The Master Guide for Things to Do in Philadelphia December 2019

You won’t want to miss the reigning NBA champions, the Toronto Raptors, as they take on our 76ers. The Sixers will have to be on the very best defensive game as they try to shut down star Philadelphia native, Kyle Lowry. Let’s hope that Joel Embiid and the rest of the line up can avenge our loss to the Raptors last year’s Conference Semifinals.

If there’s one thing I know Philadelphians love, it’s a good rivalry. The rivalry against the New York Giants began nearly 87 years ago in 1933. As both teams have strengthened over the years, each game is more exciting than the next and just adds fuel to the everlasting fire between the two. Currently, the all-time overall record between the two is tied, 86-86-2, so this can be a gigantic win for the birds.

The treasured Army-Navy football game is once again in the city of brotherly love. This matchup is one of the most classic rivalries in all of the sports world, even being televised every year since 1945. The game routinely sells out with thousands of veterans, both active duty and retired, and sometimes even gets a visit from the President of The United States. You won’t want to miss this timeless matchup.

Continuing with the trend of rivalries, this one may be the number one on the list of teams Philadelphians as a whole despise. The Cowboys-Eagles rivalry has been ranked the number one rivalry in the NFL twice, and rightfully so. Since their first meeting in 1960, where the Eagles won by just 2 points, each game has been more bitter than the next within the Philadelphia fanbase. Just three days before Christmas this will absolutely make the perfect gift.

Catch the Flyers take on our other foes from New York, the Rangers. Division rivals since the 1974-75 season, this clash is always exciting to see live, in person. Currently, the Flyers lead the all-time series 158-156-137, so fingers crossed they can continue this path to victory. Plus, what’s better than getting to see Gritty amp up the crowd up close? 

The Goddess of Pop is making her way to Philly! Cher will be taking over the Wells Fargo Center Friday, December 6th at 8:00 PM and is sure to put on a show for the ages. Her career is regarded as one of the most prolific in the entire music industry, and for very obvious reasons. On top of countless hit albums and singles, she even holds the record for the highest-grossing concert tours of all time, taking in an astounding $250 million. This show is not one to be missed.

From the start of her career with funk band Chapter 8 to her very first solo album, Anita Baker is a powerhouse in the soul and R&B music industry. Throughout her impressive career, Anita boasts eight Grammy Awards, five platinum albums, and even one gold album. This is a rare chance for you to hear live her hit songs such as, “Sweet Love,” and with this show, you know Anita will be giving you the best she has.

This iconic performer needs little to no introduction. Madonna is as big as it comes in the music industry, and has had her hand in shaping the entire industry to what it’s become today. In addition, with over three hundred million album sales, she currently holds the Guinness World Record for the best-selling female recording artist of all-time. Plus, the acoustics of The Met are sure to take this show to an experience that will be unmatched.

Every December Philly is treated to an absolute delight through Q102’s Jingle Ball. This year’s line-up many are regarding as one of the best of all the prior years. From Halsey and 5 Seconds of Summer to Lizzo and Niall Horan, you’re really getting all your money’s worth. We highly recommend grabbing your tickets as soon as possible, as they are known to sell-out routinely each year. 

Nothing says summer time fun in the winter like a country concert! Brett Young is a bit of a black sheep of the country music industry, while most artists come from southern states, he is from sunny California. Much of his success stems from his hit single, “In Case You Didn’t Know,” among many other songs that you’ve surely heard on the radio. If you’re feeling lucky after the show, test your luck at Parx Casino afterwards!

Punch Line Philly routinely provides top-notch comedy shows, from A-list stars to local favorites. That being said, Comedy Allstars is an excellent way to see all the best acts that are up and coming local comedians. Punch Line gave a snippet of just who may be there by saying some of the acts have been on late-night talk shows, such as “Conan” and “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.” Regardless of who takes the stage, this is a surefire way to have a night full of fun and comedic gold.

