Jurassic World: The Exhibit: The Franklin Institute celebrates all things dinosaur. The museum becomes home to a traveling exhibit created by Universal Studios and Creature Technology Co. Guests travel to Isla Nublar, home of the Jurassic World universe, to experience recreated moments from the film and displays featuring actual sites from within the Jurassic World park. Animatronic dinosaurs complete the experience. See a 24-foot tall Brachiosaurus, a Stegosaurus, a life-size T-Rex and more. New to the exhibit is a Raptor Training Paddock, where visitors can experience life-size animatronic and terrifying raptors. Tickets are $34.95 for adults and $29.95 for children 3-11 (children under 3 are free). The exhibit runs until April. Visit www.fi.edu to learn more.
Longwood Gardens Christmas: Longwood Gardens gets into the spirit of the holidays through Jan. 8). More than 500,000 twinkling lights and incredible fountain shows set the scene while thousands of seasonal plants and trees are decorated with gorgeous ornaments. Holiday music accompanies the colorful fountains outside. Throughout the season, daily musical performances delight visitors. Tickets start at $30. Visit longwoodgardens.org to purchase tickets and to see the full list of scheduled performances.
Philly Pops Christmas Spectacular: Verizon Hall in the Kimmel Center is filled with holiday music from Dec. 2-18. The Philly Pops Christmas Spectacular brings music from choirs, sing-a-longs and Santa visits. Vocalist Tony DeSare is this year’s featured performer. He is known for his 17 versions of “Jingle Bells,” which includes Tango, Spanish, Neil Diamond, Elton John and Klezmer. Before and after each performance there is entertainment in the lobby, including visits from Mr. and Mrs. Claus and Victorian carolers. Tickets start around $38. Visit www.phillypops.org to purchase tickets.
Adventure Aquarium’s Christmas Celebration: Adventure Aquarium is one of the best places to celebrate the holidays with the kids. Scuba Santa returns, as does Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster and Rudolph. The aquarium is adorned with huge decorations, lights and glowing trees. Live shows include “I Believe in Scuba Santa” and meet and greets with characters. Aquarium admission includes all activities. The celebration runs from Dec. 3-30. Tickets start at $30. Visit www.adventureaquarium.com to learn more.
South Street Headhouse Winter Wonderland: Tree lightings take place all over the city. On Sunday, Dec. 4, South Street Headhouse District will hold a parade starting at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens at 3 p.m. At the end, the tree lighting festivities will begin. The afternoon includes free family fun and a holiday market, as well as live musical and dance performances. Enjoy local food from vendors under the Headhouse Shambles. Visit southstreet.com to learn more.
