Things to Do in Philadelphia This Week & Weekend

Through Sunday, June 23, 2024

The Doylestown Pride Festival returns for its fifth year in Bucks County. The multi-day event invites local non-profit organizations, businesses, LGBTQ+ community members and allies of all ages to come together for a variety of arts and culture pop-ups, events and celebrations. 2024 highlights include a special film screening at County Theater (Tuesday) and a music-filled block party along State Street (Saturday).

Through Sunday, June 23, 2024

Another world premiere wraps up on the Avenue of the Arts this week with Philadelphia Theatre Company’s The Duat. Using spoken word, North African drumming and stirring choreography, the production takes you into the battle for one man’s life — or afterlife. Finding himself in the Egyptian underworld after death, FBI counterintelligence officer Cornelius Johnson unpacks scenes from his time on Earth — his intentions, decisions and actions — and makes his case before Osiris, the god of the dead, for why he deserves to continue onto the next life.

Through Sunday, June 23, 2024

This contemporary opera at the Avenue of the Arts’ Wilma Theater pulls from a variety of genres — rock, pop, musical theater — and introduces the audience to an unlikely figure: 20th-century Swedish artist and queer mystic Hilma af Klint. This world-premiere production paints an interesting picture of its own using music, dance and theater to explore the life and work of the painter. Now heralded as one of the very first abstract artists, Klint worked in obscurity and saw her art as a divine channel between herself and the universe’s otherworldly forces.

Open now

Pinkies up. Located next door to its sister business Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast in West Powelton Village, Akwaaba Tea Salon exudes peace and elegance, offering English high tea with a twist. Specialty black, herbal or oolong tea flows during the 90-minute seatings. The menu gives a deliciously Southern take on tea-time finger foods: Deviled eggs topped with fried chicken and banana pudding take the place of finger sandwiches and macaroons next to the more traditional scones and tarts. Come as you are or dress to the nines for the ultimate tea party. Bookings are available Friday through Sunday.

The New York rapper has come a long way since nabbing a highly coveted spot as a member of XXL’s Freshman Class of 2017, where the iconic hip-hop publication annually crowns the genre’s rising stars. (Past freshmen include Philly’s own Meek Mill, Lil Uzi Vert and the late PnB Rock.) Hailing from the birthplace of hip-hop, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie carries on the Bronx’s legacy with his magnetic charisma and catchy hooks — and with hits like Drowning, Look Back at It and Swervin.

June 18 & 20, 2024

This week, The Philadelphia Orchestra takes its talent outdoors to the TD Pavilion at The Mann Center for live music under the stars:

• Tchaikovsky Spectacular: The leader of the romantic era of music, Tchaikovsky packed his symphonies and ballads with emotion and a bit of dramatic flair. What could be more romantic than listening to The Philadelphia Orchestra perform some of the composer’s most beautiful works (including Symphony No. 6, 1812 Overture and selections from Swan Lake) against the backdrop of the setting sun — with fireworks to top it all off (Tuesday)?
• Batman in Concert: Grab a blanket and make your way down to The Mann to watch Michael Keaton’s take on the caped crusader during this 35th anniversary celebration of the 1989 Tim Burton classic. The movie is projected onto a huge, outdoor screen as orchestra literally keeps score, performing Danny Elfman’s iconic compositions live to picture (Thursday).

Families, vendors and more head to Rose Tree Park in Media for Delco’s 3rd Annual Juneteenth Celebration. This all-ages event kicks off with food and fun, culminating in a Juneteenth ceremony and a performance by local band Philly Gumbo. This celebration is free to attend, with pay-as-you-go food and drink.

This daylong block party outside of The African American Museum in Philadelphia celebrates freedom and culture through performances by legendary hip-hop duo Kid ‘n Play; local musical talents Seraiah Nicole, Suede Lace and DJ Rich Medina; and 2024 Philadelphia poet laureate Kai Davis. The block party also includes a vendor village highlighting Black-owned businesses, food trucks, hands-on activities for the whole family and an intimate conversation with women political powerhouses moderated by Soledad O’Brien and featuring former mayor of Atlanta Keisha Lance Bottoms.

