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Don’t drop the ball on your New Year’s plans: Philadelphia is the place to be to ring in 2024 thanks to two huge waterfront fireworks displays, cutesy kid-friendly celebrations, wild parties and a can’t-miss New Year’s Day parade.
Philly’s New Year’s Eve festivities are anchored by the New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront, with two stunning fireworks displays lighting up the skies at 6 p.m. and midnight. (Note that both shows are rain or shine.)
Families and kiddos can ring in the New Year well before bedtime with events like the Countdown to 2024 at the Please Touch Museum or an early-evening fireworks display at Sesame Place.
Looking to party hearty? Welcome 2024 with music, drinks and dancing aboard the Moshulu during the Fireworks Boat Bash, or at Craft Hall during the Morgan’s Pier NYE Take Over.
The celebrations continue on New Year’s Day with the Mummers Parade — a can’t-miss Philly tradition that draws thousands of costumed marchers to Broad Street each year.
Check out our full guide to New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in Philadelphia below.
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 6 p.m. & midnight
New Year’s Eve is a special time in Philadelphia. As the temperature dips and the year nears its end, the city rings in the new year with two unforgettable fireworks displays over the Delaware River at 6 p.m. (perfectly timed for the kiddos!) and — of course — midnight. While the fireworks are visible up and down the waterfront, the show is centered at Penn’s Landing. KYW Newsradio has the soundtrack for both shows, so tune in to 1060 AM from wherever you’re watching, or listen to the music in person at Penn’s Landing.
Where: Centered at Penn's Landing, 101 N. Columbus Boulevard
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 4-6:30 p.m. & 10 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
Philly serves as a picture-perfect backdrop for the waterfront fireworks aboard the Battleship New Jersey on the Camden side of the Delaware River. Two ticketed parties take place at 4 and 10 p.m. for each of the fireworks displays. VIP upgrades are available, offering access to heated tents with appetizers, soft drinks and adult beverages.
Where: Battleship New Jersey, 100 Clinton Street, Camden, NJ
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 5-8 p.m. & 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Put those resolutions on ice, and send 2023 out in style. During two ticketed time slots — 5 to 8 p.m. (perfect for the kids!) and 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. — attendees get a front-row seat to the New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront while gliding across the ice rink or sitting fireside by a cozy firepit (reservations required).
Where: Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest, 101 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.
It’s a New Year’s Eve party on the pier! This 21-plus event features live music from Shekhinah B. of The Women’s Coalition for Empowerment, Inc., a sprawling dance floor and sweeping views of the waterfront fireworks at midnight. Tickets are required, and food and drink are pay as you go.
Where: Cherry Street Pier, 121 N. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 9 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Welcome 2024 with arms spread wide on the starboard bow during the New Year’s Boat Bash aboard the Moshulu, a historic tall ship docked at Penn’s Landing. General admission begins at 9 p.m. with access to an open bar. VIP reservations are available beginning at 8 p.m. and include added perks like a reserved table, passed hors d’oeuvres and buffet stations until 10 PM.
Where: Moshulu, 401 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Channel your inner-celeb during this lavish party at the Pyramid Club — high above the streets of Center City. The annual gala — held inside the penthouse of the BNY Mellon building — features a five-hour open bar, buffet stations, DJ sets and sweeping views of the waterfront fireworks through 20-foot floor-to-ceiling windows.
Where: Pyramid Club, 1735 Market Street
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 9:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
It’s impossible to get closer to the New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront than from the water itself aboard a vessel from City Cruises Philadelphia. The three-hour cruise includes an open bar, buffet dining and DJ sets before the big show at midnight.
Where: City Cruises Philadelphia, 401 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Acrobats, jugglers and aerial performers dazzle audiences during this 90-minute Broadway-style production featuring plenty of holiday elements like penguins, sugarplums, toy soldiers and an original score with fresh takes on classic seasonal tunes.
Where: Miller Theater, 250 S. Broad Street
Go Birds! The Eagles wrap up the home portion of their regular season schedule with a matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, led by new head coach and former Eagles defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon.
