It’s year five for Philadelphia’s high-tech holiday show, The Comcast Holiday Spectacular, at the 58-story Comcast Center. Onlookers stand in awe of the original holiday imagery set to the music of a 64-piece orchestra and shown on the world’s largest four-millimeter LED screen in the building’s lobby. The free 15-minute show occurs at the top of the hour, 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. (except 5:00 p.m. on weekdays), from Thanksgiving to January 1. 17th Street & John F. Kennedy Boulevard, visitphilly.com/comcast
A Brandywine Christmas takes over the Brandywine River Museum from November 23-January 6. On view: a display of trees featuring “critters” and all-things natural, a Victorian dollhouse, a model railroad with more than 2,000 feet of track and exquisitely crafted jewelry inspired by Andrew Wyeth’s paintings. Handcrafted natural critter ornaments made by volunteers are on sale December 1-2. U.S. Route 1, Chadds Ford, (610) 388-2700, brandywinemuseum.org
Starting on November 23, the picturesque Franklin Square lights up to brighten the season—literally—and provides a holiday backdrop for visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus on select weekends. 6th & Race Streets, (215) 629-4026, historicphiladelphia.org
On December 15 at 5:00 p.m., the Independence Seaport Museum hosts the third-annual Parade of Lights. Children can visit with Santa, then the event moves outdoors, so that revelers can watch lighted and decorated tugboats and other vessels float along the Delaware River. 211 S. Columbus Boulevard, (215) 413-8655, phillyseaport.org
During the Penn Museum’s Peace Around the World: Passport to Cultures on December 2, visitors receive an itinerary that takes them to galleries where speakers share holiday traditions of their home countries. The afternoon also features international music and dancing, children’s choirs, exotic face painting, balloon art and crafts. 3260 South Street, (215) 898-4000, penn.museum
Fried potato pancakes take center stage at the Gershman Y’s annual Latkepalooza, where local restaurants whip up their take on the classic for guests to nosh. Music and games add to the Hanukkah fun on December 9. 401 S. Broad Street, (215) 545-4400, gershmany.org
A tongue-in-cheek twist on Jewish Christmas activities (going to movies and eating Chinese food), the Gershman Y presents its annual Moo Shu Jew Show, an evening of stand-up comedy and an eight-course dinner, at Chinatown’s Ocean Harbor Restaurant on December 24. 1023 Race Street, (215) 545-4400, gershmany.org
On December 25, the holiday spirit goes beyond Christmas at the National Museum of American Jewish History, which presents its annual day of family fun with music, games, children’s activities and more. 101 S. Independence Mall East, (215) 923-3811, nmajh.org
The African American Museum in Philadelphia hosts a Kwanzaa Celebration for the whole family with jam-packed afternoons of celebratory activities, December 29-30. There’s free admission for those who bring a canned-good donation for Philabundance. 701 Arch Street,
(215) 574-0380, aampmuseum.org
For more information about travel to Philadelphia, visit visitphilly.com or uwishunu.com,
New Hope Christmas:
Peddler’s Village welcomes the holiday season with the Grand Illumination Celebration, Friday, November 16, 2012, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. The Annual Gingerbread House Competition and Displayalso opens on November 16.
At 6:15 pm, Santa Claus “switches on” the holiday light display throughout Peddler’s Village. In one breathtaking instant, the Village is transformed into a holiday wonderland with one million jewel-colored lights and glistening reindeer. Savor a cup of complimentary apple cider, heated in an old fashioned kettle, with marshmallows toasted over an open fire and listen to musicians and local choirs perform holiday favorites throughout the evening. Linger at the Annual Gingerbread House Competition and Display in the Village Gazebo as the sweet smells and whimsical creations return you to childhood. Admission is free and the display will be open during shopping hours through January 5, 2013. After the ceremony, bring the children to Giggleberry Fair to share secret wish lists with Santa. Santa continues to entertain childrenat his indoor workshop at Giggleberry Fair, from November 16 through December 23, each Friday through Sunday.