June 19-23, 2024 (dates vary by event)

Philly continues the season of freedom with a celebration of Juneteenth, the annual commemoration of the end of slavery in America in 1865. Our complete guide to Juneteenth celebrations in Greater Philadelphia showcases how the region marks this momentous holiday in 2024. Here’s a sample of what’s going on this week:

• Juneteenth Celebration at the Please Touch Museum: Celebrate Juneteenth with the little ones this year. Fairmount Park’s children’s museum has a day of special programming this Wednesday, including interactive art workshops, storytimes, music, dance and live performances (Wednesday).
• Juneteenth Celebration at Eastern State Penitentiary: The historic attraction marks Juneteenth with special performances and educational activities for guests of all ages — all included with regular admission. Look forward to a choir concert, a children’s storytime reading, panel discussions and more (Wednesday).
• Juneteenth at the National Constitution Center:  For a whopping $0, guests can explore the National Constitution Center and enjoy tours of the Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality exhibit, special programming highlighting Black Reconstruction-era activists and the rest of the attraction’s permanent offerings (Wednesday).
• Juneteenth Pop-Up Market at the Independence Visitor Center: This pop-up market invites you to shop works and wares from a collection of Black entrepreneurs. The list of participating small businesses includes Kirra’s Cakes for delicious baked goods, Ceramic Concept for handmade pottery and home goods, Haiama Beauty for natural hair and body care products, and more (Wednesday).
• Juneteenth 2024 at the Museum of the American Revolution: This Wednesday at the museum, take a closer look at artifacts connected to Black pioneers in history, explore recreated historical environments with interactive activities, and more. Plus, don’t miss the museum’s current exhibition Witness to Revolution: The Unlikely Travels of Washington’s Tent (Wednesday).
• The Re-Emancipation of Social Dance Juneteenth Dance Party at Christ Church Neighborhood House: Choreographer-director Raja Feather Kelly and former Philly poet laureate Yolanda Wisher team up for the house party of a lifetime. A blend of storytelling, multimedia and dance, this interactive dance-theater experience explores the art of social dance and its impact on Black culture, community and history (Thursday through Saturday).
• Juneteenth Events from Voices Underground: Chester County’s Voices Underground is back with a stellar schedule of Juneteenth events, including a performance by jazz vocalist/composer Ruth Naomi Floyd at Longwood Gardens, a lively African Market Festival in Kennett Square, and an evening of food and fellowship at Lincoln University (Friday through Sunday).

June 19 – July 4, 2024 (dates vary by attraction)

Forty (!) of Philly’s most celebrated cultural institutions offer free admission on select days during Philly’s 16-day Wawa Welcome America festival. This week, look forward to free admission at the following attractions:

• The African American Museum in Philadelphia (Wednesday)
• Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (Thursday)
• Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center (Thursday)
• Independence Seaport Museum (Thursday)
• Historic Rittenhouse Town (Friday)
• Christ Church and Christ Church Burial Ground (Friday)
• The Print Center (Friday)
• Lemon Hill Mansion Museum (Saturday)
• Woodford Mansion Museum (Saturday)
• Science History Institute (Saturday)
• Paul Robeson House & Museum (Saturday)
• Laurel Hill Mansion (Sunday)
• Historic Strawberry Mansion (Sunday)

All aboard who’s going aboard! After nearly three months in dry dock (translation: transported to a dock drained of all water for inspections and repairs), the nation’s longest, fastest and most decorated battleship finally sets sail for its home on the Delaware River with a fresh coat of paint and other necessary repairs. B Street Band and a few special guests are on deck to welcome the historic warcraft back, and carnival games, food and drink options (including complimentary Dietz & Watson dogs and Mission BBQ sliders as well as pay-as-you-go food trucks and bar service), and other family-friendly activities fill the Battleship New Jersey’s pier and promenade.

Woot woot (block) party in the Historic District: Old City’s annual celebration of the tastiest plates and greatest sips in the neighborhood is back. For one night only, over a dozen of the neighborhood’s beloved restaurants, bars, and eateries — including Amada, Cuba Libre, Royal Boucherie and Vista Peru — set up shop on 2nd Street between Market Street and Chestnut Street, offering seasonal snacks, beer, cocktails and wine. Even a few area attractions get in on the fun, including Wax + Wine and Kick Axe Throwing. Live music and an appearance by the Philadelphia Union round out a sumptuous evening.

Get a sneak peek at what Opera Philadelphia has in store for its 2024/2025 season when the opera company hits Dilworth Park at City Hall this week. During this free, open-air, bring-your-own-blanket-or-chair concert, the beloved institution’s talented musicians blow audience members away with performances of a variety of different selections —  solos, choral music, traditional opera and musical theater.