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, One Lincoln Financial Field Way
Guest conductor Thomas Wilkins (of Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and Boston Symphony Orchestra fame) leads the orchestra through a playful program of fan favorites. Looking for dinner and a show? Add on an optional pre-performance dinner featuring a multi-course fixed menu and a cheese board at intermission.
Where: Kimmel Center, 300 S. Broad Street
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 7, 9 & 11 p.m.
Looking for a low-key celebration? Center City’s Chris’ Jazz Cafe is the perfect place for a dark, romantic evening. Enjoy a three-course chef’s tasting menu while listening to the smooth jazz sounds of Chelsea Reed and the Fair Weather Nine, performing three sets throughout the night.
Where: Chris' Jazz Cafe, 1421 Sansom Street
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 7 p.m. – 2 a.m.
It’s not a phase! Sing (and scream) along to tracks from your favorite emo bands (think Panic! At The Disco, My Chemical Romance, Paramore, etc.) at this ticketed party under the El at Kung Fu Necktie.
Where: Kung Fu Necktie, 1248 North Front Street
The electronic jam band takes the stage for the second night of back-to-back shows at Union Transfer. Expect bright lights, a packed house and a setlist featuring meandering, improvised tunes.
Where: Union Transfer, 1026 Spring Garden Street
The pop-punk rockers from Montco take the stage on South Street for a New Year’s Eve hometown show.
Where: Theatre of Living Arts, 334 South Street
Philly’s favorite brass band spreads springtime vibes on New Year’s Eve during this 21-plus show in Fishtown. The genre-bending musicians blend elements of jazz, punk and R&B for a set with more than enough energy to carry you into the new year.
Where: Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia, 1009 Canal Street
The indie folk rockers — originally from North Carolina and now based in New York — swings through Philly in support of their latest album, Rides On. Tickets (and clothing) are required.
Where: World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut Street
Disney characters old and new glide across the ice during this fun-filled, family-friendly skating production. Featuring the on-ice debut of Raya from Raya and the Last Dragon, this year’s show journeys through the classic worlds of Cinderella, Aladdin and Toy Story before revisiting new fan favorites like Encanto and Moana.
Where: Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad Street
It’s Betsy’s birthday party — and you’re invited! The Betsy Ross House celebrates the 271st anniversary of Betsy herself with a day of stories, crafts and lots of cake. The party is free to attend, and you can keep an eye on the official website for more details. The event is part of the property’s yearlong celebration of its 250th anniversary.
Where: Betsy Ross House, 239 Arch Street
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 9-11:30 a.m. & 1-3:30 p.m.
The Please Touch Museum’s kid-friendly countdown returns with a double dose of confetti-fueled fun to ring in 2024. Morning and afternoon sessions feature access to the museum’s exhibits, dance performances, jugglers, live music and New Year’s swag. Tickets are required.
Where: Please Touch Museum, 4231 Avenue of the Republic
Local kid-friendly musicians Alex & the Kaleidoscope lead a concert full of family funk before a climactic countdown to noon at Ardmore Music Hall. Also on the docket: arts and craft activities, a family brunch menu, and more.
Where: Ardmore Music Hall, 23 E. Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore
Wrapped around the 6 p.m. waterfront fireworks display, this ticketed party on the pier features hands-on games and activities from PopUpPlay and make-and-take crafting stations. At 6 p.m., press pause on playtime to enjoy a front-row view of the riverfront fireworks.
Wrangle up the kiddos and head to Franklin Square for an hour of free crafting activities before a ceremonial “square drop” from the top of the on-site SquareBurger at 6 p.m. Stick around to watch the 6 p.m. fireworks on the waterfront, which are visible from the historic park.
Where: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th Street
It’s Count von Count’s time to shine. The Count is joined by furry friends like Elmo, Cookie Monster and Abby Cadabby to celebrate the new year a few hours early. The park’s fireworks show kicks off at 6 p.m. and is included in regular admission. Note: Admission to the park is stopped a few minutes before the show begins, so plan to arrive on the early side.
