Catholic Charities of Philadelphia is set to host the 70th annual Archbishop’s Benefit for Children (ABC) Christmas Party, an event that will bring together over 500 children and youth from across the Greater Philadelphia Area. The gathering, scheduled for December 9, 2025, is part of ongoing efforts by Catholic Charities to support young people through various community-based and residential programs.

This year’s event carries the theme “The Nutcracker.” It will begin with a live Nativity scene on the steps of the Archdiocesan Pastoral Center (APC), featuring students from Saint Cecilia School in Northeast Philadelphia and animals typically seen in traditional Nativity scenes. The Children’s Choir from Saint Rose of Lima School in Overbrook will also participate.

Following this, festivities will continue at the Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown Hotel, where attendees can join a dance party led by a live DJ. Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez is expected to greet children as they arrive and participate in the activities. Reverend Christopher M. Walsh, Pastor of Saint Cecilia Parish, will act as emcee for the day. Esau Jones, Director of Music and Performing Arts at Saint Rose of Lima School, will lead the choir performances while Steve Volkert serves as DJ.

Children attending the party can look forward to performances, sing-a-longs, snacks, and a visit from Santa Claus who will distribute gifts with help from student volunteers representing Archdiocesan and private Catholic high schools throughout the five-county region.

According to organizers: "The Archbishop’s Benefit for Children (ABC) is a year-round fundraising effort that provides necessary support to help ensure the vitality of Catholic Charities of Philadelphia youth programs for children and families of all faiths throughout the Greater Philadelphia region. These programs provide help and create hope for thousands of children each year, including children with disabilities, at-risk children, and dependent or court-adjudicated youth. All children in need are served regardless of background and faith."

Further details about ABC programs or ways to donate can be found at https://archbishopsbenefitforchildren.org/.