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PRESS RELEASE:
CHRISTMAS VILLAGE IN PHILADELPHIA PRESENTED BY BANK OF AMERICA RETURNS WITH NEW 30 FOOT TALL GERMAN PYRAMID IN LOVE PARK, 120+ SHOPPING VENDORS, HOT MULLED WINE, EUROPEAN FOODS, FERRIS WHEEL AND CAROUSEL

Philadelphia, PA - One of the most celebrated authentic German Christmas markets in America has a giant 30-foot tall surprise to debut this year! Christmas Village in Philadelphia presented by Bank of America will return to LOVE Park (1500 JFK Blvd.), City Hall’s Courtyard, and the North Broad Section from Thanksgiving Day (November 27) to Christmas Eve (December 24), with previews on November 22 and 23, 2025. Philadelphia’s single largest tourist attraction returns with a brand new centerpiece that aims to become the most photographed holiday landmark in the city - a dazzling authentic Christmas Pyramid, inspired by traditional wooden pyramids from Germany’s Ore Mountains. This new centerpiece will transform the sight-lines of LOVE Park with City Hall behind it, and is ready to take over your Instagram feed. It will join the beloved Ferris Wheel and Carousel, tens of thousands of twinkling lights, and rows of wooden booths filled with international and local vendors. For returning crowd-favorites, look for the 65-foot-tall illuminated Ferris Wheel, the historic double-tier Christmas Village Carousel and the Kids Train presented by SEPTA. The Festival of Trees fundraiser at the LOVE Park Welcome Center will return with a record breaking two dozen trees to raise money for Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Santa Claus will return in the middle of the Festival of Trees for wish-taking and heart-warming photo opportunities. In collaboration with Terrarium Therapy, guests can get creative at the Holiday Greenery Workshop on Wednesdays. For the foodies, follow the smell of hot chocolate and other European delicacies, including charcoal grilled Bratwursts, freshly melted Swiss Cheese Sandwiches, plus new food booths that include Loaded Baked Potatoes and sweet Churros. For beverages, enjoy the market’s famous hot Glühwein (hot mulled wine) by local Pennsylvania winery Mazza Wines, spiked hot beverages featuring local Boardroom Spirits, and kid-friendly offerings like hot chocolate and apple cider, plus the addition of new craft cocktails at the Snowflake Cocktail Bar with Boardroom Spirits. For shopping, look for over 120 vendors in wooden booths spanning at all three locations. Famous German vendor Käthe Wohlfahrt returns with a giant heated tent filled with an array of exquisite glass ornaments, nutcrackers, pyramids and limited-edition holiday decorations. For entertainment, come ready to experience German-American and other theme weekends, live bands, choirs and performers, and a visit from the authentic Christkind from Germany. Experience the holiday magic this season Sunday to Thursday, 12 PM to 8 PM, Friday to Saturday, 12 PM to 9 PM, Thanksgiving Day, 9 AM to 5 PM and Christmas Eve, Noon to 5 PM, with the market closed on November 24, 25 and 26, 2025. Christmas Village in Philadelphia is open to the public, with no charge to visit the markets, with food and drink pay-as-you-go. Follow @philachristmas on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok or visit philachristmas dot com for
more information.

"We are thrilled to welcome everyone back to Christmas Village in Philadelphia 2025 presented by Bank of America for our 18th season," said Christmas Village President Thomas Bauer. "This year will be especially memorable as we debut our new traditional German Christmas Pyramid - a multi-level wooden tower adorned with lights, traditional and Philly favorite figures, and festive decorations. Standing tall at the heart of Christmas Village, it will bring an authentic touch of German holiday tradition for all visitors to enjoy. It is a project we have been working on for many years, and we can’t wait to see it take over everyone’s social media feeds. With the beloved Christkind returning once again and our continued partnership with CHOP for the ‘Festival of Trees’ fundraiser, we look forward to bringing families and friends together to create lasting memories. We are excited to make this holiday season unforgettable and unique. A sincere thank you to the City of Philadelphia and our partners for their unwavering support."

