PhillyFun4Kids

The sun is out and there is early autumn fun to be had in and around Philly this weekend. Get outside and enjoy the sunshine while you can and all the fall festivals and family friendly fun!!

Linvilla Orchards Arts & Music Festival 
Saturday Sept. 15
9am – 5pm
137 Knowlton Rd.
Media, PA

Take the whole family to Linvilla Orchards foe the Arts & Music Festival happening Saturday Sept. 15th. The festival offers live musical performances and exhibits for visitors to browse a variety of jewelry, woodcrafts, photography, wine-cork gift décor and more. Free.

Delaware River Festival 
Saturday Sept. 15
10am – 4pm
Camden and Philadelphia waterfronts
2 Riverside Drive
Camden, NJ

Enjoy the Delaware River Festival on Saturday Sept. 15th from 10am – 4pm when  PDE’s Pennsylvania Coast Day and AWE’s River Days come together for a “coast-to-coast” experience. There will be educational fun for families, on-the-water activities, games and crafts for kids, live music, food and beer, and fishing opportunities. The event also kicks off the month-long River Days events at the Camden Waterfront and the 16th year of Pennsylvania’s Coast Day. Free.


Scarecrow Festival 
Saturday Sept. 15 – Sunday Sept. 16
10am – 6pm
Peddler’s Village
Routes 202 & 263
Lahaska, PA

Don’t miss the annual Scarecrow Festival happening at Peddler’s village this weekend. Fall family fun includes scarecrow-making workshops, pumpkin painting, live musical entertainment and kids’ activities. Be sure to vote for your favorites in the Scarecrow Competition and check out fall offerings from local merchants too. Free.

Family Tea Party 
Sunday Sept. 16
10am – 12pm
The Clay Studio
139 N 2nd St
Philadelphia, PA

Join a family-friendly tea party to celebrate the exhibition Just Right: Kids Sized Cups and Bowls at The Clay Studio running Sept. 7th – Sept. 23rd.. Each child will make a ceramic ‘tea cookie’ ornament. Families will get to drink and eat treats from handmade, kid-appropriate pottery, and attendants will receive 15 percent off any purchase from the exhibition. Free.

Bala Ave. Fall Block Party 
Sunday Sept. 16
1pm – 5 pm
210 Bala Avenue
Bala Cynwyd, PA

Enjoy the Bala Ave. Block Party on Sunday Sept. 16th from 1-5pm with food vendors, a screening of the 1pm Eagles game against the Buccaneers, kids’ activities, a moonbounce, and more. Free.

Mexican Independence Day Festival 
Sunday Sept. 16
2pm – 8pm
Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing
01 S. Christopher Columbus
Philadelphia, PA

Part of the PECO Multicultural Series, the Mexican Independence Day Festival will feature live performances, Aztec and other indigenous dancers and traditional food & crafts celebrating Mexican Independence. Free.

FIGMAGO
Saturday Sept. 15 – Sunday Sept. 16
825 Bainbridge Street
Philadelphia, PA

FIGMAGO is a hands-on experience that is both whimsical and narrative – part dance performance, part art installation, and part escape room. It aims to expand visitors’ creativity, teamwork skills, and ability to think outside of the box as they create a mural that comes to life through exploration, discovery, and surprise. The performance adventure will be staged within the studio 40 hours per week and will welcome tourists and families with timed group tickets during both days and evenings. $16 kids, $24 adults.

 

It’s a busy Sept. weekend and while it’s definitely not perfect early September weather there is still much fun to be had in and around Philly this weekend. Don’t miss festivals galore with something for everyone from arts festivals to mushrooms, archaeology to airflights and so much more!!

Archeology Festival 
Saturday Sept. 8
10am – 3pm
Newlin Grist Mill
219 South Cheyney Rd.
Glen Mills, PA

Head to Newlin Grist Mill in Glen Mills for the Archeology Festival on Saturday. This festival features a full day of hands-on activities. Visitors will be able to work with professional archaeologists and assist with three different excavations; sift, clean and process artifacts; and see artifact displays from around Delaware County. There will also be a variety of activities designed for kids. Free.

Hands-On History Day
Saturday Sept. 8
10am – 2pm
The Historical Society of Pennsylvania
1300 Locust St.
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy Hands-On History Day at The Historical Society of Pennsylvania this Saturday Sept. 8th from Watch a historical play on President Lincoln, listen to a storyteller, try out history themed activities and art projects, learn how professionals preserve documents, and try your hand at researching your family tree. $10 adults, free for ages 17 and under.

