Photo by G. Widman

Philadelphia will take center stage this Saturday for the 250th Semiquincentennial anniversary, bringing extensive road closures and schedule modifications across the city. If you need to time a last-minute grocery run, find a place to cool off, or navigate a modified SEPTA schedule, check out this quick guide of what’s open, closed, and altered around West Philly for July 4th.

Public Services & Closures

Government Offices: All city, state, and federal government offices are closed.

The Free Library of Philadelphia: All branches will be closed on Saturday and Sunday, however the Walnut Street and Blackwell branches will operate as cooling centers from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

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Here is some information on holiday hours and closings at some popular local stores and supermarkets. This post will be updated as more information becomes available. Businesses are also welcome to post their holiday hours in the comment section below. For information on SEPTA’s holiday service go here. Just a reminder that SEPTA’s Trolley Tunnel will remain closed and trolleys will be on diversion at least until Dec. 31, so plan your holiday trips accordingly.

For holiday events, please visit our Events page. Happy Holidays!

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Community voices will come together for candlelit caroling at dusk in Clark Park (45th and Regent) on Sunday, Dec. 21. This West Philadelphia family-friendly tradition of many decades comes with songsheets of familiar carols  – and mulled cider! Meet at 5 p.m. at the shed – with the Christmas tree on top. (Photos by Anthony West)

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Here’s a list of holiday markets, fests and community celebrations happening this month in West and Southwest Philadelphia. We’ll update the list as we get more information. Please feel free to post your event in the comments below.

Holiday Makers Market at the Container Village

4862-4870 Parkside Ave.

Through Jan. 1, 2026

The West Philly Container Village is hosting a Holiday Makers Market on the following days and hours: Tuesday-Friday 3 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. (Closed on Christmas Day). “Shop local, discover unique gifts, enjoy food vendors, and experience festive cheer all season long. From handmade crafts to wellness products and artists’ creations, there’s something for everyone. Bring your friends, family, and holiday spirit!” More info on the vendors is here. UPDATE: The market will be closed on Sunday, Dec. 14 due to inclement weather.

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Books make a great holiday gift. The annual Walnut West Library Friends’ Huge Holiday Book Sale will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 9 from 12 to 6:30 p.m. and Wednesday, Dec. 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All are invited to browse from a large selection of gift-quality used children’s books as well as general fiction and nonfiction for the grownups.

Prices range from $1.00 to $3.00. This year, in addition to the usual offerings, large collections of math books and classical music LPs will be available!

Proceeds from the sale are used by the Friends of the Walnut Street West Library to support programs, supplies and repairs at the library.

The Walnut Street West Free Library of Philadelphia branch is located at 40th and Walnut. Check out more upcoming events and holiday hours here.

The annual 3rd District Toy Drive is underway and this is a great opportunity to make holidays brighter for local families and children in need. The Office of Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, who represents the 3rd District, is accepting donations of new, unwrapped toys through Thursday, Dec. 18. Here’s how you can participate in the drive:

• Bring your donation to the 3rd District Office located at 606 S. 52nd St. or Room 316 at City Hall. Donations are accepted Monday through Thursday during office hours.

• Contribute online via one of the wishlists.

Toy giveaway will take place on Saturday, Dec. 20 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the 3rd District Office (606 S. 52nd St) and families are asked to register by Dec. 19, 12 p.m.. Check out the flyer below for more details.

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