Saturday, December 5, 2026 | Elfreth's Alley, Philadelphia
Deck the Alley, the iconic holiday fundraiser, returns to Philadelphia's most historic street! This is an open house where many Alley residents open their doors so you can step inside 18th and 19th-century homes and see how people live in them today. Your ticket also includes the Elfreth's Alley Museum and an evening of seasonal decor and song.
Live music fills the Alley, with costumed performers and carolers strolling under decorations and lights. Craft demonstrations run in the Museum House. There's an activities table for kids and a visit from Santa Claus!
Complimentary cookies and hot cider are served throughout the event, alongside a cash bar featuring Elfreth's Alley wine mugs. The mugs also unlock drink deals around the neighborhood.
Every ticket supports the work of preserving this National Historic Landmark and interpreting its history for visitors near and far.
About Your Ticket Time: Tickets are sold in four entrance times, 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, and 4:00pm. The blocks are to keep traffic flowing comfortably through the Alley and avoid long lines viewing the houses. Arrive any time within your block, then stay as long as you like. There is no need to rush, and no set order for visiting the houses. This event occurs rain, snow, or shine!
Note: There is no restroom on the Alley, but your event program will guide you to nearby restrooms.
Your Ticket Also Opens the Door to Deals Across Old City
Your Deck the Alley ticket is more than entry to the event. It unlocks exclusive deals at local businesses throughout the Old City District. Details to come.
Getting Here
We recommend parking at Independence AutoPark at the Independence Visitor Center, 6th and Market Streets. From there, walk half a block down 6th Street to PHLASH Stop 14 (Liberty Bell Center), in front of La Colombe at 6th and Market. Show your Deck the Alley ticket, paper or digital, and ride PHLASH free that day. Take the bus from Stop 14 to Stop 17 at the Betsy Ross House, then walk a short block up 2nd Street to Elfreth's Alley.
Street parking near the Alley is very limited. Several lots operate in the area.
View our full transportation and parking guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the event work?
Only ticket holders may enter the Alley during the event. Choose one of four entrance times when you purchase: 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, or 4:00pm. Once you're in, take your time and visit the open houses at your leisure.
Do I have to see the houses in a particular order?
Not at all. Visit them in whatever order you like.
Can I buy tickets in person at the event?
Yes. We accept cash and credit cards at the entrance.
Is there parking?
Several lots operate in the area, and limited street parking is available. See our Event Parking and Transportation Guide for full details.
Will there be refreshments?
Yes. Complimentary cookies and hot cider, plus a cash bar featuring Elfreth's Alley wine mugs.
Will there be activities for kids?
Yes. An activities table for kids and a visit from Santa Claus.
What entertainment will be featured?
Live music throughout the Alley, costumed performers and carolers strolling among the houses, and craft demonstrations in the Museum House.