Please Note: Dates listed in this calendar are subject to change. Please contact venues directly to confirm information. As always, VISIT PHILADELPHIA’s public relations team is glad to assist members of the media with queries, story ideas, statements and photo and video requests.
The Calendar of Events is organized as follows:
June 2020
July 2020
August 2020
September 2020
October 2020
November 2020
December 2020
January 2021
February 2021
March 2021
April 2021
May 2021
June 2021 & Beyond
AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSIC APPRECIATION MONTH. The 30-day-and-night celebration originally and commonly known as “Black Music Month” fetes its 41st anniversary in the city where the idea began — Philadelphia.
June 4–7, 2020
LATINO FILM FESTIVAL (virtual). Going digital this year, this festival features works by established and emerging Latino and Latin American filmmakers, a lineup that includes feature films, shorts, animations and documentaries, in English or Spanish with subtitles, along with workshops and discussions. phlaff.org
June 6, 2020 (currently announced date)–January 3, 2021
THE SECRET LIFE OF BUGS. The Franklin Institute presents insects as the miracle animals they are, inviting visitors to experience specimens in a lab, larger-than-life models and simulated immersions featuring a giant hornet, praying mantis and dragonfly. (215) 448-1200, fi.edu
June 13, 2020
BLOOMSDAY (virtual). Most years, James Joyce fans spend the day outside the historic Rosenbach Museum & Library to hear some of Philadelphia’s most interesting personalities read Ulysses during this open-air festival; this year, however, the festival will be taking place virtually. (215) 732-1600, rosenbach.org
June 14, 2020
PRIDEDAY LGBT PARADE AND FESTIVAL (virtual). Rainbow flags will fly high during this celebration — the city’s 30th — in a modified event that includes a 5K fun run, a 1 p.m. broadcast of entertainment on 6ABC and the Miss Philly LGBT Pride pageant, featuring four yet-uncrowned drag queens. (215) 875-9288, phillygaypride.org
June 19–28, 2020 (to be confirmed)
THE WOMEN’S FILM FESTIVAL. It’s year five for this empowering, Philly-grown, women-centric festival that celebrates women’s roles behind and in front of the camera. thewomensfilmfestival.org
June 20, 2020
JUNETEENTH (virtual). Historic Germantown honors the ratification of the 13th Amendment virtually this year; the celebration otherwise would include a parade along the Avenue, and a day of historical reenactments, tours, children’s activities and food and drink at the Johnson House Historic Site. (215) 844-1683, freedomsbackyard.com
NEW DATE TBA
STATE STREET BLUES STROLL. The Media Theatre, restaurants and coffee houses along State Street as well as two outdoor stages in Media celebrate the blues — rain or shine — for the 20th year. (610) 566-5039, statestreetblues.com
June 27, 2020
DISABILITY PRIDE PARADE (virtual). This year’s parade virtually celebrates the 30th anniversary of the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), and leads into “30 days til the ADA” culminating in a celebration at the National Constitution Center on July 26, 2020. (267) 788-5946, disabilitypridephiladelphia.org
June 27–July 4, 2020
WAWA WELCOME AMERICA (virtual). Now in its 28th year, this multi-day party, typically featuring free events for all ages throughout the city — including concerts, a parade and fireworks — plans to go virtual this year. welcomeamerica.com
June–September 2020 (TBA)
PECO MULTICULTURAL SERIES. Penn’s Landing celebrates the diverse cultures that make Philadelphia distinctive through free festivals. delawareriverwaterfront.org
June 2020 (TBA)
SPRUCE STREET HARBOR PARK. Enthusiasts of riverside chilling enjoy hammocks, patio games, an arcade, mini-concerts and tasty treats while strolling the boardwalk on Philly’s waterfront. sprucestreetharborpark.com
June 2020 (TBA)
STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL. Historic Strawberry Mansion opens its orchards for berry-picking, beekeeping demonstrations and crafts for kids. (215) 228-8364, historicstrawberrymansion.org
Summer or later 2020 (TBA)
19TH AMENDMENT. The National Constitution Center commemorates the granting of the right to vote to the first group American women with a semi-permanent exhibit that uses artifacts and storytelling to explore constitutional arguments for and against women’s rights, offer fascinating historical context, spotlight multiple generations of advocates and delve into the complex debates surrounding rights for African Americans versus rights for women. (215) 409-6700, constitutioncenter.org
June 2020 (announced reopening date TBA)
CENTENNIAL INNOVATIONS. Please Touch Museum® unveils a new, 5,000-square-foot permanent gallery that takes a colorful, interactive look back at its building’s roots in the 1876 Centennial Exposition — the fair that introduced the U.S. to the telephone, banana, Corliss engine, popcorn, typewriter, adhesive bandage and more — in order to let kids look into their future. pleasetouchmuseum.org
Oval+, July 2020 — Photo by A. Yee for Fairmount Park Conservancy
Through July 4, 2020
WAWA WELCOME AMERICA (virtuaal). Now in its 28th year, this multi-day party, typically featuring free events for all ages throughout the city — including concerts, a parade and fireworks — plans to go virtual this year. welcomeamerica.com
July 3, 2020–August 30, 2020
ADAM CRAWFORD: EYES ON MANY SIDES. Acrylic and spray paint bring street artist Crawford’s stream of consciousness works to life at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens. (215) 733-0390, phillymagicgardens.org
July 10–12, 2020
BLOBFEST (virtual). The 21st anniversary of a three-day extravaganza in Phoenixville centers around the horror/sci-fi flick The Blob — this year’s home edition includes screenings; next year, fans can look for the return of themed competitions, a street fair and the recreation of the pivotal scene where hundreds of scared townspeople flee the Colonial Theatre. (610) 917-1228, thecolonialtheatre.com
July 12, 2020
MEDIA DOWNTOWN CAR SHOW. For the 13th year, Delaware County’s seat hosts more than 250 antique cars along its streets. (610) 566-5039, visitmediapa.com
July 12, 2020
NUEVOFEST. A free, alt-Latin music festival, a production of AfroTaíno Productions, showcases artists who represent the new sounds of Latin America. afrotaino.com
July 12–19, 2020
QFLIX PHILADELPHIA. This annual festival celebrates all genres of film that pertain to or were created by members of the LGBTQ communities, with screenings based at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre. qflixphilly.com
July 16, 2020
VILLAGE FOOD TRUCKS. On certain evenings throughout the warmer months, food trucks visit Bucks County’s Peddler’s Village. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
July 17–August 23, 2020
THE OVAL+. The summertime pop-up park — a partnership between Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and Fairmount Park Conservancy — returns to Eakins Oval, bringing with it outdoor reading and music rooms, free Friday night movies, art installations, spray garden, giant sandbox, basketball court, tether ball, badminton, ping-pong, plus food trucks and loads of free entertainment and programming. (215) 607-3477, theovalphl.org
July 18 & 19, 2020
BLUEGRASS AND BLUEBERRIES FESTIVAL. Live country and bluegrass music and berries combine for a weekend-long midsummer celebration at the summer festival at Peddler’s Village in lovely Bucks County. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
July 19–28, 2020 (currently announced date)
THE WOMEN’S FILM FESTIVAL. It’s year five for this empowering, Philly-grown, women-centric festival that celebrates women’s roles behind and in front of the camera. thewomensfilmfestival.org
July 24, 2020–January 21, 2021
SAMARA GOLDEN: UPSTAIRS AT STEVE’S. Fabric Workshop and Museum artist-in-resident Samara Golden creates a built environment using illusion and perspective distortion to create a mysterious and intense experience. (215) 561-8888, fabricworkshopandmuseum.org
July 26, 2020
EAST PASSYUNK CAR SHOW AND STREET FESTIVAL. The annual showing of look-but-don’t-touch vintage classics, hot rods and more line South Philly’s East Passyunk Avenue, as do food trucks and craft vendors. visiteastpassyunk.com
July 28, 2020
ELECTRIC PHILADELPHIA MURAL. An 8,500-square-foot artwork by David Guinn will fill the 6th Street underpass at Wood Street under the Ben Franklin Bridge — and near Franklin Square — with color by day and lights by night. (215) 685-0750, muralarts.org
July 30–August 2, 2020
BLACKSTAR FILM FESTIVAL. Hailed by Ebony magazine as “the Black Sundance,” this International House-based event showcases artistically excellent independent films about the global Black experience and films by people of color. blackstarfest.org
July 2020 (TBA)
CANOPY BY HILTON PHILADELPHIA CENTER CITY OPENING. A boutique addition to Hilton’s Luxury and Lifestyle brand portfolio comes to the fast-developing Market East/Midtown Village neighborhoods — more specifically, to the 1896 Beaux Arts Stephen Girard Building. philadelphiacentercity.canopybyhilton.com
July 2020 (TBA)
CELEBRATION OF BLACK ARTS. One of the oldest African American literary events comes to Philadelphia each year, bringing conferences with performing and literary artists, including acclaimed journalists, writers, singers and more from across the United States. (215) 232-4485, artsanctuary.org
July 2020 (TBA)
PHILADELPHIA DYKE MARCH. Dyke-identified people and their allies hit the streets with protest signs and raised voices calling for more visibility and equality for marginalized queer voices in the pride community; the march begins and ends at Louis I. Kahn Park. phillydykemarch.com
Late July/Early August (TBA)
RIVER HOUSE AT ODETTE’S OPENING. The site of Bucks County’s beloved cabaret greets a similarly-spirited 38-room boutique hotel overlooking the Delaware River. (215) 682-2022, riverhousenewhope.com
BlackStar Film Festival, August 2, 2020 — Photo by A. Ricketts for Visit Philadelphia
Through August 2, 2020
BLACKSTAR FILM FESTIVAL. Hailed by Ebony magazine as “the Black Sundance,” this International House-based event showcases artistically excellent independent films about the global Black experience and films by people of color. blackstarfest.org
Through August 23, 2020 (reopening date TBA)
MARIE CUTTOLI: THE MODERN THREAD FROM MIRÓ TO MAN RAY. Cuttoli, a modern art pioneer, commissioned international modernist artists to design pieces that were woven into tapestries, as seen in this Barnes Foundation exhibit. (215) 278-7200, barnesfoundation.org
Through August 23, 2020
THE OVAL+. The summertime pop-up park — a partnership between Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and Fairmount Park Conservancy — returns to Eakins Oval, bringing with it outdoor reading and music rooms, free Friday night movies, art installations, spray garden, giant sandbox, basketball court, tether ball, badminton, ping-pong, plus food trucks and loads of free entertainment and programming. (215) 607-3477, theovalphl.org