Wings N’ Wheels Festival 
Saturday Sept. 8
11am – 4pm
Wings Field
1501 Narcissa Road
Blue Bell, PA

Enjoy a day of wings, wheels and aviation history at the Wings N’ Wheels Festival including unique displays of vintage and military aircraft, new planes and classic and antique cars. Sightseeing flights, food, music and children’s activities will also be featured. All admissions fees are tax-deductible and will directly support the mission of Angel Flight East. $10 adults, $5 children.

Greenfest Philly
Sunday Sept. 9
10am – 4pm
Bainbridge Street
Between 3rd and 5th
Philadelphia, PA

With more than 100 exhibitors and vendors Greenfest Philly  is a great spot to learn about living sustainably while having fun. The event features shopping for local green wares, food, live music and demonstrations, kid-friendly activities and more. Free.

Philadelphia Honey Festival
Friday Sept. 7 – Sunday Sept. 9
Multiple locations
Philadelphia, PA

The 9th annual Philadelphia Honey Festival is taking place Sept. 7th – Sept. 9th with honey-themed events happening at multiple locations in the city. Don’t miss the family friendly events at Wyck Philadelphia on Saturday Sept. 8th from 10am – 4pm and Bartram’s Garden on Sunday Sept. 9th from 10am – 4pm.

Pizza Fest 
Saturday Sept. 8
1-7pm
Citizens Bank Ball Park
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss Pizza Fest on Saturday Sept. 8th – one of Philadelphia’s largest and most popular festivals featuring 200+ varieties of everyone’s favorite food – pizza! Tickets $12.95 and up.

Kennett Square Mushroom Festival
Saturday Sept. 8 – Sunday Sept. 9
State Street
Kennett Square, PA

The 33rd annual Kennett Square Mushroom Festival celebrates the town’s top crop with a carnival, street fair, growers’ exhibits, antique and classic car show, entertainment for kids and a fried-mushroom-eating contest on Sat. On Sun. enjoy the Mushroom Run and Fun Walk, baby photo contest, another street fair and carnival, a soup-and-wine fest, more growers’ exhibits, mushroom tastings and a silent auction, too. $3, free for ages 12 and under.

Lansdowne Arts on the Avenue Festival 
Sunday Sept. 9th
12pm – 6pm
1 N. Lansdowne Ave.
Lansdowne, PA

The Lansdowne Arts on the Avenue Festival features live music, artists, performances, demonstrations, activities for the kids, food trucks, a beer garden, and fun for the whole family. Free.

There might be a little rain in the weekend forecast but that doesn’t stop the fun in Philly this weekend. Check out these great events happening in and around the city for families!

Philly Free Streets
Saturday Aug. 11
8am – 1pm
North Broad Street
Between City Hall and Erie Ave.
Philadelphia, PA

With a round-trip route that covers eight miles, this year’s Philly Free Streets event is the biggest yet. There’s no formal starting point or finish line, so attendees can enter or exit at any point along the event footprint. Participants can explore the neighborhoods the route runs through and check out local shops and businesses along the way. Organizers are partnering with community organizations and historic sites along North Broad Street to showcase the rich history of the area at the event as well. View full program line-up and participating organizations here. Free.

Japanese Culture Family Festival 
Please Touch Museum
Saturday Aug. 11
9am – 5pm
4231 Avenue of the Republic
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss the Japanese Culture Family Festival happening on Saturday Aug. 11th at the Please Touch Museum to celebrate the final weeks of Hello from Japan exhibit. The museum is partnering with Japan America Society and Shofuso House to offer a day of exploration and discovery of Japanese culture and traditions. $11-$19

Peach Festival 
Saturday Aug. 11 – Sunday Aug. 12
Peddler’s Village
Routes 202 and 263
Lahaska, PA

Celebrate National Peach Month at the Peddler’s Village Peach Festival & Sidewalk Sale on Saturday Aug. 11 Sunday Aug. 12 from 10am – 6pm. Savor the flavors of all things peach from savory to sweet at outdoor carts and inside the restaurants and shops of Peddler’s Village. Rain or shine. Free admission.

