4 days ago
Philly's iconic holiday light show at the Wanamaker is back on — for now
The Wanamaker Building is being transformed into a pop-up performing arts space this fall, guaranteeing the return of one of Philly's most cherished holiday traditions for at least one more year.
Why it matters: The future of the holiday lights show and Dickens Village was in doubt after Macy's closed its flagship Center City store in the spring.
Driving the news: The building's new developer, New York-based TF Cornerstone, is partnering with Opera Philadelphia on a new "Pipe Up" series that'll bring a lineup of performers to the historic Wanaker Grand Court over four months in the fall, starting in September.
The Wyncote Foundation has given $1 million to help fund the programming, which will center around the historic Wanamaker Grand Court Organ.
Context: Considered the world's biggest functioning pipe organ, the instrument was originally built in 1904 for the St. Louis World's Fair — and found new life as a centerpiece in the Wanamaker Building.
Fun fact: It took 13 freight cars to transport the organ from St. Louis and two years to assemble it here.
Flashback: Played twice a day while Macy's was open, the organ was a huge draw for people flocking to Philly's annual holiday light show.
What's ahead: A Sept. 7 kickoff concert, "Meet me at the Eagle," which will include appearances from BalletX, the Bearded Ladies Cabaret and Grammy-nominated composer Nathalie Joachim.
In early 2026, TF Cornerstone will begin construction on a two-year project to bring 600 new loft-style apartments to the building.