Through August 23, 2020 (reopening date TBA)
WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR. This exhibit at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, organized and produced by the Natural History Museum in London, displays 100 stunning images of nature and wildlife. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org
Through August 30, 2020
ADAM CRAWFORD: EYES ON MANY SIDES. Acrylic and spray paint bring street artist Crawford’s stream of consciousness works to life at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens. (215) 733-0390, phillymagicgardens.org
Through August 30, 2020
SELMA BORTNER: THE JOURNEY. Doylestown’s Michener Art Museum honors the beloved late Bucks County art professor and printmaker through an exhibition mythological, often folkloric, frequently autobiographical, currents-inspired-based and social justice-inspired prints. (215) 340-9800, michenerartmuseum.org
August 1, 2020
ROOTS PICNIC. Philly’s The Roots perform and bring other musical performers — Meek Mill, for example — to join them for a daylong concert at Fairmount Park’s The Mann Center for the Performing Arts. (800) 745-3000, rootspicnic.com
August 2, 2020
2nd STREET FESTIVAL. Northern Liberties, the neighborhood that helped launch Philly’s craft beer craze, closes down North 2nd Street between Spring Garden Street and Germantown Avenue for a family-friendly festival of beer gardens, food, workshops, art, street performances and two stages for live music. 2ndstfestival.org
August 7–9, 2020
PEACH FESTIVAL AND SIDEWALK SALE. If it’s in season, it’s celebrated at Peddler’s Village, and August means peach pie, peach ice cream, peach preserves — and a summer sale to boot. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
August 13, 2020
VILLAGE FOOD TRUCKS. On certain evenings throughout the warmer months, food trucks visit Bucks County’s Peddler’s Village. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
August 13–16, 2020
PHILADELPHIA FOLK FESTIVAL (virtual). In what would have been its 59th year at Old Pool Farm in Schwenksville, Philadelphia’s answer to Woodstock, will bring together musicians, storytellers and craftspeople for a pay-what-you-wish weekend of virtual song and merriment, with a special tribute to late co-founder Gene Shay. (800) 556-FOLK (3655), pfs.org
August 14, 2020–January 17, 2021
SYD CARPENTER: PORTRAITS OF OUR PLACES. In a first exhibition at Doylestown’s Michener Art Museum, Swarthmore College professor and ceramicist Sydney Carpenter explores the themes of race, identity and environment in sculpted, clay and steel portraits of African American gardens and farms in the rural South. (215) 340-9800, michenerartmuseum.org
August 15, 2020
WORLD WAR II REMEMBRANCE DAY. Across the Delaware River in Camden, New Jersey, the Battleship NJ Museum & Memorial celebrates the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II with a flyover by a Japanese Zero prop plane, re-enactments, military vehicles, ceremony — and a fantail dance performance. (856) 966-1652, battleshipnewjersey.org
August 19–21, 2020
PHILADELPHIA TRANS WELLNESS CONFERENCE. The Mazzoni Center hosts the world’s only free conference dedicated to promoting health and wellness in the transgender community. (215) 563-0652, mazzonicenter.org
August 22, 2020
DOG DAY OF SUMMER. Plenty of pet-friendly vendors and activities are on tap at the Levering Lot in Manayunk, as well as food trucks, pet adoptions and a Pup Crawl where businesses offer drink specials and activities for furry friends and their owners. (215) 482-9565, manayunk.com
August 23, 2020
UKRAINIAN FOLK FESTIVAL. Tryzub, the Ukrainian American Sport Center in Horsham, celebrates the country’s independence with a full afternoon and evening of folk dancing (hopak), folk music, kids’ activities and homemade Ukrainian foods. (267) 664-3857, tryzub.org
August 26–September 25, 2020
JUSTICE BELL. The circa 1915 “Women’s Liberty Bell” returns to Independence Square to celebrate the centennial of the 19th Amendment; on September 25, its clapper will be released to ring again. (215) 597-7077, nps.gov/inde
August 26, 2020
TOAST TO TENACITY™. Independence Hall becomes the backdrop to a centennial celebration—exactly one hundred years to the day when the 19th Amendment was ratified, giving American women the legal right to vote. women100.org
August 28–30, 2020
CITADEL COUNTRY SPIRIT USA. The Brandywine Valley’s three-day country music festival takes place at Ludwig’s Corner House Show Grounds in Glenmoore and features country music stars and includes attractions, food and drinks. countryspiritusa.com
August 29, 2020
PHILLY NAKED BIKE RIDE. Now in its twelfth year, this two-wheeled, 10-mile, clothes-free, car-free, citywide ride expects to attract thousands of participants — and more than a few onlookers. philadelphianakedbikeride.wordpress.com
August 2020 (TBA)
BUG FEST. At the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, hundreds of live insects of all sizes, shapes and colors will be on display so that visitors can talk with scientists, learn about bugs from around the world, enjoy insect presentations and even taste a bug or two. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org
August 2020 (TBA)
ELEMENT HOTEL PHILADELPHIA & W PHILADELPHIA OPENINGS. Element’s largest global property opens in the very center of Center City, next door to its dual-branded property, the W Hotel Philadelphia. (215) 709-8000, marriot.com/hotels/travel/phlel-element-philadelphia, element-hotels.marriott.com; marriott.com/hotels/travel/phlwh-w-philadelphia
August 2020 (TBA)
THE HYATT CENTRIC HOTEL OPENING. This new construction one block from Rittenhouse Square offers 13 stories and 332 rooms of rustic modern design by Philadelphia firm DAS Architects. hyatt.com
August 2020 (TBA)
PHILLY FREE STREETS. Now in its fourth year, this popular Saturday event closes down a main city thoroughfare to vehicular traffic — this year, an eight-mile stretch of North Broad Street between City Hall and Erie Avenue — so people can bike, walk and play in the street. (215) 686-5552, facebook.com/PhillyFreeSts
Taller Puertorriqueño's Feria de Barrio always precedes Hispanic Heritage Month. — Photo courtesy Taller Puertorriqueño
Through September 7, 2020 (reopening date TBA)
AFRICA IN THE ARTS OF PHILADELPHIA. An exhibit at Chestnut Hill’s Woodmere Art Museum features the work of Barbara Bullock and the late Charles Searles (1937–2004) and Twins Seven-Seven — all participants in the Ile-Ife Black Humanitarian Center in North Philadelphia — to explore their ideas and assertions of African and African American cultural identity. (215) 247-0476, woodmereartmuseum.org
Through September 7, 2020 (reopening date TBA)
GARDEN RAILWAY. Chestnut Hill’s Morris Arboretum runs a G-scale model along a quarter-mile track with 12 rail lines, seven loops and tunnels, two cable cars and nine bridges. (After Columbus Day, the Garden Railway operates on weekends only.) (215) 247-5777, morrisarboretum.org
Through September 20, 2020 (reopening date TBA)
SURVIVAL OF THE SLOWEST. Survival strategies of sloths, iguanas and pancake tortoises, among other animals that are slow and small, are explored in this exhibit at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org
Through September 25, 2020
JUSTICE BELL. The circa 1915 “Women’s Liberty Bell” returns to Independence Square to celebrate the centennial of the 19th Amendment; on September 25, its clapper will be released to ring again. (215) 597-7077, nps.gov/inde
Through September 27, 2020 (reopening date TBA)
PARKS ON TAP. This popular warm-weather tradition brings barbecue and beer to iconic outdoor spaces, a different Philadelphia park each Wednesday through Sunday. (215) 568-1616, parksontap.com
Through September 27, 2020
VOTES FOR WOMEN: A VISUAL HISTORY. The Brandywine River Museum of Art displays and explains century-old political cartoons, plays, posters, parades and fashion that formed the visual culture of the U.S. women’s suffrage movement. (610) 388-2700, brandywine.org
Through September 30, 2020
RAISING THEIR VOICES FOR WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE. The East Wing of Independence Hall hosts an interactive, comprehensible-for-kids exhibit on the women’s history makers — Susan B. Anthony, Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, Alice Paul — who used Independence Square to make their voices heard. (215) 597-7077, nps.gov/inde
Through September 30, 2020 (reopening date TBA)
WOMEN’S RIGHTS AND ROLES IN EARLY AMERICA. Temporary exhibit at the Benjamin Franklin Museum delves into the roles and rights of women before, during and right after the Revolutionary War, and explores how the war inspired the women’s suffrage movement. (267) 514-1522, nps.gov/inde
Through September 30, 2020 (reopening date TBA)
WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE TRAIL. An all-ages scavenger hunt throughout Independence National Historical Park leads to one-of-a-kind LEGO® mini-figure suffragettes — and reveals the real suffragettes’ stories and missions. (215) 597-7077, nps.gov/inde
Through September 30, 2020 (reopening date TBA)
WOMEN OF CHANGE, WOMEN OF PROTEST. The Liberty Bell Center offers a Philadelphia-focused exhibit on stories and images of women’s suffrage movement, with a focus on history makers Lucretia Mott, Harriet Forten Purvis and the Justice Bell, a 1915 replica of the Liberty Bell that travelled the country to promote women’s suffrage. (215) 597-7077, nps.gov/inde
September 4, 2020
HOAGIENATION 2020. Headliners Daryl Hall & John Oates lead an eclectic lineup of musical acts, including Squeeze, Kool & the Gang, The Hooters, Blues Traveler, Low Cut Connie and The Soul Survivors at the Mann Center for the Performing Arts. Ticket sales benefit Hoagies for Humanity that provides hoagies to those in need. hoagienation.com
September 4–November 8, 2020
MATTY GEEZ: YOU NEVER LIVED IN THE DESERT. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens exhibits vibrant, cactus-like sculpture by Matty Geez, a Philadelphia artist known for using everyday objects to create work that represents queer visibility. (215) 733-0390, phillymagicgardens.org
September 5 & 6, 2020
MADE IN AMERICA. Multi-headliner, two-day, pre-Labor Day outdoor concert, founded and organized by Jay-Z/Roc Nation, returns to Philadelphia for its ninth year. madeinamericafest.com
September 7–October 25, 2020
SCARECROWS IN THE VILLAGE. Visitors vote on their favorites among the scores of scarecrows standing tall in Bucks County’s Peddler’s Village. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
September 9, 2020–May 16, 2021
ONLY TONY: PORTRAITS BY GILBERT LEWIS. The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts displays 25 paintings by unsung and beloved Philadelphia figurative artist Gilbert Lewis; each work portrays one of the artist’s favorite models, “Tony;” the Woodmere Museum of Art and William Way LGBT Community Center plan concurrent exhibits of Lewis’ work. pafa.org
September 10–October 4, 2020