West Philly, stand up. A night of celebration and community, the Overbrook Night Market returns to Lancaster Avenue between 61st Street and 63rd Street for its fourth year. Overbrook residents and visitors alike come with empty stomachs and healthy appetites for family-sized fun as “Rep’s Night Out” promises 40-plus food trucks, three DJs, three beer purveyors, a family zone, and a ton of performances and activities for eventgoers of all ages.

While this show at the Wells Fargo Center will decidedly not be standing room only, the Standing Room Only Tour promises big thrills, big hits and big country. With 17 albums of material to pull from, expect a little bit of everything from the country superstar.

June 20 & 22, 2024 (dates vary by event)

Summer, summer, summertimmme! (Read that in Will Smith’s voice.) The summer season officially hits the hemisphere this week, and Philadelphia celebrates with the following events:

• Summer Solstice at Riverbend Environmental Education Center: The lush Montgomery County green space brings in the longest day of the year with distinctly Philly treats, a wine garden and family-friendly activities (Thursday).
• Summer Solstice Block(s) Party on South Street: Summers on South Street are like no other. See for yourself when this celestial celebration shuts down blocks of 4th Street in the South Street area for a day of shopping, noshing and live music promoting peace near and far (Saturday).

Why not spend 10 straight days tasting your way through Ethiopian, Jamaican, Liberian, Nigerian cuisine and more? Celebrate the bold flavors and vibrant cultures found throughout Africa and the Caribbean during Philadelphia African Restaurant Week. The event showcases over a dozen restaurants, cafes and eateries — including African Small Pot, Le Mandingue African Restaurant and Ackee Tree Jamaican — and urges diners to support the African and Caribbean entrepreneurs behind these delicious destinations.

Celebrate the Year of the Dragon with a glowing, 200-foot-long serpent and dozens of other handcrafted creations. The Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival invites you to explore Franklin Square under the light of massive, intricate lanterns depicting fantastical creatures, familiar critters and more. As you roam, learn and buy from expert artisans, take in cultural performances, and indulge in classic Asian cuisine and American comfort food. The park’s regular attractions remain open alongside the installations, so feel free to hop on the Parx Liberty Carousel, play a round of mini-golf (both at discounted rates), or catch a fountain show before you go.

Grab the kiddos and let’s celebrate Philadelphia families and Smith Memorial Playground’s 125th anniversary with tasty treats, interactive art stations and a few talented friends. Sing and dance to performances by Emmy Award-winning children’s group Alex & The Kaleidoscope, John Shortcake, Ill Doots, and a lineup of local young talent curated by World Cafe Live.

Make Music Philly fills the longest day of the year and neighborhoods throughout the Greater Philadelphia region with the sounds of summer. Started in 2013, this all day “do-it-yourself” music festival taps artists of all ages, abilities, experience and skill levels to participate in outdoor concerts, music lessons, jam session and more. Genres range from bluegrass to acapella, and anyone is invited to join in as performer or audience member.

A hands-on celebration of all things clay and community, Clay Fest returns for its ninth year and brings with it a ton of talented artists. The schedule is jam-packed with back-to-back workshops and demonstrations showcasing a variety of different art styles and materials, a collaborative group sculpt, live performances, an ice cream social and more. Get your hands dirty, discover a new interest and create your own one-of-a-kind piece.

Celebrate Midsommar like a Swede! One of the most popular holidays in the Scandinavian nation, Midsommar celebrates life, love, the longest day of the year and the possibilities that summer brings. The American Swedish Historical Museum transports the magic of Midsommar to FDR Park this week. Traditional folk music played by the Last Chance duo fills the park as families dance, participate in family-friendly activities, explore the museum, don flower crowns and chow down on smörgåstårta and other fare.

Nothing says cool like a party on a boat — and Solar Sounds has one heck of a night planned. All aboard the Ben Franklin Yacht for two floors of live DJs and hours of fun with a stacked entertainment lineup that includes BlckTeeth, Ohlei, HVNLEE, Khiari Bakar, BOI, Firestone and  Riva + Bianca. Partygoers can also expect dancing, vendors, food and more.