“Christmas Village has become a beloved family tradition in the heart of Center City, bringing together generations in one of Philadelphia’s most cherished public spaces,” said Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Susan Slawson. “This annual event not only spreads holiday spirit but also provides an incredible opportunity for small business vendors to showcase their unique offerings, helping to boost the local economy while celebrating the rich culture of our city. It’s a cornerstone event that connects our community and highlights the best of Philly during the holidays.”

Christmas Village in Philadelphia presented by Bank of America will commence in 2025 with a special Preview Weekend, on Saturday, November 22 and Sunday, November 23, 2025. Get ready for holiday sips, sights, and shopping. Meet the season’s vendors and experience some early holiday cheer while enjoying the largest selection of pop-up European foods in the state of Pennsylvania each year. Mark your calendar for opening day, on Thanksgiving itself, when the market will open and operate seven days a week through Christmas Eve. Crowd favorite events like the German American Weekend with the Schuhplattler Dancers and the German Games will return on December 13 and 14, 2025, presented by the German Consulate General in New York. New events like the Ugly Sweater Day on December 19, 2025 and Wine Tastings on Tuesdays presented by Mazza Wines will round up the schedule, which will be fully announced soon.

For 2025, Christmas Village will once again invite visitors to find the perfect gifts for everyone on their list. More than 120 local and international vendors will showcase handcrafted treasures in charming wooden cottages throughout LOVE Park, City Hall’s Courtyard, and the North Broad section. Across the street at Dilworth Park, the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market will feature 40 additional local artisans and makers in the elegant white booths introduced last year. Together, over 160 vendors will offer ornaments, toys, apparel, jewelry, decorations, home goods, and gourmet treats - making it the perfect chance to skip the malls and big box stores, and embrace the magic of small-business shopping in the heart of Center City. As visitors wander through the market, they can follow the delightful scent of freshly baked Strudel and crisp Apple Cider. The diverse menu features an array of European delicacies, including savory German Bratwurst and Schnitzel served on a roll (Brötchen). New food concepts include: a Loaded Baked Potato booth which offers hot potatoes in a delicious hearty variety for everyone - meat-lovers, vegetarians, and vegans alike. At the new Churros booth visitors can indulge in hot, crispy churros paired with a variety of drizzles and toppings, offering a sweet treat for every taste. Last but not least, the Snowflake Cocktail Bar with Boardroom Spirits at LOVE Park will round up the drink offerings at Christmas Village, offering fun twists on wintery classic cocktails. Served in ornament shaped glasses, these fun new drinks come in all kinds of colors, some with glitter.

The German Grill at LOVE Park is the home of the authentic German charcoal swivel grill. Guests can watch sausages sizzle to perfection over open flames. The crackle, aroma, and glow of this traditional cooking method fill the holiday atmosphere with warmth and authenticity. Cheese lovers will fall for our Käsespätzle - Germany’s version of mac and cheese - made with soft cheesy egg noodles in a cast-iron pan and garnished with crispy onions. Belgian Fries make an irresistible pairing, especially with fresh draft beers on tap, including the exclusive Christmas Village Kölsch and a rich Bock brewed by Brewery Techne and Mainstay Independent Brewing. Crispy Churros with a variety of dips go great with a hot mug of German Glühwein (hot mulled wine) from Pennsylvania’s own Mazza Wines. For those skipping the alcohol, festive zero-proof beverages ensure everyone can enjoy a cozy holiday toast.

This year, the North Broad Section will transform into a magical winter wonderland, becoming a hidden gem specifically designed for kids and families, with a wide array of entertainment options and delightful surprises that are set to be a highlight of the holiday season. Guests can share their Christmas wishes at the cherished Make-a-Wish® wall, partake in signature Spirits Tasting Events, and enjoy live music on weekday evenings and throughout the weekends. And for those wanting to take a piece of the holiday spirit home, the info booth offers a curated selection of 2025 Christmas Village merchandise. Visitors can expect a robust event schedule which will include charming live performances, children’s activities, and beloved rides such as the double-decker Christmas Village Carousel and the magnificent Ferris Wheel.