FRINGE FESTIVAL. For nearly four weeks of artistic pleasure, avant-garde performance meets street theater throughout the city. (215) 413-9006, fringearts.com
September 11–October 3, 2020
ANNUAL STUDENT EXHIBITION. The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, the country’s oldest and largest art museum and school, previews the works of graduate and undergraduate art students during this 119th annual exhibition. (215) 972-7600, pafa.org
September 11–13, 2020
PHILADELPHIA HONEY FESTIVAL. The Philadelphia Beekeepers Guild organizes this annual event, now in its 11th year, featuring hive demonstrations, honey tastings and other family-friendly activities. Three historic locations (Glen Foerd on the Delaware, Wyck Historic House and Bartram’s Garden) each hosts one day of the festival. phillyhoneyfest.com
September 12 & 13, 2020
SCARECROW FESTIVAL. Throughout Peddler’s Village, over 100 larger-than-life scarecrow creations go on display during this annual event. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
September 12–November 8, 2020
PUMPKINLAND. Linvilla Orchards’ annual celebration of all things fall includes hayrides, scarecrows, apple-picking — and lots and lots of pumpkins. (610) 876-7116, linvilla.com
September 15–October 15, 2020 (TBA)
HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH. Philadelphia honors this national event with the Feria del Barrio in El Centro de Oro, a Mexican Independence Day Festival on Penn’s Landing and the Puerto Rican Day Parade on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, among other civic occasions. phila.gov
September 17, 2020
CONSTITUTION DAY. The National Constitution Center offers free admission in honor of this national holiday, with special programming for students and visitors. (215) 409-6700, constitutioncenter.org
September 17, 2020
VILLAGE FOOD TRUCKS. Fall weather, food trucks and entertainment visit Bucks County’s Peddler’s Village on certain Thursday evenings. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
September 17–27, 2020
FESTIVAL O20. Opera Philadelphia’s groundbreaking festival returns for an epic fourth year with company and world premieres of sung comedy, myth, tragedy and satire, including Macbeth, El Cimarrón and Woman with Eyes Closed. (215) 732-8400, operaphiladelphia.org
September 18–November 7, 2020 (Select dates)
TERROR BEHIND THE WALLS. Thrill-seekers celebrate the Halloween season by testing their nerves at Eastern State Penitentiary’s annual haunt, one of the country’s most popular, inside an abandoned prison. (215) 236-3300, easternstate.org
September 19 & 20, 2020
ROCK ‘N’ ROLL HALF MARATHON. Popular 13.1-miler (and a 7.6-miler) hits the city streets for a run where earbuds are not required. runrocknroll.com
September 21, 2020–April 18, 2021
FERN COPPERAGE: NEW ACQUISITIONS. Four extraordinary winter landscapes by Bucks County painter Fern Copperage go on display at the Michener Art Museum. (215) 340-9800, michenerartmuseum.org
September 21–25, 2020
PHILLY TECH WEEK. Business leaders and other self-proclaimed tech geeks — and the technically challenged — participate in more than 100 events, including a variety of programs, interactive activities and workshops that celebrate and highlight emerging trends, advances and innovating uses of technology. 2020.phillytechweek.com
September 23–27, 2020
PHILADELPHIA ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL. This event at The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University offers a cutting-edge roster of smart eco-first films from around the world. (215) 247-3105, philaenvirofilmfest.org
September 26, 2020
CENTER CITY JAZZ FESTIVAL. More than 20 bands perform live throughout Center City — making it easy to enjoy a variety of live jazz — in a six-hour span. ccjazzfest.com
September 25–27, 2020
LET IT BE. The Philly POPS and conductor David Charles Abell celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Beatles’ final album at the Kimmel Center for Performing Arts. (215) 893-1999, phillypops.org
September 26, 2020
WINE STROLL. While leaves fall and wine breathes, visitors can take a stroll around Peddler’s Village to enjoy both. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
September 27, 2020
DOWNINGTOWN FALL FEST. The Chester County Victory Brewing Company presents a day of live music, a variety of food and craft vendors and the Victory Beer Garden, all along blocked-off Green Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. (610) 269-1523, downingtownfallfest.com
September 27–January 10, 2021
ELIJAH PIERCE’S AMERICA. The Barnes Foundation mounts an exhibition of works by self-taught artist Elijah Pierce (1892–1984), a barber and preacher whose vivid wood carvings of biblical scenes, personal memories and political and cultural moments offer perspectives on both 20th-century America and life as a first-generation African American born into freedom. (215) 278-7200, barnesfoundation.org
September 27, 2020
PUERTO RICAN FESTIVAL PARADE. This year marks the 58th anniversary of this music- and pomp-filled Puerto Rican procession of 1,500 marchers. The parade draws thousands to show island pride on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. elconcilio.net
September 28–October 4, 2020
MANAYUNK FALL RESTAURANT WEEK. During the neighborhood’s Fall Restaurant Week, Manayunk restaurants offer three-course meals at low fixed prices. (215) 482-9565, manayunk.com
September 2020 (TBA)
22ND ANNUAL MEXICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY FESTIVAL. Each year, 15,000 attendees head to Penn’s Landing for one of the largest Mexican events in the city, replete with musical performances, great Mexican food, drinks, kids’ activities and more. (215) 592-0410, mexicanculturalcenter.org
September 2020 (TBA)
ARDMORE OKTOBERFEST. Bavaria hits the Main Line at Schauffele Plaza with beer, German food, live music, crafts, face painting and cookie and pumpkin decorating. ardmoreoktoberfest.com
September 2020 (TBA)
BALTIMORE AVENUE DOLLAR STROLL. Businesses on Baltimore Avenue between 43rd and 52nd streets offer $1 bargains that have kept crowds coming back for 10 years. (215) 243-0555, universitycity.org
September 2020 (TBA)
BLOKTOBERFEST. Several local organizations partner with nearby businesses to produce an outdoor celebration of neighborhoods, October, beer, food and music that stretches across the afternoon on west South Street. bloktoberfest.org
September 2020 (TBA)
CENTER CITY RESTAURANT WEEK. Select restaurants in the Center City District will offer signature three-course dinners for $35 per person and three-course lunches for $20 per guest. ccdrestaurantweek.com
September 2020 (TBA)
EVIL GENIUS BIRTHDAY BLOCK PARTY. The street in front of Fishtown’s Evil Genius taproom shuts down to celebrate nine years of beer making with music, games and Dougal, the brewery dog. (215) 425-6820, evilgeniusbeer.com
September 2020 (TBA)
GREENFEST. The Clean Air Council presents the city’s largest environmental festival on Bainbridge Street from 3rd to 5th Street, featuring lots of fun, 100 eco-businesses, food, a beer garden, workshops, (even plogging, starting at 9 a.m. at 8th and Market streets)—and zero waste. cleanair.org
September 2020 (TBA)
THE GUILD HOUSE HOTEL OPENING. In historic Washington Square West, a National Historic Landmark building that once housed the New Century Guild — a hotel, library and food hall for unaccompanied working women visiting Philadelphia for 111 years — becomes a 12-unit boutique hotel, with historic and feminist themes.
September 2020 (TBA)
HARVEST FEST. Pretzel Park and Main Street in Manayunk host a number of activities to celebrate autumn, including pumpkin carving, live music, food vendors and shopping specials. (215) 482-9565, manayunk.com
September–October 2020 (TBA)
OKTOBERFEST AT CRAFT HALL. Delaware Avenue’s Craft Hall takes on the German tradition by transforming its large space with banners, live entertainment and family-friendly activities. (267) 297-2072, crafthallphilly.com
September 2020 (TBA)
OTSUKIMI FESTIVAL. Shofuso, the Japanese House and Garden in Fairmount Park, hosts a moon viewing festival with a Friday evening cocktail party, followed by Otsukimi Family Weekend with arts and crafts, storytelling, rice dining and, on Sunday, a tea ceremony. (267) 237-3550, japanphilly.org
September 2020 (TBA)
PHILADELPHIA BURGER BRAWL PRESENTED BY JIM BEAM. The Navy Yard hosts the ninth annual brawl, where more than 60 restaurants compete to determine whose burger knocks out the rest; proceeds benefit the Fund for the School District of Philadelphia. (215) 732-6622, phillyburgerbrawl.com
September 2020 (TBA)
PHILLY AIDS THRIFT BLOCK PARTY. This party celebrates Philly AIDS Thrift’s 15th anniversary and offers games, face painting, live performances, food trucks and a celebrity dunk tank among other activities at 5th and Bainbridge streets. phillyaidsthrift.com
September 2020 (TBA)
SOUTH STREET OKTOBERFEST. German food, drink, dancers and decorations can all be found in front of Brauhaus Schmitz during this 12th annual event. (267) 909-8814, brauhausschmitz.com
September 2020 (TBA)
UPTOBERFEST OKTOBERFEST. Center City’s Uptown Beer Garden holds its fifth German fest where strong arms come in handy during the liter lift competition. facebook.com/uptownbeergarden
September 2020 (TBA)
WALNUT2WALNUT RIVER CHALLENGE. People paddle and row boats 15 miles, departing from waters at the Schuylkill Banks, down that river and up the Delaware River to Penn’s Landing Quay by the Independence Seaport Museum. (215) 413-8655, phillyseaport.org
Fall 2020 (TBA)
ART IN THE OPEN. The Center for Emerging Visual Artists and Fairmount Water Works partner to bring artists to work along the Schuylkill River, for the community to see. (215) 546-7775, cfeva.org
Fall 2020 (TBA)
CORE PROJECT COMPLETION. The last phase of the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s redesign by architect Frank Gehry welcomes 23,000 square feet of new gallery space, reveals the renovation of the West Entrance and Lenfest Hall, creates a major gathering space called the Forum and reopens the southern portion of the Vaulted Walkway. (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.org
Fall 2020 (TBA)
PHILLY BEER WEEK. The 13th annual celebration of the city’s vibrant beer culture features events ranging from tastings of locally crafted brews in cozy neighborhood taprooms to educational offerings such as guided tastings, lectures and prix-fixe beer-pairing dinners. phillylovesbeer.org
Fall 2020 (TBA)
SEAN SCULLY: THE SHAPE OF IDEAS. Fifty years of poetic, virtuoso paintings — by Sean Scully, a master of abstract art, scale, color and stripes — go on exhibit at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.org
Fall 2020–Spring 2021 (TBA)
WHEN WOMEN LOST THE VOTE: A REVOLUTIONARY STORY, 1776–1807. The Museum of the American Revolution’s exhibition features the stories of New Jersey women who used a loophole to legally vote in elections shortly after the Declaration of Independence was released. (215) 253-6731, amrevmuseum.org