The annual PECO Multicultural Series, engaging diverse culture, dance, crafts and cuisine from across Philadelphia’s neighborhoods, kicks off the season with the free Concilio’s Hispanic Fiesta (hosted by the city’s oldest Latino nonprofit and Wawa Welcome America), attended by upwards of 15,000 revelers each day. Enjoy a weekend at the fest’s new location on the John F. Kennedy Boulevard Bridge (by William H. Gray III 30th Street Station) with a plethora of live music, salsa dancing, kid-friendly entertainment and food, craft and apparel vendors with a Latino flair.

The largest outdoor juried arts festival in the tri-state area, the two-day Manayunk Arts Festival returns to Main Street for two days of food, fun and creativity. The free-to-attend festival in the trendy Manayunk neighborhood brings together over 300 fine arts and crafts artists and creators from around the country who showcase works in media from glass and ceramics to photography and paintingsAttendees can also expect plenty of music and food options.

North Philadelphia’s Strawberry Mansion neighborhood has housed many notable Philadelphians, including artist Henry Ossawa Tanner, jazz legend John Coltrane and hip-hop superstar Meek Mill. The Fairmount Park Conservancy and longtime resident and historic preservationist Judith Robinson invite you on a 2.5-mile tour through the history of the neighborhood. Stops on the walking tour include the colonial homes of yesteryear, the historic John Coltrane House, the more contemporary Discovery Center at the Strawberry Mansion Reservoir and more.

Classic car enthusiasts, this one is for you. Rev your engines and head to the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum (home to one of the world’s most impressive collections of racing sports cars) for a stunning display of automotive excellence. The event features an invitation-only collection of rare American and European classic and race cars. This year, the feature marquee is Jaguar, so attendees can expect a special showcase of the “cats” and a panel discussion featuring race-car driver Chip Robinson, former Jaguar North America president Michael Dale and Jaguar collector Dean Cusano.

As masters of the modern era, artists Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Henri Matisse broke boundaries, paved the way for generations of artists and inspired admiration in the hearts of countless art lovers, including the Barnes Foundation’s founder, Dr. Albert Barnes. The museum combed through its archives to curate its newest exhibition of 34 stunning pieces by the master painters. The installation takes museumgoers on a journey through the men’s careers and progression as artists, inviting viewers to look at the iconic works through a fresh lens.

Through Sunday, June 30, 2024 (dates vary by event)

Philly is loud and proud all year long, but things are taken to a whole ’nother level each June. Here are a few ways Philly is celebrating its LGBTQ+ communities this week: 

• Sip City Mixers: Bi Bi Baby Pride Party at Stir Lounge: This special Sip City invites folks who may feel “othered” within the LGBTQ+ community — because they identify as bisexual, pansexual, demisexual or asexual; came out later in life; or any other reason — to head to Rittenhouse Square’s Stir Lounge for an evening of community, connection and fun (Friday).
• 7th Annual Philadelphia Pride Crawl: With so many Pride shows, specials and activities happening this month, why limit your choice to just one? Enjoy drinks and drag at a number of Philly favorites, including Tabu, Howl at the Moon and Brü Craft & Wurst (Saturday).
• Pride Market and Drag Bingo Brunch at the Hyatt Centric Center City: Celebrate Pride at the Hyatt with its annual Makers Market showcasing local queer-owned and -operated small businesses and artists, or challenge your friends to the liveliest brunch and bingo ever hosted by Adele Computer (Saturday).
• Chestnut Hill’s 2nd Annual Pride Party at NoName Gallery: NoName Gallery in Chestnut Hill hosts this fabulous Pride party, with proceeds benefiting the William Way Center (Saturday).
• Queers on the Avenue in East Passyunk: South Philly’s biggest LGBTQ+ mixer is back, packing East Passyunk with drinks, dancing, drag and more (Sunday).

Through Sunday, June 30, 2024 (dates vary by event)

Many music legends got their start in Philly: Marian Anderson, Patti Labelle, Jill Scott, Meek Mill, Will Smith & DJ Jazzy Jeff, Beanie Sigel, Tierra Whack, and the list goes on. Philly heavily celebrates the Black music scene, and with so much home-grown star power, it’s no wonder that Black Music Month was started here — in Philly, by Philadelphians. This June marks the 45th anniversary of Black Music Month, honoring Black musicians and culture with events and performances including:

