Philly's 100+ Biggest Events & Fests for Summer 2024 & Beyond

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.

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 LEGOs — 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. Every piece in the hugely impressive display is the handiwork of contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya, the first artist ever to create an exhibition of LEGO art.

Through Sunday, September 8, 2024

This new exhibition celebrating Pennsylvania-born impressionist artist Mary Cassatt explores gender, labor and feminine agency through over 130 prints, paintings and pastels. Also included: new findings about the advanced processes and materials Cassatt used in the early 20th century. This is the first major showing of Cassatt’s life’s work in over 25 years.

Through Wednesday, September 25, 2024 (select dates)

Play ball! This spring and summer, Philadelphia Phillies’ superstars like Bryce Harper, Trea Turner and Zack Wheeler take the field for another season of bedlam at the bank in South Philly. See the online schedule for dates and times.

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

Philly’s beloved roving beer garden Parks On Tap is back for the spring and summer with brews and bites at urban parks and green spaces across Philadelphia, with a new neighborhood featured each week. 2024 stops include: Clark Park, the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center and Penn Treaty Park. Expect drafts from Mainstay Independent Brewing, Conshohocken Brewing, 2SP Brewing and more, as well as cocktails, burgers, cheesesteaks and snacks.

Through Saturday, October 19, 2024

Dooooop! The Philadelphia Union kicks into the warmer weather months as Dániel Gazdag, Kai Wagner, Andre Blake and their teammates start their run toward the MLS Cup Playoffs. Head down to the stunning soccer-specific Subaru Park in Chester under the Commodore Barry Bridge to catch all of the action.

Through Sunday, October 27, 2024

This spring and summer, Longwood Gardens’ glorious fountains jet to life during the attraction’s annual Festival of Fountains. Performances include the daily Main Fountain Garden show with 1,719 jets soaring as high as 175 feet; the 110-year-old Open Air Theatre and its 750 jets in changing patterns spinning and dancing to music (daily except Tuesdays); and dazzling nighttime displays during spectacular Illuminated Fountain Performances, plus a cool behind-the-scenes tour (Thursdays through Saturdays).

Through October 2024 (Saturdays & Sundays)

Attention foodies: The nationally renowned seasonal Southeast Asian Market is back on weekends to 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.

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 one of 14 locations throughout the city. Initially launched in February 2024 to highlight banned books by Black authors for Black History Month, the initiative has expanded with new banned titles added during heritage months and observances throughout the year, including Women’s History Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Pride Month, and Hispanic Heritage Month.

The country’s oldest and largest event of its kind features equestrian disciplines, outdoor exhibitions, special events and an old-fashioned country fair — with nearly 60 vendors — all at the Devon Show Grounds.

Enthusiasts of riverside chilling, rejoice: Spruce Street Harbor Park reopens this spring 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 (TBA), and
• The Trading Post, a bodega on the water with locally made ice cream pints, snacks, and merch from Philly artists and vendors

Film buffs can find works by established and emerging Latino filmmakers at the annual Philadelphia Latino Film Festival. The lineup includes feature films, shorts, animations, web series and documentaries, along with workshops and discussions.

We get it: The story of a clown imagining his own burial doesn’t sound particularly uplifting. But this show is anything but morbid. Embodying the effervescent joy, light-hearted comedy, and daring acrobatic feats this international contemporary circus ensemble is known for, Cirque du Soleil’s Corteo transforms North Broad’s Liacouras Center into a Carnival-like celebration of life.

Hope you’re hungry! The annual Black Restaurant Week kicks off at the end of May, celebrating a selection of over two-dozen Black-owned restaurants in Greater Philadelphia, along with the best of Black, African and Caribbean cuisine across the region. Over the event’s 10 days, participating restaurants — from spots like 48th Street Grille, Jacobs Northwest, Mt. Airy Deli, iMunch Café and Cray Taste Old City — showcase robust flavors through special meal deals, all with the mission of supporting Black entrepreneurs.

Philly Beer Week returns this June with 10 days of events, tastings, happy hours, pub crawls and foamy fun. Since 2007, the annual tradition has brought together breweries from around the city — and country — to show us all why Philly is one of the best beer cities. Keep an eye on the official calendar and the Philly Loves Beer Instagram page for Beer Week events announcements.