Christmas Village in Philadelphia presented by Bank of America has grown into one of the region’s largest and most unique holiday destinations since debuting in 2008 - and one of the most celebrated authentic German Christmas markets in all of America. “Each year LOVE Park and City Hall get dressed in holiday style to welcome residents and visitors to Christmas Village during this festive and joyous time in Philadelphia,” said Bank of America Greater Philadelphia President Jim Dever. “The Village is a pivotal piece of Philadelphia’s holiday experience, creating lasting memories for visitors of all ages while supporting local artists and small businesses during the season of giving.”

NEW PYRAMID TO TRANSFORM LOVE PARK

The makers of Christmas Village are proud to bring another very authentic German piece to the market, the Pyramid. The origins of today’s traditional Ore Mountains Christmas pyramids date back to the 16th century. What began as candlelit wooden structures used in church ceremonies, gradually evolved into the beloved warm air-driven pyramids of the Ore Mountains. By the early 1800s, these rotating pyramids - first inspired by mining technology - featured motifs of miners and other crafts at work. Today, they are cherished centerpieces during the festive season, from small versions to impressive large-scale pyramids displayed in town squares across Germany and now at Christmas Village right here in Philadelphia, too. Philadelphia’s very own Holiday Pyramid will be set up in the middle of the Oval section at LOVE Park and will be the event’s new center piece from here on forward. 3,000 lights and a turning Christmas tower which will stand 30 feet tall over the vendor booth will change the look and feel of Christmas Village. The Pyramid will be seen from afar down the Parkway, and all the way over to City Hall.

SAVE THESE DATES:

* Christmas Village Preview Weekend
Saturday, November 22, 2025: 12 PM to 9 PM
Sunday, November 23, 2025: 12 PM to 8 PM
LOVE Park, City Hall Courtyard, and the North Broad Section
Get your first taste of shopping and come to welcome the new and returning vendors! Best weekend of the season to get first tastes, sips, sounds and sites, while skipping the crowds.

* Christmas Village First Official Day for Season
Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 27, 2025: 9 AM to 5 PM
LOVE Park, City Hall Courtyard and the North Broad Section
Come out for treats and host gifts for your holiday dinner, plus enjoy the best views of the Thanksgiving Day Parade on the Parkway.

* Christmas Village Christkind Arrival and Pyramid Lighting Ceremony
Sunday, November 30, 2025: 4 PM to 5 PM
Christmas Village LOVE Park Stage and Pyramid, then walk of market
Meet the original Christkind from Nuremberg, Germany! She will be back to open the market with her traditional prologue on Sunday, November 30, 2025. Right after the Christkind Ceremony on stage, join the excitement as the new Pyramid shines for the very first time with a festive countdown to its grand illumination. Experience the magic and witness this memorable moment, marking the start of the holiday season at Christmas Village.

* Festival of Trees to benefit CHOP
Preview Weekend: November 29 & November 30
Grand opening and ribbon cutting on December 1, open daily to Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025, admission free
Friday to Saturday: 12 PM to 8 PM
Sunday to Thursday: 12 PM to 7 PM
Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025: 12 PM to 4 PM
LOVE Park former Visitor Center
Christmas Village in Philadelphia is proud to partner once again with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for the third annual Festival of Trees at the LOVE Park Welcome Center. This year’s celebration will shine brighter than ever, featuring two dozen beautifully decorated trees and festive holiday spirit - all in support of CHOP’s life-changing mission.

* Christmas Village Family Weekend
Saturday, December 6, 2025: 12 PM to 9 PM
Sunday, December 7, 2025: 12 PM to 8 PM
Christmas Village LOVE Park Stage
The perfect family destination is the Family Weekend on Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7, 2025. Dedicated to the youngest guests, this event features a variety of exciting activities just for kids. Meet our beloved mascot, Phil the Reindeer, enchanting princesses, and strong superheroes. Create unforgettable moments together and capture these precious moments. Everyone is encouraged to bring the whole family, even your furry best friend on four legs!

* Christmas Village’s famous German American Weekend
Saturday, December 13, 2025: 12 PM to 9 PM
Sunday, December 14, 2025: 12 PM to 8 PM
Christmas Village LOVE Park Stage
German American Weekend, presented by the German Consulate General in New York, returns to Christmas Village on December 13 and 14, 2025, with a lively showcase of German culture. Guests can savor authentic Bratwurst, enjoy spirited performances from local dance groups - such as the United German Hungarian Schuhplattlers, Auerhahn Schuhplattler Verein, and GTV Almrausch - in full traditional attire, and soak in the festive atmosphere. On Sunday, the fun continues with classic German games, including the beloved Beerstein holding contest and a Bratwurst eating challenge, making for a weekend full of tradition, flavor, and excitement.