• A String, Sing, Story & Musical Thing for Juneteenth! at Parkway Central Library: Acclaimed Philadelphia percussionist Karen Smith joins local storytellers and vocalists as they pay homage to Philadelphia and the city’s Black historical legends. Stiltwalkers, community drum circles and more are on the agenda for the evening’s entertainment (Monday).
• V. Shayne Frederick & The New Class: A Juneteenth Celebration at Chris’ Jazz Cafe: V. Shayne Frederick has made a name for himself locally and across the country, and this Tuesday the vocalist, pianist, educator and composer celebrates freedom, independence and Black culture with live music at Chris’ Jazz Cafe (Tuesday).
• The Baylor Project Juneteenth Concert at City Winery: Every day is a celebration of Black music for married couple/jazz duo The Baylor Project. Vocalist Jean and drummer Marcus Baylor’s feel-good tunes blend jazz, gospel, blues and soul — and have resulted in a whopping seven Grammy nominations and an NAACP Award win for Outstanding Jazz Album (Tuesday).
• Honoring Juneteenth: The Soul Rebels at Ardmore Music Hall: The Soul Rebels’ eclectic sound mixes the band’s New Orleans brass tradition with funk, soul, hip-hop, jazz and rock. For this one-night-only performance, the group teams up with Grammy Award-winning bassist Marcus Miller and legendary funk trombonist Fred Wesley for an extra-special, extra-funky show (Wednesday).
• Rhythms of Liberations: Afro Beats & Caribbean at The African American Museum in Philadelphia: Shaku Shaku and whine your waistline with the best of them: The sounds of Africa and the Caribbean come to Old City as the DJ spins Afrobeats, reggae and dancehall hits (Saturday).

Dates vary by event

Black Soul Summer has the inside scoop on the city’s hottest parties and events On the docket for this week:

• Alignment Festival at Life Do Grow Farm: This North Philly urban farm invites the whole community to its land for a day focused on health, wellness, music and art (Saturday).
• GOSHPIT at Vox Populi: Sometimes you’ve just got to let it out, and this week, the GOSHPIT Femme Hip-Hop Rager gives women and femmes the time and space to release their rage through music (Saturday).
• United We Heal Film Festival at Underground Arts: Healing is not something you do alone, and this social justice film festival offers community catharsis through screenings of incredible movies that amplify marginalized voices and stories (Sunday).

Dates vary by event

Soak up these live performances at venues across Greater Philadelphia this week and weekend. Looking for an encore? Check out our updated guide to Philly’s biggest concerts and music fests.

• Father Comes Home from the Wars at Quintessence Theatre: Pulitzer Prize-winner Suzan-Lori Parks’ story about an enslaved Texan seeking freedom shines a new light on the Civil War in this play about the events that sparked Juneteenth (through Sunday).
• The Kid Laroi at The Met: The chart-topping singer-songwriter from Down Under brings his personal lyrics and memorable melodies to The Met on North Broad (Thursday).
• An Evening of Exquisite Chamber Music at Andalusia House & Garden: Experiencing live music in a historic mansion may not have been on your bucket list, but it should be. Join violinist Maya Anjali Buchanan and guitarist John Marcel Williams at the library at Andalusia House & Garden to find out why (Thursday).
• Santana and Counting Crows at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion: Calling all classic and alt-rock fanatics. For 50 years and counting, audiences have been mesmerized by frontman Carlos Santana’s signature guitar riffs and classic records like Oye Como Va. Counting Crows rose to fame in the 1990s with more meditative and introspective songs like Mr. Jones and Round Here (Friday).
• Corinne Bailey Rae at Parx Casino: Corinne Bailey Rae took soul music by storm in 2006 with her critically acclaimed self-titled debut. The singer-songwriter’s breezy vocals float atop her melodies, and her catalog spans feel-good anthems like Put Your Records On to more somber tunes like I’d Do It Again. Rae’s latest tour celebrates the release of her fourth studio album, Black Rainbows (Friday).

Dates vary by event

Treat yourself at one of these food-related happenings in Greater Philadelphia. Hungry for more? Check out our new guide to Philly’s must-try Chinese restaurants.