The International Dragon Boat Festival takes place on the Schuylkill River on October 3, 2020. — Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia
October 2020
LGBTQ HISTORY MONTH. Throughout the month, attractions and groups across the city celebrate the achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer icons with festivals (Outfest) and other special events. lgbthistorymonth.com
Through October 3, 2020
ANNUAL STUDENT EXHIBITION. The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, the country’s oldest and largest art museum and school, previews the works of graduate and undergraduate art students during this 119th annual exhibition. (215) 972-7600, pafa.org
Through October 4, 2020
FRINGE FESTIVAL. For nearly four weeks of artistic pleasure, avant-garde performance meets street theater throughout the city. (215) 413-9006, fringearts.com
Through October 4, 2020
MANAYUNK FALL RESTAURANT WEEK. During the neighborhood’s Fall Restaurant Week, Manayunk restaurants offer three-course meals at low fixed prices. (215) 482-9565, manayunk.com
Through October 25, 2020
SCARECROWS IN THE VILLAGE. Visitors vote on their favorites among the scores of scarecrows standing tall in Bucks County’s Peddler’s Village. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
October 1–November 15, 2020
AUTUMN’S COLORS. Harvest-time plantings, meadows transformed with new colors and the Garden Railway are part of Longwood Gardens’ annual celebration of fall. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
October 3, 2020
REVOLUTIONARY GERMANTOWN FESTIVAL. Inspired by true 18th-century events, the Germantown festival comes to life with costumed characters, live music, food and drink and a reenactment of the Battle of Germantown, the only military battle ever fought within Philadelphia’s borders. revolutionarygermantown.org
October 3, 2020
PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL. More than 140 teams race fiberglass dragon boats, complete with heads and tails, on a 500-meter course on the Schuylkill River in the 19th-annual fall event that draws thousands of participants and spectators. (610) 642-2333, philadragonboatfestival.com
October 3, 2020
ROXTOBERFEST. Food trucks, local beer, vendors and carnival games line Ridge Avenue for this well-loved Roxborough neighborhood tradition. (215) 508-2358, roxboroughpa.com
October 4, 2020
BROAD STREET RUN. The 40th annual run, which raises money for the American Cancer Society, spans 10 miles, from Olney to South Philadelphia. (215) 683-3594, broadstreetrun.com
October 4, 2020
AN EVENING WITH DAVID SEDARIS. Humorist Sedaris brings his wit and observations to the Academy of Music. (215) 893-1999, kimmelcenter.org
October 7–18, 2020
DESIGNPHILADELPHIA. The entire city celebrates the nation’s oldest festival of its kind, with events that highlight local designers, architects, and creative professionals demonstrating thoughtful design, collaborative business practices, and community engagement. designphiladelphia.org
October 8–18, 2020
CINDERELLA. The classic story of a young woman under difficult circumstances, a prince, a ball and some nasty stepsisters sees glass slippers meet ballet slippers when the Pennsylvania Ballet brings the tale to the Academy of Music. (215) 893-1999, paballet.org
October 10 & 11, 17 & 18, 24 & 25, 2020
BOO AT THE ZOO. The Philadelphia Zoo hosts its annual, three-weekend trick-or-treat safari, welcoming costumed kids to explore the nation’s first zoo in search of animals, candy, hot apple cider, a hay bale maze and a giant pumpkin wall. (215) 243-1100, philadelphiazoo.org
October 10, 2020
NEW HOPE CELEBRATES’ ANNUAL PRIDE FESTIVAL. The annual festival (rescheduled from May) includes an Equality Flag ceremony and an amazing Pride Parade and Fair, which crosses the bridge from Lambertville, New Jersey to New Hope, site of outdoor performances and events. newhopecelebrates.com
October 10 & 11, 17 & 18, 2020
PHILADELPHIA OPEN STUDIO TOURS (POST). For the 21st year, art connoisseurs and neophytes visit local artists of all mediums in their studios in neighborhoods throughout the city. (215) 546-7775, philaopenstudios.org
October 10 & 11, 2020
PUMPKIN DAYS. Hayrides, scarecrow-making, plenty of kids’ activities and pumpkins bring fall to the forefront at Tyler Arboretum’s annual event. (610) 566-9134, tylerarboretum.org
October 11, 2020
OLD CITY FEST. Artists, crafters, designers, techies, entertainers and restaurateurs celebrate the creative spirit of the Historic District neighborhood along several blocks of activities, exhibits and programs that appeal to families as well as the over-21 crowd. (215) 592-7929, oldcitydistrict.org
October 11, 2020
OUTFEST. The world’s largest coming out day features 10 blocks of drag shows, games, bar crawls, music, shopping and a high-heel race, with the main stage at 13th and Locust streets. (215) 875-9288, phillygaypride.org
October 11–24, 2020
GREAT PUMPKIN CARVE. An annual Chadds Ford Historical Society event offers hayrides, live music, a kid-friendly haunted trail and more than 70 carved pumpkins on view. greatpumpkincarve.com
October 15, 2020
VILLAGE FOOD TRUCKS. Fall weather, food trucks and entertainment visit Bucks County’s Peddler’s Village on certain Thursday evenings. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
October 16–25, 2020
BLACK RESTAURANT WEEK PHILADELPHIA. A number of the city’s top Black-owned restaurants highlight African American, African and Caribbean cuisine in Philadelphia. phillybrw.com
October 16–17, 202
SHE LEADS ROAD RALLY. Race car drivers pull an all-night, round-trip road trip from Drexel University College of Medicine in East Falls to Seneca Falls, NY, site of the first Women’s Rights Convention. (Buses also available.) women100.org
October 17 & 18, 2020
OCTOBERFEAST. This family-friendly event at Peddler’s Village features beer (wine and spirits, too), German food, music and activities for all. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
October 17, 2020
RITTENHOUSE ROW FESTIVAL. Shopping and dining venues in the Rittenhouse neighborhood come together for a public street fest and a day of music, outdoor shopping, fashion events, international entertainment and food from some of the city’s most renowned restaurants. rittenhouserow.org
October 17, 2020–January 10, 2021
AMERICAN IMPRESSIONISM: ECHOES OF A REVOLUTION. The Brandywine Museum of Art exhibits works that may have been inspired by Monet, but evoke the American spirit of the late 19th through early 20th centuries. (610) 388-2700, brandywine.org
October 18, 2020
HARVESTFEST. The annual Southwest community event at Bartram’s Garden features hayrides, cider press, face painting, cooking and canning workshops and more fun fall-related activities. (215) 729-5281, bartramsgarden.org
October 22–November 15, 2020
CHRYSANTHEMUM FESTIVAL. Thousands upon thousands of fall’s favored flower come together in giant globes, fanciful spirals, even a full-size padoga during this annual event at Longwood Gardens. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
October 22–November 1, 2020
PHILADELPHIA FILM FESTIVAL. This annual festival showcases the best in independent and foreign cinema—shorts, features, animated and guest-accompanied films — in theaters and venues around Philadelphia. (267) 239-2941, filmadelphia.org
October 22–25, 2020
PHILADELPHIA FINE ARTS FAIR. Forty Philadelphia art galleries and institutions — including the Barnes Foundation and Philadelphia Museum of Art — present contemporary works at the 23rd Street Armory for in a ticketed event to raise funds to help preserve the city’s public art. philfineartfair.com
October 23–25, 2020
STAR WARS: A GALAXY OF MUSIC. Costumes encouraged as conductor Stuart Chafetz and the Philly POPS bring John Williams’ film scores to the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. (215) 893-1999, phillypops.org
October 24 & 25, 2020 (currently announced date)
9TH STREET STROLL. Harvest and Halloween combine with the vibe of the S. 9th Street Italian Market Festival, featuring cheese, cannoli, tamales, tortilla chips, live music and more. italianmarketfestival.com
October 24 & 25, 2020
HEAD OF THE SCHYULKILL REGATTA. In one of the nation’s largest and most festive rowing events, athletes of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to Olympic-level racers, meet and compete on the Schuylkill River. (215) 280-0483, hosr.org
October 24 & 25, 2020
IKEBANA AND BONSAI EXHIBIT. Longwood Gardens revels in two of Japan’s most revered art forms, thanks to the Philadelphia Chapter of Ikebana International and Brandywine Bonsai Society. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
October 30, 2020–May 16, 2021
TAKING SPACE: CONTEMPORARY WOMEN ARTISTS AND THE POLITICS OF SCALE. The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) presents impressive, political, space-claiming large-scale artwork from its own collection by women artists, including major pieces by Betye Saar and Njideka Akunyili Crosby. (215) 972-7600, pafa.org
October 2020 (TBA)
23rd STREET ARMORY OKTOBERFEST. The 23rd Street Armory transforms into a bierhall for this annual Oktoberfest shindig, starring traditional fare, including homemade Bavarian pretzels, and German Hofbräuhaus beer. (267) 909-8814, brauhausschmitz.com
October 2020 (TBA)
BRU FALL FESTIVAL (at Midtown Village Fall Festival). Midtown Village’s BRU Craft & Wurst and U-Bahn present a full day of brats, pulled pork, pretzels, beer and music on the 1300 block of Chestnut Street. (215) 800-1079, bruphilly.com
October 2020 (TBA)
DAY OF THE DEAD. The Penn Museum, in conjunction with Mexican Cultural Center, present the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos at this family-friendly afternoon of costumes, music, dance, storytelling, arts and crafts and a traditional Day of the Dead altar for dedications. (215) 898-4000, penn.museum
October 2020 (TBA)
GIRARD AVENUE STREET FESTIVAL. Live music, kids’ activities, food and artisans line West Girard Avenue between 26th and 29th streets during this annual event. (215) 232-4766, fairmountcdc.org
October 2020 (TBA)
THE HARVEST GATHERING. This event at Wallingford’s Community Arts Center offers beer and cider, food, music, kids’ art activities and an art exhibition of works created at local farms and farmers markets. (610) 566-1713, communityartscenter.org
October 2020 (TBA)
JACK’S PUMPKIN GLOW. On select autumn evenings, visitors can stroll through hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns lighting up West Fairmount Park while master carvers demonstrate their skills—and enjoy the beer and wine garden. glowpumpkin.com/philadelphia
October 2020 (TBA)
LIBERTY MEDAL AWARD. The National Constitution Center awards its highest honor to individuals who strive to secure liberty for people all over the world. (215) 409-6700, constitutioncenter.org
October 2020 (TBA)
MIDTOWN VILLAGE FALL FESTIVAL. The Gayborhood parties to an ultra-fun level with music, food, sidewalk sales and other festivities. (215) 733-0191, midtownvillagephilly.org
October 2020 (TBA)
