Head Northern Liberties for the neighborhood's second annual Holiday Kick-Off Celebration, a perfect day of wintertime festivities, music and shopping — with an environmental twist.

Beginning at 2 p.m., promotions and special offerings will be available at participating retail shops and restaurants throughout Northern Liberties.

Then, arriving on a horse drawn carriage at 3 p.m., St. Nick himself will spread holiday cheer to this Philadelphia neighborhood destination.

And for the main event, join Pennsylvania State Representative O’Brien at 4:45 in beginning the holiday season with an eco-friendly Christmas tree- and menorah-lighting ceremony at Liberty Lands Park. Both holiday fixtures will be completely illuminated by solar energy, a great demonstration of the community's "green spirit."

So enjoy hot cocoa, chestnuts and music while you deck the park with holiday cheer. Then take a walk around the artistic neighborhood to enjoy prime-time holiday shopping at participating stores and boutiques!