• Cellar Nights at Lacroix at The Rittenhouse: Beginning this week, join Bar210’s in-house sommelier Daniel Kunz to explore the restaurant’s more interesting pours rarely seen on the menu. Check the Lacroix IG to find out what Kunz serves this week (Wednesdays).
• Juneteenth Dinner at Awbury Arboretum: Sometimes the dinner table is the best classroom, and this week, join an esteemed panel of experts including Lest We Forget Slavery Museum’s Gwen Ragsdale and Juneteenth Festival founder Cornelia Swinson for a panel discussion on the history of the holiday, followed by dinner and live jazz (Wednesday).
• Bring Back the Daq! at Cyrentiy Sips Winery: Everyone loves a marg or trendy espresso martini, but the daiquiri doesn’t get enough love. This Montco winery is changing that with a mixology class dedicated to the classic cocktail (Thursday).
• Moon Rabbit Dinner Collab at a.kitchen: Fresh off being named a James Beard Award finalist, the Washington, DC Vietnamese restaurant takes over the Rittenhouse Square restaurant for a one-night-only, four-course dinner (Sunday).

Dates vary by event

Root, root, root for the home teams at these sporting events in Greater Philadelphia. New to the Philly fandom? Get caught up on the city’s incredible sports history with our comprehensive guide to Philly sports.

• Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park: The Phils have a big week ahead of them, going head-to-head against not one but two rivals. To kick off the week, the team hosts the San Diego Padres, celebrating LGBTQ+ fans for Pride Night (Monday) and Jewish Heritage Celebration (Tuesday) before wrapping up the series on Wednesday. Our guys close out the week with back-to-back-to-back face-offs against the Arizona Diamondbacks (Friday through Sunday).
• Philadelphia Union at Subaru Park: Get ready to go wild when the hometown team hits the pitch this weekend for a special Pride Night match-up against Charlotte FC (Saturday).

Ongoing (dates vary by screening)

’Tis the season for outdoor movie screenings. Bust out the popcorn and BYO blankets and chairs for these open-air film screenings in Greater Philadelphia:

• The Princess Bride (1987) at the Mercer Museum: What better place to catch this beloved fairytale story than at the site of an actual castle? Tickets are $12 and available at the official website (Tuesday).
• Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby (2006) at Sunset Social: Shake and bake, baby, shake and bake: Relive this hilarious film (for free!) about the rise and fall and rise of a Nascar star at Sunset Social (Wednesday).
• Keanu (2016) on Schuylkill Banks: Riverside sunsets and movies about two men and their cat for free? Where else would we want to spend a summer evening (Thursday)?
• Midsommar (2019) at Laurel Hill East: We dare you not to close your eyes: Pitch your picnic blanket among the tombstones at the historic resting grounds for this scream-out-loud film from A24 (Friday).
• Wish (2023) at Peddler’s Village: The cute Bucks County attraction’s free monthly Outdoor Movie Night series is back, starting with this heart-warming, family-friendly Disney film (Friday).
• Space Jam: A New Legacy (2021) at the Lighthouse Sport Complex: The Movies on the Block free outdoor film series returns, and the lighthearted, family comedy starring Bugs Bunny and Lebron James is locked and loaded as are a ton of games, snacks and more. Registration is free but required (Friday).

Ongoing

Warm weather in Philly means good times with good friends — preferably with a breeze at your back and a cold drink in your hand. Many of Philly’s most popular outdoor venues are now open for the season, including waterfront destinations like Morgan’s Pier and Liberty Point; lush beer gardens like Walnut Garden in Rittenhouse Square, Independence Beer Garden in the Historic District, the Garden Bar at the Rodin Museum, Uptown Beer Garden in Center City, and the PHS Pop Up Gardens on South Street and in Manayunk; and ever-popular rooftop attractions like Sunset Social at Cira Green and Bok Bar in South Philly. Looking for even more outdoor options? Check out our 2024 guide to the city’s best rooftop bars and restaurants. Cheers!

Ongoing

Wanna borrow a banned book? Visit Philadelphia’s Little Free(dom) Library initiative encourages residents and visitors in Philadelphia to explore banned fiction and non-fiction texts at over a dozen locations throughout the city. The initiative features new banned titles added during heritage months and observances throughout the year, including Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Pride Month, and Hispanic Heritage Month. This June, dive into brand-new additions from LGBTQ+ authors, including Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender, The Breakaways by Cathy G. Johnson, Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe and This Book Is Gay by Juno Dawson. Spread the love by leaving a book of your own (optional).

Through Sunday, June 30, 2024

The warm weather brings roller-skating to Dilworth Park’s Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink in the heart of Center City on the west side of City Hall. Grab an advanced ticket for hour-long skating sessions on the retro-inspired checkerboard rink (available afternoons and evenings seven days a week). When you’re done, enjoy eats and drinks at the adjacent Air Grille Garden and Dilworth Park Café for roller rink-inspired snacks and cocktails. Work up a sweat? Splash through the park’s dancing ground-embedded fountains. Plus: This week, the rink invites all the divas, Bey hive and Navy members to the floor to slip, slide and skate to hits by our two divas-in-chief during the Rhythm & Roll: Beyoncé vs. Rihanna Night (Thursday).