SOUTH STREET PUMPKINFEST. Headhouse Plaza’s fall festival is a day of shopping, live music, seasonal bites and brews, straw bale maze, circus performances, horse and wagon hayrides, face painting and, along South Street or trick-or-treating for children 12 and under. (215) 413-3713, southstreet.com
The 6abc Dunkin' Thanksgiving Day Parade — the event's 101st — takes place November 26, 2020. — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Through November 1, 2020
PHILADELPHIA FILM FESTIVAL. This annual festival showcases the best in independent and foreign cinema—shorts, features, animated and guest-accompanied films — in theaters and venues around Philadelphia. (267) 239-2941, filmadelphia.org
Through November 7, 2020 (Select dates)
TERROR BEHIND THE WALLS. Thrill-seekers celebrate the Halloween season by testing their nerves at Eastern State Penitentiary’s annual haunt, one of the country’s most popular, inside an abandoned prison. (215) 236-3300, easternstate.org
Through November 8, 2020
MATTY GEEZ: YOU NEVER LIVED IN THE DESERT. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens exhibits vibrant, cactus-like sculpture by Matty Geez, a Philadelphia artist known for using everyday objects to create work that represents queer visibility. (215) 733-0390, phillymagicgardens.org
Through November 8, 2020
PUMPKINLAND. Linvilla Orchards’ annual celebration of all things fall includes hayrides, scarecrows, apple-picking — and lots and lots of pumpkins. (610) 876-7116, linvilla.com
Through November 15, 2020
AUTUMN’S COLORS. Harvest-time plantings, meadows transformed with new colors and the Garden Railway are part of Longwood Gardens’ annual celebration of fall. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
Through November 15, 2020
CHRYSANTHEMUM FESTIVAL. Thousands upon thousands of fall’s favored flower come together in giant globes, fanciful spirals, even a full-size padoga during this annual event at Longwood Gardens. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
November 5–15, 2020
PHILADELPHIA ASIAN AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL. The largest East Coast film festival dedicated to celebrating and elevating the experiences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders also includes theatrical and musical performances at various locations throughout the city. phillyasianfilmfest.org
November 6–8, 2020
PHILADELPHIA MUSEUM OF ART CRAFT SHOW. Museum-quality handmade jewelry, textiles, and mixed media are on display and for sale during this annual event at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. (215) 684-7930, pmacraftshow.org
November 7 & 8 2020
APPLE FESTIVAL. At Peddler’s Village, visitors indulge in old-fashioned country apple butter, apple cider, apple dumplings, apple fritters, caramel-dipped apples and pie-eating contests. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
November 7–22, 2020
GERSHMAN PHILADELPHIA JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL. The festival presents film and film-related programs that appeal to diverse communities and encourage understanding across racial, economic and religious divides. (215) 545-4400, pjff.org
November 9, 2020
CRAFTNOW CREATE. Part of a month (November) dedicated to craft, this one-day event at the Kimmel Center for Performing Arts presents kid- and family-friendly activities from organizations such as The Center for Art in Wood, The Clay Studio, Fabric Workshop and Museum and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. (215) 717-6135, craftnowphila.org
November 12–22, 2020
FIRST PERSON ARTS FESTIVAL. Venues throughout the city host the only event in the world dedicated exclusively to art based on personal experiences, a multidisciplinary festival featuring storytelling shows, memoir readings, film screenings, performances, experiential tours and workshops. (267) 402-2055, firstpersonarts.org
November 14, 2020–January 3, 2021
A VERY FURRY CHRISTMAS. Sesame Place in Langhorne, Bucks County hosts Christmas Parades, holiday plays and a kid-centric marketplace — all featuring Elmo, Big Bird, Abby Cadabby, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and friends. (215) 752-ELMO, sesameplace.com
November 15–22, 2020
QFLIX PHILADELPHIA. This annual festival (rescheduled) celebrates all genres of film that pertain to or were created by members of the LGBTQ communities, with screenings based at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre. qflixphilly.com
November 20, 2020–January 10, 2021
A LONGWOOD CHRISTMAS. Thousands of poinsettias, towering Christmas trees and fragrant flowers transform the indoor gardens, where concerts take place daily; outside, 500,000 lights glitter in the trees, and fountains dance to seasonal music. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
November 20, 2020
GRAND ILLUMINATION CELEBRATION. Santa arrives at Peddler’s Village to light the venue’s one million lights at 6:15 p.m. sharp, while live music plays and guests enjoy hot apple cider and roasted marshmallows. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
November 20, 2020–June 6, 2021
JONATHAN LYNDON CHASE: BIG WASH. The Fabric Workshop and Museum welcomes an exhibition by Philadelphia painter and illustrator Jonathan Lyndon Chase, whose work primarily focuses on queer Black bodies in everyday environments. (215) 561-8888, fabricworkshopandmuseum.org
November 20, 2020–January 2, 2021
GINGERBREAD HOUSE COMPETITION. Gingerbread in all shapes and sizes brings baking creativity to the forefront at this annual event at Peddler’s Village. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
November 20–22, 2020
PHILADELPHIA MARATHON. One of the country’s premier — and most scenic — running events courses through historic downtown, past the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Boathouse Row; the weekend includes an 8K race, half-marathon, a Kids Fun Run and Health & Fitness Expo in the run-up to Sunday’s big run. (215) 683-2122, philadelphiamarathon.com
November 20, 2020–May 23, 2021
SCULPTURE WITH A PURPOSE: WOMEN, PATRONAGE, AND WHARTON ESHERICK, 1930–1945. The Michener Museum of Art explores connections between Wharton Esherick, known as the dean of American craft, and patrons Helene Fischer, sculptor Hanna Weil and photographer Marjorie Content. (215) 340-9800, michenerartmuseum.org
November 21–December 23, 2020
CHRISTMAS AROUND THE FARM. Media, Delaware County’s beloved Linvilla Orchards offers cut-your-own fir trees (also available pre-cut), December Saturday night Wassailing Hayrides, plus plenty to purchase to decorate and entertain over the holidays. (610) 876-7116, linvilla.com
November 21, 2020–January 1, 2021
MADE IN PHILADELPHIA HOLIDAY MARKET. Outside of Philadelphia City Hall, 50 local makers of apparel, gifts, art glass and more display and vend their locally made wares for the gift-giving season. (215) 268-7606, madeinphila.com
November 25, 2020
PHILADELPHIA MUSEUM OF ART TREE LIGHTING. Music by several artists accompanies the lighting of the tree atop the Rocky steps. (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.org
November 26, 2020
THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE. The 101st running of America’s first Thanksgiving Day parade, sponsored by 6abc and Dunkin’, wows crowds with Disney characters, fancy floats, giant balloons, marching bands and other festive entertainment along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. 6abc.com
November 26–December 24, 2020
CHRISTMAS VILLAGE IN PHILADELPHIA. The German-style market returns to JFK Plaza, better known as LOVE Park. For the 13th year, more than 80 wooden booths of local and international merchants sell Käthe Wohlfahrt ornaments, Hernhut Stars, wintry apparel and all manner of edible and drinkable treats, while entertainment keeps things festive. (215) 268-7606, philachristmas.com
November 26, 2020–January 1, 2021
THE COMCAST HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR. The Comcast Center lobby’s super high-res LED display shows a magical sleigh ride over the city and a sing-along in 15 minutes of fun. comcastcorporation.com
November 27, 2020–January 3, 2021 (TBA)
BRANDYWINE CHRISTMAS. The train display and critter ornaments make their annual holiday-time appearance at the Brandywine River Museum of Art. (610) 388-2700, brandywine.org
November 27–December 31, 2020 (closed December 24 & 25)
GARDEN RAILWAY. Over the winter holidays, from the Friday after Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, Morris Arboretum presents G-scale model trains running along a quarter-mile track that features 12 rail lines, seven loops and tunnels, two cable cars and nine bridges. (215) 247-5777, morrisarboretum.org
November 27–December 31, 2020 (TBA)
MACY’S CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW. The Grand Court of the historic Wanamaker department store (now Macy’s) offers a free show of dancing lights, set to the famed Wanamaker Organ; performances every two hours during store hours. (215) 241-9000, wanamakerorgan.com
November 27, 2020–January 1, 2021 (TBA)
WILD LIGHTS HOLIDAY FESTIVAL. Norristown’s extra kid-friendly Elmwood Park Zoo illuminates its 16 acres, adds Santa and his reindeer, runs a vintage carousel and opens its zip line for early-evening fun. (800) 652-4143, elmwoodparkzoo.org
November 28, 2020–January 1, 2021
MIRACLE ON SOUTH 13TH STREET. A South Philly tradition brings neighbors along the 1600 block of South 13th Street together to decorate their homes with holiday lights and over-the-top decorations enjoyed by both pedestrians and car passengers. facebook.com/themiracleonsouth13thstreet
November (date TBD) 2020–March (date TBD) 2021
BLUE CROSS RIVERRINK WINTERFEST. Penn’s Landing’s wintertime ice-skating rink and Winterfest wonderland, complete with a lodge, arcade and confectionery cabin enjoy seasonal run. (215) 629-3200, riverrink.com
November 2020 (TBA)
CIRCLE OF TREES. Chestnut Hill’s tree lighting comes complete with cocoa, cookies and live music outside historic Woodmere Art Museum. (215) 247-6696, chestnuthill.org
November 2020 (TBA)–January 1, 2021
DECK THE HALL HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOW. The western façade of Philadelphia City Hall serves as the backdrop for a nightly light display synchronized to holiday music. dilworthpark.org
November (TBA)–December 31, 2020
FRANKLIN SQUARE HOLIDAY FESTIVAL FEATURING ELECTRICAL SPECTACLE: A HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOW. Electric company PECO aptly presents the illumination of Franklin Square, while the square itself offers comfort food, local beers, and hot beverages at Ben’s Sweets & Treats. (215) 629-4026, historicphiladelphia.org
November 2020 (TBA)
THE GREAT HARVEST CIDER AND BEER FESTIVAL. Hard ciders, lagers, pumpkin ales, as well as food trucks with cozy fall favorites, apple bobbing, a pie-eating contest, music and more take over 11th Street between Fitzwater and Catherine streets in front of Hawthornes Beer Cafe. (215) 627-3012, hawthornecafe.com
November 2020 (TBA)–January 2021 (TBA)
HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOW AT SHADY BROOK FARM. A Yardley, Bucks County farm strings up more than 3 million lights for guests to drive — or ride in a horse-drawn carriage — through; also on tap: visits with Santa, holiday shopping, hot cocoa. (215) 968-1670, shadybrookfarm.com
