It’s the most wonderful time of the year, especially in Midtown Village! Sure, our neighborhood is a delight all year. But with the holiday season in full swing, our little corner of the universe is next-level enchanting.

With all the seasonal hustle and bustle, you may forget to stop and bask in the holiday spirit, but don’t fret—we have the perfect Midtown Village to-do list. From seasonal treats to pop-up holiday attractions, our 12 local holiday tips are sure to dazzle even the grinch-iest of hearts.

Oh, and we added an extra tip for good measure! Here are our 12 (+1) holiday celebrations not to miss in Midtown Village.

12 Soaps a’Sudsing

Local soap makers Duross & Langel are stocked with plenty of special holiday products to pamper yourself after a long day of gift shopping. Pick up a few gingerbread cookie bar soaps or wintery scented shower gels for the self-care gurus in your life.

11 Grittys Dancing

Time to paint the holiday orange! As us Philadelphians celebrate our first holiday season with our beloved Gritty, the new mascot of the Philadelphia Flyers, it’s the perfect time to visit Midtown Village’s one-of-a-kind sports apparel store, Shibe Vintage Sports. Their Gritty goods will make anyone on your gift list smile.

10 Thousand Villages

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Shop for a cause this season at Ten Thousand Villages, now located right down the street on 13th and Walnut. When you purchase their handcrafted, fair-trade goods, you’re supporting artisans in developing countries around the world.

9 Cheerful Cocktails

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McGillin’s Olde Ale House has the holiday spirit—or spirits, that is. Try a few of their jolly specials, like the Candy Cane Martini, Merry Mule, or Old St. Nick. Even their Grinch cocktail will leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside!

8 Snowmen Glowing

(Photo: by J. Fusco for Visit Philly)

When you say holidays, Philly says Macy’s Christmas Light Show. And when the store is only a couple blocks away from 1213 Walnut, you can watch your favorite holiday tales come to life at this classic holiday event, which runs now through the new year.

7 Fishes Dinner

With good cheer comes plenty of good food. Local culinary destinations like Little Nonna’s and Amis are hosting their versions of The Feast of the Seven Fishes, a traditional Italian holiday meal. Book your table now—this special menu flies fast!

6 Insta Stories

Our neighborhood’s highly anticipated holiday pop-up bar, Tinsel, is back open for business. Peruse the seasonal cocktail menu under an ornament chandelier, sing along to your favorite holiday tunes, and snap the perfect pic on Santa’s throne. Your Instagram grid will thank you!

5 Hot Toddies

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Walk the few blocks over to Dilworth Park, where you and your friends can warm up next to the famous holiday tree. Craft Hall Philly’s annual pop-up restaurant is a cozy place for locals and tourists alike. It only comes once a year, so don’t miss it!

4 Ballet Slippers

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A favorite tradition for many, nothing says the holiday season like the Nutcracker. You can catch the show just a short walk away at The Academy of Music now through December 31st.

3 Tasty Treats

It’s easy to indulge a sweet tooth over the holiday season. Fans of the famous salted caramel budino desserts from Barbuzzo can pick them up in bulk at Verde to add a dazzling finale to any holiday meal. Fair warning: just one won’t be enough!

2 Helping Hands

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Midtown Village is home to several nonprofits that give back to the community every day. This holiday season, consider volunteering to make an impact and show your gratitude. A few nearby organizations include William Way, Global Citizen, Morris Animal Refuge, Artz Philadelphia, and Back On My Feet.

1 German Christmas Village

(Photo: Christmas Village in Philadelphia)

Ok, we’re sure someone has already recommended it to you, but there’s nothing like experiencing an “authentic German Christmas market” in the newly renovated LOVE Park to celebrate the holidays. You’re sure to cross plenty of names off your gift list in one visit!

+1 Dazzling Building

Sometimes 12 tips just isn’t enough! Our 1213 Walnut lobby is warm, cozy, and sprinkled with holiday cheer, so stop by for a tour of our apartment community when you’re in the neighborhood.

Header image courtesy of Visit Philadelphia®