5 Philadelphia Events and Things to Do in November You Can’t Miss

When November rolls into Philadelphia, the air turns crisp, the trees along the Schuylkill glow gold, and the city takes on a cozy kind of rhythm. Locals pull out their scarves, coffee shops fill with chatter, and every corner of Philly seems to hum with music, food, and fall celebrations.

Whether you’re here for history, food, art, or that unmistakable Philly spirit, November is one of the best times to explore the city : cool enough for long walks, warm enough to enjoy them.

Food, Wine, and Philly Flavor

November is all about comfort food : and no city does comfort better than Philly. The Philadelphia Marathon Health & Fitness Expo weekend doubles as a food fest, with vendors serving hearty, energizing bites. For pure indulgence, Philadelphia Cheesesteak Week celebrates the city’s signature sandwich in every style imaginable.

If you’re into craft beer, the Philly Fall Beer Festival at the Navy Yard is a must, while the East Passyunk Fall Fest mixes local food, vintage markets, and live music in one of the city’s most beloved neighborhoods.

And yes, you should absolutely end your day with a warm pretzel from a street cart : it’s practically a local law.

Art, Music, and Culture Everywhere

Philly’s creative side shines in November. The Philadelphia Museum of Art offers free admission on the first Sunday of the month, and the First Friday Art Walks in Old City bring together galleries, makers, and musicians for an evening of local energy.

The Kimmel Cultural Campus is packed with performances this month : from the Philadelphia Orchestra to Broadway shows like Wicked and Hamilton.

For something more intimate, head to Johnny Brenda’s or World Café Live, where local musicians play everything from indie to jazz in cozy, candlelit spaces.

Thanksgiving Traditions and Fall Favorites

Philly knows how to do Thanksgiving right. The Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade : one of the oldest in the nation : marches down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway with giant balloons, marching bands, and plenty of holiday cheer.

If you’re up early, join the runners at the Philadelphia Marathon or its shorter sibling, the Half Marathon, both taking you past the city’s historic sites and scenic riverfront.

Later, wander through Dilworth Park’s Wintergarden, which opens in mid-November with twinkling lights, ice skating, and the smell of cinnamon and roasted nuts in the air.

History and Holiday Spirit

This is Philly : history is always part of the experience. Visit Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, then warm up with a bowl of soup at Reading Terminal Market, where generations of local vendors serve everything from Amish baked goods to Pennsylvania Dutch comfort food.

By late November, Franklin Square transforms for the Electrical Spectacle Light Show, with thousands of lights synchronized to holiday music. It’s festive, family-friendly, and the perfect way to kick off the season.

Family Fun and Seasonal Magic

Families will love Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest, which opens in November with ice skating, fire pits, and food stalls overlooking the Delaware River. Just a few steps away, Spruce Street Harbor Park still glows with hanging lights and cozy hammocks for one last fall evening by the water.

For a bit of science and fun, check out the Franklin Institute’s special exhibitions or spend an afternoon at the Please Touch Museum, where kids can play, build, and imagine to their hearts’ content.

Markets, Makers, and Local Shopping

If you love browsing handmade crafts and local goods, November is your month. The Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show brings more than 200 artisans to the Convention Center, while the Made in Philly Market pops up in City Hall’s courtyard with small businesses selling candles, jewelry, and cozy winter gear.

As the holidays approach, you’ll also find the Christmas Village in LOVE Park opening late in the month : a German-style market filled with ornaments, mulled wine, and warm pretzels under the iconic LOVE statue.

Sports, Cheers, and Local Pride

Philly fans are passionate : and November is full of reasons to cheer. The Eagles fly high at Lincoln Financial Field, the 76ers take over the Wells Fargo Center, and the Flyers keep the ice hot all season long.

Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, the energy is contagious. Grab a cheesesteak, put on some green, and join the celebration : win or lose, it’s pure Philly spirit.

Outdoors and Autumn Beauty

Cooler weather means perfect walking days. Stroll through Fairmount Park, explore the trails at Wissahickon Valley, or wander the cobblestone streets of Society Hill, where the old brick houses look especially charming framed by fall leaves.

For a quick escape, drive out to Longwood Gardens, about an hour from downtown, where the fall foliage gives way to the first glow of the Christmas Light Display by late November : an experience that’s pure magic.

Experience Philadelphia Like a Local With HomeExchange

Philadelphia’s magic isn’t just in its monuments : it’s in the neighborhoods. With HomeExchange in Philadelphia, you can swap homes with locals and experience the city from the inside out.

Stay in a historic brownstone in Society Hill, a family home near Fairmount Park, or a modern loft in Fishtown surrounded by coffee shops and record stores. You’ll wake up to the city’s hum, shop at local markets, and return each evening to a space that feels like your own.

Because in Philadelphia, the real story isn’t just what you see : it’s how you live it. 🏡🍂

Philadelphia in November at a Glance