Save the Light Show
A Tradition Worth Preserving
Since 1956, generations of Philadelphians and visitors have gathered in Center City to experience the Wanamaker Christmas Light Show and Dickens Village. These holiday experiences have brought joy, wonder, and cherished memories to hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
The Wanamaker Light Show presented by PECO, shown in the Grand Court of the Wanamaker Building, will be offered free of charge and open to the public throughout the season accompanied during select shows by the Wanamaker Organ. Dickens Village, the immersive walk-through experience inspired by Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” will be available to guests through free timed-tickets that must be reserved in advance, and will once again conclude with the opportunity to share Christmas wishes and take photos with Santa Claus.
Debuting this year inside the Wanamaker Grand Court, visitors can also enjoy holiday food and beverage at the Holly and Humbug pop up restaurant and explore the Shops at the Wanamaker Light Show Vendor Village featuring artisan gifts, handmade goods, and festive finds!
Join us this holiday season to keep the tradition alive!
Holiday Season Schedule
November 28 - December 11, 2025
Monday-Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday-Sunday: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
December 12 - December 23, 2025
Daily: 12 p.m. - 8 p.m.
December 24, 2025
Daily: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Donate to Save The Light Show!
If you care about the Light Show and Dickens Village as much as we do, please consider making a gift— your donation ensures the Light Show and Dickens Village will continue to inspire and unite us. We're offering exclusive thank you gifts for donors, because saving Philly traditions deserves a reward!
Volunteer at the Wanamaker Light Show and Dicken's Village
By joining our team, you’ll play a vital role in welcoming thousands of visitors to the historic Wanamaker Building during the holiday season. Volunteers assist with guest services, wayfinding, and helping manage the flow of visitors—all while soaking in the festive spirit of the season.
Our Plan to Preserve the Magic
Since 1956, the Light Show has been managed and operated by the various department store tenants of the Wanamaker building, most recently Macy’s. The installation of the Light Show and Dickens Village is a massive undertaking involving dozens of skilled technicians and depends on high levels of institutional knowledge and technical expertise. The attractions themselves draw tens of thousands of visitors DAILY during the holiday season, requiring staffing to help manage crowds safely and provide positive visitor experiences.
The Philadelphia Visitor Center has assembled a team of dedicated partners including the Friends of the Wanamaker Organ and many long-serving show technicians to prepare to install, operate, and appropriately staff the Light Show and Dickens Village attractions for the 2025 holiday season.
But to make this vision a reality, we must raise the necessary funds to support an undertaking of this scale. We are hopeful that there are individuals—throughout the Philly region and beyond!—who care deeply about keeping these traditions alive and will consider making a donation towards this effort. Join us in this once-in-a-generation opportunity to protect the magic that has defined childhoods and brought joy to families for nearly 70 years!
Share Your Story
Tell us why you're giving or share your favorite Light Show memory using #SaveTheLightShow on social media! Your voice inspires others to give and helps keep the tradition alive.