Dates vary by concert

Things heat up in the City of Brotherly Love with a fire lineup of concerts, including The Roots Picnic (more on that below). Big names include:

• Melanie Martinez at the Wells Fargo Center (June 3, 2024)
• Chris Stapleton at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (June 6, 2024)
• Peso Pluma at the Wells Fargo Center (June 7, 2024)
• 21 Savage at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (June 9, 2024)
• The Rolling Stones at Lincoln Financial Field (June 11, 2024)
• Niall Horan at TD Pavilion at The Mann (June 11, 2024)
• Pixies and Modest Mouse with Cat Power at The Mann Center (June 12, 2024)
• Tim McGraw at the Wells Fargo Center (June 20, 2024)
• Kid Laroi at The Met (June 20, 2024)
• Santana and Counting Crows at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (June 21, 2024)
• Corinne Bailey Rae at Parx Casino (June 21, 2024)
• Janet Jackson at the Wells Fargo Center (June 26, 2024)

June 2024

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, and on top of showstoppers like The Roots Picnic (read more on that below), celebrate this month with events and performances honoring Black musicians and culture, including:

• Jazzmeia Horn at the Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz & Performing Arts: Channeling the energy of the iconic jazz vocalists that came before her, emerging artist Jazzmeia Horn carves her own path with original songs and powerful performances (June 1, 2024).
• Yaya Bey at World Cafe Live: Joined by artists Exaktly and Ivy Sole, singer-storyteller Yaya Bey navigates hardship and joy with singles blending R&B, hip-hop, reggae and more — all teasing the upcoming release of her new album, Remember Your North Star (June 1, 2024).
• Come Sunday: A Tribute Concert of Spirituals & Jazz at the Marian Anderson House: Celebrate music icons Marian Anderson and Duke Ellington with full ensemble performances at a national historic landmark (June 2, 2024).
• 21 Savage at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion: A major player in hip-hop’s trap genre, 21 Savage brings his raw storytelling, deadpan delivery and rap finesse to the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion this June (June 9, 2024).
• A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie at the Wells Fargo Center: Hailing from the birthplace of hip-hop, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie carries on the Bronx’s legacy well with hits like Drowning, Look Back at It and Swervin. The performer lights up the Wells Fargo Center with his magnetic charisma and catchy hooks late this spring (June 18, 2024).
• Corinne Bailey Rae at Parx Casino: Corinne Bailey Rae took soul music by storm in 2006 with her globally beloved and critically acclaimed self-titled debut. This June, join Rae for her Plum Red Lipstick tour celebrating the release of her fourth studio album, Black Rainbows (June 21, 2024).
• Janet Jackson at the Wells Fargo Center: Janet (or Ms. Jackson if … you know how it goes) has given us iconic music videos and countless hits over the years. Don’t miss your chance to see the performance veteran take the stage at the Wells Fargo Center this June with special guest Nelly (June 26, 2024).

Philly wastes no time in going BIG for Pride Month with a record-setting attempt from Philadelphia Gay News on June 1. The historic publication looks to score a first-ever Guinness World Records™ title for the largest attendance at a drag queen story time reading at the National Constitution Center. Important note: Attendees must register in advance to attend this fabulously fun record-setting attempt.

The annual music festival curated by and named for Philly hip-hop band The Roots always has the most exciting lineup, highlighting both groundbreaking up-and-comers and legendary acts alike. For the 2024 festival, attendees can look forward to performances from Philly’s own Jill Scott, the incomparable Lil Wayne and 90s rap royalty Nas. Did we mention 2024 Grammy Award-winner Victoria Monét, André 3000 (and his flute), Gunna, Fantasia and Babyface? Whew.

The country’s largest Black and African cultural festival — now in its 49th year and drawing nearly 500,000 attendees — brings an authentic taste of Africa to South Philadelphia. ODUNDE begins with a week of events and culminates on Sunday, June 9, 2024 with an outdoor festival featuring dozens of vendors, live music and performances, and pay-as-you-go African, Caribbean and soul food dishes.

Don your colors: Philly’s big Pride celebration is back! This year’s event, with the theme of “Be You,” kicks off with a free-to-join march from Independence Mall, followed by a big festival in the vibrant Gayborhood. Festivalgoers can expect live performances, pay-as-you-go food trucks, family-friendly activities and more.

