June brings the start of summer, summer, summertime! But, there’s no time to just sit back and unwind — not with so many great events and things to do in Philadelphia.
Throughout the month, the city commemorates the Juneteenth holiday with parades, festivals and the kick off of the Wawa Welcome America celebration — two weeks of special events celebrating freedom to liberty in the birthplace of America leading up to the Fourth of July.
Philadelphia in June is also the setting for the ODUNDE Festival, the largest African American street festival in the country, as well as more epically fun street fests from Manayunk Arts Festival to West Park Arts Fest.
The Roots Picnic returns to The Mann Center and Fairmount Park in June. Also up on stages this month: Ed Sheeran, Shania Twain, Dead & Company, Billy Porter and more, plus three outdoor shows from The Philadelphia Orchestra.
Of course, it’s Pride Month, when Philly goes all out to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.
And the magic continues at The Franklin Institute, where Disney100: The Exhibition is making its dazzling world premiere.
You’re doing awesome things in Philadelphia. Why shouldn’t you be rewarded? Check out our Philly Rewards program to learn how to earn great prizes just for exploring the City of Brotherly Love.
Read on for our guide to the best events and things to do in Greater Philadelphia in June 2023.
It’s showtime! Based on Tim Burton’s cult classic film, BEETLEJUICE follows the darkly humorous story of a ghost couple trying to haunt the strange inhabitants of their former home — of course, not without the help of a certain stripes-loving demon. Equal parts funny, heartwarming and indecent, “the ghost with the most” puts on a performance that’ll knock you dead. (Just don’t say his name three times.)
Where: Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad Street
Lace up! This spring, the Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink at Dilworth Park paints the town rainbow with colorful springtime skate sessions. Vibrant overhead art and the checkerboard rink floor bring good times and retro vibes. For more fun, chow down at the Dilworth Park Café, fuel up at the Air Grille pop-up beer garden or hop your way through the Dilworth Park dancing fountain. Advance reservations for hour-long skating are strongly recommended and discounted Matinee Skate sessions are offered Mondays and Tuesdays.
Where: Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th Street
Through Sunday, October 1, 2023 (Wednesdays through Sundays)
Philly’s roving beer garden brings brews and bites to parks and green spaces in neighborhoods in nearly every corner of the city this year. Here’s where to enjoy draft beers from Mainstay Independent Brewing, cocktails, and finger foods and sandwiches this month:
Where: Schuylkill Banks, Under the Walnut Street Bridge
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Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center, Lansdowne & Horticultural drives
Dickinson Square Park, 1600 E. Moyamensing Avenue
The Discovery Center, 3401 Reservoir Drive
McMichael Park, 3299 Midvale Avenue
When the ice melts and the shades come out, it’s time for Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest. The annual Penn’s Landing extravaganza boasts boardwalk games, carnival rides, mini golf, an arcade, the city’s largest outdoor roller skating rink and much, much more. The fest has plenty of food and drink options on deck, including faves like the funnel cake at Skelly’s, the creative cocktails at The Lodge Bar or the Crabfries at Chickie’s & Pete’s. General admission to the fest is free (everything else is pay-as-you-go).
Where: Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, 101 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd
Enthusiasts of riverside chilling enjoy hammocks, patio and arcade games, musical performances and tasty treats from local purveyors while strolling the boardwalk at this warm-weather attraction. Spruce Street Harbor Park is the perfect escape for visitors looking to relax and locals hoping to unwind.
Where: Spruce Street Harbor Park, 301 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd
Through Sunday, August 27, 2023
The House of Mouse celebrates a century of dazzling audiences with a brand-new exhibition, making its world premiere in Philadelphia. Disney100: The Exhibition opens the vaults for behind-the-scenes glimpses into the creation of the company’s most popular characters, films, shows and attractions, offering 10 themed galleries with interactive installations covering everything from Snow White to Star Wars. Pro tip: Score complimentary tix to the exhibition (plus free hotel parking!) when you book the Visit Philly Overnight Package for stays through August 20, 2023.
