Dickens Village at the Wanamaker Building

Celebrate the season inside Philadelphia’s beloved Dickens Village—a nostalgic, immersive walkthrough of A Christmas Carol in the historic Wanamaker Building. Twinkling scenes, timeless characters, and holiday magic for all ages—right in the heart of Center City. The Dickens Village experience will once again conclude with the opportunity to share Christmas wishes and take photos with Santa Claus.

Advance reservations are required to ensure a smooth flow and a comfortable experience. Choose an entry window between 12:15 PM and 5:30 PM, which will reflect the time you enter the line. Please arrive 10 minutes early to check in and use signage and staff on the main floor for directions to receive your access wristband. Your time on site may extend beyond your timed entry window.

Daily Schedule (Nov 28–Dec 23): Every 15 minutes from 12:15 PM through 5:30 PM.

Closed Monday, December 1 - Tuesday, December 2.

Closed Monday, December 8 - Tuesday, December 9.

The Dickens Village remains free to attend to be as accessible as possible. We will welcome donations at your time of check out and onsite so that this tradition can continue. A suggested contribution of $20 per family will directly support:

• Preserving a free Philadelphia holiday tradition for future seasons
• Staffing & operations needs that keep crowds safe and lines flowing
• Maintenance & restoration of the sets and scenes you love
• Accessibility & visitor services so everyone can enjoy the magic

Every donor can show confirmation of their donation at the Wanamaker Light Show to redeem their 2025 Commemorative button.

Wanamaker Building – Dickens Village
Address: 1300 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Enter via Market Street doors and follow signs to Dickens Village. The building is steps from Jefferson Station and City Hall Station (SEPTA). Multiple bus/trolley lines serve the area.

Please note that there is no free onsite parking at the Wanamaker Building. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time to find parking or use public transportation.

Recommended Parking Options:

• Wanamaker Garage: Located on Juniper Street between Market & Chestnut. Offers direct indoor access to the building. Rates vary by duration; no free validation is available.
• Parkway Broad & Chestnut Garage: 1305 Walnut Street – a short 2-minute walk to the Wanamaker Building.
• Jefferson Station Garage: 10th & Filbert Streets – 5–7 minutes on foot.
• Street Parking: Limited metered spaces nearby; check posted signs for time limits and restrictions.

Pro Tip:
Center City gets especially busy during the holidays—arrive early and consider using SEPTA for a stress-free trip. The Wanamaker Building is directly connected to Jefferson Station, and just steps from City Hall Station (Broad Street Line) and several trolley routes.

Email [email protected] or call 215-965-7676. For day-of updates, follow @PHLVisitorCenter.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Wanamaker Building, 100 East Penn Square, Philadelphia, United States

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