June 5 – August 28, 2024 (Wednesdays only)

No summertime sadness here: The dog days mark the start of Philly’s favorite Wednesday night party. 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 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.

This popular twice-a-year event — the oldest outdoor fine arts show in the country (97 years strong in 2024) — returns to the perimeter of Rittenhouse Square and features works by more than 140 professional artists specializing in media ranging from sculpture to paintings.

Celebrating the communities surrounding West Fairmount Park, dancers, artists, musicians and vendors of all flavors join in the free West Park Arts Fest. While filled with handcrafted goods by local artists, kid-friendly activities and a bevy of food vendors and trucks, the festival is known for its live music and performances across two stages. This year’s event features Jahwula Seapoe, Blues Reincarnation Project, Mobbluz, Isa Latin Rhythms, Breia Smalley, danceLogic, the Philadelphia Dance Academy, Womba Africa Drum and Dance and more.

Curated by Philly’s nationally recognized radio station WXPN, this family-friendly music festival shuts down part of Wayne Avenue to traffic and welcomes over 10,000 music fans and a stacked lineup of local, regional and national acts each June. This year’s lineup plays across three stages and includes popular rock act Tommy Conwell & the Young Rumblers, singer-songwriter Margaret Glaspy, Philadelphia funk band Snacktime, and more. You can also expect 75 local restaurants to keep you full, beer gardens, and plenty of activities for the whole family.

Juneteenth marks the anniversary of when the last enslaved people in Texas were informed of their freedom, a date celebrated locally since 2016 at the Philadelphia Juneteenth Parade & Festival. The Philadelphia Juneteenth Parade — beginning at noon — is the largest in the nation with 25,000 attendees, 2,000 participants and over two-dozen floats parading down 1.5 miles of 52nd Street in West Philadelphia. The festival also features the all-day Juneteenth Marketplace & Art in the Park at historic Malcolm X Park with over 250 vendors, an afternoon Juneteenth Youth Pavilion and the family-friendly Juneteenth Music Festival from 3-7 p.m. at 52nd Street and Larchwood Avenue.

The 16-day-long Wawa Welcome America festival celebrates America’s founding in the heart of the nation’s birthplace. The event, the largest July Fourth celebration in America, offers two-plus weeks of free and fabulous events across the city, including free admission to museums and attractions (on select days), live musical performances from local and national artists, community-centered events and Juneteenth celebrations, the popular Wawa Hoagie Day and more. It all leads up to Independence Day, when NE-YO and Kesha play a massive free concert on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, followed by a stunning fireworks display over the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

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

One of the largest outdoor art fests in the tri-state area returns to Philly’s Manayunk neighborhood for two days of food, fun and creativity. This free-to-attend festival highlights artwork and crafts by artists from around the country, from glass and ceramics to photography and paintings.

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 30th Street Station) with a plethora of live music, salsa dancing, kid-friendly entertainment and food, and craft and apparel vendors with a Latino flair. Check the event website for the music lineup and fireworks schedule.

You may not know the names of these 19th- and 20th-century leaders in the American art scene, but you would recognize their work (French’s Seated Abraham Lincoln is the centerpiece of Washington, D.C.’s Lincoln Memorial and Saint-Gaudens’s Diana sat atop Madison Square Garden until it found a permanent home welcoming guests to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.) For the first time ever, the Michener brings the sculptures of the two contemporaries (and rivals) together in conversation to explore the role public art plays in reflecting, informing and sometimes obscuring truths about our nation.

Dates vary by concert

The summer’s starstudded lineup of concerts continues this month with these performers scheduled to hit Philly stages:

• Alanis Morisette at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (July 2, 2024)
• Kid Cudi at the Wells Fargo Center (July 14, 2024)
• The Pretenders at The Fillmore (July 14, 2024)
• Dave Matthews Band at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (July 19-20, 2024)
• Olivia Rodrigo at the Wells Fargo Center (July 19, 2024)
• Def Leppard, Journey and Steve Miller Band at Citizens Bank Park (July 23, 2024)
• Blink-182 at the Wells Fargo Center (July 26, 2024)
• Train and REO Speedwagon at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (July 26, 2024)
• Imagine Dragons at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (July 30, 2024)
• Earth, Wind & Fire and Chicago at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (July 31, 2024)

Kick off Independence Day festivities in America’s birthplace with the inaugural Red, White, & Blue To-Do celebration commemorating the Continental Congress’s vote for independence on July 2, 1776, two days before the Declaration of Independence was signed.  The celebrations throughout the Historic District include a parade along Independence Mall, musical performances, restaurant specials and extended hours at historic sites.