Where: The Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th Street
Through Thursday, September 28, 2023 (select dates)
Things heat up for the Fightin’ Phils this summer as they make another run at postseason glory. June matchups include games against:
On June 10, look forward to an on-field postgame concert by AJR; June 23 is Pride Night; and on June 30, cap off the month with postgame fireworks.
Where: Citizens Bank Park, 1 Citizens Bank Way
Through Saturday, October 7, 2023 (select dates)
Doop! On the heels of a heartbreaking run to the 2022 MLS Cup, a reinvigorated Union squad has their eyes on the prize at Subaru Park this June. Games to keep an eye on include home matches against CF Montreal (June 3, 2023) and Inter Miami FC (June 24, 2023). Don’t forget to wear those colors on June 3: It’s Pride Night!
Where: Subaru Park, 2501 Seaport Drive, Chester
Through Sunday, October 8, 2023
“Is the sun rising or setting on the experiment of American democracy?” Nearly two dozen artists interpret that question into new artworks in this collaborative exhibition at both the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and The African American Museum in Philadelphia.
Where: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, 118-128 N. Broad Street
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The African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch Street
Through Sunday, November 26, 2023
This exhibition charts the life of James Forten, a free man of African descent who fought in the war for American independence in 1781, then returned to Philadelphia to become a successful businessman, philanthropist and stalwart abolitionist. Chronicle Forten’s life and follow his family’s 100-year story from the American Revolution through the lead up to the Civil War and women’s suffrage movement.
Where: Museum of the American Revolution, 101 S. 3rd Street
Move over, Friday: There’s a new date night in town. Old City gets the party started a little early this summer with the return of Old City Eats, a weekly Thursday night celebration featuring discounted drinks and small plates at 20 of the neighborhood’s most popular bars and restaurants. This year’s participants include celebrated tapas spot Amada, the French-inspired Royal Boucherie and fave rooftop hangout Stratus Lounge. To mark the 2023 launch, 2nd street shuts down between Market and Chestnut streets this week for a mini-foodie festival. Deals return weekly each Thursday through August 31, 2023.
Where: 2nd Street between Market Street and Chestnut Street
Grammy, Emmy and Tony Award winner Billy Porter takes Philly on a journey through his illustrious career with the Black Mona Lisa Tour: Volume 1. The 90-minute show features a video installation, a full band and musical performances from the Kinky Boots star’s upcoming pop album, Black Mona Lisa.
Where: The Met Philadelphia, 858 N. Broad Street
June 1-18, 2023 (Thursdays through Sundays)
Break out the steel drum and discover the world of mermaids at Adventure Aquarium’s magical new aquatic event. Watch them glide and splash among 15,000 underwater creatures — including the largest collection of sharks in the Northeast (!) — or make your dreams come true with an enchanting mermaid meet-and-greet. Isn’t it neat?
Where: Adventure Aquarium, 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ
Formerly known as Wizard World, Fan Expo is the meeting of all things genre, from anime to cosplay. Exhibitors include comics creators, independent artists and game purveyors. Plus: celebrity Q&As, fan club presentations, hands-on workshops and screening rooms.
Where: Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch Street
This popular twice-a-year event — the oldest outdoor fine arts show in the country (95 years strong in 2023) — returns to the perimeter of Rittenhouse Square park and features works by more than 140 professional artists specializing in media ranging from sculpture to pastels.
Where: Rittenhouse Square, Locust & South 18th streets
Hope you’re hungry: Black Restaurant Week kicks off in Philly celebrating nine local Black-owned restaurants and the best of Black, African and Caribbean cuisine. During the week, participating restaurants showcase robust flavors through special meal deals — like 48th Street Grille’s $40 choose-your-own three course meal — all with the mission of supporting Black entrepreneurs.