Where: Sesame Place Philadelphia, 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne
A special a la carte menu features pasta dishes like sea urchin linguine and a bevy of meat and seafood entrees. Can’t decide? Spring for the surf and turf, featuring braised short rib and lobster tail.
Where: Positano Coast, 212 Walnut Street
A fixed, four-course dinner at this picture-perfect Old City outpost begins with oysters and champagne and ends with sticky toffee pudding. In between, opt for the lump crab cake or pork chop entree. The prepaid price is $90 per person.
Where: The Olde Bar, 125 Walnut Street
Where: Amada, 217-219 Chestnut Street
French flavors shine on this five-course tasting menu with dishes like escargot braised in champagne, duck fat-roasted scallops, and artichoke and black truffle soup.
Where: Forsythia, 233 Chestnut Street
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 7 p.m. & 10 p.m.
Champagne and caviar flow freely during Irwin’s appropriately named Swanky Glitzy Cocktail Party atop the Bok Building. After 10 p.m., stick around for the Italo Disco Party for more sipping, dancing and fireworks-watching. Tickets are required.
Where: Irwin's, 800 Mifflin Street
Put on the fancy pants for this black-tie optional affair in Center City. One of Boston’s biggest New Year’s parties for more than 20 years, the Resolution Ball makes its Philly debut in style with dancing, dinner stations and complimentary New Year’s swag. Tickets are required, and open-bar add-ons are available.
Where: Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1200 Filbert Street
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 8 p.m. – 1 a.m.
It’s all about glitz and glam at this posh party at Jean-Georges inside the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, the luxury hotel located atop the Comcast Technology Center in Center City. Decadent food stations and hand-crafted cocktails abound. The centerpiece of the celebration is a grand ice sculpture, which doubles as a raw bar and sensational seafood display. The elegant evening is rounded out with festive entertainment and a stunning view of the waterfront fireworks.
Where: Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, 1 N. 19th Street
It’s a freestyle hip-hop party with an emphasis on “free” at Love City Brewing. The no-cover party features a musical journey through the history of hip-hop, drink specials galore and a balloon drop at midnight. While there’s no cost to attend, it’s a good idea to reserve a spot ahead of time.
Where: Love City Brewing, 1023 Hamilton Street
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 8 p.m. – 2 a.m.
This quintessential Trestle Inn celebration features go-go-dancing, beats from DJ Particle Ray and a champagne toast at midnight. Tickets are required, and a limited number of VIP couples’ packages are available for guaranteed seating.
Where: The Trestle Inn, 339 North 11th Street
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 9 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Morgan’s Pier’s party atmosphere heads indoors for a takeover of Craft Hall on New Year’s Eve. The ticketed event features live music, DJ sets, an open bar, light bites and a champagne toast at midnight.
Where: Craft Hall, 901 N. Delaware Avenue
This sexy and soulful celebration features blues music from The Mikey Jr. Band and burlesque performances throughout the evening. Different party packages are available, ranging from the cover charge and midnight champagne toast for $30 to a VIP package with a four-course dinner and three-hour open bar for $150.
Where: The Twisted Tail, 509 S. 2nd Street
*DJ air horn noise* This high-energy party in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex features confetti cannons, food and drink packages, live party anthems from Go Go Gadjet, multiple DJ sets, party favors, and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. The party spans all five bars inside of XFINITY Live! Tickets are required, and VIP upgrades are available.
Where: XFINITY Live!, 1100 Pattison Avenue
Dress to impress for this party under the stars at the swanky Stratus Rooftop Lounge — located atop the Kimpton Hotel Monaco — featuring an open bar, special New Year’s-themed cocktails and entertainment from Mr. Hollywood DJ.
