Walnut Wonderland 2025 Brings Holiday Magic to Walnut Garden

Walnut Wonderland Transforms Rittenhouse into a Festive Escape

There’s something undeniably special about the holidays in Philadelphia, and Walnut Wonderland at Walnut Garden is shaping up to be the city’s most spirited seasonal transformation. Nestled in the heart of Rittenhouse at 1708 Walnut Street, Walnut Garden—already beloved for its lush urban ambiance—is being completely reimagined from November 12 through December 31 into a glittering holiday pop-up experience known as Walnut Wonderland.

Presented by Avram Hornik and FCM Hospitality, Walnut Wonderland invites Philadelphians to gather beneath glowing lights, sip holiday-inspired cocktails, and bask in an atmosphere dripping with nostalgic cheer. Imagine an illuminated 22-foot walk-through tree, whimsical neon sculptures, eight towering Christmas trees flanking the entrance, and a garden filled with festively themed décor. Each tree under the garden canopy adopts its own unique personality—whether it’s penguins, candy canes, or even a Grinch-themed creation.

Hornik, known for designing welcoming and vibrant communal spaces, envisions Walnut Wonderland as more than just décor—it’s a full-fledged urban holiday cocktail garden, complete with cozy touches like a warming tent, glowing firepits, and DIY tabletop s’mores. The vibe is joyful, casual, and a little over-the-top—in the best way possible.

Inside Walnut Wonderland: What to Eat, Drink, and Experience

Walnut Wonderland goes far beyond twinkling lights. FCM’s culinary team has crafted a festive menu of warm seasonal eats, decadent desserts, and winter-friendly beverages that’ll keep you cozy well into the evening. New this year is the indulgent DIY tabletop s’mores experience, available for $9, which offers a nostalgic and hands-on treat for guests of all ages.

The seasonal cocktail menu is rich with winter warmth and priced at $12 per drink. Sip on the Banana Bread-Holla—made with banana vodka, Frangelico, maple, and cream—or opt for a spiced sangria or maple whiskey sour on draft. Warm up with Hamilton’s Apple Toddy, or go classic with the Cocoa Warm Up featuring amaretto, Irish cream, and whipped cream-topped cocoa. Whether you’re bundled up by the fire or relaxing under the covered tent with sports playing on two TVs, the ambiance is unmatched.

Families will find Walnut Wonderland just as inviting. With a stroller-friendly layout, a whimsical playhouse shaped like a Jeep hitched to nine reindeer, and themed art installations made of wreaths and more than 1,000 ornaments, there’s something for every age group. A special Lunch with Santa is scheduled for Sunday, December 7, from 12:00–2:00 PM, and includes $7 mimosas for the grown-ups. Later in the season, a Nearly New Year’s Family Countdown Celebration on December 31 runs from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, with a kid-friendly countdown at 6:00 PM.

And for those planning office parties, holiday gatherings, or just looking for a place to celebrate with friends, Walnut Wonderland can accommodate private events for up to 300 guests. Whether you want to buy out the full space or just the heated tent, FCM’s private events team is ready to make your celebration unforgettable.

Walnut Garden was constructed on the site of three buildings destroyed during the civil unrest of 2020. Brookliv Real Estate, which purchased the property in 2023, temporarily partnered with Hornik to create a vibrant space that not only revives the location but also reinvests in the cultural and social fabric of Rittenhouse.

Since its debut in summer 2023, Walnut Garden has brought life, greenery, and community programming to one of Center City’s most iconic corridors. Now, with its Walnut Wonderland winter makeover, the garden continues that mission—offering a joyful, inclusive, and highly Instagrammable holiday destination right in the heart of the city.

Dog-friendly, kid-friendly, and perfect for date night or happy hour, Walnut Wonderland is where Philly’s holiday spirit comes alive. Whether you’re sipping a spiced cocktail, making s’mores with friends, or posing inside a glowing 22-foot tree, you’ll leave with more than photos—you’ll leave with memories.

About Post Author

Allan Lane

Philadelphia born and bred, Allan Lane is the Publisher and Editor in Chief of digital magazines. He launched his first publication, SportBikes Inc Magazine in 2010, followed by dosage MAGAZINE in 2019. Recently, Allan launched his third online publication, Club For Man. As a journalist, Allan covers fashion, lifestyle, culture, art, and motorcycles.

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