Where: Various restaurants including 48th Street Grille, 310 S. 48th Street
Opens Saturday, June 3, 2023
Journey through time and plates in this brand-new exhibition exploring food and plant remains that date back thousands of years. Highlights of the 1,500 square-foot exhibit include apples that pre-date Stonehenge and 6,000-year-old strawberry seeds. Dig in to learn what these prehistoric “leftovers” can uncover about the traditions and lifestyles of ancient civilizations.
Where: Penn Museum, 3260 South Street
The annual music festival curated by and named for Philly hip-hop band The Roots always has an exciting lineup, highlighting both groundbreaking up-and-comers and legendary acts alike — plus a podcast stage featuring our own Love + Grit. For the 2023 festival, attendees can look forward to performances from the legendary Ms. Lauryn Hill, the one-and-only Diddy (performing with The Roots!) and Philly’s own Lil Uzi Vert and Eve. Did we mention Busta Rhymes, Roy Ayers and The Isley Brothers? Whew. That’s a lot.
Where: The Mann Center, 5201 Parkside Avenue
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. Events on tap include a special Yards Brewing game night at Good Dog Bar (Friday), Human Robot’s lager-fueled Logjammin Lager Fest at Cherry Street Pier (Saturday) and a cornhole tournament at Interstate Drafthouse. Check out the official website for a full calendar of events.
Famous for his mathematical suite of albums, English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran completes the cycle with his new album – (pronounced “Subtract”). Drawing on heavy life themes like his wife’s tumor and the death of a friend, – packs an emotional punch.
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, One Lincoln Financial Field Way
One of the nation’s oldest residential streets hosts a traditional 1930s-style celebration during its annual Fete Day. Visitors get the rare chance to wander Elfreth’s Alley, exploring the history and flair of 18th- and 19th-century Philadelphia homes. The fun continues outdoors with local food, refreshments and entertainment.
Where: Elfreth's Alley, 124 Elfreth's Alley
Don your colors: Philly’s big Pride celebration is back! Celebrating “love, light and liberation,” this year’s event 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.
Where: March begins at 5th & Arch streets; Festival is centered at South 12th & Locust streets
Disability Pride Week comes to Philly with giveaways, resources and accessible festivities all across the city. Some of this year’s events include:
The Disability Pride Week events are free to attend (with pay-as-you-go food trucks) and registration enters you in a raffle to earn some sweet prizes by Feeldom.
The largest African American street festival in the country, now in its 48th year, begins with a week of events and culminates on Sunday, June 11 with a festival featuring more than 100 vendors and two stages of live entertainment.
Where: Various locations including South & South 23rd streets
Don’t tell him it’s not worth fighting for. Bryan Adams is one of those rare musicians whose tunes sound great in bars, arenas and Broadway (yeah, he did the music for Pretty Woman: The Musical). Hear over four decades of music in action, such as hits like Summer of ‘69 and Heaven.
Where: Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad Street
June 7 through August 30, 2023 (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 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 SIPS Style, which promotes Wednesday discounts on merchandise and services at select Center City retailers.
Where: At participating bars and restaurants, including the Dilworth Park Air Grille Garden, 1 S. 15th Street
Let’s go, girls. In the late ’90s and early 2000s, you couldn’t turn on the radio without hearing Shania Twain. Belt out the songs you love, like Man! I Feel Like a Woman!, That Don’t Impress Me Much and newer hits like Waking Up Dreaming and Giddy Up! from her recently released album “Queen of Me.”
Where: Freedom Mortgage Pavilion, 1 Harbour Boulevard, Camden, NJ
Celebrating half a century of rockin’ and rollin’, Kansas performs for two nights at the Keswick Theatre. Between well-known songs like Carry On Wayward Son and Dust in the Wind and rarely played deep cuts, the entire set will be a complete retrospective on a storied career.
Where: Keswick Theatre, 291 N. Keswick Avenue, Glenside
Now in its sixth year, the Philly Pride Run lets its colors fly with a 5K race and a 1 Mile Fun Run across the City of Brotherly Love. Prizes are awarded for the top three female, male, non-binary and wheelchair competitors, and all proceeds support The William Way LGBT Community Center.
