The Experience
Iconic experiences abound at Macy’s Center City each holiday season. For 2023, the highlights include:
Macy’s Christmas Light Show
Macy’s Center City — housed in the Wanamaker Building, a National Historic Landmark — invites visitors to enjoy the famous Christmas Light Show daily from November 24 to December 31, 2023.
Set in The Grand Court, the show features a free light show of twinkling snowflakes, dancing snowmen and more, with classic songs backed by the famed Wanamaker Organ.
![Macy's Christmas Light Show](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.visitphilly.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/macys-christmas-light-show-side-view-j-fusco-1200x900-25x19.jpg)
![Macy's Christmas Light Show](https://www.visitphilly.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/macys-christmas-light-show-side-view-j-fusco-1200x900.jpg)
— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Dickens Village
Another Philadelphia holiday tradition, the vintage animatronic retelling of A Christmas Carol is also back for 2023.
The immersive village — which, like the Christmas Light Show, is free! — occupies the third floor of Macy’s with entry available by advance reservation only. (Scrooges welcome.)
![](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.visitphilly.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/macys-holiday-light-show-dickens-village-by-jfusco-for-vp-1200x900px-25x19.jpg)
![](https://www.visitphilly.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/macys-holiday-light-show-dickens-village-by-jfusco-for-vp-1200x900px.jpg)
— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
And if that’s not enough holly jolly, guests who select the “Santa with Dickens Village” option when making a reservation can visit the big guy in his office — and even snag a photo with him.
Depending on your vision of Saint Nick, different shades of Santa make an appearance on different days, with Black Santa arriving on Thursdays & Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or Saturdays & Sundays from 4 to 7 p.m.
Animated Holiday Windows
Macy’s has been wowing crowds with its elaborate holiday window displays and celebrations since the early 1870s.
The first store to feature holiday windows, Macy’s continues this joyful tradition with gorgeously decorated and illuminated windows showcasing holiday scenes. Constructed of materials including gingerbread, yarn, flannel and wood, the scenes move to the tune of your favorite holiday hits.
Enjoy the festively dressed windows — which, this holiday season, feature enchanting woodland critters — from November 15, 2023 to January 1, 2024.