November brings plenty of things to do, as Philadelphia gears up for the holidays, from Veterans Day to Thanksgiving and full steam ahead to Christmas. Don’t miss our favorite kid-friendly events and activities in Philadelphia this month.
November begins the holiday season with bright lights as LumiNature opens at the Philadelphia Zoo. Not long after Election Day (don't forget to vote!) is Veteran's Day, so head to the Museum of the American Revolution where families can honor those who have served our country during a weekend of special programs. The month rounds out with Philly's beloved 6abc Dunkin' Thanksgiving Day Parade, so tune in or bundle up and hit the Parkway before you stuff yourself with all the trimmings.
Before the falling leaves turn to snowflakes, make sure to check our Fall Bucket List and browse our Fall Activities Guide. And don't forget to book tickets now for these Polar Express and Holiday Train Rides!
We’re adding more events to our family activity calendar every day, so don’t forget to check it frequently. Get our picks for every weekend in your inbox—sign up for our newsletters.
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Fun Things to Do with Kids in Philly, November 2025
Families can celebrate apple season with moonbounces, gem mining, axe throwing, and mural painting during Apple Weekend at Peddler's Village. Once you've worked up a good appetite, enjoy apple ciders, pies, and butters, all available for purchase. There will be an apple pie eating contest and live music to entertain all ages. Read More
This full-day festival offers fun for the whole family, including an arts activity, altar competition, artisan market, dance and music performances, and an enormous traditional ofrenda (altar) installation by the Mexican Cultural Center. Read More
Kids can take part in group sculpture making, recycled paper weaving, bottle cap mosaic magnets, and more at this arts and crafts day at Smith! Demonstrations and activities will be set up on Smith Memorial's wrap-around porch and immediately in front of the Playhouse. Read More
250 years ago, Philadelphia was on the road to Revolution. Visit the Museum on Nov. 1-2 to experience a living history event that will immerse you in the fall of 1775. Enjoy walking tours, dramatic vignettes, and hands-on activities as you meet the diverse residents of British Philadelphia. Read More
All Aboard the West Chester Railroad for a ride through the picturesque Chester Creek Valley to view the beautiful foliage on a heated train. This 90-minute journey takes visitors back in time to the village of Glen Mills, then returns back to the station. Read More
Monday, November 3 is World Jellyfish Day, and Adventure Aquarium is home to a wall of glowing jellyfish in its newest exhibit, Kaleidoscope Cove. Read More
This Veterans Day and Veterans Day weekend, join the Museum in honoring America’s first veterans as well as those who have served and continue to serve the nation today. Throughout the weekend, the Museum will offer free admission to those currently serving in the military, veterans, and Blue Star Families, courtesy of Comcast NBCUniversal. Read More
On the first Sunday of each month, the Barnes offers free admission and creative programming to its visitors with a full day of family-friendly activities. Themes change monthly, with new art activities, performers, and guest artists each month. Read More
The 4th Annual Manayunk Gets LIT Decorating Competition is back, and you get to help decide who will win. Get ready to take in more than eighty thousand dazzling lights as Manayunk businesses decorate their storefronts, windows, roofs, and really anything that can be lit. Read More
Every year, The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center hosts The National Dog Show. Visitors can expect to see 2,000 show dogs representing over 150 breeds. Besides watching the dogs, family-friendly activities are available to keep children entertained. Read More
LuLu Shriners hosts the FEZtival of Trees and Lights with Santa. This annual family-friendly event features a forest of uniquely decorated trees, children's activities, shopping, raffles, and free digital photos with Santa. Read More
The Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market is back for the 2025 holiday season. From November 14, 2025, to January 1, 2026, immerse yourself in the festive spirit, featuring over 50 local vendors from the Philadelphia area and the tri-state area. Read More
Over a million lights illuminate the Philadelphia Zoo as it transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland. LumiNature takes guests on a magical journey featuring 200+ illuminated penguins, a 100 ft-long jungle tunnel, and special surprises each night. Kids can also enjoy s'mores over a campfire, watch strolling performers, and sip hot chocolate. Read More
Presented by the Pennsylvania Academy of Ballet, this beloved holiday tradition has been captivating audiences for over 30 years, offering a magical experience for families. With professional guest artists and talented local dancers, it’s a chance to enjoy world-class ballet at an affordable price. Read More
City Cruises Philadelphia will be hosting their Thanksgiving Day Dinner Cruise once again. Step aboard for a wonderful evening of delicious food, lively entertainment, and breathtaking views of the Philadelphia skyline. Guests can expect games, live DJ entertainment, and a delicious Thanksgiving buffet while enjoying quality time with family and friends. Read More
Head to the Art Museum for the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade and officially kick off the holiday season amid grand performances, marching bands, special guests, and of course...Santa Claus himself. Be a part of the action downtown or watch from home. Read More
Holiday lights, amusement rides, and games await families at the Carnival of Lights in Pottstown. This year's carnival will be held at the Norco Fire Department. Guests can expect more food, vendors, and visits with Santa. Read More
Cozy up in comforting warming cabins, warm up at a fire pit station, enjoy boardwalk rides and games for the young and young-at-heart, delicious food and hot beverages, see the signature holiday tree, and, of course, go ice skating on the NHL-sized rink. Winterfest is a top destination for anyone looking to rekindle family traditions. Read More