Where: Starts at 4231 Avenue of the Republic
Throw wheels and get your hands dirty sculpting your own clay creations! The Clay Studio breaks the mold this year with its Annual Clay Fest. The day celebrates the studio’s new home in South Kensington and offers a community event full of art demos, interactive workshops and family-friendly activities.
Where: The Clay Studio, 1425 N. American Street
If you’re an art appreciator, but short on funds, this annual art sale, organized by local art nonprofit InLiquid, features work priced under $200 — with all proceeds from sales directly benefiting the artists.
Where: InLiquid, 1400 N. American Street
Delaware County keeps the party going with Delco Pride 2023. The festival offers food vendors, a live DJ, music and dancing, face and nail painting, kid-friendly activities, and much more. And this year, expect to see Pride programming throughout the county, including their very first Delco Pride Parade. This event is free to attend, but tickets are required.
Where: In front of the Upper Darby Township Municipal Building, 100 Garrett Road
Dancers, artists, musicians and vendors of all flavors take over Fairmount Park for the 2023 West Park Arts Fest. BalletX and the Philadelphia Jazz Tap Ensemble take the stage along with performers including Badd Kitti and the Urban Guerilla Orchestra. Attendees can also purchase handcrafted goods by local artists or grab a bite to eat at one of the many food vendors. Bring the fam: This free event is chock-full of kid-friendly activities.
Where: West Fairmount Park, State Route 3005
Everyone’s a winner at Philly’s most fabulous bingo night. This month, kick your shoes off and get grooving with the GayBINGO! “Sock Hop” and Back to School Drive. Expect an evening of scandalous skits and over-the-top musical numbers from your hosts, the Bingo Verifying Divas, in addition to classic bingo games and great prizes. Tickets are required, and all tips and proceeds go to a good cause.
Where: Congregation Rodeph Shalom, 615 N. Broad Street
Spend a day celebrating the world’s oldest endurance race. Literally. The Simeone Museum celebrates the 100th anniversary of the 24-hour Le Mans Automotive Endurance Race with 24 hours of straight programming. Tickets are required, and the jam-packed event includes a simulcast of the live race, film showings, a Forza game tournament, food, photo ops and driving demonstrations featuring over 36 of the rarest and most valuable sports cars in the world. Buckle up.
Where: Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum, 6825-31 Norwitch Drive
Rescheduled from late April, Flavors on the Avenue is a food-lover’s delight, showcasing the culinary offerings of East Passyunk Avenue. During the daylong street fest, nosh on food from neighborhood faves like Bing Bing Dim Sum, Ember & Ash, P’unk Burger and more while sipping drink specials from Manatawny Still Works and Cartesian Brewing. Head to the Singing Fountain to hear live tunes, and enjoy sidewalk sales from more than 100 vendors, including spots like Ill Exotics, Latchkey, Mesh Vintage and Occasionette.
Where: East Passyunk Avenue from Broad Street to Dickinson Street
Want the best bang for your buck? The Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll returns to University City this June with family-friendly programming, pay-as-you-go food, and $1, $3 and $5 deals from vendors and neighborhood businesses. Can’t make it? The event returns one more time this September.
Where: Baltimore Avenue between 40th Street and 51st Street
The Grateful Dead spin-off/supergroup consisting of former Dead members Bob Weir, Mickey Hart and Bill Kreutzmann, plus John Mayer, Oteil Burbridge and Jeff Chimenti are calling it quits after one final tour. Don’t miss your last chance to witness the expansive career-spanning sets on one of the city’s largest stages.
A duo of uber melodic proportions, Billy Joel and Stevie Nicks co-headline the Linc this summer. Between the two of them, they’ve sold hundreds of millions of records and released some of the most culture-defining songs of the last half decade. Whether you’re a Piano Man stan or Edge of Seventeen devotee, you’re in for a heavy helping of nostalgia.
