Night of Lights

Night of Lights is the Chestnut Hill Conservancy’s free, annual public streetscape exhibition that transforms Germantown Avenue into a vibrant corridor of local history and illuminated architecture. Each October, storefront windows along one of Philadelphia’s iconic main streets, in the heart of Chestnut Hill’s commercial corridor, become screens for archival images, historic films, and neighborhood stories, bringing the rich architectural and cultural history of Chestnut Hill and Northwest Philadelphia to life.

Held annually during Archives Month Philly and as part of the DesignPhiladelphia Festival, Night of Lights celebrates the intersection of history, design, and community. It kicks off each year on the first Friday in October. It is a festival partner of DesignPhiladelphia, promoting the work of Philadelphia’s creative community through exhibitions, lectures, and public programs that demonstrate the impact of design on our lives. Archives Month highlights the role of archives in preserving and interpreting community history—an integral part of the Conservancy’s mission.

Now in its eighth year, Night of Lights invites neighbors and visitors alike to explore the Avenue’s historic buildings through projected slideshows, colorful lighting, live music, and storytelling. It is a celebration of community history, design, and archives—and an invitation to experience the past while imagining the future of our vibrant urban village.

The 2025 event will run from Friday, October 3, through Monday, October 6, with the “Flip the Switch” opening ceremony on Friday evening at the Conservancy’s headquarters, located at 8708 Germantown Avenue. Six themed slideshow locations will be announced in September, along with participating musicians and activities.