Puppies in the Pop-Up (to benefit the PSPCA)
Saturday Aug. 11
12pm – 2pm
1315 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA

Come play and take pictures with adorable puppies and dogs from the PSPCA at the Philly Photo Pop-Up! You can also adopt an adorable puppy while there! A portion of the proceeds made from Puppies in the Pop-Up will go to the PSPCA. Tickets $20. Donations welcome.

Kids Who Race Day
Saturday Aug. 11
Mercer Museum
84 S Pine Street
Doylestown, PA

Experience some of the ways kids in the area race and compete at Kids Who Race Day at the Mercer Museum.  Participants include Pinewood Derby racers from the Washington Crossing Council, Boy Scouts of America; the Oaklane Quarter and the Bucks County Soapbox Derby.  Visit with the racers, and join activities scheduled throughout the day.  Free with museum admission.

Macy’s Family Fun Day: Youth Empowerment Celebration
Saturday Aug. 11
10am – 5pm
African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch St.
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy a variety of interactive programming and workshops aimed at empowering youth audiences during Macy’s Family Fun Day at the African American Museum. The first 250 guests receive free admission to the museum. $10 kids, $14 for adults.

PECO Family Jams: Rock Figures
Sunday Aug. 12
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
1020 South Street
Philadelphia, PA

In the exhibit Outsider Inspirations, artist Isaiah Zagar explores unique art environments all over the world through his artwork. Art environments are permanent large scale artworks that surround the viewer and encompass an entire space. In 2001, Zagar and his family visited Nek Chand Saini’s art environment the Rock Garden in India. Chand collected rocks and other materials that he assembled into sculptures that cover 18 acres. At PECO Family Jams: Rock Figures, you can create your own Nek Chand inspired figures using a variety of river rocks and sticky tack. Learn about the Philadelphia Magic Gardens venue and other art environments on a family-friendly tours at 1:00 and 2:30 PM. Free with admission. $10 for adults, $5 for ages 6-12, free for children 5 and under.

FIGMAGO
Sunday Aug. 12
825 Bainbridge Street
Philadelphia, PA

FIGMAGO is a hands-on experience that is both whimsical and narrative – part dance performance, part art installation, and part escape room. It aims to expand visitors’ creativity, teamwork skills, and ability to think outside of the box as they create a mural that comes to life through exploration, discovery, and surprise. The performance adventure will be staged within the studio 40 hours per week and will welcome tourists and families with timed group tickets during both days and evenings. $16 kids, $24 adults.

Peach, Princess, and Pirate Festival 
Saturday Aug. 11 – Sunday Aug. 12
1pm – 4pm
Camden Children’s Garden
3 Riverside Dr,.
Camden, NJ

Join the party at Camden Children’s Garden during the Peach, Princess, and Pirate Festival celebrating New jersey’s favorite summer fruit with crafts, wand-making, a planting activity and a treasure hunt. Kids are encouraged to dress in their favorite princess or pirate costume to receive $1 off admission. Visit the farm stand for fresh peaches and peach ice cream. $9

First weekend of August so there’s lots to do in and around Philly this weekend.

Schyulkill Freedoms Festival 
Saturday Aug. 4
12pm – 8pm
1601 Valley Forge Road
Phoenixville, PA

The first annual Schuylkill Freedoms Festival is taking place Saturday, August 4th starting at 12:00pm. This new event is an outdoor, all ages, music festival. Presented by Chaplin’s Live, featuring two stages for live music: one stage for larger acts, and the second, for singer-songwriters. Bring chairs, picnic blankets, & the whole family! Free.

Peach Festival
Saturday Aug. 4
Linvilla Orchards
137 Knowlton Rd.
Media, PA

Don’t miss the annual Peach Festival at Linvilla Orchards. Enjoy pick-your-own peaches and other fruits and veggies, plus hayrides, pony rides, face painting, train rides, fishing, music, games and storytime. Free admission. Some attractions ticketed.

42nd Street
Friday Aug 3 – Saturday Aug 4
7:30pm, 1:30pm on Aug. 4
Upper Darby Performing Arts Center
601 N. Lansdowne Ave.
Drexel Hill, PA

Mainstage at Upper Darby Summer Stage offers a Broadway-caliber production for all ages with 42nd Street running its final weekend Aug 3-4. The ultimate show-biz musical, the Tony Award winner for Best Musical, 42nd Street is a celebration of Broadway, Times Square, and the people who make the magic of musical theatre. Tickets $14-$17.