Where: Stratus, 433 Chestnut Street
Choose your own New Year’s adventure at W Philadelphia. The luxury hotel offers two different parties with distinct vibes:
Where: W Philadelphia, 1439 Chestnut Street
Do you remember the 31st night of December? Welcome 2024 with a groovy night of tunes from Earth, Wind & Fire tribute band Let’s Groove Tonight, an open bar, an all-you-can-eat buffet and a champagne toast at the stroke of midnight inside the Event Center at Rivers Casino Philadelphia. Tickets are required.
Where: Rivers Casino Philadelphia, 1001 N. Delaware Avenue
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Don your finest JNCO jeans for this 21-plus party celebrating (solemnly) all things goth. DJs Riot Meg and Cryptic Dollface spin dark tunes from the ’80s to today, spanning genres like dark wave, goth rock and industrial. Sip on themed drink specials and enjoy a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Tickets are required.
Where: Khyber Pass Pub, 56 S. 2nd Street
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 10:30 p.m. – 2 a.m.
DJ Franchise provides the tunes during a high-octane celebration featuring dancers, confetti drops, a midnight countdown and more at Cuba Libre in Old City. Tickets are required, and a VIP upgrade grants access to two-hour open bar from 10:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Where: Cuba Libre, 10 S. 2nd Street
Mum’s the word! Start the year off with one of Philly’s most famous traditions, when more than 10,000 costumed marchers — many of whom practice all year for this one-day celebration — strut their stuff on the streets of Philadelphia in a sea of sequins, feathers, face paint and umbrellas. The perfectly Philly parade kicks off at City Hall before heading down Broad Street to Washington Avenue in South Philly. Show up a little early to snag your favorite viewing spot along the route, or reserve a ticket for bleacher seating.
Where: Parade begins at Philadelphia City Hall, 1400 John F. Kennedy Boulevard
Monday, January 1, 2024 | 11:30 a.m. & 5 p.m.
After marching in the parade, the ultra-competitive Fancy Brigades head inside the Pennsylvania Convention Center for intricately choreographed, Broadway-style performances that are judged in a number of categories. Tickets for both performances can be purchased online for pick-up at the Philadelphia Visitors Center
Where: Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch Street
Through Sunday, December 31, 2023
The Grand Court in the National Historic Landmark Wanamaker Building has hosted the iconic Christmas Light Show since 1956. Macy’s continues this quintessential holiday tradition in 2023 with daily displays featuring thousands of twinkling lights in the shapes of snowflakes, candy canes and dancing snowmen — accompanied by seasonal sounds from the famed Wanamaker Organ. Five free shows take place Mondays through Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m. On Sundays, three shows run at noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The Wanamaker Organ is played live during the noon and 6 p.m. showings each day (except Sundays). Recorded music accompanies all other shows. Families can also book a visit to see Philly’s vintage retelling of A Christmas Carol in the Dickens Village and snap pics with Santa.
Where: Macy's, 1300 Market Street
Lights, mammals, action. This immersive display transforms the Philadelphia Zoo’s day-scape into a nighttime multimedia spectacle. After the animals are tucked away for the evening, the zoo lights up with more than 1 million holiday lights in 16 distinct zones. Seasonal snacks, live performances, hot chocolate and adult beverages round out the feelings of winter spirit. Timed tickets are required.
Where: Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Avenue
A European Christmas market, a live music festival, a community carnival or a gourmet farm-to-table dining experience … which do you choose? You don’t have to pick just one thanks to the gorgeous (and new-for-2023) Yuletide at Devon celebration at the Devon Horse Show grounds. Experience free fair rides (including a 65-foot Ferris wheel), lots of live music, craft drinks (hot chocolate, cocktails and more), locally sourced eats, and over 35 high-end holiday fair vendors.
Where: Devon Horse Show & Country Fair, 23 Dorset Road, Devon
Through Monday, January 1, 2024
Twinkling lights, seasonal sounds and icy activities land in South Philly’s FDR Park for the Tinseltown Holiday Spectacular. Take in the sights as you skate along a winding ice trail or glide down a 160-foot-long ice slide. In between “ooohs” and “ahhhs,” pop into the Mistletoe Marketplace to find that perfect gift, or grab a bite to eat and an adult beverage inside the Union Forge Lodge. Timed tickets are required, with optional add-ons available for the Ice Trail and Independence Blue Cross ice slide.
