The dos and don'ts of spending Thanksgiving in Philly

Can’t go home this Thanksgiving? Not sure what to do this coming break? No problem! Philadelphia has got you covered. Here are the basic dos and don’ts of spending Thanksgiving in the city of brotherly love.

Do…

Go to the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade.

A true Philadelphia tradition and one of the oldest Thanksgiving parades in the country, the 1.4 mile Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade is a staple attraction during the holiday season. The parade will take place along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Viewers will enjoy watching a procession of giant balloons and floats with performances by local choirs, dance groups and marching bands, as well as appearances by former member of 98 Degrees Drew Lachey and R&B singer Estelle.

Want to get the best view of the parade? The steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art — where the parade finishes — the south side of Eakins Oval and Logan Circle are some of the top viewing locations.

Don’t…

Miss out on Philadelphia’s food scene.

Ranging from sit-down dinners to buffets and take-out specials, the restaurants in the city are vibrant, dynamic and know how to satisfy your gastronomical needs this Thanksgiving.

Recommendations for sit-down restaurants include Bridget Foy’s, Devon’s Seafood Grill, Del Frisco’s and Old City’s The Little Lion. To enjoy a buffet on Thanksgiving day, check out Chima, the Radnor Hotel or the Spirit of Philadelphia.

For a more casual, take-out Thanksgiving dinner, Percy Street Barbecue, Di Bruno Bros, Miss Rachel’s Pantry (vegan-friendly options included) and Tria come highly recommended.

Do…

Go skating at the Rothman Ice Rink at Dilworth Park.

Right outside of City Hall, the Rothman Ice Rink at Dilworth Park is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening this Thanksgiving break. The Rothman Cabin right by the Ice Rink is a great place to warm up with hot drinks and food, such as poutine and chili.

The park is also in walking distance of other attractions in the city, such as the Christmas Village and the Macy’s Christmas Light Show.

The rink is open every day, including holidays. Admission for those 18 years of age and up is $5. You also have the option to rent a pair of skates for $10. 

Don’t…

Miss the Christmas Village and the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market.

The Christmas Village at City Hall and the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market at Dilworth Park is your one-stop spot for all Christmas shopping. With more than 80 vendors setting up booths as the Christmas Village and the Holiday Market, shoppers can expect to be offered a variety of holiday gifts ranging from ornaments and jewelry to arts and crafts.

If you’re stopping by you will also be able to enjoy street-side performances and other events that will take place throughout the afternoon.

Do…

Experience the annual holiday show at America’s oldest theatre, Walnut Street Theatre!

From Nov. 26 to Dec. 23, the Walnut Street Theatre presents Charles Dickens’s holiday classic, "A Christmas Carol."

Ticket prices range from $14.50 to $16.50.

Don’t…

Forget to layer up!

With temperatures ranging from 33° to 58° and a forecast of strong winds, don’t forget to pile on the sweaters, coats and scarfs to stay warm this Thanksgiving break.