November 2020 (TBA)–January 2021 (TBA)
LUMINATURE AT THE PHILADELPHIA ZOO. An evening activation transforms America’s first zoo into a walk-through display of light and sound. (215) 243-1100, philadelphiazoo.org
Late Fall/Early Winter (TBA)
JASPER JOHNS MIND/MIRROR. The Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art partner on simultaneous major exhibitions by the person considered the country’s most significant living artist. (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.org
The Christmas Village is open in JFK Plaza — aka LOVE Park — through December 24, 2020. — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Through December 23, 2020
CHRISTMAS AROUND THE FARM. Media, Delaware County’s beloved Linvilla Orchards offers cut-your-own fir trees (also available pre-cut), December Saturday night Wassailing Hayrides, plus plenty to purchase to decorate and entertain over the holidays. (610) 876-7116, linvilla.com
Through December 24, 2020 (TBA)
CHRISTMAS VILLAGE IN PHILADELPHIA. The German-style market returns to JFK Plaza, better known as LOVE Park. For the 12th year, more than 80 wooden booths of local and international merchants sell Käthe Wohlfahrt ornaments, Hernhut Stars, wintry apparel and all manner of edible and drinkable treats, while entertainment keeps things festive. (215) 268-7606, philachristmas.com
Through December 31, 2020 (TBA)
FRANKLIN SQUARE HOLIDAY FESTIVAL FEATURING ELECTRICAL SPECTACLE: A HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOW. Electric company PECO aptly presents the illumination of Franklin Square, while the square itself offers comfort food, local beers, and hot beverages at Ben’s Sweets & Treats. (215) 629-4026, historicphiladelphia.org
Through December 31, 2020 (TBA)
GARDEN RAILWAY. The Morris Arboretum presents G-scale model trains running along a quarter-mile track that features 12 rail lines, seven loops and tunnels, two cable cars and nine bridges. Closed December 24 and 25. (215) 247-5777, morrisarboretum.org
Through December 31, 2020 (TBA)
MACY’S CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW. The Grand Court of the historic Wanamaker department store (now Macy’s) offers a free show of dancing lights, set to the famed Wanamaker Organ; performances every two hours during store hours. (215) 241-9000, wanamakerorgan.com
December 4–19, 2020
A PHILLY POPS CHRISTMAS: SPECTACULAR SOUNDS OF THE SEASON! The holiday tradition returns to the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts with conductor David Charles Abell and Hamilton star Mandy Gonzalez. (215) 893-1999, phillypops.org
December 5 & 6, 2020
CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL. Santa leads two days of Christmas Parades, and live entertainment pops up among the 60-some specialty shops and six restaurants of Peddler’s Village in Bucks County. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
December 9, 2020
ANDREA BOCELLI IN CONCERT. The Philly POPS presents — and performs with — the iconic Italian tenor during his annual December tour of the U.S., stopping in Philly at the Wells Fargo Center. (800) 298-4200, phillypops.org
December 11–13, 2020
FAST FORWARD. PHILADANCO looks at the future of choreography in a co-commission with Toronto’s Dance Immersion, Vietnam’s Thang Dao, Broadway’s Ray Mercer and choreographer Kathy Smith at the Perelman Theater at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. (215) 387-8200, philadanco.org
December 11–31, 2020
THE NUTCRACKER. Pennsylvania Ballet’s 54th anniversary season features its annual performance of George Balanchine’s holiday classic at the Academy of Music. December 30 performance of the ballet is sensory-friendly. (215) 893-1999, paballet.org
December 25, 2020
BEING ______ AT CHRISTMAS. The National Museum of American Jewish History hosts a variety of activities for folks who don’t celebrate Christmas (and those who do) during this annual event. In addition to the exhibitions within the galleries, guests can enjoy crafts, live music, storytelling, movies and face painting. (215) 923-3811, nmajh.org
December 25, 2020 (and a second date TBA)
WASHINGTON CROSSING THE DELAWARE RIVER. General Washington once again leads a surprise attack on the British during this annual re-enactment — complete with army uniforms, a historic trek, demos, games and activities — at Washington Crossing Historic Park. (215) 493-4076, washingtoncrossingpark.org
December 31, 2020
COUNTDOWN TO NOON. Kid-centric Please Touch Museum® throws a popular party for the early-to-bed set, complete with live music and two ball drops: one at noon, another at 1 p.m. (215) 581-3181, pleasetouchmuseum.org
December 31, 2020
RIVERS CASINO NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS ON THE DELAWARE RIVER WATERFRONT. Two pyrotechnic extravaganzas over the Delaware River ring in the New Year at 6 p.m. and midnight. (215) 629-3200, delawareriverwaterfront.com
December 2020 (TBA)
KWANZAA CELEBRATIONS AT AAMP. The African American Museum in Philadelphia hails the winter harvest by lighting the kinara and honoring the seven principles. (215) 574-0380, aampmuseum.org
December 2020 (TBA)
TIPPLER’S TOUR: YULETIDE CHEERS & BEERS. Historic Philadelphia Inc. puts a holiday in on its Tippler’s Tour, when the pub crawl, set in the winter of 1777 and led by a costumed reenactor, takes guests to four festive bars throughout Old City. (215) 629-4026, historicphiladelphia.org
December 2020 (TBA)
WILD WIZARDING WEEKEND. The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University does up the nature side of J.K. Rowling’s famed book series with a whole weekend of games, live animals, magic wand-making and costume-wearing. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org
A Longwood Christmas takes place through January 10, 2021. — Photo courtesy Longwood Gardens
Through January 1, 2021 (TBA)
THE COMCAST HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR. The Comcast Center lobby’s super high-res LED display combines the Pennsylvania Ballet’s The Nutcracker, a magical sleigh ride over the city and a sing-along in 15 minutes of fun. comcastcorporation.com
Through January 1, 2021 (TBA)
DECK THE HALL HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOW. The western façade of Philadelphia City Hall serves as the backdrop for a nightly light display synchronized to holiday music. dilworthpark.org
Through January 1, 2021
MADE IN PHILADELPHIA HOLIDAY MARKET. Outside Philadelphia City Hall, 50 local makers of apparel, gifts, art glass and more display and vend their locally made wares for the gift-giving season. (215) 268-7606, madeinphila.com
Through January 1, 2021
MIRACLE ON SOUTH 13TH STREET. A South Philly tradition brings neighbors along the 1600 block of South 13th Street together to decorate their homes with holiday lights and over-the-top decorations enjoyed by both pedestrians and car passengers. facebook.com/themiracleonsouth13thstreet
Through January 1, 2021 (TBA)
WILD LIGHTS HOLIDAY FESTIVAL. Norristown’s extra kid-friendly Elmwood Park Zoo illuminates its 16 acres, adds Santa and his reindeer, runs a vintage carousel and opens its zip line for early-evening fun. (800) 652-4143, elmwoodparkzoo.org
Through January 3, 2021
A VERY FURRY CHRISTMAS. Sesame Place in Langhorne, Bucks County hosts Christmas Parades, holiday plays and a kid-centric marketplace — all featuring Elmo, Big Bird, Abby Cadabby, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and friends. (215) 752-ELMO, sesameplace.com
Through January 3, 2021 (TBA)
BRANDYWINE CHRISTMAS. The train display and critter ornaments make their annual holiday-time appearance at the Brandywine River Museum of Art. (610) 388-2700, brandywine.org
Through January 3, 2021 (TBA)
HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOW AT SHADY BROOK FARM. A Yardley, Bucks County farm strings up more than 3 million lights for guests to drive — or ride in a horse-drawn carriage — through; also on tap: visits with Santa, holiday shopping, hot cocoa. (215) 968-1670, shadybrookfarm.com
Through January 3, 2021 (TBA)
LUMINATURE AT THE PHILADELPHIA ZOO. New this year to Philly, an evening activation transforms America’s first zoo into a walk-through display of light and sound. (215) 243-1100, philadelphiazoo.org
Through January 3, 2021 (to be confirmed)
THE SECRET LIFE OF BUGS. The Franklin Institute presents insects as the miracle animals they are, inviting visitors to experience specimens in a lab, larger-than-life models and simulated immersions featuring a giant hornet, praying mantis and dragonfly. (215) 448-1200, fi.edu
Through January 10, 2021
AMERICAN IMPRESSIONISM: ECHOES OF A REVOLUTION. The Brandywine Museum of Art exhibits works that may have been inspired by Monet, but evoke the American spirit of the late 19th through early 20th centuries. (610) 388-2700, brandywine.org
Through January 10, 2021
A LONGWOOD CHRISTMAS. Thousands of poinsettias, towering Christmas trees and fragrant flowers transform the indoor gardens, where concerts take place daily; outside, 500,000 lights glitter in the trees, and fountains dance to seasonal music. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
Through January 10, 2021
ELIJAH PIERCE’S AMERICA. The Barnes Foundation mounts an exhibition of works by self-taught artist Elijah Pierce (1892–1984), a barber and preacher whose vivid wood carvings of biblical scenes, personal memories and political and cultural moments offer perspectives on both 20th-century America and life as a first-generation African American born into freedom. (215) 278-7200, barnesfoundation.org
Through January 17, 2021
SYD CARPENTER: PORTRAITS OF OUR PLACES. In a first solo exhibition at Doylestown’s Michener Art Museum, Swarthmore College professor and ceramicist Sydney Carpenter explores the themes of race, identity and environment in sculpted clay and steel portraits of African American gardens and farms in the rural South. (215) 340-9800, michenerartmuseum.org
Through January 21, 2021
SAMARA GOLDEN: UPSTAIRS AT STEVE’S. Fabric Workshop and Museum artist-in-resident Samara Golden creates a built environment using illusion and perspective distortion to create a mysterious and intense experience. (215) 561-8888, fabricworkshopandmuseum.org
January 1, 2021
MUMMERS PARADE. Thousands of festooned strutters kick off the New Year by marching along Broad Street in this festive daylong event, now in its 124th year. One of the Mummers divisions, the Fancy Brigades, puts on two elaborate, Broadway-style performances for ticket holders at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. phillymummers.com
January 16–24, 2021
PHILADELPHIA AUTO SHOW. The automotive industry’s latest creations are on a 750,000-square-foot display at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, the showplace for more than 700 pre-production, classic, luxury and exotic cars. phillyautoshow.com
January 18, 2021
