Effort Underway to Save the Wanamaker Light Show
A campaign has launched to raise $350,000 to save the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village in Philadelphia for the 2025 holiday season. The Light Show is at risk of…
Photo by Colin Newby | BBGI Philadelphia
Photo by Colin Newby | BBGI PhiladelphiaA campaign has launched to raise $350,000 to save the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village in Philadelphia for the 2025 holiday season.
The Light Show is at risk of not happening this year because the Center City Macy's store in the historic Wanamaker building, formerly the home of the Wanamaker Department Store, closed in March, making the future of the holiday exhibits uncertain. A final push to save the show begins on Sept. 16, 100 days before Christmas, as efforts ramp up for support for this holiday tradition.
A special citywide Giving Day on Sept. 25 will encourage small donations of $12.25, symbolizing the holiday date of Dec. 25, said the Philadelphia Visitor Center to CBS News Philadelphia.
The campaign's donation webpage features heartfelt stories from donors, highlighting the emotional and cultural importance of the Light Show. As of Sunday, Sept. 14, the campaign has raised more than $300,000 toward the $350,000 goal.
Donors can contribute at the following levels:
- For $25, individuals can receive a "I Saved the Light Show" magnet.
- For $150, donors will get a limited edition Wanamaker Light Show candle and magnet.
- For $250, supporters will receive a "Behind the Lights" art print, along with the candle and magnet.
- For $500, benefactors will receive a "Best seat in the House" experience for four, as well as gifts from all previous giving levels.
- For $1,000, patrons will receive a VIP preview and a "Best Seat in the House" experience for six, including previous gifts, upgraded access, and more thank-you gifts.
The Wanamaker Light Show is a beloved Philadelphia holiday tradition that has been in place since 1956. The annual display features a three-story Christmas tree and an intricate lighting display that extends up to the atrium of the Wanamaker Building's arched ceiling, according to The National Trust for Historic Preservation's Saving Places.
During past holiday seasons, a noon Wanamaker organ concert has been held in connection with the popular holiday light show. The music of "O' Tannenbaum" and other holiday classics resounding throughout the atrium at the show's high point has been an indescribable holiday experience for guests.
