Blog details heading

Big family dinners, holiday festivals, beloved local traditions like the Macy’s light show—all of these are going to look quite different this year. But even if your focus is on safety, that doesn’t mean you can’t still find ways to enjoy the sights, sounds and spirit of the holiday season without traveling far from your The Victor apartment.

One such way to do that is in Old City. The historic Philadelphia neighborhood is brimming with retail, restaurants and bars, many of which are feeling the holiday spirit this year. While many of the in-person holiday events the area usually hosts won’t be happening this year, the commercial corridor of Old City—less than 15 minutes from your The Victor apartment—is still doing its part to ensure locals can enjoy all they have to offer, safely.

On Dec. 3, the neighborhood will host a virtual tree lighting ceremony to kick off the month of festivities and showcase what the holidays in Old City will look like. Dozens of storefronts are participating in the window decorating contest, running through Dec. 13. Grab your mask and take a socially distanced stroll through the cobblestoned streets of Old City to judge for yourself and then vote online! While in town, stop into one of the many boutiques, gift shops and art galleries to give back to local merchants while checking loved ones off of your holiday shopping list. Also this year is a new program: Historic Holidays at Home. Throughout the season, a number of Old City locales will offer a holiday-themed taste of their of their business. For instance, Campo’s Cheesesteak is selling a DIY kit, complete with all the fix-ins for their famous steaks—perfect for the carnivore on your list! Old City Coffee is also getting into the game with a number of gift baskets featuring their renowned coffees and teas. The famed Elfreth’s Alley is also opening the historic block up virtually, with tours of historic homes on the street, virtual music performances and digital gifts offered each week.

So don your ugly Christmas sweater and head out into Philly to enjoy this unique but memorable holiday season!

Campo’s Cheesesteaks

214 Market Street

Philadelphia, PA 19106

215-923-1000

Old City Coffee

221 Church Street

Philadelphia, PA 19106

215-629-9292

Elfreth’s Alley Association

126 Elfreth’s Alley

Philadelphia, PA 19106