Philadelphia's Best Holiday Light Displays: Historic Sites with Great Lights

Philadelphia may be known as "The City of Brotherly Love," but during the holidays, it is known as "The City of Brotherly Lights." Philadelphia is a beautiful, historic city with abundant charm throughout the year. During the holiday season, however, Philadelphia comes alive with magic and light. The best holiday light displays in Philadelphia can be found in various parts of the city.

One of the most famous of the best holiday light displays in Philadelphia is at the former Wanamaker's store, which is now Lord & Taylor. Wanamaker's is the oldest department store in Philadelphia. This upscale store has always been famous for its beautiful light display that traces back to 1918 when Christmas caroling would take place in the Grand Court within the large store.

The world famous Wanamaker's Light Show began in 1956. Large, blinking lights accompanied by music were seen on various levels of the huge department store and soon became a favorite with both children and adults. This Philadelphia light show became famous throughout the country as "Christmas in the Grand Tradition" began to run yearly every day, on the hour, beginning after Thanksgiving. The fifteen minute show has been narrated by different people throughout the year including Julie Andrews, star of stage and screen.

The Wanamaker light show has been modernized throughout the years and continues to be a prime attraction not only for Philadelphians, but from people from all over the country who want to witness this historical display. In recent years, Christmas trees and dancing fountains have appeared and an express train for children has graced the top of the grand court. Wanamaker's light show, now Lord & Taylor's light show, has been a tradition for generations and continues to be among the best holiday light displays in Philadelphia.