The Oval+
Friday Aug 3 – Sunday Aug 5
Eakins Oval
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA

The Oval+ is open for the 2018 season and is bigger and better than ever before! The eight acres of public space located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is a summer pop-up park with community programming, events, and activities. Free.

First Sunday Family Day: Story Sharing
Sunday Aug. 5
Barnes Foundation
2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy
Philadelphia, PA

Head to the Barnes Foundation for First Sunday Family Day featuring Story Sharing. Stories capture our imaginations and connect us to the past, present, and future. This family program features an array of voices and presentations that entertain and enlighten audiences of all ages. Explore writers’ and artists’ inspirations via creative activities such as a typewriter station, poetry prompts, story cloths and journal making. There’ll also be storytelling and multicultural dance performances. Free.

2nd Street Festival 
Sunday Aug. 5
12pm – 10pm
North 2nd Street
Between Germantown & Spring Garden Sts.
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss the 10th annual 2nd Street Festival this Sunday Aug. 5th from 12pm – 10pm when a six-block stretch in Northern Liberties plays host to a Philly-centric lineup of five bands on three stages, more than 150 food, drink, and merchandise vendors and dozens of food trucks. Free admission.

ACANA African Fest
Sunday Aug. 5
2pm – 8pm
Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing
101 S Christopher Columbus Blvd
Philadelphia, PA

Head to the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing for the ACANA African Festival on Sunday August 5th. Enjoy performances by musicians and dance troupes from around the African continent, as well as food and shopping for traditional and modern crafts.  Free.

Blue Cross River Rink Summer Fest
Friday Aug. 3 – Sunday Aug 5
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, featuring Philadelphia’s only outdoor roller skating rink, a midway, and mini-golf is back this summer for its fourth season thanks to the continued support of Independence Blue Cross. Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest is the perfect place to relax and hang out with the entire family. Entrance to the park is free and open to the public. Roller skating, mini-golf, games, rides and concessions are pay-as-you-go. ​

Last weekend in July so get out and have fun at one of these great family fun summertime events including car shows, cat shows, live theater performances, and much more!

Philadelphia Dance Day
Saturday July 28
9am – 8pm
Multiple locations around the city

A group of local dance companies and independent instructors have teamed up to offer Philadelphia Dance Day – a day packed with more than 25 free workshops, live performances, and a $10 evening dance party and showcase. Philadelphia Dance Day’s goal is to unite the community in celebrating dance as a powerful platform for creative expression and physical activity. Most of the workshops will be held at the Gershman Y in Center City, but a few will also be held at Major Moment Studio (1624 South St.) and Headlong Studios (1170 S. Broad St).

Twelfth Night
Saturday July 28
7pm-9pm
Clark Park
4398 Baltimore Ave.
Philadelphia, PA
(* Note: Due to weather the Saturday evening performance will be held in Harold Prince Theater in Annenberg.)

Shipwrecked, stranded, and separated, twins Viola and Sebastian each fears the other is lost. Using her wits, Viola disguises herself as a page boy and stumbles into a love triangle that upends the the island of Illyria. Join Shakespeare in Clark Park for a glam-rock exploration of the Bard’s classic romance featuring some of Philadelphia’s finest student musicians alongside professional actors. Free.

Blue Cross River Rink Summer Fest
Friday July 27 – Sunday July 29
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, featuring Philadelphia’s only outdoor roller skating rink, a midway, and mini-golf is back this summer for its fourth season thanks to the continued support of Independence Blue Cross. Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest is the perfect place to relax and hang out with the entire family. Entrance to the park is free and open to the public. Roller skating, mini-golf, games, rides and concessions are pay-as-you-go. ​

The Oval+
Friday July 27 – Sunday July 29
Eakins Oval
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA

The Oval+ is now open for the 2018 season and is bigger and better than ever before! The eight acres of public space located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is a summer pop-up park with community programming, events, and activities. Free.

Kittydelphia
Saturday July 28 – Sunday July 29
Power Plant Productions
230 N. Second Street
Philadelphia, PA

Calling all cat lovers… Don’t miss Kittydelphia happening this Saturday July 28 – Sunday July 29 at Power Plant Productions in Old City. Check out adoptable cats, meet and greets with famous cat internet stars, raffles, speakers, vendors, and much more. This free pop-up cat fair event supports PAWS, Philadelphia’s 100% donor-supported no-kill shelter. Free. Donations welcome.

