MANAYUNK

Mark Your Calendar:

November 14 - December 31

The holiday season is here, and Manayunk's Main Street transforms into a winter wonderland with festivities for everyone to enjoy. From twinkling light displays to holiday markets, festive rides, and exclusive shopping experiences, this season promises excitement and warmth throughout the neighborhood. Manayunk’s locally-owned businesses make it easy to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list, while cozy restaurants and cafes serve delicious treats to fuel your holiday spirit. Here’s your comprehensive guide to all the magical events happening during the "Holidays in Manayunk."

Jolly Trolley Rides

One of the best ways to explore the sparkling lights along Main Street is by hopping aboard the FREE Jolly Trolley. This festive trolley service will operate on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from December 5th to December 21st, offering convenient access to your favorite businesses while showcasing Manayunk's stunning holiday light displays.

Dates & Times:

• Thursdays & Fridays: 5 PM - 9 PM
• Saturdays: 1 PM - 9 PM

Stops Include:

• Regal UA Main Street | 3720 Main St.
• Cactus Cantina + Bayou Bar & Grill | 4243 Main St.
• Tubby Robot Ice Cream Factory | 4369 Main St.
• Lucky's Last Chance | 4421 Main St.
• Ivy Ridge Train Station | 4910 Umbria St.
• Main Street Music | 4444 Main St.
• Taqueria Amor | 4418 Main St.
• Jedidiah Gallery & Design Studio | 4312 Main St.
• Shurs Lane | 4100 Main St.

The Jolly Trolley is a family-friendly way to embrace the holiday magic and explore all the seasonal stops along Main Street.

Get Lit Weekends

Celebrate the season every weekend in December with Get Lit Weekends, featuring food and drink deals, shopping specials, and live entertainment. Every corner of Main Street will be alive with festive cheer, providing a memorable holiday experience for all ages.

Here’s a quick peek at the Entertainment Schedule (subject to change):

• Dec. 5: Santa (5-8 PM) and Ornament Making at the Welcome Center (5-8 PM)
• Dec. 6: Buddy the Elf & Jovie (5-8 PM)
• Dec. 7: North Pole Elf (5-8 PM)
• Dec. 12: Philadelphia Freedom Band (Time TBD) and Cookie Decorating (5-8 PM)
• Dec. 13: The Grinch (5-8 PM)
• Dec. 14: Philly Accents Carolers (1-3 PM)
• Dec. 19: Santa (5-8 PM) and Cookie Cutter Art at the Welcome Center (5-8 PM)
• Dec. 20: Rudolph (5-8 PM)
• Dec. 21: Santa (1-3 PM)

Be on the lookout for entertainment throughout main street and on the trolley!

Operation Santa Claus

Giving back is a cherished part of the holiday season, and Operation Santa Claus offers a way to support local families in need. In partnership with North Light Community Center, the Manayunk Development Corporation invites you to pick up a gift tag from the holiday tree at 106 Grape Street. Each tag represents a gift for a family member in need, and you can drop off your donated gift by December 15. Let's spread warmth and generosity across the community this season!

Manayunk Gets Lit Competition

Manayunk is truly magical with more than 80,000 holiday lights decorating Main Street. The Manayunk Gets Lit Competition celebrates local businesses by inviting visitors to vote for their favorite displays from November 14 to December 17.

You can vote for categories like Best Overall Display, Most Lit, and Most Creative – and just by voting, you'll enter for a chance to win a $200 Manayunk Shopping Spree!

Competing Businesses Include:

• The Bayou Bar & Grill
• Cactus Cantina
• Fat Lady Brewing
• Hotbox Yoga
• Lucky's Last Chance
• Manayunk Brewing Company
• Pizzeria L'Angolo
• Starshine Salon
• The Couch Tomato
• …and many more!

The winners will be announced on December 18, so don't miss the opportunity to show your support and be inspired by the creativity of local businesses.

Small Business Saturday

Mark your calendars for Small Business Saturday on November 30! Sponsored by American Express, this day celebrates local businesses with exclusive sales, special promotions, and events. Whether you’re hunting for unique gifts or want to explore the latest styles, Manayunk’s shops have you covered.

Introducing the Small Business Saturday Passport!

Grab a Shop Small Passport to make the most of the deals and unlock discounts at participating stores.

That’s it! The more you shop, the closer you get to your prize. Whether you’re buying holiday gifts, treating yourself to a delicious meal, or discovering a new wellness spot, every purchase brings you one step closer to winning.

*No minimum purchase necessary

More Info: https://manayunk.com/media/blog/2024/10/25/small-business-saturday-passport/

Pet-Friendly Santa Portraits

Bring your furry friends to the Pet Friendly Dog Bakery on December 8 for adorable portraits with Santa from 9 AM to 1 PM. A $15 recommended donation will go toward supporting a local adoption organization. Sign up early, as this event is a favorite among pet owners and fills up quickly!

10th Annual Rudolph Run

Runners, this one’s for you! Join Philadelphia Runner for the 10th Annual Rudolph Run on Saturday, December 14. This 3-mile fun run along the Manayunk Canal encourages festive attire, so bring out the reindeer antlers, lights, and ugly sweaters! Canned goods or other essentials are accepted as donations in place of an entry fee, and all proceeds support North Light Community Center.

Run Schedule:

• 8:30 AM: Donation Drop, Gear Check & Runner Check-In at Philadelphia Runner
• 9:00 AM: Run Start at Canal View Park

Warm up afterward with hot chocolate and sweet treats back at the Philadelphia Runner store, where Brooks will have their latest footwear for runners to try.

Hanukkah Celebrations

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with two special events in Manayunk this December:

• Hanukkah Candle Lighting: Gather with the community on December 26 at Canal View Park for a candle lighting with Mt. Airy Chabad. Savor the flavors of traditional latkes and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

• Eight Crazy Nights of Hanukkah Giveaway: Follow Manayunk’s Instagram from December 25 to January 1 for daily giveaways from local restaurants, stores, and specialty businesses, bringing an extra dose of holiday joy!

The holidays are a time to come together, support our local community, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re shopping, dining, attending events, or simply taking in the beautiful displays along Main Street, Holidays in Manayunk is an experience you won’t want to miss. Bundle up, bring your friends and family, and join us in celebrating the season – Manayunk style!

For more details, including maps, parking info, and updates, head to Manayunk.com and follow us on social media. Happy Holidays!