Kick off your holiday shopping at the Merchants’ Open HouseWeekend with refreshments in each shop and something for everyone on your gift list, November 16-18. The Village’s extended holiday shopping hours are November 16 through December 30, Monday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Lancaster Christmas:
The Night Before Christmas Train New this year, the Night Before Christmas Train runs on three Friday evenings during the holiday season, November 30, December 7 and 14. This very unique train recreates the excitement and anticipation of Christmas Eve. A reader dressed in a Victorian nightshirt and cap will read Clement Clarke Moore’s classic poem, The Night Before Christmas, as passengers enjoy cookies and milk as the train rolls along. After the train ride, children are also treated to storybook readings of holiday classics aboard our Caboose (stationary) and visitors of all ages can enjoy a ride aboard the Tinsel Trolley, a self-propelled motor car.
In the spirit of the season, kids may come dressed in pajamas and bring along a new pair of pjs to donate to Water Street Ministries’ families in need. Just by attending this event, your participation will help men, women and children who are in need in our community. $5.00 from every ticket will support the work of Water Street Ministries.
Santa’s Paradise Express Santa’s Paradise Express is pulling in to the Strasburg Rail Road to celebrate the Christmas season on November 23-25, December 1-2, 8-9 and 15-16, 2012. This holiday tradition provides a fun, relaxing atmosphere for families as they travel on a 45-minute ride in an authentic vintage steam train. Santa, his helper and musicians stroll from car-to-car, greeting and entertaining children of all ages. After the train ride, children are treated to storybook readings of holiday classics. Children ages 3 to 11 also receive a gift from Santa and his helper.Event Details: http://strasburgrailroad.com/santas-paradise-express.php
Choo Choo Barn’s Holiday Display Choo Choo Barn is celebrating the season with an enhanced holiday display from November 23 through December 31, 2012. Look for 51 hidden Santas and watch as Santa’s sleigh flies above the gigantic model train display. Enjoy the holiday decorations throughout the display including holiday lights and the snow-covered landscape. Plus, take a close look at the zoo animals in Traintown to see how they’re getting into the holiday spirit! Choo Choo Barn is open daily from 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Closed Christmas Day). Admission is $7 for adults and $4 for children ages 3-11. Event details: http://www.choochoobarn.com/holiday/
Join the Choo Choo Barn and help the community by participating in Canned Food Fridays.The 24th annual food drive returns to the Choo Choo Barn in Strasburg, PA, on December 7, 14 and 21, 2012 from 10am – 8pm. Admission to the Choo Choo Barn’s 1,700 square foot model train layout is free if you donate at least one non-perishable food item per person. During Canned Food Fridays Choo Choo Barn will feature an enhanced holiday display and kids can search for 51 hidden Santas.
Food collected will be donated to the Lampeter United Methodist Church Food Cupboard and the Chester County Food Bank. After exploring the unique model train display, children are invited to visit with Santa Claus at The Shops of Traintown, from 3pm – to 8pm. After their visit with Santa, children will receive a gift from the Choo Choo Barn and a coupon for a free cookie at Isaac’s Restaurant & Deli in Strasburg.
National Christmas Center This place is a great place to visit with the kids and walk through new and olf tradional christmas. My kids loved it. 427 Lincoln Highway East (U.S. Rt. 30), Paradise, PA 17562, 717-442-7950
Dutch Wonderland has a Christmas display and rides open for the holiday season Open Saturday Nov 30. Great for little kido’s
Atlantic City
“Winter Sweet” — a new, family-friendly, nightly outdoor show — will debut on the famed Atlantic City Boardwalk on Saturday, December 1 at 6 p.m
“Winter Sweet” debuts as part of a daylong celebration of the holidays in Atlantic City, including the Atlantic City Holiday Parade, the Christmas tree lighting, and other special events. Aiken is appearing courtesy of the Trump Taj Mahal, which presents Clay Aiken’s Joyful Noise Tour 2012 in the Mark G. Estess arena on Saturday, December 1 at 8 p.m.
“Winter Sweet” is free and no tickets are required.
So I love the Ballet, I always have even as a child. My grandmother took my sister and I every year to see the Nutcracker in the city. We loved it for months before we dreamed of being on stage. This year we will be taking our daughters. I want to share what is going on at the Ballet this is the year to go. They have many special events and some very affordable tickets (as low as $20) so you too can take your child. My son has been and loves it also.