* Christmas Village first Annual Ugly Sweater Contest
Friday, December 19, 2025: 6 PM to 7 PM
Christmas Village LOVE Park Stage
Participate in our first ever Ugly Sweater Contest on National Ugly Sweater Day Friday,
December 19, 2025: Christmas Village will host a spirited Ugly Sweater Contest, inviting visitors to embrace the fun and creativity of the holiday season. Participants are encouraged to wear their most festive, quirky, or delightfully over-the-top sweaters for a chance to win exciting prizes. This lighthearted competition promises plenty of laughter and holiday cheer, adding to the magical atmosphere of the Village. Look for local celebrity judges and prizes too.

OTHER SEASON HIGHLIGHTS 2025:

In early to mid-November, watch for a 2025 season guide that will include complete and detailed menus, vendor lists, event schedules and more. In the meantime, enjoy the following highlights:

* Debut of the German Christmas Tower called “The Pyramid” in LOVE Park with four festive levels, 3,000 sparkling lights, mulled wine at the base, and special Philly touches, it’s a magical new highlight of the Christmas Village and a must-see photo spot in Center City!

* Largest Festival of Trees to benefit CHOP to date! The third annual fundraiser takes place at the former LOVE Park Welcome Center in support of CHOP's life-changing mission.

* Santa will be in attendance Fridays and Saturdays from 12 PM to 8 PM, and on Sundays from 12 PM to 7 PM. Every weekend starting November 29 as well as during the weekdays of December 22 through December 24, 2025 he will be available to take Holiday pictures with the little ones inside the Festival of Trees. On Christmas Eve he will await visitors from 12 PM to 5 PM.

* Holiday Greenery Workshop at Christmas Village: In collaboration with Terrarium Therapy, visitors can get creative and craft their own holiday décor to take home. Whether it is an elegant table centerpiece or a classic wreath, this project is a fun holiday activity and will add a personal touch to this season's celebrations. Guests can join December 3, 10, and 17, 2025 and get creative from 1 PM to 2 PM and 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM.

* The beloved Glühwein (hot mulled wine) crafted by Pennsylvania’s own Mazza Wines are returning to Christmas Village. Fans can look forward to three wintery flavors: a traditional red Victorian Holiday wine, a fruity Apple and Spice White Mulled Wine, and a hot Honey Mead. Longtime Glühwein lovers as well as first-time tasters will be equally delighted. New this year: all flavors will be available in bottles to take home the holiday cheer!

* Experience a true German Beer Garden at the Alm at LOVE Park! Exciting twist in the 2025 event layout: the event’s main stage will move to the Alm and will give visitors even more reasons to take a seat at the beer benches made in Austria. A Bratwurst and a cold beer taste even better when enjoyed while listening to live tunes!

* Potato lovers alert: This year, the market introduces its new Loaded Baked Potato booth! Warm up with a perfectly baked potato, piled high with delicious toppings. Whether you’re craving a meaty favorite, a comforting vegetarian option, or a tasty vegan treat - this vibrant new spot is sure to exceed all expectations with its exciting offerings.

* Boardroom Spirits returns to Christmas Village with spirits tastings! Every Thursday this season (except Thanksgiving), guests will have the opportunity to sample a curated selection of festive spirits, crafted to complement the festive atmosphere. Get your tickets for these exclusive tasting events, which will be available for purchase at the event section on the website philachristmas dot com.

* Wine enthusiasts can look forward to weekly tastings in partnership with PA local Winery Mazza Wines. On December 2, 9, 16, and 23, 2025 from 5 PM to 8 PM, the tastings will offer the perfect evening for wine connoisseurs, date nights or casual sippers. Tickets for the 2025 season will go on sale soon, with early-bird specials announced on social media.

