Recently, I had to make a quick trip to Philly and, even though it was dark and rainy and I was pressed for time, I wanted to use what little extra time I had to check out any local holiday traditions to share with you for Friday field trip…I  didn’t have to go too far to be able to see a couple as we passed through Center City.

The first stop was to Love Park.  This is the plaza in Center City nicknamed for the popular Love sculpture.  During this time of year, the park is transformed into a Christmas Village…little shops surround the plaza representing many different cultures and traditions of the season.  Because the weather was so cold and rainy, we did not spend much time at the Village, but it was fun to walk through…especially after finding the holiday “Wish Wall” where passersby left their wishes for the holiday.

Next stop was a short walk to Macys to see the Christmas Light Show.  A tradition since 1956, the light show is an annual outing for many families.  I was surprised to learn that there was a tie to my home state of Connecticut to this infamous light show…it was devised by Frederick Yost – a Yale University theatre-lighting graduate.  The tremendous show that captivates so many children (and adults), is displayed every hour on the hour in the Grand Court of the store.  The Wanamaker Organ that accompanies the show is worth the trip on its own!

A photo of the location of the Macys Christmas Light Display – a tradition since 1956. Although the red carpet is empty in this photo, it was soon filled with children looking up to the third floor tree to witness the amazing display of lights and the light show. The tree alone contains 34,500 LED lights.

A photo of The Christmas Light Show at Macys in Philadelphia, PA.

The best part about the show was listening to all the people gathered around talking about how many years they had visited the display…and the gasps of wonder from the little children!  Even though it was a very quick trip, and not the best weather (and terrible for picture taking!), it was fun to share the holiday traditions of the locals in Philly.

I hope you are enjoying your holiday traditions during this special time of year.

A Macy’s holiday window at the Philadelphia store…a tribute to the Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Wishing you much love and peace and pleasure in simple things,  Jackie