Where: FDR Park, South Broad Street
The Comcast Center’s annual (and free!) super high-res LED holiday show celebrates the season against one of the world’s largest LED video walls. Combining performances from the Philadelphia Ballet with classic holiday songs, the 15-minute show features a virtual sleigh ride around the world. Also, don’t miss The Universal Sphere located next door at the tallest building in Philly — the Comcast Technology Center. This free cinematic experience uses lights, sounds, and movement to showcase the power of ideas. Both shows run daily (with sensory-friendly shows available), but advanced registration is recommended for The Universal Sphere.
Where: Comcast Center, 1701 John F. Kennedy Boulevard
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Comcast Technology Center, 1800 Arch Street
The city’s magnificent 55-foot-tall holiday tree illuminates the north side of City Hall, just around the corner from all the wintry fun in Dilworth Park and Christmas Village at LOVE Park.
Where: North apron of Philadelphia City Hall, 1400 John F. Kennedy Boulevard
Through Sunday, January 7, 2024
Turn back the clocks for this retro celebration of holiday seasons gone by at Longwood Gardens. The horticultural haven — located about an hour from Center City — lights up with hundreds of trees trimmed in throwback fashion. Think classic baubles, tons of tinsel and iconic childhood toys. Adding to the festive feel, the botanical garden’s illuminated fountains dance to the sounds of the season. Timed tickets are required.
Where: Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square
Through Monday, January 15, 2023
One of the nation’s top traveling holiday spectaculars comes to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, which plays host to the LuminoCity Holiday Lights Festival. Celebrating a new “Golden Holiday” theme for 2023, the sprawling display features dozens of bright, colorful, large-scale displays including an iconic 50-foot, fully-decorated Christmas tree.
Where: The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Station Avenue, Oaks
Through Saturday, January 27, 2023 (select dates)
An eye-popping 3 million lights illuminate the night at this rolling Bucks County farm. Dash through the show from the comfort of your car or in the open air while snuggled up in a tractor-pulled wagon with your loved ones (weather permitting, November 18 through January 8, 2024). Tickets are required.
Where: Shady Brook Farm, 931 Stony Hill Road, Yardley
Through Sunday, February 25, 2024 (Dates vary by attraction)
Franklin Square ups the wattage every year with the Electrical Spectacle Light Show, the centerpiece of its Winter in Franklin Square programming. The free nightly shows — inspired by Benjamin Franklin’s kite and key electricity experiment — illuminate the square every half hour as hundreds of thousands of choreographed lights dance to the tune of familiar holiday favorites. Songs for 2023 include All I Want for Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey, Feliz Navidad by José Feliciano and a version of Carol of the Bells performed by the London Festival Orchestra. Also on offer: mini-golf, street curling, fire pits, and festive food and drink.
Winter at Dilworth Park brings a touch of festive greenery to Center City with the return of the Wintergarden on Greenfield Lawn. Featuring illuminated arbor, reindeer topiaries, rustic woodland décor and an on-site Chaddsford Winery kiosk (offering warm mulled wine!), the picturesque Wintergarden overlooks Dilworth Park’s popular ice skating rink. Winter at Dilworth Park also includes a chalet-style cabin, fire pits, seasonal refreshments, a holiday market and plenty of winter events.
Where: Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th Street
The only way to fully experience Philly? Stay over.
Book the Visit Philly Overnight Package and get free hotel parking and choose-your-own-adventure perks, including tickets to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Franklin Institute, or the National Constitution Center and the Museum of the American Revolution.
Or maybe you’d prefer to buy two Philly hotel nights and get a third night for free? Then book the new Visit Philly 3-Day Stay package.
Which will you choose?
A season-by-season guide to this year's top events in the City of Brotherly Love...