Pennsylvania Ballet Celebrates 25 Years of
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™
December 8-30 at the Academy of Music
New this year! Pennsylvania Ballet is proud to partner with The Salvation Army. At performances of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™, audience members are invited to bring a new, unwrapped toy for a child in need. Once collected at the theater, these toys will be distributed to families across the Delaware Valley throughout the holiday season and beyond. Starting at just $20, tickets to all 23 performances of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™ at the Academy of Music are on sale now. Tickets are available online at paballet.org, by phone at 215.893.1999, and in person at the Kimmel Center Box Office.
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™ performances at the Academy of Music:
Saturday, December 8 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Sunday, December 9 at noon and 5 p.m.
Friday, December 14 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, December 15 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Sunday, December 16 at noon and 5 p.m.
Thursday, December 20 at 7 p.m.
Friday, December 21 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, December 22 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Sunday, December 23 at noon and 5 p.m.
Monday, December 24 at noon
Wednesday, December 26 at noon and 5 p.m.
Thursday, December 27 at 2 p.m.
Friday, December 28 at 2 p.m.
Saturday, December 29 at 2 p.m.
Sunday, December 30 at noon and 5 p.m.
Groups of 10 or more get discounts and great seats! Ask about backstage tours, special talks with staff and dancers, and dining options near the theater for your group. For tickets and more information, contact Group Sales Manager Arajua Backman at 215.587.6921 or abackman@paballet.org.
Pennsylvania Ballet’s Holiday Happenings
“Nutcracker Magic” Children’s Party
Saturday, December 8 at noon
The Bellevue and Academy of Music
Don’t miss Pennsylvania Ballet’s glorious holiday party, a family tradition for the past 25 years. Children will be charmed by entertainers, crafts, games, and costumed characters like the Sugarplum Fairy and the Mouse King, plus a delicious lunch, all inside the magnificent ballroom at The Bellevue. All children will be invited to make a holiday card for a patient at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Following the food and festivities, guests will enjoy a performance of George Balanchine’sThe Nutcracker™ at the Academy of Music at 2 p.m. This annual family party is co-chaired this year by Quyen Mark, Jennifer Shacklett, and Luba Shvayko. Tickets to Nutcracker Magic are $150 or $250, and sponsorship opportunities are available from $500 to $5,000. All sponsors receive free George Balanchine’sThe Nutcracker™ tickets to donate to the charity of their choice. For more information and tickets, contact Manager of Special Events Barbara Vogdes at 215.587.6916 or bvogdes@paballet.org, or visit paballet.org.
Tea with the Sugarplum Fairy
Sunday, December 9 at 2:30 p.m. (Choose the noon or 5 p.m. performance.)
Saturday, December 22 at noon (2 p.m. performance)
DoubleTree by Hilton
Join the Sugarplum Fairy in the ballroom at the DoubleTree by Hilton, across the street from the Academy of Music! Enjoy a delectable buffet of sandwiches, desserts, tea and hot cocoa, along with the chance to take photos with the Sugarplum Fairy, and a magical matinee performance of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™. Prices start at $75 and include your performance ticket and buffet. To order, contact Group Sales Manager Arajua Backman at 215.587.6921 or abackman@paballet.org, or visit paballet.org.
Nutcracker Story Time
Thursday, November 29 at 11 a.m. at Please Touch Museum
Thursday, December 6 at 10:15 a.m. at Philadelphia City Institute Library
Join the Sugarplum Fairy for a reading of the Nutcracker story.
Give the gift of ballet this holiday season! Pennsylvania Ballet’s Children’s Enchantment Fund enables underserved families to see George Balanchine’sTheNutcracker™ free of charge. One performance ticket is distributed for every $35 tax-deductible donation. To make a donation, please call Annual Fund Manager Jessica Holl at 215.587.6913 or visit paballet.org.
Connect with us! Follow Pennsylvania Ballet on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube to go behind-the-scenes anytime, day or night.
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™ is presented by First Niagara.
PECO is a Lead Sponsor of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™.
For more information, visit paballet.org or call 215.551.7000.
So I got to take the kids to Sesame Place Spooktacluar Halloween celebration. I have to say I think this is a great time to go to Sesame Place not too hot not too cold. The kids really loved it. I brought my daughter age 7 and my son 11 and his friend 12. They all have a good time, There was plenty to do for the big kids.