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY OF SERVICE. Greater Philadelphia holds the country’s largest day of service every Martin Luther King Jr. Day, with tens of thousands of volunteers doing community projects throughout the city and region. mlkdayofservice.org
January 22–24, 2021
MODERN BROADWAY: THE MUSIC OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER, KANDER & EBB AND MORE! Beloved Broadway hits are brought to the stage at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts with conductor Michael Krajewski and the Philly Pops. (215) 893-1999, phillypops.org
January 23, 2021
DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD LIVE! All of the beloved characters from the PBS series visit the Merriam Theater to take the audience on an adventure in the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. (215) 893-1999, kimmelcenter.org
January 23–March 21, 2021
ORCHID EXTRAVAGANZA. Longwood Gardens creates an absolutely transcendent experience for orchid lovers, perching and planting the rarest and most beautiful of flora from conservatories to outdoors. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
January 29–February 7, 2021
NEW STORIES. The Pennsylvania Ballet presents three world premieres by Matthew Neenan, Meredith Rainey and Russell Ducker at the Perelman Theater. (215) 893-1999, paballet.org
January 2021 (TBA)
CENTER CITY RESTAURANT WEEK. Select restaurants in the Center City District will offer signature three-course dinners for $35 per person, and three-course lunches for $20 per guest. ccdrestaurantweek.com
January 2021 (TBA)
LUNAR NEW YEAR CULTUREFEST. Asian Arts Initiative helps host the Penn Museum’s annual celebration of the Lunar New Year with dance, martial arts, music, craft-making, calligraphy, storytelling and a grand finale lion dance. (215) 898-4000, penn.museum
The Philadelphia Museum of Art partners with the Whitney Museum of American Art on simultaneous Jasper Johns exhibits, through February 2021 (end date TBA). — Photo by M. Fischetti for Visit Philadelphia
Through February 7, 2021
NEW STORIES. The Pennsylvania Ballet presents three world premieres by Matthew Neenan, Meredith Rainey and Russell Ducker at the Perelman Theater. (215) 893-1999, paballet.org
February 6, 2021
AFRICAN AMERICAN CHILDREN’S BOOK FAIR. One of the oldest and largest single-day events for African American children’s books in the country, the 29th annual African American Children’s Book Fair at the Community College of Philadelphia features nationally known and bestselling authors and illustrators, representatives from the multicultural literary community, enriching children’s books, and activities that promote the power and joy of reading. theafricanamericanchildrensbookproject.org
February 19–21, 2021
ELLA, BILLIE, DINAH & ALL THAT JAZZ. Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday and Dinah Washington are highlighted when the Philly Pops take the stage with conductor Terell Stafford at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. (215) 893-1999, phillypops.org
February 2021 (TBA)
AFRICAN AMERICAN CHILDREN’S BOOK FAIR. One of the oldest and largest single-day events for African American children’s books in the country, the 29th annual African American Children’s Book Fair at the Community College of Philadelphia features nationally known and bestselling authors and illustrators, representatives from the multicultural literary community, enriching children’s books, and activities that promote the power and joy of reading. theafricanamericanchildrensbookproject.org
February 2021 (TBA)
BLUE HEAVEN COMEDY FESTIVAL. FringeArts presents their third-annual alt-comedy fest. (215) 413-9006, fringearts.com
February 2021 (TBA)
EAST PASSYUNK RESTAURANT WEEK. Three-course prix fixe lunches and dinners are available (tax, alcohol and gratuity not included) at various restaurants in the South Philly neighborhood. eastpassyunkrestaurantweek.com
February 2021 (TBA)
PHILLY THEATRE WEEK. A 10-day regional theatrical festival promises 100 events, including panels, concerts, meet-ups and loads of live theater. (267) 761-9950, theatrephiladelphia.org
Philadelphia's St. Patrick's Day Parade takes place along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway every March.
Through March 2021
SEAT AT THE TABLE. A free, seven-day-a-week, interactive art exhibition by Dome Collective at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts invites the public to experience women’s representation in places of power (seats at tables) through 3D infographic furniture, while a wall of interactive screens introduces pioneers in women’s history. (215) 893-1999, women100.org
Through March 21, 2021
ORCHID EXTRAVAGANZA. Longwood Gardens creates an absolutely transcendent experience for orchid lovers, perching and planting the rarest and most beautiful of flora from conservatories to outdoors. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
March 19–21, 2021
POP ROCKS PAUL SIMON, JAMES TAYLOR & BILLY JOEL. David Charles Abell conducts Michael Cavanaugh and the Philly POPS performing chart-toppers from the above hit-makers, plus Neil Diamond and more at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. (215) 893-1999, phillypops.org
Through March 22, 2021
CELEBRATING WOMEN. This celebration of American women at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts begins with a ceremony featuring music, performance segments and a salute to 100 women who have blazed trails for others to follow in a multitude of fields. (215) 893-1999, women100.org
March 2021 (TBA)
FOUNDERS DAY. Visitors pay what they wish at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University to celebrate the founding day in 1812 of the oldest natural history museum in the Americas. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org
March 2021 (TBA)
ISRAELI FILM FESTIVAL. The Israeli Film Festival, Philadelphia’s annual showcase of the best in Israeli film, returns with a powerful lineup of documentaries, dramas, films and more. (484) 904-5421, iffphila.com
March 2021 (TBA)
PHILLY WINE WEEK. The annual eight-day festival returns for another year of wine-centric events, tastings, pairings and specials at bars and restaurants throughout Philadelphia. phillywineweek.org
March 2021 (TBA)
SPRING BLOOMS. Visitors take in the sights and smells of spring’s arrival at Longwood Gardens with 240,000 tulips, azaleas, dogwoods and more. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
March 2021 (TBA)
ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE. Marching bands, decorated floats, music and dance groups, youth groups and Irish associations march down Broad Street to City Hall and from City Hall to Market Street to Penn’s Landing. philadelphiastpatsparade.com
March 2021 (TBA)
THE WOMEN’S FILM FESTIVAL. It’s year five for this empowering, Philly-grown, women-centric festival that celebrates women’s roles behind and in front of the camera. thewomensfilmfestival.org
Through Spring 2021 (TBA)
WHEN WOMEN LOST THE VOTE: A REVOLUTIONARY STORY, 1776–1807. The Museum of the American Revolution’s exhibition features the stories of New Jersey women who used a loophole to legally vote in elections shortly after the Declaration of Independence was released. (215) 253-6731, amrevmuseum.org
Spring 2021 (TBA)
THE STORIES WE WEAR. The Penn Museum presents an exhibition of purposeful, international adornments, from Samurai armor to Mongolian wedding wear to ancient tattoos. (215) 898-4000, penn.museum
The Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival takes place each spring at Shofuso Japanese House and Garden in West Fairmount Park. — Photo by K. Kelly for Visit Philadelphia
Through April 18, 2021
FERN COPPERAGE: NEW ACQUISITIONS. Four extraordinary winter landscapes by Bucks County painter Fern Copperage go on display at the Michener Art Museum. (215) 340-9800, michenerartmuseum.org
April 3 & 4, 2021
AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY & CULTURE SHOWCASE. The annual event at the Pennsylvania Convention Center includes private exhibits that have never been shown in museums, living legend history makers, documentary films, historical reenactments, panel discussions, lectures, workshops, visual artists and crafters, poetry readings, theatrical performances and historical musical concerts. blackhistoryshowcase.org
April 4, 2021
89TH ANNUAL EASTER PROMENADE. That song about Easter bonnets still applies along South Street, where best-dressed Easter celebrants continue the city’s decades-old tradition of competing for prizes and fun. (215) 413-3713, southstreet.com
April 11, 2021
JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA WITH WYNTON MARSALIS. The acclaimed big band and jazz orchestra with its 15 musicians performs original and historic compositions at the Academy of Music. (215) 893-1999, kimmelcenter.org
April 16–18, 2021
SHOWSTOPPERS! HELLO, DOLLY!, LA CAGE & MAME. David Charles Abell conducts the Philly POPS performing the Broadway hits of eternal optimist Jerry Herman at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. (215) 893-1999, phillypops.org
April 22–24, 2021
PENN RELAYS. High school, college and professional track stars compete at Franklin Field during the Penn Relays, the oldest collegiate meet in the nation. (215) 898-6151, thepennrelays.com
April 24, 2021
WILD KRATTS LIVE 2.0 – ACTIVATE CREATURE POWER. The Kratt brothers, Martin and Chris, appear live on stage at the Merriam Theater to share their knowledge and excitement about the world’s creatures. (215) 893-1999, kimmelcenter.org
April 30–May 2, 2021
POP ROCKS THE MUSIC OF THE MOODY BLUES: GO NOW! Michael Krajewski leads and sometime Moody Bluesman Gordy Marshall joins the Philly POPS for anthems such as Nights in White Satin and I Know You’re Out There Somewhere at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. (215) 893-1999, phillypops.org
April 2021 (TBA)
AMERICANA ROOTS RAMBLE. Downtown Media hosts this event as part of the America’s Music Festival Series. (610) 566-5039, statestreetblues.com
April 2021 (TBA)
DINING OUT FOR LIFE. Approximately 200 regional restaurants donate 33% of every diner’s dinner check to local HIV/AIDS nonprofit action wellness is a virtual fundraiser featuring volunteer ambassadors. (215) 981-3367, diningoutforlife.com/philadelphia
April 2021 (TBA)
EL CARNAVAL DE PUEBLA. South Philadelphia’s vibrant pre-Cinco de Mayo procession showcases folk traditions from the Mexican state, the home of many Philadelphians, through a colorful parade and street fair. carnavaldepuebla.com
April 2021 (TBA)
FAIRMOUNT AVENUE ARTS CRAWL. Dozens of bars, restaurants and shops in Philadelphia’s Fairmount neighborhood turn into galleries, while live music, dancing, kids’ activities and demonstrations round out a festive day in the Art Museum neighborhood. (215) 232-4766, fairmountcdc.org
April 2021 (TBA)
FLAVORS ON THE AVENUE. South Philadelphia’s East Passyunk Avenue moves the dining outside from Broad to Dickinson streets during this family-friendly food festival. visiteastpassyunk.com
April 2021 (TBA)
HIGH PRESSURE FIRE SERVICE. FringeArts presents new works by Philadelphia artists. (215) 413-9006, fringearts.com