42nd Street
July 27 – July 28
7:30pm
Upper Darby Performing Arts Center
601 N. Lansdowne Ave.
Drexel Hill, PA

Mainstage at Upper Darby Summer Stage offers a Broadway-caliber production for all ages with 42nd Street running July 27th – 28th. The ultimate show-biz musical, the Tony Award winner for Best Musical, 42nd Street is a celebration of Broadway, Times Square, and the people who make the magic of musical theatre. Tickets $14-$17.

13th Annual East Passayunk Car Show
Sunday July 29
11am – 4pm
East Passayunk Ave
Philadelphia, PA

The 13th Annual East Passayunk Car Show and Street Festival presented by Jefferson Health Methodist Hospital will be held on Sunday, July 29th from 11:00am to 4:00pm, on EPA between Broad and Dickinson streets.  Look for nearly 175+ muscle, classic, antique, custom and show cars, trucks and motorcycles lining the Avenue, with street vendors, circus performances, rack sales, kids’ activities, live music and the Bang! Boom! CRAFT! Show in between. Wine and dine among the cars as award-winning restaurants and food trucks serve specially priced street food and summertime drinks. Admission is FREE for attendees and $20 for cars.

Happy weekend, Philly families! Lots happening this mid-July weekend in and around Philly.

Upper Darby Shooting Stars
Saturday July 14
7:30pm
Rose Tree Media Park
1671 N. Providence Road
Media, PA

Don’t miss the high-energy song and dance performance from the Upper Darby Shooting Stars at Rose Tree Media Park this Saturday July 14 featuring exciting medleys from Broadway, Disney musicals and Big Bands. Free.

South Jersey Caribbean Festival
Saturday July 14
12pm – 8pm
Wiggins Park
2 Riverside Dr.
Camden, NJ

Experience the crafts, sounds and flavors of the region’s Caribbean community at the South Jersey Caribbean Festival with steel-drum music, jerk chicken and fun. Free.

Bastille Day: The Farewell Tour 
Saturday July 14
5:30pm
Eastern State Penitentiary
2027 Fairmount Ave.
Philadelphia, PA

Storm the Bastille during Bastille Day: The Farewell Tour one last time at the Eastern State Penitentiary with their uniquely Philly spin on the French Revolution with song, dance and a famed beheading. This year’s event will be the last for this annual favorite.  Performed by experimental cabaret troupe The Bearded Ladies, the celebration is attended by Joan of Arc, Ben Franklin and a human-sized French baguette. The fun culminates when 2,000 Tastykakes are thrown from atop the towers. Free.

Blue Cross River Rink Summer Fest
Friday July 13 – Sunday July 15
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, featuring Philadelphia’s only outdoor roller skating rink, a midway, and mini-golf is back this summer for its fourth season thanks to the continued support of Independence Blue Cross. Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest is the perfect place to relax and hang out with the entire family. Entrance to the park is free and open to the public. Roller skating, mini-golf, games, rides and concessions are pay-as-you-go. ​

BlueBEARY Blast Festival 
Saturday July 14 – Sunday July 15
Camden Children’s Garden
3 Riverside Dr.
Camden, NJ

Head to the Camden Children’s Garden for BlueBEARY Blast Festival to enjoy rides, the garden and splash pad, themed crafts, blueberry ice cream and an appearance by mascot Mum Bear. $9.

Dog Days of Summer 
Sunday July 15
12pm – 3pm
Franklin Square

Bring your four legged friends to enjoy Dog Days of Summer at Franklin Square. Dog Days will welcome four-legged friends with free pet portraits, sprinklers, and shallow pools for cooling off. FREE.

 

The weather in Philly went from heatwave to perfection all weekend so get outside and enjoy the low humidity and perfect weather at one of these great summer fun events for families.

Blueberry Festival 
Saturday July 7
Linvilla Orchards
137 W Knowlton Rd,
Media, PA

Head to Linvilla Orchards in Media for the summer Blueberry Festival. Pick your own blueberries from acres of bushes and watch the blueberry pie-eating contest. There will also be live entertainment, arts and crafts, and costumed characters. Free admission. Attractions pay as you go.