Through Sunday, July 7, 2024

Film buffs and fans of Latino culture can celebrate a dozen years of cinematic grandeur from established and emerging Latino filmmakers at the annual Philadelphia Latino Arts & Film Festival. The lineup includes feature films, shorts, animations, web series and documentaries, along with workshops, discussions and more. Happening this week:

• PHLAFF Lounge at PhillyCAM: Grab your seat for a series of short films, including a few like the LOLA Award-nominated Bajo La Tierra and Ceiba y Sus Raices Tainas that draw on the Latin American tradition of magical realism (Thursday).
• Films at Cherry Street Pier: Catch a series of shorts and feature-length flicks along the Delaware River waterfront, including the LOLA Award-nominated drama Peccadillo and endearing family-friendly film Canta Santiago (Friday and Saturday).

Through Sunday, August 4, 2024

IMPRINT: Dox Thrash Black Life, and American Culture at The African American Museum in Philadelphia takes a journey through the life, legacy and groundbreaking artworks of renowned printmaker Dox Thrash. The exhibition draws from every major arc of Thrash’s life — from his experiences as a soldier, to his time as a performer on the Black vaudeville circuit, to his years as an art student in Chicago — and showcases rare works that offer new perspectives on his personal story. General admission tickets to The African American Museum are required.

Through Wednesday, August 28, 2024 (Wednesdays only)

No summertime sadness here: Philly’s favorite Wednesday night party is back. Center City District SIPS features happy hour deals at participating restaurants and bars all summer long, with $7 tequila cocktails, $6 wine, $5 beer and half-priced apps at over 75 establishments like Double Knot and the Air Grille Garden at Dilworth Park. This year, you can also look forward to 15% off dinner at select participating restaurants. Can’t figure out where to go? Our 2024 guide has you covered.

Through Saturday, August 31, 2024

Award-winning storytellers are back to offer secrets about the history of Philadelphia and our nation — for free! — through three- to five-minute stories told at special benches near several historic sites in Old City. Uniformed storytellers are on hand from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays at the Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches at the following locations:

• Independence Hall
• Independence Visitor Center
• Signer’s Garden
• Carpenters’ Hall
• Franklin Court
• Betsy Ross House
• National Constitution Center
• Franklin Square

Through Monday, September 2, 2024

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University presents this immersive exhibit spotlighting the world of rainforests and the flora and fauna that inhabit the most diverse ecosystem on the planet. The Under the Canopy exhibition, for students of all ages and presented in both English and Spanish, features plants and rainforest ecology including an encounter with a live sloth, boa constrictor and other animals that call these habitats home, plus life-size climbable animal sculptures (including a gorilla, tortoise, crocodile, red-eye tree frog and Banyan tree), interactive discovery stations, dynamic displays and engaging programming.

Through Monday, September 2, 2024

Everything’s clicking into place. Returning to The Franklin Institute for the first time since 2015, The Art of the Brick displays more than 100 works all made completely of LEGO — from recreations of masterworks like Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa to original works of LEGO sculpture, including a 20-foot-long T. rex dinosaur skeleton and many pieces that are just plain fun. Every sculpture in the hugely impressive display is the handiwork of contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya, the first artist ever to create an exhibition solely of LEGO art.

Through Monday, September 2, 2024

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s the Philly PHLASH! Everyone’s favorite way to conveniently travel from one iconic Philadelphia attraction to another is back for its 30th season. The service runs daily from 10 a.m to 6 p.m., offerings stops at 19 Philly museums and attractions. The best part: It’s only $2 per person per ride, $5 for a one-day pass and $12 for a family pass (two adults and two kids). Even better: SEPTA pass and key card holders ride free.

Through Sunday, September 8, 2024

Coming to the Philadelphia Museum of Art for this spring and summer only, the new Mary Cassatt at Work exhibition celebrates the Philadelphia-raised impressionist artist via 130 prints, paintings and pastels that explore gender, labor and feminine agency. Also included: new findings about the advanced processes and materials the painter — who began studying at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts at age 15 — used in the early 20th century. This is the first major showing of Cassatt’s life’s work in over 25 years. Pro tip: Come on Friday and round-out your trip with the museum’s Juneteenth and Black Music Month celebration featuring the musical stylings of Rashaan Rich & The JuneB All Star (Friday).

