Philadelphia truly shines during the holiday season, and we’re not even just talking lights here. The city doesn’t hold back, delivering magical light displays that are nothing short of spectacular. And while not a requirement, we believe that everything does feel a little more festive when there’s a drink in hand. Here’s your guide to Philly’s best holiday lights displays where you can pair the glow with a drink in hand.

Every year, I think about making New Years Eve plans, decide I’ll do it later, and then respond incredulously when every event, bar, and party is completely sold out.

Don’t be like me. Clock in at the lock in factory and figure out your NYE plans now –saving yourself the last-minute scramble is a beautiful thing… just trust me on this.

Vinyl listening is ritualistic. The tangibility of sliding a record from its sleeve, the soft and exact placement of the needle, the sound of that first crackle as the music starts to flow—​​ hearing every layer, every imperfection, every note the artist intended. It’s almost a form of escapism that takes you out of the digital noise and into something richer, warmer, and so much more deliberate.

In Philadelphia, where music runs deep in our veins, vinyl is alive and well.

A jazzy time is to be had in Philadelphia – if you know where to look. Beyond the dive bars, dance clubs, and beer gardens lies a world where saxophones wail, bass lines walk, and that soulful piano pouring out honeyed melodies that speak to your very soul. These spots prove that live jazz can be cool, modern, and—dare we say it—even sexy. Check out where you can sway to the rhythms that make life in Philly oh so sweet.

The best way to do brunch is to make it into an all day affair - am I right or am I right? For those who love to keep the party going long after the last bloody mary, and as day swaps places with night, these spots easily transition from sleepy morning vibes to late-night tomfoolery. We’re here for the spiked coffee, DJ sets, and even the rooftop cocktails (heated, of course), and these five Philly favorites know how to take brunch to the next level.

Deck the halls and stash the tinsel—this holiday season, Philadelphia's pop-up bars are turning the city into a veritable winter wonderland for those thirsty for festive cheer. The glittering lights, a few thematic cocktails, a cozy atmosphere where even Scrooge would feel merry – I think they call this “The Most Wonderful Time of Year”? You wouldn’t be too hard-pressed to see why in a city that loves this holiday as much as Philadelphia does.  

One of the most beautiful phrases in the English language might have to be, "Eat, drink, and be merry". Maybe you’re setting up an office holiday bash, meeting up with old friends, or just need a break from seasonal family bickering. Take a look through these great Philadelphia bars and find the perfect place to clink glasses and swap stories.

Philadelphia during the holidays? It’s like living in a snow globe—minus the shaking (hopefully). This city knows how to do winter right, and nothing says festive fun like strapping on some skates, channeling your inner Olympic hopeful, and definitely not face-planting. Even if you’re more of a “clutch the wall” type, Philly’s got rinks that are as cool as the ice itself.

Has anyone else stepped outside today? Well, if you haven’t yet, DON’T. The rain is doing that cold- sideways-coming-down thing and the wind feels like it’s out to personally ruin your day. That being said, there’s only one fix on my mind and that is the fix of a warm cocktail. We’ve rounded up some of the best spots that know how to turn up the heat with drinks that are cozy, creative, and delicious.

Whiskey was basically invented for cold nights, and there’s nothing better than warming up with a solid whiskey flight. A well-curated flight lets you sample a variety of bold bourbons, spicy ryes, and smooth single malts, making it easy to find a new favorite.

First dates can be nerve-wracking. You’re putting yourself out there, hoping to make a great impression while trying to figure out if there’s a connection. There’s the pressure of choosing the right place, making interesting conversation, and navigating potential awkward moments. We’re gonna take at least one of those things off your plate – we’ve rounded up the best bars in Philadelphia for a first date, so you can focus on getting to know each other without stressing about the venue. We’ve got the logistics—you bring the charm.

Forget the winter blues and start jingling all the way down Walnut Street because Open Streets: West Walnut is back, just in time for the holidays. Yep, that means no honking horns, no exhaust fumes, and no buses cutting you off mid-crosswalk. Instead, it’s a festive pedestrian wonderland stretching from Broad to 20th Streets where you can walk, talk, shop, and snack to your heart’s content—all without dodging traffic.

If you love a good cocktail and have an affinity for unique experiences, pull up a bar stool because we've got some insights into a one-of-a-kind kinda night out. Each spot welcomes you into its own distinct world – a hidden speakeasy, a wizarding world, or a go-go bar are all on the table and within a mile (if that!) of each other here.

Welcome to the jungle (cue Axl Rose), where Philadelphia Eagles fans know that game day is more than just a few hours – it’s an entire day experience. There's no place like Philadelphia when it comes to celebrating our beloved birds, and with every touchdown pass, the city practically shakes with excitement.  

If you’re gearing up for Eagles game day, there’s no better place to catch the action than in one of Philadelphia’s favorite sports bars with a smorgasbord of tailgate snacks, but not without downing a beer or two first. Strap in – here’s where you need to be to start all those Eagles chants.

One little step inside any of Philadelphia’s classic dive bars, and you’ll feel an atmosphere as genuine as its regular customer’s well-worn leather jacket. While Philadelphia’s nightlife often flaunts its cool clubs and trendy rooftops, there's nothing quite like the vibe of a good ol’ dive bar. Dive bars are the soul of the city, offering an unpretentious charm where the drinks won’t break the bank and you can experience the city in its most authentic form.

Now, let’s dive (pun absolutely intended) into what really makes these local watering holes stand out. 

Halloween is that one time of year when adults get to ditch the everyday grind, throw on a wild costume for one incredible evening! And this year, we’re turning Cavanaugh's Riverdeck into a haunted party paradise with a costume contest that’s going BIG! Think your outfit can steal the show? Prove it at our costume contest! We’re handing out $500 in cash, a flatscreen HD TV, and more cool prizes for the best costumes at 9 PM. Go creepy, hilarious, or just plain over-the-top—it’s your time to shine. Plus, everyone who joins the costume contest walks away with some Cav’s Cash. That’s right, we’re paying you to look good!

Just when you thought Philadelphia couldn't get any cooler, boom—say hello to Philadelphia's latest addition: a new Portal! Now, we're not talking about some sci-fi wormhole. Brought to you by the Portal Project, this is more about innovation, creativity, and community spirit—a portal to possibilities kinda vibe.

If you’re just dying for a Halloween celebration with a twist, then you've wandered into the right creepy chronicle. We’ve found a series of hauntingly fabulous drag brunches lined up just in time for the season. With so many themes and performances, there's no end in sight on thrills, chills, and (probably some) spills. 

Are you ready to swap your Netflix binge for some good old pub quiz shenanigans? If so, grab that thinking cap and a team (or just your brilliant self) and head out into the delightful world of trivia nights in Philadelphia. You'll find questions as challenging as deciding between a Philly cheesesteak and a soft pretzel. We won't make you choose, but we will guide you through the most intriguing venues offering trivia nights. With a range of bars hosting trivia nights throughout the week, you might just find yourself hopping from one brain-boosting event to the next!