26th Annual Haddonfield Craft and Fine Art Festival 
Saturday July 7 and Sunday July 8
Downtown Haddonfield
Haddonfield, NJ

Don’t miss the 26th Annual Haddonfield Craft and Fine Art Festival happening Saturday July 7th and Sunday July 8th. More than 250 artisans will exhibit a wide range of arts and crafts, including ceramics, glass, jewelry, wood, fiber, metal, paper, drawings, paintings, photography and wearable art. Free.

PECO Family Jams: Music Boxes with Phyllis Chen
Sunday July 8
12pm – 4pm
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
1020 South Street
Philadelphia, PA

Inspired by Isaiah Zagar’s mosaics, musician and composer Phyllis Chen is working with the community to create a 400-foot music box strip for a performance in Philadelphia this  September. During this PECO Family Jams hands-on family workshop at Philadelphia Magic Gardens, each participant will create a one-foot section of Phyllis’ music box mosaic. Participants will explore music boxes and create music by drawing on and punching holes in special music box paper. $10 for adults, $5 for ages 6-10.

Petapalooza
Sunday July 8
12-3pm
Chestnut Hill
Germantown Ave and Highland Ave
Philadelphia, PA

Head to Chestnut Hill for Petapalooza and spend the day surrounded by some furry, four-legged friends.  Owners are encouraged to bring their pets to this annual event celebrated for its “all things pet” atmosphere. The event offers activities for both pets and their humans, such as raffles, a paw reader, a caricaturist, and a photo booth.  The fan favorite “Yappy Hour” will also return, which includes drink and food specials at select restaurants. Pet rescue organizations will be on site with animals looking for forever homes! Don’t miss out on this daylong event that’s sure to entertain both animals and their owners alike.  Free.

Concilio’s 37th Annual Hispanic Fiesta
Saturday July 7 and Sunday July 8
2-8pm
Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

Part of the annual PECO Multicultural Series of festivals, the two-day Concilio’s Hispanic Fiesta features authentic dance and musical performances, food and treats from local Latino food vendors and a beer garden from the team at Goose Island Philadelphia. The festival continues to unite and raise awareness of Latino culture and community through the celebration of music, dance, entertainment, ethnic foods and artisan crafts from nearly all Latin American countries. Free.

Blue Cross River Rink Summer Fest
Friday July 6 – Sunday July 8
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, featuring Philadelphia’s only outdoor roller skating rink, a midway, and mini-golf is back this summer for its fourth season thanks to the continued support of Independence Blue Cross. Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest is the perfect place to relax and hang out with the entire family. Entrance to the park is free and open to the public. Roller skating, mini-golf, games, rides and concessions are pay-as-you-go. ​

Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival 
Friday July 6 – Sunday July 8
Franklin Square
6th & Race Sts.
Philadelphia, PA

It’s the final weekend to enjoy the Chinese Lantern Festival a celebration of light and culture that features displays by artisans from China including magnificent steel-framed and silk-wrapped giant animals, springtime flowers and trees, and symbols of Chinese culture using traditional methods. In its final weekend in Philly, Franklin Square will glow with 29 larger-than-life illuminated lantern displays of 1,500 individual sculptures with more than 15,000 LED lights in brilliant colors. $18, adults; $12, ages 17 & younger; $10 seniors & active military.

Living History: Reenactment of the First Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence
Sunday July 8
11:45am – 12:30pm
Independence Square
Chestnut Street between 5th and 6th Streets
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy a reenactment of the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence on Sunday at historic Independence Square. Reenact how on July 8, 1776, Colonel John Nixon strode to a platform in the State House yard (now Independence Square) and shared the stunning news of the Declaration of Independence with the assembled crowd. Help celebrate this historic occasion and join the crowd to hear a commemorative reading of the document by a park ranger portraying Colonel Nixon. Free copies will be given out so you can follow along and cheer or jeer. Free.

It’s the weekend before 4th of the July holiday so there is a ridiculous amount of free fun  happening in Philly this weekend! Get out, beat the heat, and enjoy one of these great family events in and around Philly while celebrating the birth and independence of our country!

Media Hometown Classic & Kids Klassic
Saturday June 30
8:30am – 6:00pm
Media, PA

The Media Hometown Cycling Classic happening Sat. June 30th is the first sanctioned bike race of its kind, called a “criterium,” in Delaware County. The race is sanctioned by USA Cycling and is part of the PA Cycling Association’s points championship series. Bring the whole family out to spectate and sign the kids up for the free KidsKlassic bike races for ages 5-8 starting at 2:30. Free.