Through Sunday, September 29, 2024 (Wednesdays though Sundays)

Philly’s beloved roving beer garden Parks On Tap is back for 2024 with brews and bites at urban parks and green spaces across Philadelphia, with a new neighborhood featured each week. Expect drafts from Mainstay Independent Brewing, Conshohocken Brewing, 2SP Brewing and more, as well as cocktails, burgers, cheesesteaks and snacks. This week’s stop: Lemon Hill in East Fairmount Park, from June 19 through June 23, 2024.

Through Sunday, September 29, 2024

Enthusiasts of riverside chilling, rejoice: Spruce Street Harbor Park reopens this season with the same floating hammocks, technicolor lights, tasty grub and live music you know and love — but this year introduces some fancy new additions. Brand-new for 2024:

• The Lazy Hammock covered bar and performance stage, featuring a 20-foot stage and 16-foot video wall ripe for movie nights and watch parties
• The Blue Anchor, showcasing local beer, handcrafted cocktails and new food offerings,
• The Trading Post, a bodega on the water with locally made ice cream pints, snacks, and merch from Philly artists and vendors,
• Little Fish Outpost: This beloved Bella Vista BYOB known for its fresh seafood joins Spruce Street Harbor Park’s lineup of dining outposts by some of Philadelphia’s most celebrated chefs and restaurants, and
• Somerset Splits Outpost: Also known as Sundae Palace, this Port Richmond ice cream parlor makes its SSHP debut dishing out delicious frozen delights.

Through Sunday, October 27, 2024 (Saturdays & Sundays)

Attention foodies: The nationally renowned seasonal Southeast Asian Market pops up on the weekends at FDR Park. At this massive culinary treasure, visitors can discover over 70 vendors offering traditional dishes, street food and produce native to Asia, plus plants, jewelry and clothing. For the best experience, pack a picnic blanket and don’t forget to bring cash — some vendors are cash-only and there’s no ATM on site. Pro tip: You can find the market near the Broad Street exit of FDR Park from the beginning of May through June.

Through Sunday, January 5, 2025

In the fascinating new Witness to Revolution: The Unlikely Travels of Washington’s Tent exhibition, visitors discover rare documents, inspired works of art and historical objects that paint a fuller picture of the shelter used as George Washington’s headquarters throughout the War for Independence. The tent — the Museum of the American Revolution’s signature artifact — served as the battlefield home, strategic meeting place and office quarters for General Washington, and the exhibition tells the stories of the many individuals who worked to preserve and pass down this vital symbol of the American republic. Also this week: Meet the artist behind the museum’s Pride Month installation when he and the Philadelphia Freedom Band stop by the galleries for artist talks and performances (Saturday).

It’s true: Philly is an award-winning, headline-grabbing kinda town. Need help keeping up with all the buzz? Get the scoop with this weekly roundup of our favorite Philly stories. Hot off the presses:

• Empty-handed? Hardly: Philly nabs two 2024 James Beard Foundation Media Awards.
• Standing Ovation: The home of the Philadelphia Orchestra gets a new name honoring a pioneering Black opera singer.
• Mic, Please: Philly rapper Tierra Whack earns big praise for “one of the best Tiny Desks in history.”
• Say Cheese: Can you guess which Philly street was just named one of the most beautiful in the world?
• Watch: Philly’s Guinness World Records™ title for the largest-attended drag queen story time hits the airwaves.

Catch up on the latest goings on in Philly with this fresh batch of content on visitphilly.com:

• Wise women once said “Don’t go chasing waterfalls …” but they said nothing about trails, campgrounds or trees. Philadelphia boasts a remarkable array of outdoor activities for those seeking adventure, exercise or relaxation. Before heading out to enjoy the summer sun, pursue our brand-new epic guide to outdoor experiences in the region.
• July, is that you? The start of the new month is just a couple of weeks away, and now’s the perfect time to lock in your July plans. Let us help. Check out our round-up of the top festivals, attractions and happenings in Philadelphia next month.
• Philly’s Independence Day festivities go out with Bang! when the biggest fireworks display in the city pops off above the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway on the Fourth of July. Don’t know where to watch? Check out our guide to the perfect places to catch the show.