Celebrate this Fourth of July with a country music legend. This year, Willie Nelson brings his iconic 4th of July Picnic to Freedom Mortgage Pavilion to celebrate America’s birthday. The full-day show promises an all-star lineup of musicians, including Bob Dylan, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, and Celisse. Plus, picnic-goers can look forward to delicious pay-as-you-go food and drinks to celebrate the holiday. Tickets are required.

For the last 25 years, Phoenixville, Chester County — where parts of the campy 1950s horror/sci-fi flick The Blob were filmed — has hosted a wacky three-day festival of film screenings, live stage shows, themed competitions and even a recreation of the pivotal movie scene in which frightened townspeople flee the Colonial Theatre. Enjoy scary-good music and 70-plus vendors at the Blobfest Street Fair (Saturday, July 13, 2024) or blob for your life at the Blob Run 5k (Sunday, July 14, 2024). Tickets are required for the weekend’s events.

Follow Fanny Brice, a wide-eyed girl from the Lower East Side, as she embarks on an unlikely journey to stage superstardom. A love letter to the world of theater, this beloved musical features an updated songbook from Harvey Fierstein, which includes classics like Don’t Rain On My Parade, People and I’m the Greatest Star.

This West Philly festival draws thousands of revelers each year to celebrate jazz music in all its flavors. Tap your toes to some of Philly’s funkiest jazz musicians, visit community vendors to buy locally made goods, or take a load off with cool treats and summer eats at the food trucks. The Lancaster Avenue Jazz & Arts Fest is free to attend, with pay-as-you-go food and refreshments. For updates and this year’s lineup, keep an eye on the festival’s Instagram.

Some of your favorite Chinatown restaurants and merchants take to the streets for this one-day-only outdoor festival. Joined by local food trucks serving up delicious treats, talented artists, vendors and performers, the neighborhood’s merchants have a fun day filled with food, tradition and culture planned for you.

*Insert jungle noises* Take a sip on the wild side at the Philadelphia Zoo’s Summer Ale Festival. This 21-and-up annual event features live music and entertainment, scrumptious food trucks, animal exhibits, and over 100 award-winning craft beers, seltzers and ciders. Tickets are required and include complimentary parking, a souvenir tasting cup and a free shuttle from Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station. Keep an eye out: The full list of breweries, food trucks and live music will be announced soon on their website.

Dates vary by concert

Summer might be winding down but the music is turning up as a few familiar faces take the stage in Philly this month:

• Jason Aldean at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (August 2, 2024)
• Missy Elliott (featuring Ciara, Busta Rhymes and Timbaland) at the Wells Fargo Center (August 5, 2024)
• Zach Bryan at Lincoln Financial Field (August 6 & 7, 2024)
• ALT 104.5 Presents: Sad Summer Festival at The Mann Center (August 8, 2024)
• Green Day at Citizens Bank Park (August 9, 2024)
• Jennifer Lopez at the Wells Fargo Center (August 13, 2024)
• Tate McRae at The Mann Center (August 14, 2024)
• Future & Metro Boomin at the Wells Fargo Center (August 14, 2024)
• Lindsey Stirling at The Met Philadelphia (August 14, 2024)
• New Kids on the Block at The Mann Center (August 15, 2024)
• Hootie & the Blowfish at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (August 16, 2024)
• P!nk at Lincoln Financial Field (August 18, 2024)
• Bruce Springsteen at Citizens Bank Park (August 21 & 23, 2024)
• Incubus at the Wells Fargo Center (August 27, 2024)
• Avril Lavigne at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (August 29, 2024)
• Usher at the Wells Fargo Center (August 30 & 31, 2024)

Showcasing films by Black, Brown and Indigenous artists from around the world, the BlackStar Film Festival brings features, shorts, documentaries, panel discussions and parties to multiple venues in the city. The Oscar-qualifying fest celebrates some of the most influential voices in filmmaking and visual arts.

This August, Peddler’s Village will have you feeling peachy with its annual kickoff to National Peach Month. This free-to-attend, pay-as-you-go peachy paradise offers peach treats, live entertainment and scenic summer strolls through the gardens. And don’t worry, peach lovers: You can enjoy sweet treats at the village’s restaurants and weekend outdoor food tent all month long.

