The holiday lights may be coming down, but the Philadelphia region doesn’t stop celebrating once December ends. If you’re feeling the post-holiday slump, the best cure is a fresh calendar of Philadelphia winter festivals. From glowing ice sculptures in Lititz to the world-class floral displays of the Flower Show, winter in Philly is vibrant and full of life.
This guide covers the best winter festivals and events in Philadelphia and nearby towns from January through early March 2026. It’s perfect for food lovers, families, and anyone looking to beat the post-holiday blues.
Whether you’re a foodie looking for the best deals of the year or a family seeking one last outdoor skate, here are the must-attend winter festivals in the Philadelphia area for 2026.
If you’re still catching up on the season, see my complete guide to Philadelphia holiday and winter events before they wrap up!
At a Glance: Philadelphia Winter Festivals 2026
- Best outdoor winter event: RiverRink Winterfest
- Best food event: Center City Restaurant Week
- Best winter day trip: Lititz Fire & Ice Festival
- Best indoor escape: Philadelphia Flower Show
Classic Philly Winter Traditions (January–February)
These long-running events are the heart of winter in the city, offering outdoor fun and skyline views.
Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
- What it is: A waterfront tradition for over three decades, Winterfest offers outdoor ice skating on an NHL-sized rink, cozy cabins and firepits, and tasty treats to help your family make new memories.
- Dates: Through March 1, 2026
- Location: Delaware River Waterfront, 101 South Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia
- Good for: Families and Date Nights
- Official Website →
Winter in Franklin Square
- What it is: Beginning January 8, the holiday celebration transforms into “Winter in Franklin Square,” featuring street curling and the Electrical Spectacle Light Show.
- Dates: Through February 28, 2026
- Location: Franklin Square, 6th & Race Streets, Philadelphia
- Good for: Family and winter date nights
- Official Website →
Food & Drink Festivals in Philadelphia (Winter 2026)
January and February are prime time for indoor festivals focusing on the city’s world-class culinary and hobby scenes.
Center City District Restaurant Week
- What it is: Winter is when you’ll get the best value at some of Philly’s hardest-to-book restaurants. Enjoy three-course prix-fixe dinners, two-course lunches, and other discounts at participating restaurants throughout Center City Philadelphia.
- Dates: January 18 – January 31, 2026
- Location: Select Restaurants throughout Center City
- Good for: Foodies
- Official Website →
Philadelphia Auto Show
- What it is: Whether you’re looking for your next set of wheels or just want to check out the latest cool cars, the Philadelphia Auto Show is a fun day out.
- Dates: January 31 – February 8, 2026
- Location: Pennsylvania Convention Center
- Good for: Gearheads
- Official Website →
Bierfest
- What it is: Enjoy some German-style beers and entertainment at the 13th annual Bierfest to benefit German Society of Pennsylvania, Philly Roller Derby, and the Brewers of Pennsylvania.
- Insider Tip: The German Society of Pennsylvania is a hidden gem in the city, both for its beautiful architecture and its mission to spread the German language and culture. (The German language lessons I took there brought my skills to a new level!)
- Dates: February 28, 2026
- Location: The German Society of Pennsylvania
- Good for: Beer Enthusiasts
- Official Website →
Regional Winter Escapes Near Philadelphia
These festivals are worth the short drive from the city for a perfect winter day trip or weekend getaway.
Annual Lambertville-New Hope Winter Festival
- What it is: The last weekend in January, celebrate in Lambertville-New Hope with a concert, dance, and chili cookoff!
- Dates: January 30 – February 1, 2026
- Location: Lambertville, NJ and New Hope, PA
- Good for: Couples looking for a night out
- Official Website →
Lititz Fire & Ice Festival
- What it is: Bundle up and stroll through charming Historic Downtown Lititz for its annual Fire & Ice Festival featuring ice sculptures, fire shows, scavenger hunts, food, and more.
- Dates: February 13 – February 22, 2026
- Location: Historic Downtown Lititz
- Good for: Families
- Official Website →
A Sneak Peek at Spring
If you’re ready for warmer days, these indoor botanical events provide a lush, tropical escape from the cold.
PHS Philadelphia Flower Show
- What it is: Put winter in your mental rearview mirror with the Philadelphia Flower Show. The theme for 2026 is Rooted: Origins of American Gardening.
- Dates: February 28 – March 8, 2026
- Location: Pennsylvania Convention Center
- Good for: Gardeners
- Official Website →
Longwood Gardens Winter Wonder
- What it is: Shake off the winter blues with a visit to Longwood Gardens’ glasshouses to enjoy orchids, tropical palms, and more.
- Photo Tip: Bring a lens cloth and be sure to let your gear acclimate to the temperature. The transition from the cold air to the humid tropical glasshouse will fog up your lens instantly.
- Dates: January 16 – March 22, 2026
- Location: Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square
- Good for: Gardeners
- Official Website →
Philadelphia Winter Festival FAQs
What are the best winter festivals in Philadelphia?
Top winter festivals in Philadelphia include RiverRink Winterfest, the Philadelphia Flower Show, and Winter in Franklin Square.
Are there winter festivals near Philadelphia worth a day trip?
Yes—Lititz Fire & Ice Festival and the Lambertville-New Hope Winter Festival are both easy winter day trips.
Is winter a good time to visit Philadelphia?
Winter is a great time to visit Philadelphia for fewer crowds, seasonal festivals, and major indoor events like the Flower Show.
Planning Your Winter Getaway to Philadelphia
Don’t let the winter chill keep you inside. Whether you’re sipping a German lager at Bierfest or wandering through the tropical heat of the Flower Show, there is plenty to explore in the Philadelphia region this season.
Which of these events are you most excited for in 2026—or is there a favorite winter festival I missed? Let me know in the comments below!
Save these Philadelphia winter festivals for later on Pinterest!
All photos and opinions are my own.
