How to Celebrate the Holidays in Philly This Year

Big family dinners, holiday festivals, beloved local traditions like the Macy’s light show—all of these are going to look quite different this year. But even if your focus is on safety, that doesn’t mean you can’t still find ways to enjoy the sights, sounds and spirit of the holiday season without traveling far from your The Isle apartment.

One such way to do that is at the “Manayunk Gets Lit” holiday decorating display and contest. Through Dec. 16, stroll Main Street and beyond to see what Manayunk businesses have in store for this holiday season. After a tough year, both merchants and visitors alike could use some holiday cheer, so the stores are sure to go all out with this year’s decorations.

And fueling the lights and décor will be the spirit of competition. Stores will go head to in six categories: Best Decorated Door, Best Decorated Window Display, Most “LIT,” Most Original, Best Overall and Most Spirited Block. Given the community spirit of Manayunk, the winners will be chosen by shoppers. Put on your walking shoes and pound the pavement to judge which shops shine the brightest. Then, head over to Manayunk.com and cast your vote before winners are announced on Dec. 17.

While you’re picking your favorites, you can bring along your holiday shopping list and make a dent in your gift-giving. From clothing shops to boutique gift stores to pet supply stores and more, there are plenty of options to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Many of the bars and restaurants throughout Manayunk will also be participating in the decorating contest, so grab a snack and one of the many themed holiday cocktails on offer and kick back under some heat lamps to take in the sights and sounds of Main Street.

So don your ugly Christmas sweater and head out into Manayunk to enjoy this unique but memorable holiday season!