If you’re local, chances are you know who this local personality turned YouTube star is. Ed Bassmaster is widely known for hilarious pranks, putting people in awkward situations, and most of all, making people laugh. Currently, Ed has over 2 million followers on YouTube and continues to grow his fanbase through new and exciting content, making him standout amongst the crowd. If you like supporting Philadelphia natives, this one’s for you.

Desi Banks, originally from Atlanta, has found himself in immense stardom through his genuine personality and world-class humor. In addition to stand-up, Desi spends a lot of time creating vlogs and other comedic videos to expand his fanbase even further, which currently sits at over 4 million across all social media platforms. At just 26 years young, this act has a very long and bright future ahead of him.

A Friday comedy show in Atlantic City? Sounds like the start to a perfect weekend. Catch Jim Breuer live as he takes the stage at Sound Waves at the Hard Rock Casino. Breuer is a seasoned act, first finding his footing as a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1995 to 1998. Since leaving the show, Breuer has starred in the film “Half Baked,” in addition to hosting his own radio show, “Fridays with Jim Breuer,” on Sirius XM. His content on simple everyday life to marriage and parenting make his entire set easy to resonate with, and of course, laugh along.

If you’ve ever seen TruTV’s, “The Carbonaro Effect,” you will be very familiar with this act. Michael Carbonaro is a very rare act, featuring everything from jokes and hilarious antics, to mind-blowing magic. If you haven’t had the chance to catch his show, season 5 just premiered a little under a month ago and is a great snippet of the night to be had. Plus, it’s family friendly, which always makes plan-making that much easier for those with little ones

This annual holiday celebration is back once again at the Independence Seaport Museum. Enjoy an afternoon full of fun, from engaging holiday activities to gingerbread boat making classes. Once the sun goes down, all the fun really begins. A parade of local boats will illuminate the river by showing their holiday spirit and stringing their vessels with countless Christmas lights. Whether you’re going with family, friends, or significant other, you can’t go wrong.

In a city full of rich culture, it’s always worth celebrating. The Penn Museum will be holding Culturefest! Which will highlight countless beautiful cultures from around the globe. Each visitor will receive passports with itineraries that will aid in getting the most from your visit to this festival. Each “country” you visit you will get to experience different holiday traditions, from the Dragon-Boat Festival to Eid-al-Fitr. And of course, there will be plenty of hot chocolate and snacks available while your on your journey around the world.

The West Craft Fest is the perfect solution for all those last minute gifts you need to purchase this holiday season. This 2 day event will feature different vendors daily, all of which have a different speciality. From handmade jewelry and clothing to candles and ornaments, you can find something for even the hardest to shop for…or just buy yourself a few presents. Plus, nothing beats a day of retail therapy.

This event is reserved for those 21+! The 9th Annual Valley Forge Beer and Cider Festival will showcase a record breaking 150+ beers and ciders to sample, and will be a day full of fun for any beer or cider lover. In addition to countless options to sample, there will be food trucks, such as stuff’d buns, as well as holiday activities, such as an ugly sweater contest. If you’re looking to increase your overall experience, consider checking out their V.I.P. tickets, as you not only get an exclusive souvenir cup with your name on it, you also are able to sample V.I.P. exclusive drinks.

If you haven’t had the chance to check out the Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion, here’s your chance. Their 2nd Annual Butterfly Light Fest is an all-day event full of fun for everyone. From live music and illuminating lights to tasty bites, you will have an experience of a lifetime. If you’re feeling up to it, they even will have holiday critters you can hold. 

If you missed it last month, don’t worry! UniverSoul Circus is in Philadelphia for just a few more shows. This circus performance is unlike any other, as it takes the audience on a trip around the world via acts from all over the globe. You’ll be stunned by the “Ecuadorian Wheel of Death” among many other thrilling acts by highly skilled performers. 

The Jerseys Boys is one of the most iconic performances that takes you through the story of how Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons came to be. From “Sherry” to “Walk Like a Man,” you’ll hear all your favorite Four Seasons songs live. In addition to all their popular songs to enjoy, you’ll feel like you’re a part of their story as it goes through its many ups and downs. Be sure to grab your tickets soon as very few are left!

