Christmas Lights: NE Philly Edition

Last night we made a trip to the Bustleton neighborhood of North East Philly for some Christmas lights. We've done this each of the last few years with the kids. It's not one of the usual Christmas sights. It's never crowded, I'm not sure if people don't realize they can go in the parking lot or we're just a handful of weirdos trespassing on a private business. I do know we're not trespassing, they leave the parking lot gate wide open and have spots for photos.

It's the headquarters of American Heritage Federal Credit Union on Red Lion Road. The 2 buildings, especially the main building is gorgeous. It looks like an enormous mansion. I once convinced a kid in high school that was driving me home that that was my house. Kid's are dumb, even in high school. They decorate everything for Christmas and it looks amazing. Building, trees, things inside windows, carraiges hooked to fake horses, a garland lit gazebo. If you're in the area it's definitely a good spot to take young kids. It's not too large for them to walk the whole time, and depending on how many photos you (and maybe they) want it should only take like 25 minutes.

Panorama shot of the entire American Heritage Federal Credit Union building all decorated and lit for Christmas.

A nicely decorated and lit gazebo for picture taking. Just need to hope there isn't a group of 20 something girls taking a millions selfies and instagram shots while you stand there with your 3 young kids waiting in the 35° weather...

Two goofs and their baby sister.

"Dad, get a picture of me with these deer!"

"Dad take a picture of me with the deer." "And me with the presents!"

A carriage ride with the nice building let in the background. The horse wouldn't go anywhere, wouldn't even look at me.

The boys getting a little crazy under the Christmas light tunnel.

Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, you may be wondering which places in Philadelphia are open on Christmas Day.

Sometimes, you forget the rolls for Christmas dinner. You're stuck. Where do you go? Nowhere will be open on Christmas, right? Wrong!

You don't celebrate Christmas, but the kids are rowdy and bored. It's their break from school and you need something to do. Movie theaters are open, but the kids don't seem like they can sit for that long. Surely nowhere else is open for a fun activity, right? Wrong again!

You're on your way to Grandma's house for Christmas dinner. She lives a few hours away, so you have to leave around lunchtime. Shoot! You forgot to eat lunch or bring anything with you. You have to wait until you get to Grandma's, right? You'll show up starving and dinner won't even be ready, right? Wrong for the third time!

There are a number of businesses that keep their doors open on Christmas Day for common issues like the ones I just described. Stop by to pick up what you need, or have some fun, and thank the people who are working on the holiday.

Forgot the cranberries? Acme is typically open on Christmas Day, but hours may vary depending on location. In the past, the grocer has been open typically from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Check your local store to be sure.

Wawa is always here for you, even on Christmas. In the past Wawa has been open on Christmas 24/7. Keep on the lookout for more word from Wawa, but they will likely be open for you to grab a hoagie on your travels.

Though Scuba Santa will have returned to the North Pole by Christmas, the aquarium’s seasonal decor — including the “World’s Tallest Underwater Christmas Tree” in Shark Realm — will still be on display throughout the animals’ homes on Christmas Day. Stop by to wish all the sea life a merry “Fishmas.” The aquarium has reduced hours on December 25th, open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Kids full of energy? Take 'em skating. Both the Blue Cross RiverRink at Penn’s Landing and Rothman Rink at Dilworth Park are open on Christmas Day. Hours are shortened so check their websites. There’s plenty of time for afternoon skating that won’t be too crowded. Both spots have warm drinks and comfort food, too.

Longwood Gardens is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Christmas Day. The holiday experience is already sold out at night, so while you can’t see the gardens lit up, you can still catch the festive displays and stroll the gorgeous grounds during the day. Get tickets in advance!

Live closer to a Giant? In the past, most Giant locations have been open on Christmas between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. If you need to pick up stuffing or some desserts, they got your back.

Ah, no day is the same without your morning coffee. Don't fret, because most Dunkin' stores keep their doors open on Christmas Day. Hit up the drive-thru for a special Christmas box of donuts, or sooth your soul with a hot coffee.

It rocks that a fast food restaurant will be open and available for you to buy a snack on your travels. If you have hungry passengers, some nuggets and fries are sure to please.