The first Sunday in August is Northern Liberties’ time to shine. Since 2008, the annual 2nd Street Festival has brought thousands of revelers to the neighborhood to enjoy live music, merchants, cocktails and the finest fare NoLibs (and beyond) has to offer.

Featuring the infectious music of ABBA, this feel-good, mother-daughter musical transports audiences to a gorgeous Greek island as a soon-to-be bride searches for her father on the eve of her wedding.

Produced by the Philadelphia Folksong Society, this annual celebration of folk music features a lineup of contemporary and legendary folk artists. John Oates (of Hall & rates) and genre-bending band Gangstagrass headline the 2024 fest alongside a fleet of additional performers. Also on the dockets: camping, workshops and more.

Crazy. Colorful. Cool. Part music festival, part foodie paradise, this rain-or-shine affair brings over 120 purveyors of the best-in-plant-based food and drink directly to you. In between bites, dance to music courtesy of DJs and yet-to-be-named special guests, snap shots at the Insta-ready interactive art installations, and connect with other sustainability-minded festival goers — whether you identify as vegan, plant-based, omnivore or anything in between.

Back for its second year, The Philly Bookstore Crawl challenges book lovers to explore the Philadelphia region’s ever-growing collection of independently owned shops. There is no trail or route to follow but plenty of perks — surprise giveaways, discounted new reads, meet-and-greets with respected authors — are sprinkled among the over 20 (and counting!) participating bookshops. Check the official website for additional details and the full list of bookstores.

Talk about a glow-up. Everyone’s favorite miniature toy cars come to life as souped-up, mega-sized, glow-in-the-dark beasts. Hot Wheels-turned-real-life-monster-trucks Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark and Boneshaker battle it out on the floor of the Wells Fargo Center as laser lights, theatrical effects and dance parties take over the stadium. The show also features special appearances by the high-flying Freestyle Motorcross team and Megasaurus, a huge, transforming robot-dinosaur that literally eats cars for breakfast.

Ukrainian folk music and dance, authentic food (including barbecue), and traditional arts and crafts are hallmarks of the Ukrainian Folk Festival in North Wales, returning for its 33rd year in late summer. Tickets are required (sold at the gate) and a portion of proceeds go toward humanitarian aid for victims of the war in Ukraine.

Do you hear the people sing? Hailed as one of the greatest musicals ever created, the Tony Award-winning Les Misérables storms the Academy of Music in Philly. Set amidst the burning embers of revolution in 19th-century France, Les Mis tells an epic tale of love, sacrifice, broken dreams and redemption. The iconic score features earworms like I Dreamed a Dream, One Day More, Master of the House and more.

Dates vary by concert

*Cues September by Earth, Wind & Fire.* Do you remember dancin’ in September? (Baa-dee-ya.) If not, why not make some new September memories when these artists come to Philly this month:

• Cigarettes After Sex at the Wells Fargo Center (September 3, 2024)
• Cage the Elephant at The Mann Center (September 6, 2024)
• Pearl Jam at the Wells Fargo Center (September 7 & 9, 2024)
• Meghan Trainor at The Mann Center (September 7, 2024)
• Weezer at the Wells Fargo Center (September 13, 2024)
• $uicideboy$ at the Wells Fargo Center (September 19, 2024)
• Korn at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (September 20, 2024)
• Aerosmith at the Wells Fargo Center (September 23, 2024)
• Maxwell at the Wells Fargo Center (September 24, 2024)
• My Morning Jacket and Nathaniel Rateliff at The Mann Center (September 26, 2024)

This annual monthlong celebration showcases hundreds of alternative, cutting-edge and avant-garde performances throughout the city — ranging from theater and dance to film screenings and immersive gallery installations — all curated by Fringe Arts. The lineup typically includes a healthy mix of comedic and dramatic performances at venues large and small. Stay tuned to the official website for a full slate of this year’s events.

Did you know that the “Mushroom Capital of the World” is just outside of Philadelphia? To celebrate its unusual claim to fame, the charming town of Kennett Square hosts a two-day Mushroom Festival every September, full of fungi-themed food, live music, special exhibits, chef demonstrations and family-friendly activities.