* The precious Christmas Village boot mug is back this season in a brand-new color, to be revealed in November! These delightful boot mugs are known to sell out fast, so come by early. In addition to the boot mug, this year’s lineup features a range of exclusive 2025 Christmas Village merchandise, including a fresh design for the traditional dark blue Glühwein (hot mulled wine) mug and a new take on the classic cream-colored beer stein. Be sure to grab these limited-edition pieces while supplies last!

* For all beer enthusiasts: locally crafted brews from Brewery Techne and Mainstay Brewing, featuring an exclusive Christmas Village Kölsch and Bock, specially brewed for this year’s festivities will be available. Guests won’t want to miss the chance to grab a few cans of this limited-edition brew, perfect for enjoying the holiday season at home.

* The most precious little visitors won't want to leave with all the family attractions including North Broad’s illuminated Ferris Wheel or picking a favorite animal on the market’s double-decker Carousel. There is something for everyone! It's “all aboard” at the market’s very own Christmas Village Kids Train presented by SEPTA. Not into rides? Guests can unwind and savor the festive atmosphere at the cozy seating area on the North Broad Section, which offers the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Christmas Village in Philadelphia presented by Bank of America, the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market and the Festival of Trees fundraiser to benefit CHOP will transform the heart of Center City into a dazzling Christmas wonderland. This cherished holiday tradition brings together shoppers, families, and visitors from across the tri-state area, the East Coast, and beyond. Convenient public transportation, including SEPTA, make it easy to arrive in time to enjoy a warm cup of Glühwein (hot mulled wine) and head home safely after an exciting day at the Christmas Village.

Follow @philachristmas on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn TikTok or visit philachristmas dot com for more information. Christmas Village in Philadelphia presented by Bank of America dates and hours for the 2025 season are listed below:

Preview Weekend: November 22 to November 23, 2025
Opening Day: November 27, 2025
Last Day: December 24, 2025
Closed days: November 24, 25, 26, 2025

2025 HOURS:
Sunday to Thursday: 12 PM to 8 PM
Friday to Saturday: 12 PM to 9 PM
Thanksgiving Day: 9 AM to 5 PM
Christmas Eve: 12 PM to 5 PM

LOCATION:
LOVE Park, City Hall’s Courtyard, and the North Broad Section and LOVE Park (JFK Plaza, 1500 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102)

ABOUT BANK OF AMERICA:
Bank of America is one of the world’s leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 69 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 3,700 retail financial centers, approximately 15,000 ATMs (automated teller machines) and award-winning digital banking with approximately 59 million verified digital users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 4 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BAC).

ABOUT GERMAN CONSULATE GENERAL IN NEW YORK:
The German Consulate General in New York represents Germany in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut (Fairfield County), and Bermuda. In addition to offering consular and legal assistance for U.S. residents and German citizens, the Consulate General’s mission is to explain Germany, understand America and foster successful discussions and exchange.

ABOUT MAZZA WINES:
Mazza, an award-winning Pennsylvania wine producer with a 50+ year legacy, is the returning official wine partner for the 2025 Christmas Village in Philadelphia. They'll carry on the authentic German Christmas Market tradition of serving mugs (and boots!) of their festive warm wines - Victorian Holiday, Honey Mead, and Apple & Spice. In addition to these toasty selections, Mazza is spreading holiday cheer with their Perfect Wines collection, available for effortless gift-giving in a pre-packaged four pack and individual bottles at booths in Love Park and City Hall. To learn more about and shop Mazza wines, visit enjoymazza dot com slash philly.

ABOUT SEPTA:
Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is one of the largest transit systems in the country. It supports five counties in the Greater Philadelphia area and connects to transit systems in Delaware and New Jersey. Services include Regional Rail, buses, trolleys, subways, and a high-speed line. As the official transportation partner of Christmas Village, SEPTA makes it easy to visit thanks to convenient service, contactless payment, and free travel for kids under twelve. Ride Regional Rail to Suburban Station, the B, L, or T to 15th St/City Hall Station, or Bus Routes 2, 17, 33, 38, 44, 48, 124, or 125. Plan your trip at SEPTA.org.

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CONTACTS:

Kory Aversa
CEO/President
Aversa PR & Events
215-840-9216
kory at aversapr dot com

Shalin Vahle
PR and Social Media Manager
German American Marketing, Inc.
215-960-4261
pr at philachristmas dot com