Happy Holidays doesn’t officially start until the Philadelphia Holiday Tree is lit, and last night it was. WOW the tree is gorgeous. I’m a simple guy, and I love a tree lit in white lights and a beautiful blue star to top it off. (I did love the other tree as well, but it’s like we’re entering a new phase this year.) The base is brand new, simple with the Philly skyline, and words of encouragement like LOVE. It was bitterly cold last night, but that didn’t stop the crowds from coming out to enjoy the festivities with entertainment by Keyshia and Liamani as well as ride the Ferris wheel. Great job Michael DelBene, President & CEO Welcome America and team. (Look for more photos at Metro Philly and CBSPhilly today)
In the past decade, the west and north aprons have come alive with so much activity especially during the holidays. And don’t forget Christmas Village extends to the Center of City Hall, and across the street at Love Park.
Speaking of tree lighting, Old City had theirs on Wednesday and as always the neighborhood really came out to support their efforts. And Old City put on a show. (Old City – Society Hill Films)
Held at Betsy Ross’ house, this year the tree is adorn with red balls, as well as accented with two giant ones at the base.
In November there was a special night opening party of Winter in Franklin Square with a new song which is played along with the dancing fountain during the holiday light show. by The Philly Specials (@jason.kelce, @jordanmailata, & @lanejohnson65 @aphillyspecialchristmas. ) Connor Barwin and Charlie Hall were in attendance to hear Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by The Philly Specials along with the crowd for the first time.
(Photos Cari Feiler Bender)
Amy Needle, the president and CEO of Historic Philadelphia greeting the crowd. Here’s what’s coming up you might be interested in. Jingle and Mingle with Santa (December 7, 12, 14, and 21, 5-7 pm) and bring pets for Santa Paws (December 14, 5-7 pm). On Thursday, December 12, Santa (aka City Councilmember Mark Squilla) will make a special appearance from 5-6 pm. Keep an eye out for Santa near the Franklin Square Fountain, double-checking his naughty and nice lists and posing for elfie-selfies. FREE.
Ben Armstrong, Vice President of Communications & Marketing, PECO.
Winter in Franklin Square, featuring the Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO, celebrates traditions old and new at this beloved public space. Through February 23, 2025, Winter in Franklin Square. The centerpiece of the festivities is the nightly free Electrical Spectacle Light Show. Guests can cozy up around fire pits with hot beverages, including spiked options for adults, and enjoy Street Curling and Chilly Philly Mini Golf, adorned with lights and seasonal decorations. Visitors can indulge in hand-crafted cocktails and seasonal treats in the pop-up winter bar, Ben On the Rocks. The Square will also host various family holiday events, such as Jingle and Mingle with Santa, Santa Paws, and Brunch with Santa.
Had dinner with PR Santa Kory Aversa at his new client’s the other night – MAMAJUANA CAFE PHILLY, it was delicious, and spicy which hit the spot on a chilly night. I especially loved the Rice Pudding Pops, with this cute little tree, which I learned wasn’t a souvenir but did make a good Instagramable photo.
Philly Social Club’s Helping Hand Charity Cocktail Reception
Thanks to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, in partnership with the nonprofit Kelly’s Kidz (Bob Kelly, Fox29 seen above giving his wish list to Santa), donated hundreds of toys to St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, which will be distributed to patients and families of patients being treated at the hospital this holiday season. Check out photos at Metro Philly and CBSPhilly.
Congratulations to Ray Smeriglio whose longtime partner, fiance, Miguel Martinez-Valle who popped the question to HIM on Wednesday night in front of friends. Traditionally Miguel’s emcees the lighting of the East Passyunk Tree, and they host a party for friends and family, as they did this year, with a surprise proposal to Ray. Earlier this year Ray popped the question to Miguel. NBC10 has the story. Hi to
Shout out to Mark Brown (and his wife), longtime ChitChat reader, and IG follower (msaxbrown). I promised him I would write more on the blog in 2025….Thanks everyone for bearing with me this year. Coverage here was a bit spotty. Mark entertained us at Miguel & Ray’s party on Wednesday night.
So much more happening in the City, follow along on my Instagram account where I update you a few times a day.
Thanks!! Socially yours, xoxo HughE