Free Museum Day at First Bank of the United States
Saturday June 30
10am – 4pm
116 S 3rd St,
Philadelphia, PA

Join the Friends of Independence and Independence National Historical Park for Free Museum Day at First Bank of the United States offering a sneak peek at Alexander Hamilton’s First Bank of the United States. The building, which has not been open to the public in over three decades, is our nation’s oldest surviving federal building. On June 30th from 10am – 4pm only, visitors are invited to take a brief tour of the interior of the building and learn about future plans to reopen the First Bank of the United States. Free.

Independence Day Celebration
Saturday June 30 – Sunday July 1
Museum of the American Revolution
101 S. 3rd St.
Philadelphia, PA

Celebrate Independence at the Museum of the American Revolution with music, family-friendly activities, and costumed historical interpreters. Throughout the weekend, visitors will receive a pocket Declaration of Independence with a special bookmark  to help decode key phrases in the venue’s  core galleries.

The Philly Ice Cream Scoop
Saturday June 30
11am – 5pm
Reading Terminal Market
Center Court

The best of Philadelphia’s ice cream artisans will be gathering at the Reading Terminal Market to celebrate Philly’s rich ice cream heritage during The Philly Ice Cream Scoop. Come enjoy the City’s favorites: Bassetts, Franklin Fountain, Little Baby’s, Lil’ Pop Shop, Zsa’s, and more! Enjoy ice cream specials or win prizes in the ice cream eating contest. Ever been curious how the pros make your favorite sweet treat? Don’t miss the ice cream demonstrations throughout the day! Make some ice cream arts & crafts, get your photo taken in the photo booth or enjoy a game of ice cream shuffleboard. Free.

Pennsylvania Convention Center Community Festival 
Saturday June 30
12pm – 5pm
1101 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA

Celebrate the Pennsylvania Convention Center’s 25th birthday with a Community Festival featuring live entertainment, strolling acts, self-guided tours of the center’s $1.5 million art collection, birthday cake, face painting, stilt walkers, games, pop-up gardens, all followed by a screening of the movie SING in the Nutter Theater from 5-7pm. Free.

On the Delaware Music Festival 
Saturday June 30
10am – 8pm
Pennypack on the Delaware Park
Philadelphia, PA

On The Delaware Music Festival is a new music festival featuring a variety of Philadelphia’s most popular rising artists presented by Riverfront North Partnership, Southeast Northeast – The SENE, Sandbox Music Publishing and Wawa Welcome America! The event is sponsored by PECO, Councilman Bobby Henon and the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department. In addition to musical acts, the festival will include a wide-range of entertainment and exhibits to engage the community and the whole family. Free.

Free Museum Day
Saturday June 30 – Sunday July 1
Participating Museums around Philadelphia

Enjoy free museum access to several of the areas museums this weekend as part of Wawa Welcome America including Philadelphia Museum of Art, Rosenbach Museum and Library, Free Library of Philadelphia Rare Books, Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. The Barnes Foundation, African American Museum, and more! Check out full listing of participating museums and which days free admission is offered at https://welcomeamerica.com/events-archive/

Wawa Welcome America Fireworks 
Saturday June 30
9:30pm – 10pm
Delaware River Waterfront
Philadelphia, PA

Don’t miss this Philly-centric Wawa Welcome America Fireworks show accompanied by a soundtrack that will be broadcast by the festival’s radio partner, iHeart Media. Free.

Freedom Fit Fest
Sunday July 1
8am – 7pm
The Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps
2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA

The new Freedom Fit Fest event starts kicks-off with the Run the River 5k hosted by Philadelphia Runner. Fitness activities will take place from 9am-2pm. Attendees can register to enjoy free workout classes such as an Orangetheory® Fit Camp, yoga, dance fitness or the U.S. Army Boot Camp. Food will also be on-site. Free.

Freedom Blast
Sunday July 1
10am – 4pm
Fort Mifflin
6400 Hog Island Rd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Independence Day Freedom Blast Celebration at Fort Mifflin features Revolutionary War soldiers and citizens such as Benjamin Franklin, quill pen writing, activities like Woodworking and Blacksmithing, guided site tours and a few blasts from the cannon. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the riverfront picnic area. Free.

Don’t miss the Nemours duPont Pediatrics Kids Klassic happening this Saturday June 30, in Media, PA. In addition to the bicycle races for licensed amateurs and pros at the inaugural Hometown Classic kids can get in on the fun, too but you have to register soon before it’s too late!!