Spotlighting the bustling arts scene in Bucks County, the Doylestown Arts Festival is a two-day juried art, music and food showcase along the streets of Doylestown. This year — the festival’s 33rd anniversary — attendees can expect over 150 artists specializing in glass, pottery, wood, printmaking, live art demonstrations, music and a vast food court.

At ease, soldier — it’s chow time! Come support local vets from across America’s armed forces as VetFest returns to Malvern in Chester County. The family-friendly food-truck-and-craft-brewery festival features over two dozen veteran-owned businesses and non-profits offering delicious food, local beer, craft distilled spirits, coffee, apparel, veteran services and more, along with live music. Plus, you don’t have to be a vet or a military family to attend; the festival is open to all (including leashed pets).

WXPN, the public radio station of the University of Pennsylvania, brings together musical legends and new performers along the Camden waterfront at this can’t-miss annual fest at Wiggins Waterfront Park. This year’s lineup includes The Walkmen, Rosanne Cash, Pete Yorn and many more.

The fall edition of this twice-a-year event — the oldest outdoor fine arts show in the country — brings paintings, glassware, sketches and more to Rittenhouse Square for an outdoor gallery featuring work by talented artists and crafters. Stay tuned to the event’s official website for upcoming details about featured artists.

This ain’t your grandfather’s baseball team. The TikTok-famous baseballers take the field in South Philly for nine innings of trick pitches, choreographed dances and epic entrances.

First weekend of December 2024 (official date TBA)

Yo, Philly! Last year, on the 47th anniversary of the Rocky movie premiere, Sylvester Stallone returned to Philly’s famous Rocky Steps to announce Rocky Day as the city’s newest holiday. For this year’s second annual celebration, guests can celebrate Philly’s most iconic film with a weekend full of Rocky-themed activities and special events. Stay tuned for more info about this year’s event.

¡Wepa! Thousands of spectators line the Benjamin Franklin Parkway for this annual parade and celebration of Latino culture. More than 1,500 marchers make their way down the Parkway each year, featuring traditional Latino music, dance performances, floats and more.

This Tony Award-winning musical comedy follows the misadventures of two missionaries tasked with spreading the good word halfway across the world. (And — written by South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone — this production is one you’ll want to keep the kids at home for.)

Produced by the Center for Architecture and Design and celebrating its 20th year, DesignPhiladelphia is a multi-day fest highlighting the city’s design excellence, the skills of local designers and the impact of design on everyday life. Be on the lookout for panels, parties and tour announcements.

Break out your favorite flannel for this fall celebration on the streets of Downingtown. The annual street festival features a day full of great food, handmade crafts and the fan-favorite Victory Beer Garden — serving up seasonal brews from Victory Brewing Company, the beloved brewery that was founded in the borough in 1996.

Prost! Transport yourself to Germany without leaving Bucks County as Peddler’s Village hosts its annual OctoberFeast. Over the course of two days, visitors can sample beers in the beer garden, enjoy fare from food trucks, and delight in German brass music and folk dances.

Known as the father of the studio furniture movement, Wharton Esherick sparked a period where one-of-a-kind studio crafts defied the American trajectory toward automated design and production. This brand-new exhibition brings you into Esherick’s world with a curated selection of richly detailed pieces on loan from the artist’s home and studio, including his early woodcut illustrations, furniture reimagined as organic sculpture and many other rarely seen works.

The Philly Bike Ride invites cyclists of all skill levels to cruise through 20 miles of car-free streets. The closed-course route takes bicyclists from the Philadelphia Museum of Art and back, ending with a festival featuring music, food and activities. Registration is required to participate in the Philly Bike Ride, but the finish line festival is open to the public and free to attend.

October 19-20 & 26-27, 2024

Hundreds of artists and community spaces open their doors to the public during Philadelphia Open Studio Tours (POST), an annual tradition that seeks to make workshops, galleries and other creative spaces more accessible. Studios west of Broad Street are open October 19 and 20, 2024; studios east of Broad Street are open October 26 and 27, 2024.

Mickalene Thomas: All About Love presents a series of vivid works by the titular artist, whose influences span 19th-century painting to pop culture. All About Love features mixed-media installations — including paintings, collages, photography and videos — characterized by large-scale compositions that capture Black femininity, agency, desire and more, in ways that are equal parts intimate and bold. The new exhibition marks the first international tour of Thomas’ works.