Just in time for Christmas, here’s your chance to see the infamous “A Christmas Carol” live. The story we all know and love follows the story of the elderly Ebenezer Scrooge as he is visited by the spirits of Christmas, and ultimately, becomes a kinder man. If you haven’t had the chance to see this performance in person, consider making it a yearly tradition, it’ll be well worth it. 

The Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker tour is here to impress. With countless world-class artists, soaring birds, and over 200 remarkable costumes, it is sure to be a Christmas extravaganza to remember. This another perfect Christmas present for you to enjoy a bit early with friends and family alike.

Fiddler On The Roof is another outstanding production in which impresses time and time again. The production has won nine Tony Awards, and was even the longest-running Broadway musical until Grease surpassed it. The storyline hoans in on a father of five daughters, Tevye, and his attempts to maintain his Jewish traditions and values as outside forces push against it. This production won’t be here long and you won’t want to miss it.

Though it started on November 23rd, you might’ve been saving this classic for closer to the holidays. A Very Furry Christmas is where Sesame Place turns into the ultimate winter wonderland. From dozens of rides to enjoy, brand new shows, and of course getting to meet all your favorite Sesame Street characters your children will be sure to remember this experience for a lifetime.

PJ Masks is bringing it’s live show to Philadelphia. This live musical show features all your children’s favorite PJ Masks characters, from Owlette to Gekko, and even their new friend PJ Robot. See firsthand as they take on the sneaky villains and their fight to save the day. Want to make it an extra special experience? Consider getting meet and greet tickets.

Get the family ready for another thrilling adventure at the Trolls Live! Show. This is the very first ever live tour, and is sure to be a real hit for the entire family. The journey all begins with the Trolls’ Hug Time is put at an unexpected risk, but not to fear, knowing how to save the day. This Trolls-tastic show is sure to be just what your kids want for the holidays.

The classic Shrek fairy tale is finally come to life through the Walnut Street Theatre’s production of Shrek The Musical. Follow the storyline as Shrek is joined by a hilarious donkey in his scuffle with a short-tempered king. In addition to outrageous humor, the production will feature all-new songs that are sure to make this a show for the ages. This holiday-fun is perfect for the entire family. 

Disney On Ice is always a great hit in Philadelphia, this time around, you’ll embark on a roadtrip to all your favorite Disney destinations. From a safari to the Pride Lands with Simba to Aladdin’s princely parade, each moment is more exciting than the next. You won’t want to miss this road trip with Mickey Mouse and his friends.

It’s never too cold for a good old-fashioned ice cream date. Weckerly’s Ice Cream is among one of the most popular dessert stops in Philadelphia, and for obvious reasons. From exquisite flavors such as honey suckle to ice cream sandwiches that are unlike any other, whatever you choose is a surefire way to please your taste buds.

You might be a bit confused as to why a laundromat? Well, when you get there you press a buzzer, and after being escorted, you are brought to one of the most popular speakeasies in all of the city. Once you are in, you get to enjoy the romantic ambiance, excellent drinks, however, no photos are allowed inside. Be sure to bring cash, as it is cash only.

Here is historic Philadelphia’s spin on a traditional pub crawl. Your colonial guide will take you through historic Philadelphia, all while stopping at local popular pubs to sample different drinks, from ales to porters. In-between all your stops at local watering holes, your guide will provide you with plentiful amounts of fun trivia and information about the city, from quirky fun facts to how taverns were once used as recruiting stations for the military.

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra provide a musical experience unlike any other orchestra in the nation. Popular for their rock influences on all their performances, thousands attend yearly to see them perform live all their Christmas music classics. It is no mistake that Billboard Magazine ranked them as one of the top ten ticket-selling bands in the first decade of the new millennium, as the show will provide nothing but good memories for you and your loved one.

What better way to kick off the new year then experiencing an electric and colorful firework display? Make your way down to Penn’s Landing to experience this celebration that is sure to start 2020 on the right foot. If you aren’t wanting to stay out too late, don’t worry! There is also a firework display at 6 PM the same day. Whether you choose to go for midnight display, or the 6 PM extravaganza, be sure to get there early to grab the best view possible.