Macy's   

1300 Market St # 88C
Philadelphia, PA 19107
215-241-9000
www.macys.com

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Every holiday season, the Center City Macy's (formerly Wanamaker's) mounts a sparkling light show that has become a treasured Philadelphia tradition for almost half a century. The display, which usually runs from Black Friday until New Year's Eve, features 100,000 twinkling lights, computerized figures of snowmen, snowflakes, soldiers, sugar plum fairies, Santa, and a world-famous Grand Organ, one of the largest pipe organs in the world. In previous years, the light show has also featured illuminated, ''dancing'' fountains, a giant tree made up of about 23,500 lights and an American flag rising slowly in front of the display. Whatever your age, be sure to add the Macy's Light Show to your holiday list. The Scoop: Ever-present crowds and, at times, jumbled racks can make shopping at Macy's a bit of a challenge. But frequent sales at the world-famous department store mean determined shoppers can score some impressive bargains on brand names such as Calvin Klein, DKNY, Nine West and Tommy Hilfiger. Be vigilant, though -- departments get more disorganized as the sales go on, so make sure the price charged reflects any discounts. Still, the sales are often so much better than other department stores' that the hassle is worth it. Housewares for kitchen, bed and bath keep Macy's true to its all-encompassing department store roots, and a nationwide bridal registry service makes Macy's a popular standby for couples. The Scene: The crowds and sheer volume of merchandise characterize this store. Clientele at Macy's seems to run the gamut: moms trying to convince their pre-teen sons to choose something other than baggy jeans and T-shirts while their daughters paw through racks of the latest junior styles; harried businessman picking up undershirts and boxers; and twenty-somethings trying on interview suits with low-heel pumps to match. Insider Tips: If you're heading to Macy's, check out the local newspaper for coupons that offer extra discounts on most items -- usually in addition to markdowns already taken. Love the merchandise, but hate the crowds? Macy's By Appointment, a personal shopping service, might be worth investigating. They can work with you in person, over the phone, by fax or via email.