Rowers of all levels — high school, college, elite and world champions — converge on the Schuylkill River for the two-day Head of the Schuylkill Regatta. The race winds along Kelly Drive, which offers optimal viewing points and a festive atmosphere featuring food trucks, artisans, athlete meet-and-greets and more.

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s modern Broadway blockbuster returns to the city of its namesake’s greatest achievements (from Revolutionary War artillery officer to presidential advisor and founder of the first national bank) and his romantic downfall (the Reynolds affair). Don’t miss your shot to be in the room where it happens when Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr and the rest of the revolutionary gang arrive at the Academy of Music.

Fall’s premier fruit steals the scene during this annual fall festival at Peddler’s Village. From fresh apple cider to apple pies, no apple delicacy is off limits for tasting and purchase.

Among the largest festivals of its kind, the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival celebrates and showcases the stories of Asians and Pacific Islanders in film, performance art, music and other creative expressions during its multi-day run and during special events throughout the year.

Museum-quality handmade jewelry, textiles and mixed media are on display and for sale during this juried show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Now in its 48th year, the show features 195 artists representing 13 different categories of art and design.

With more than 60 specialty shops perfect for holiday shopping, picturesque Peddler’s Village rings in the holiday season with festive events and plenty of decorations. The celebration starts with Holiday Kickoff Weekend (November 15 to 17, 2024) featuring live performances, pay-as-you-go food and drink, and a Grand Illumination celebration (November 15, 2024) where the village is set aglow with 1 million twinkling lights. Plus, don’t miss the Gingerbread Competition & Display (November 15, 2024 to January 12, 2025), featuring dozens of handcrafted gingerbread creations on display for free, and Holly Jolly Weekend (December 2-3, 2023), with two days of free Santa-themed festivities and parades.

Opens Friday, November 22, 2024

Visitors returning to Longwood Gardens, one of the world’s premier horticultural displays, are in for a grand new adventure as the century-old botanic wonder opens Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience this fall. The project — a sweeping transformation of 17 acres of Longwood’s core conservatory area — creates a seamless connection from lush formal gardens to open meadows. Upgrades include a new 32,000-square-foot floating West Conservatory, a standalone glasshouse for the tropical Cascade Garden, an outdoor Bonsai Courtyard, an enhanced Waterlily Court, a central Grove and a public restaurant. The expansion links the new and old conservatory with sweeping new views of the Brandywine Valley.

One of the country’s premier — and most scenic — running events sends thousands of athletes through historic Center City, past the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Boathouse Row, while spectators (some with cheeky signs) cheer them on. The weekend often includes an 8K race, a half-marathon, a Children’s Run and more.

Based on the popular animated film, Anastasia: The Musical tells the story of a brave young woman seeking to discover her past — and escape a relentless Soviet officer — on a journey spanning the Russian Empire to 1920s Paris.

Hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights and spectacular fountain shows combine to create an incredible winter wonderland at A Longwood Christmas — named the Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights five years in a row by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Visitors can stroll the grounds of Longwood Gardens to marvel at miles of lights glowing in the trees, seasonal plants decorated with ornaments, a festive outdoor mini railway, cozy fire pits and colorful fountains dancing to holiday music.

The iconic LOVE Park transforms into an open-air European marketplace during the annual Christmas Village in Philadelphia. Dozens of vendors set up shop in wooden stalls offering local and international gifts, ornaments, accessories, and wintry apparel. After shopping up an appetite, indulge in tasty treats, which in years past have included raclette sandwiches, spiced wine, apple cider, strudels and more. Stay tuned for more info about this year’s goings-on.

He may be as cuddly as a cactus — and as charming as an eel — but the Grinch is coming to Philly to spread a little holiday cheer. Bring the little Whos out for this family-friendly production of the Dr. Seuss classic, which follows the heartwarming Christmas caper of a humanoid creature (?) whose heart is two sizes too small.

The nation’s oldest Thanksgiving Day parade — celebrating its 105th year — brings larger-than-life floats, spectacular marching bands, dazzling dancers, A-listers and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

Based on a true story, A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical tells the inspiring tale of how a kid from a poor immigrant family in Brooklyn rose to become one of America’s most decorated rock icons. Created in collaboration with Diamond himself, the production shares untold stories from Diamond’s life and features the award-winning musician’s greatest hits. (Just try to stop yourself from belting out Sweet Caroline.)