During the all-day race event kids between the ages of 5-8 years can take part in a special kid-friendly bike race just for them – the Nemours du Pont Pediatrics Kids Klassic. They will be racing a 3 to 4 block portion of the same course as the pros and will get a medal at the finish line.

So, bring the family, bring the friends, bring the team and enjoy the day! In addition to great racing and pro announcers and music there will be food, drink, merchandise, giveaways, kid’s activities and more. Picnic on the grass, set up a team tent on the sidewalk, or hang out with sponsors at Race Village.

Media (just minutes outside of Philadelphia) is known throughout the region for its outdoor events, making it an ideal town for a criterium (you know, a one-day  bicycle race on a circuit road course). Come before the kids races — which start at 2:30pm — or stay after and watch all the action.

The best part for moms and dads is that the Kids Klassic event is FREE, but you need to sign up your kiddos in advance. There is a limit on the number of kid racers, so be sure to register now before it’s too late at https://www.bikereg.com/media-hometown-cycling-classic

Beautiful weather is here and there is so much to do in and around Philly this weekend for families. Don’t miss all the festival fun in Philly this weekend!

Wayne Music Festival 
Saturday June 9
2pm – 10pm
Wayne, PA

The Wayne Music Festival annual event attracts more than 10,000 people each year to enjoy a wide range of musical genres and artists from all over the country.  The Wayne Music Festival highlights local and regional acts, as well as over 75 local restaurants and vendors. Free.

Family Festival: Pride Celebration
Saturday June 9
9am – 5pm
Please Touch Museum
4231 Avenue of the Republic
Philadelphia, PA

Celebrate the many ways families come together and everything that makes people unique at the Family Festival: Pride at the Please Touch Museum this Saturday June 9th from 9am – 5pm. $19.

Airplane Day
Saturday June 9
10am – 4pm
Fort Mifflin
1 Fort Mifflin Rd.
Philadelphia, PA

Come answer the question “Why did they build the Fort so close to the airport?” Head to Fort Mifflin to listen to pilots talk to the control tower, see model airplanes, and enjoy “sweet spot” tours. $10 adults, $6 kids.

PIFA Street Fair
Saturday June 9
11am – 7pm
Broad Street
Between City Hall and South Street
Philadelphia, PA

The Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts culminates with this huge block party featuring dozens of performances (bands, orchestras, dancers), amusement rides (Ferris wheel, virtual-reality swings, slides, rope obstacle course), food vendors and interactive fun. Free.

Lansdowne 125th Night Market
Saturday June 9
The Lansdowne Landing
Lansdowne Ave
Lansdowne, PA

Celebrate 125 Years of Lansdowne with its very first Night Market! There will be food trucks along with our local restaurants, music by Stewart Cutler and Friends and a beer garden (7pm-10pm) hosted by the Historic Lansdowne Theater Corporation. Eat, drink and celebrate with all the people that make Lansdowne great. Free.

Blue Cross River Rink Summer Fest
Friday June 7 – Sunday June 9
101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, featuring Philadelphia’s only outdoor roller skating rink, a midway, and mini-golf is back this summer for its fourth season thanks to the continued support of Independence Blue Cross. Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest is the perfect place to relax and hang out with the entire family. Entrance to the park is free and open to the public. Roller skating, mini-golf, games, rides and concessions are pay-as-you-go. ​

Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival 
Friday June 8 – Sunday June 10
Franklin Square
6th & Race Sts.
Philadelphia, PA

The Chinese Lantern Festival is a celebration of light and culture that features displays by artisans from China including magnificent steel-framed and silk-wrapped giant animals, springtime flowers and trees, and symbols of Chinese culture using traditional methods. For five weeks only, Franklin Square will glow with 29 larger-than-life illuminated lantern displays of 1,500 individual sculptures with more than 15,000 LED lights in brilliant colors. $18, adults; $12, ages 17 & younger; $10 seniors & active military.

Odunde Festival
Sunday June 10
10am – 8pm
23rd & South Street
Philadelphia, PA

Odunde is a Yoruba word that means “Happy New Year.” Every year, the Odunde Fest — one of the country’s biggest of its kind — features vendors from not only America but from an array of African and Caribbean countries as well. Enjoy African, Caribbean and soul food, as well as live music, performances, and an authentic African marketplace with 100-plus vendors. Free.