Wanamaker Light Show to Return This Year Featuring Frosty the Snowman

The future of the cherished Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village, two iconic holiday attractions in Philadelphia, is now more secure as efforts are underway to ensure their continuity beyond this season. The Philadelphia Visitors Center, in collaboration with the owner of the Wanamaker Building, TF Cornerstone, is launching a campaign aimed at raising approximately 0,000 to bring these beloved features back for the holiday season and to develop a sustainable preservation plan.

The Wanamaker Light Show, which first captivated audiences in 1956, has become a hallmark of the holiday experience in Philadelphia. This year, along with the traditional Dickens Village, it is set to enchant visitors once again, signifying the dedication of local stakeholders to maintain this festive heritage. The campaign announcement is anticipated to take place soon, highlighting the community’s commitment to preserving these attractions.

In conjunction with these preparations, a separate initiative is being established to reopen the Wanamaker Grand Court as a pop-up performing arts venue. This four-month engagement, organized by Opera Philadelphia, aims to showcase the potential of the space while celebrating the historic Wanamaker Grand Court Organ. Funding for these performances has been secured through generous contributions from philanthropic organizations, including a notable million grant from the Wyncote Foundation.

Despite this immediate resurgence of activity, long-term challenges loom. Renovations slated to commence in February are expected to necessitate significant alterations to the Grand Court, raising uncertainties regarding the operation of both the Light Show and Dickens Village during this period.

The precarious future of the Light Show was thrown into doubt when Macy’s announced the closure of its Center City store earlier this year. As stewardship transitions from Macy’s to a nonprofit entity, the local community is keenly aware of the cultural and economic significance of these attractions. Initial assessments indicate that they draw approximately 400,000 visitors annually, contributing around million to the local economy.

As plans unfold, community leaders underscore the importance of integrating commerce and culture in the revamped space. Conversations are ongoing regarding potential occupancy by smaller retailers, with the timeframe for finalizing arrangements extending into 2026. Meanwhile, the current ownership of the Light Show and Dickens Village rests with TF Cornerstone, which aims to eventually transfer stewardship to the Atwater Kent Collection for long-term preservation.

In this transitional phase, the Wanamaker Light Show rests quietly, stored away, awaiting its revival. The community eagerly anticipates its return, with hopes that this iconic display, along with the accompanying festive market experiences, will reaffirm Philadelphia’s status as a vibrant holiday destination.

For those interested in supporting the comeback of the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village, contributions to the preservation efforts can be made through SaveTheLightShow.org, signaling a collective hopeful journey toward maintaining this cherished holiday tradition in Philadelphia.

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