Wanamaker Light Show set to open on November 28, with installation now complete.
The Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village, two cherished Philadelphia holiday attractions, are set to reopen to the public on Friday, November 28, following a successful fundraising initiative that ensured their continuation at least for the upcoming season. Both attractions are housed within the historic Wanamaker Building, located near City Hall, and have become staples of the city’s holiday festivities.
The initiative to secure the future of these iconic displays was launched by the Philadelphia Visitor Center in collaboration with TF Cornerstone, the new owner of the Wanamaker Building, after the sale of Macy’s in March raised concerns about the ability to maintain the attractions. In an encouraging show of community support, more than 700 individual donors and philanthropic organizations contributed to a fund aimed at reaching a goal of 0,000.
As organizers announced in September, the initiative surpassed its fundraising goal, allowing preparations to begin not only for the current winter season but also for the long-term sustainability of both attractions. Remarkably, the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village will remain free for all visitors, further enhancing their accessibility and appeal.
On Monday, officials are expected to provide additional details regarding the schedule for the 2025 Light Show and Dickens Village, including ticketing information, new sponsorships, and ongoing fundraising strategies to support these beloved holiday programs in the years to come.
The reinstallation of the light show, a beloved tradition in Philadelphia since its inception in 1956, has significant cultural importance. Last week, a specialized team from Macy’s Parade Studio traveled from New Jersey to guide local workers in the intricate setup process of the spectacular display. This year’s show features a towering 154-branch Christmas tree adorned with 100,000 bulbs, along with animated figures such as Santa, Sugarplum Fairies, and snowflakes. The display operates via a sophisticated lighting and sound program, managed from a control room coined “Frosty Central.”
Simultaneously, preparations for Dickens Village are underway, with a team of volunteers expected to complete the installation of 6,000 square feet of cobbled streets, along with animatronic figures, by next week. The local electrical workers union, IBEW Local 98, has pledged support through its charitable fund, providing a three-member crew to facilitate the lighting installation. The collaborative effort has demonstrated the community’s commitment to preserving this longstanding holiday tradition, with hopes for many more years of festive celebration to come.
Media News Source reports that the commitment from local unions and businesses exemplifies a city-wide dedication to keeping these beloved attractions alive and thriving for generations to enjoy.
