Things to Do for Kids in Philadelphia in November 2026
Barnes Free First Sunday Family Day
FREE
Sunday, November 1, 2026
Center City
On the first Sunday of each month, the Barnes offers free admission and creative programming to its visitors with a full day of family-friendly activities. Themes change monthly, with new art activities, performers, and guest artists each month. Website
Fall Foliage Express
Sundays, November 1 & 8, 2026
West Chester
All aboard the West Chester Railroad for a ride through the picturesque Chester Creek Valley to view the beautiful foliage on a heated train. This 90-minute journey takes visitors back in time to the village of Glen Mills, then returns back to the station. Website
Apple Weekend at Peddler's Village
FREE
Saturday & Sunday, November 7 & 8, 2026
Lahaska
Families can celebrate apple season with moonbounces, gem mining, axe throwing, and mural painting during Apple Weekend at Peddler's Village. Once you've worked up a good appetite, enjoy apple ciders, pies, and butters, all available for purchase. There will be an apple pie eating contest and live music to entertain all ages. Website
CraftNOW Create
FREE
Saturday, November 7, 2026
Fairmount Park
Kids can take part in group sculpture making, recycled paper weaving, bottle cap mosaic magnets, and more at this arts and crafts day at Smith! Demonstrations and activities will be set up on Smith Memorial's wrap-around porch and immediately in front of the Playhouse. Website
Veterans Day 2026 at the Museum of the American Revolution
Sunday, November 8 to Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Old City
This Veterans Day and Veterans Day weekend, join the Museum in honoring America’s first veterans as well as those who have served and continue to serve the nation today. Throughout the week, the Museum will offer free admission to those currently serving in the military, veterans, and Blue Star Families, courtesy of Comcast NBCUniversal. Website
Manayunk Gets Lit
FREE
Thursday, November 19 to Thursday, December 31, 2026
Manayunk
The 4th Annual Manayunk Gets LIT Decorating Competition is back, and you get to help decide who will win. Get ready to take in more than 80,000 dazzling lights as Manayunk businesses decorate their storefronts, windows, roofs, and really anything that can be lit. Website
The National Dog Show
Saturday & Sunday, November 14 & 15, 2026
Oaks
Every year, The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center hosts The National Dog Show. Visitors can expect to see 2,000 show dogs representing over 150 breeds. Besides watching the dogs, family-friendly activities are available to keep children entertained. Website
Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market
Friday, November 13 to Thursday, January 7, 2027
Center City
The Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market is back for the 2026 holiday season. From November 13 to January 7, immerse yourself in the festive spirit, featuring over 50 local vendors from the Philadelphia area and the tri-state area. Website
FEZtival of Trees & Lights with Santa
Thursday, November 19 to Sunday, November 22, 2026
Plymouth Meeting
LuLu Shriners hosts the FEZtival of Trees and Lights with Santa. This annual family-friendly event features a forest of uniquely decorated trees, children's activities, shopping, raffles, and free digital photos with Santa. Website
LumiNature at The Philadelphia Zoo
Thursday, November 19 to Saturday, January 9, 2027
West Philly
Over 1 million lights illuminate the Philadelphia Zoo as it transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland. LumiNature takes guests on a magical journey featuring special surprises each night. Kids can also enjoy s'mores over a campfire, watch strolling performers, and sip hot chocolate. Website
The Nutcracker Presented by the Pennsylvania Academy of Ballet
Friday, November 22 through Sunday, November 22, 2026
Drexel Hill
Presented by the Pennsylvania Academy of Ballet, this beloved holiday tradition has been captivating audiences for over 30 years, offering a magical experience for families. With professional guest artists and talented local dancers, it’s a chance to enjoy world-class ballet at an affordable price. Website
Thanksgiving Day Dinner Cruise
Thursday, November 26, 2026
Penns Landing
City Cruises Philadelphia will be hosting their Thanksgiving Day Dinner Cruise once again. Step aboard for a wonderful evening of delicious food, lively entertainment, and breathtaking views of the Philadelphia skyline. Guests can expect games, live DJ entertainment, and a delicious Thanksgiving buffet while enjoying quality time with family and friends. Website
6abc Dunkin' Thanksgiving Day Parade
Thursday, November 26, 2026
Fairmount
Head to the Art Museum for the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade and officially kick off the holiday season amid grand performances, marching bands, special guests, and of course...Santa Claus himself. Be a part of the action downtown or watch from home. Website
Carnival of Lights
Select days: Friday, November 27 to Friday, January 1, 2027
Pottstown
Holiday lights, amusement rides, and games await families at the Carnival of Lights in Pottstown. This year's carnival will be held at the Norco Fire Department. Guests can expect more food, vendors, and visits with Santa. Website
Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Friday, November 27 to Sunday, February 28, 2026
Penn's Landing
Cozy up in comforting warming cabins, warm up at a fire pit station, enjoy boardwalk rides and games for the young and young-at-heart, delicious food and hot beverages, see the signature holiday tree, and, of course, go ice skating on the NHL-sized rink. Winterfest is a top destination for anyone looking to rekindle family traditions. Website