December is THE SEASON. For whatever holiday you observe, celebrate, or just casually note upon the calendar, the Free Library has a celebratory feast of offerings.
 

Is it a performance you’re seeking? We have Sundays on Stage at Parkway Central Library for families, Open Mic Night at Nicetown-Tioga Library for ages 21 and up, and Harp Concerts, too.

You probably already know that the Winter Solstice indicates the shortest day of the year. Did you also know that in 2019 the Winter Solstice occurs on Saturday, December 21 at 11:19 p.m. in this area? In terms of daylight, that’s five hours and 41 minutes shorter than the Summer Solstice in June. Although no neighborhood libraries won’t be open that late at night, you can celebrate with us earlier in the day at a more reasonable hour.

This year, Hanukkah begins Sunday night, December 22 and continues for eight days, ending on Monday, December 30. Celebrate the Jewish Festival of Lights with stories, crafts, and refreshments!
 

Are you desperately seeking Susan, err Santa? Before attempting to sled to the North Pole in pursuit, check out one of these festive events for Philadelphia Santa stops. The Free Library will be closed on December 25 for Christmas, but Santa has kindly agreed to some concessions.

Kwanzaa is a week-long holiday honoring African culture and traditions. Did you know that it was first observed in 1966? It falls between December 26 and January 1 each year and we will have stories, crafts, and music, in celebration.

For a complete list of all Free Library programs for the holidays or ones that just happen to occur in "holiday heavy" December, please check our events calendar. At last count, there were over 650 events alone in December to choose from!