Have a ball — a Summer Ball — at The Franklin Institute’s Science After Hours. Dress to impress for this 21-and-over event celebrating Pride Month and featuring music, dancing, performances, live talks, rooftop stargazing, and general museum merriment. Tickets are required and include access to all core museum exhibits and galleries, plus a snazzy limited-edition lapel pin.
Kevin James has had fans howling for over two decades. When he’s not producing films and policing malls, his true home is on the stand-up stage — and The Irregardless Tour is sure to bring the funny.
Philadelphia marks the anniversary of African Americans’ emancipation from enslavement with a parade and festival featuring vendors, food, music and a children’s village.
Where: Various locations including Malcolm X Park, 5100 Pine Street
Part ceremony honoring inspiring Philadelphians and part concert, this free community event features musical performances curated by local artist Chill Moody.
This 16-day festival in the nation’s birthplace includes dozens of free and fabulous events across the city, including free admission to museums and attractions on select days, musical performances from local and national artists, community-centered events, Wawa Hoagie Day and more. The event, expanded in recent years to incorporate Juneteenth celebrations, culminates with a stunning fireworks display over the Philadelphia Museum of Art on the Fourth of July.
Where: Benjamin Franklin Parkway & North 19th Street
June 20, 22 & 24, 2023
The Philadelphia Orchestra welcomes summer with events celebrating legendary artists and composers, including:
Franklin Square lights up the night with the return of the ticketed Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival in Old City. Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit among dozens of spectacular glowing installations (some never seen before), live stage performances, festival-themed crafts by Chinese artisans, and international food and drink — including the return of the super-popular Dragon Beer Garden.
Where: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th Street
Local country station 92.5 XTU’s annual anniversary show always draws a huge crowd. This year’s lineup includes Alana Springsteen, Tyler Braden, Chayce Beckham and headliner Luke Bryan. Baby, you can crash his party anytime.
Nothing says summer like beer and battleships. Ditch your land legs for the NJ Beer Festival aboard the Battleship New Jersey and sample over 75 craft beers from over 30 Jersey breweries, enjoy live jams from Cabin Dogs, engage in some nautical noshing, take a tour of the ship and add a new tasting mug to your collection. Tickets are required.
Where: USS Battleship New Jersey, 100 Clinton Street, Camden, NJ
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; open 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. *Insert jungle noises*
Where: Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Avenue
New wave legends The Cure come to Philly for the first time since 2008, which means Robert Smith and his signature croon (and aesthetic) are coming to town to play Just Like Heaven and Friday I’m In Love for the first time in over a decade.
One of the largest outdoor art fests in the tristate 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.
Where: Main Street Manayunk
This free-to-attend two-day festival (formerly known as Hispanic Fiesta) features live music and entertainment; Latin American foods and crafts; a Saturday night performance by Manny Manuel (plus fireworks); and Sunday night salsa dancing led by José Alberto El Canario.
Where: Great Plaza at Penn's Landing, 101 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
An exhibition featuring over 60 of William Edmondson’s most memorable works comes to the Barnes Foundation. The late sculptor’s work spans gravestones and garden ornaments, to more figurative carvings like people, animals and angels. And in 1937, Edmonson was the first Black American artist to have a solo exhibition at New York’s Museum of Modern Art. The Barnes exhibition space explores his work as it relates to Black culture and includes a brand new performance, choreographed by Chicago-based artist Brendan Fernandes.
Where: Barnes Foundation, 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
From their Undone days to their fan-favorite Africa cover, Weezer has stayed delightfully consistent. Expect plenty of power chords and Rivers Cuomo’s witty wordplay.
The only way to fully experience Philly? Stay over.
Book the Visit Philly Overnight Package and get free hotel parking and choose-your-own-adventure perks, including tickets to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, or the National Constitution Center and the Museum of the American Revolution.
Or maybe you’d prefer to buy two Philly hotel nights and get a third night for free? Then book the new Visit Philly 3-Day Stay package.
Which will you choose?