Pumpkin Decorating which is super fun they punkins were very reasonably prices starting at $4. The Sesame Place personnel provided paint, stickers, duck tape and more.. so much fun for the kids.
The kids also loved the Un Haunted house. The house had interactive station as you walked through it. Like fun house mirrors and count the bugs. The Kids really loved the interactive pumpkin that responded to them and talked to back asking questions then responding tot he children.
They also have trick or treating.. you hunt through out Sesame Place to find the treats. The kids really loved trying to find all the locations.
The also had all Halloween themed shows and the great rides. My daughter and son friend rode the roller coaster 7 times.
The decoration are also a ton of fun all count colors and pumpkins to look like the characters.
So you want to go they have a great Line up of Spootackular Weekends:
Check out SesamePlace Deals October 20th and 21st — Abby Cadabby’s Fairy Pumpkin Party ‐ Help everyone’s favorite Sesame Street friends celebrate Abby Cadabby’s birthday with her very own Fairy Birthday Party! This hour long party includes an all‐you‐care‐to eat dinner buffet, singing, and dancing with your Sesame Street friends. What birthday party would be complete without singing Happy Birthday to the Fairy‐in‐Training! Dinner is at 5:00pm and is by reservation only. Children under 2 are free. Visit www.sesameplace.com for complete information. October 29th and 30th—The Count’s Halloween Party‐ Take a break from all of your Halloween fun at The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular and enjoy the new dinner menu at Dine With Me! Celebrate Halloween with a terrific all‐you‐care‐to eat dinner buffet plus singing and dancing with all of your favorite Sesame Street friends at their very own Halloween Party! Dinner is at 5:00pm and is by reservation only. Children under 2 are free. Visit www.sesameplace.com for complete information.
October 30th — Halloween Costume Contest ‐ Come dressed in a Halloween costume to compete in the annual costume contest at Sesame Place! Registration will begin at 10 a.m. in front of Monster Rock Theater and there will be competitions for boys, girls, and families. All of the contests will take place at Monster Rock Theater and winners will be posted at the Welcome Center. All winners will be invited to be special guests in the Neighborhood Street Party Halloween parade.
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Disclosure: I received the compliment tickets to sesame place for the purpose of writing this post. The opinions in this post are my own.
Want to link up your Sesame Place Post: Add them here :
Ringing Rocks Park in Pa we went today. I did not tell the kids were we were going. Ringing Rocks Park is located in Upper bucks County in Upper Black Eddy. I can recommend it as a fun afternoon with the kids, that is free. The ringing Rocks are a sight to see a field full of giant boulder. Only 1/3 of the rocks make a bell like tone but it is fun figuring out which ones do. The rocks are 10feet thick. There is also a slate shelf type water fall in the park.
No one is sure why the rocks ring some say it is because of iron in the rocks. They think that the boulder were left during the glaciers and ice age. There is some more nature fact about natural phenomenon
Here are my recommendations of what to bring when you go:
Great shoes: Keens or sneakers avoid wearing strappy sandals or crocs
Kids should be over 6/7 years old the terrain of the rocks is rough so being a good walker is important.
Bring Hammers so everyone can hit the rocks
Wear jeans
Protecting eyewear or glasses- you are hitting rocks with hammers- things fly
If you have a walking stick bring it it will help you steady as you walking
Leave the bags in the car.. too much to carry them while walking into the rocks
There is a picnic area near the park area so you can eat before or after your hike
Bring a first aid kit (just in case)
There is no bathroom except for a porta potty
Park Guards are not always on location.
Ringing Rocks Park park is about an hour north of Philadelphia, 20 minutes from Allentown and 15 from Quakertown Pa.
Here is my video:
Ringing Rocks Park
Ringing Rocks Rd
Upper Black Eddy, PA 18972
My kids really loved it and thought it was a really cool place to go.
A few weeks ago we were invited to see the Philadelphia Orchestra for the Carnival of the Animals is a fun, interactive musical program presented by The Philadelphia Orchestra at the Kimmel Center’s Verizon Hall. My daughter and her friend adored the program. The Kimmel center is beautiful. 
Disclosure: I received the tickets in exchange for this review. The opinions in this post are of my own.