April 2021 (TBA)
MANAYUNK RESTAURANT WEEK. Manayunk Restaurant Week begins with vendors and food trucks joining Main Street’s lineup of restaurants for an all-day eat fest, the Spring STREAT Food Festival and continues when Manayunk restaurants offer three-course meals at low fixed prices. (215) 482-9565, manayunk.com
April 2021 (TBA)
PEEPS® IN THE VILLAGE. Pennsylvania’s most famous marshmallows descend upon creative displays in a new springtime tradition for Bucks County’s Peddler’s Village. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
April 2021 (TBA)
PHILADELPHIA BLACK PRIDE. This pioneering multi-day gathering of people of different races, ethnicities and sexual orientations traditionally coincides with the Penn Relays. phillyblackpride.org
April 2021 (TBA)
PHILADELPHIA FINE ARTS FAIR. Forty Philadelphia art galleries and institutions — including the Barnes Foundation and Philadelphia Museum of Art — present contemporary works at the 23rd Street Armory for in a ticketed event to raise funds to help preserve the ctiy’s public art. philfineartfair.com
April 2021 (TBA)
PHILADELPHIA SCIENCE FESTIVAL. With hands-on events for kids, sophisticated activities for adults and a finale Science Carnival on the Parkway, this 10th annual citywide event demonstrates the role science plays in everyday life. (215) 448-1397, philasciencefestival.org
April 2021 (TBA)
SPRINGFEST. The Philadelphia Film Society presents a shorter, mid-year version of its annual fall festival to showcase great independent and international films with spring/summer releases — shorts, features, documentaries, animated and guest-accompanied films — in theaters and venues around Philadelphia. (267) 239-2941, filmadelphia.org
April 2021 (TBA)
SUBARU CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL. Sakura Weekend (dates TBA) begins an elevated springtime tradition at Shofuso Japanese House and Garden at the Fairmount Park Horticultural Center, featuring film screenings, kimono dressing, demonstrations of nihon buyo, traditional dance and martial arts. (267) 237-3550, japanphilly.org
April 2021 (TBA)
THE PHILADELPHIA SHOW. Renamed and now in its 58th year, the former Philadelphia Antiques & Art Show features fine and decorative arts, jewelry and furniture at The Navy Yard, with exhibitors showcasing Colonial to contemporary examples of form meeting function. thephiladelphiashow.com
April 2021 (TBA)
SPRING KIDSFEST. This free event at Peddler’s Village promises hands-on experiences, educational opportunities and traditional kids’ activities such as live music, story times, animal presentations, crafts, face painting, balloon artistry, moon bounces and visits from police cars and fire trucks. Rain or shine. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
MAY 2021
The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair — now in its 125th year — takes place each May at the Devon Show Grounds. — Photo by Brenda Carpenter Photography
Through May 16, 2021
TAKING SPACE: CONTEMPORARY WOMEN ARTISTS AND THE POLITICS OF SCALE. The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) presents impressive, political, space-claiming large-scale artwork from its own collection by women artists, including major pieces by Betye Saar and Njideka Akunyili Crosby. (215) 972-7600, pafa.org
Through May 23, 2021
SCULPTURE WITH A PURPOSE: WOMEN, PATRONAGE, AND WHARTON ESHERICK, 1930–1945. The Michener Museum of Art explores connections between Wharton Esherick, known as the dean of American craft, and patrons Helene Fischer, sculptor Hanna Weil and photographer Marjorie Content. (215) 340-9800, michenerartmuseum.org
May 7 & 8, 2021
ABERDEEN DAD VAIL REGATTA. The world’s largest collegiate regatta takes place on the Schuylkill River and attracts more than 3,000 competitors from 125 colleges across the country and Canada. (215) 542-1443, dadvail.org
May 14 & 15, 2021
STOTESBURY CUP REGATTA. Philly’s largest sprint regatta has been held continuously on the Schuylkill River since 1927 and sees thousands of high school athletes participating, as it is also the world’s largest scholastic regatta. stotesburycupregatta.com
May 28–31, 2021
PHILLY TANGO FEST. Tango dancers, aspiring tango dancers and music lovers alike enjoy tango inspiration for four days and nights (for the 11th year), with more than 600 dancers from across the nation and world at the Lithuanian Music Hall Association. (617) 291-3798, philadelphiatangofestival.com
May 29–September 6, 2021 (to be confirmed)
ONCE UPON A NATION. Memorial Day through Labor Day, storytellers and History Makers wearing 18th- and 19th-century period dress fill the Historic District, offering live perspectives on the early days of the United States from specially designated benches and historic locations. historicphiladelphia.org
May 2021 (TBA)
9TH STREET ITALIAN MARKET FESTIVAL. The annual festival features live entertainment, games (including a greased pole-climbing contest) and food, plus the 9th Street Italian Market’s dazzling array of homemade sausages, delicious cannoli, imported meats and cheeses, cappuccino, beef and poultry, specialty cookware and fresh pasta. (215) 545-4543, italianmarketfestival.com
May 2021 (TBA)
BOLD WOMEN & BEER FESTIVAL. Love City Brewing hosts Philadelphia’s second women-centric beer festival, featuring more than 30 breweries, plus food trucks, live entertainment and talk of leadership. boldwomenandbeer.com
May 2021 (TBA)
BRANDYWINE RIVER MUSEUM OF ART ANTIQUES SHOW. Outstanding furniture, glass, metalware, ceramics, folk art, quilts and other fine antiques from across the nation go on display at the Brandywine River Museum of Art. (610) 388-2700, brandywine.org
MAY 2021 (TBA)
CENTER CITY JAZZ FESTIVAL. More than 20 bands perform live throughout Center City — making it easy to enjoy a variety of live jazz bunch — in a six-hour span. ccjazzfest.com
May 2021 (TBA)
CHESTNUT HILL HOME AND GARDEN FESTIVAL. “America’s Garden Capital” welcomes thousands to tree-lined Germantown Avenue, where crowds browse home and garden vendors, who include merchants of vintage décor, live vegetation and handmade furnishings. (215) 247-6696, chestnuthillpa.com
May 2021 (TBA)
DEVON HORSE SHOW AND COUNTRY FAIR. At 125 years young, Devon is the country’s oldest and largest event of its kind, featuring equestrian disciplines, exhibitions and an old-fashioned country fair at the Devon Show Grounds. (610) 964-0550, devonhorseshow.net
May 2021 (TBA)
FRESH & FIERCE: WOMEN ARTISTS NETWORKS (1891–1929). PAFA shines a light on the work of William Merritt Chase, an artist and instructor who, at a time when women were largely left out, taught and created a community out of more than 500 women artists at PAFA; the exhibition shows his work alongside some of his students’, including Georgia O’Keeffe, Alice Kent Stoddard, Laura Wheeler Waring and others. (215) 972-7600, pafa.orgj
May–September, 2021 (TBA)
GARDEN RAILWAY. Chestnut Hill’s Morris Arboretum runs a G-scale model along a quarter-mile track with 12 rail lines, seven loops and tunnels, two cable cars and nine bridges. (After Columbus Day, the Garden Railway operates on weekends only.) (215) 247-5777, morrisarboretum.org
May 2021 (TBA)
HAND TO HAND CIRCUS FESTIVAL. FringeArts presents an eight-day contemporary festival featuring international contemporary circus stars, interactive community events and local showcases. (215) 413-9006, fringearts.com
MAY 2021 (TBA)
KENSINGTON KINETIC SCULPTURE DERBY AND ARTS FESTIVAL. People stroll the streets of Kensington and Fishtown to find an eclectic mix of local artists, musicians and food; the derby portion of the day celebrates human-powered transit as fanciful mobile sculptures parade along a three-mile urban obstacle course. kensingtonkineticarts.org
May 2021 (TBA)
MEXICAN RESTAURANT WEEK. To celebrate Philadelphia’s Mexican cuisine, participating restaurants including Adelita, Philly Tacos, El Rey, Mole Poblano, Tamalex, San Lucas, South Philly Barbacoa, Cafe Ynez, Taqueria Atexquita and Los Tacos offer $20 meals during one week only. (215) 592-0410, mexicanculturalcenter.org
May 2021 (TBA)
NASCAR XFINITY PHILADELPHIA TAKEOVER. Professional NASCAR drivers speed into Philly to promote the upcoming season at the Pocono Raceway and Dover International Raceway, stopping by to meet fans at the Comcast Center Campus, The Franklin Institute, Geno’s Steaks and Chickie’s & Pete’s. nascar.com
May 2021–September 2021 (TBA)
PARKS ON TAP. This popular warm weather tradition supported by the Fairmount Park Conservancy brings barbecue and beer to iconic outdoor spaces, a different Philadelphia park each Wednesday through Sunday. (215) 568-1616, parksontap.com
May 2021 (TBA)
PHILADELPHIA CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL. Acclaimed series of performances for children returns to the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. (215) 898-3900, annenbergcenter.org
May 2021 (TBA)
PHILADELPHIA CHINESE LANTERN FESTIVAL IN FRANKLIN SQUARE. With giant, light-up silken sculpture, this beloved festival returns to Franklin Square, as do live nightly performances, Chinese crafts and cuisine and the Dragon Beer Garden. (215) 629-4026, historicphiladelphia.org
May 2021 (TBA)
RADNOR HUNT RACES. In its 90th year, this annual horse race located in Malvern draws in crowds of 20,000, rain or shine, to watch six races throughout the day; funds benefit the Brandywine Conservancy. radnorhunt.org
May 2021 (TBA)
SEMANA MEXICANA (MEXICAN WEEK). A week dedicated to Mexican culture begins with the raising of the bandera de México at Philadelphia City Hall, includes Cinco de Mayo parties in Center City and Kennett Square (in Chester County) and continues with Mexican Restaurant Week. (215) 592-0410, mexicanculturalcenter.org
May 2021 (TBA)
SOUTH STREET SPRING FESTIVAL. More than 12 blocks of South Street (east of Broad Street) close to traffic and open to pedestrians for al fresco eating, performance watching, shopping and, thanks the Maifest at resident beer garden Brauhaus Schmitz, drinking. (215) 413-3713, southstreet.com
May 2021 (TBA)
STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL. Strawberries of all sorts, live entertainment and pie-eating contests are just a few of the festivities at this free annual event at Peddler’s Village. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
May 2021 (TBA)
PHILLY TECH WEEK. Business leaders and other self-proclaimed tech geeks — and the technically challenged — participate in more than 100 events, including a variety of programs, interactive activities and workshops that celebrate and highlight emerging trends, advances and innovating uses of technology. 2020.phillytechweek.com
May 2021 (TBA)
TINY ROOM FOR ELEPHANTS. The sixth year for this pop-up festival shows off some of the city’s best up-and-coming street artists and DJ’s, and includes a family day and exhibits open (without performances) through a later date, at Cherry Street Pier. cherrystreetpier.com
Through June 6, 2021
JONATHAN LYNDON CHASE: BIG WASH. The Fabric Workshop and Museum welcomes an exhibition by Philadelphia painter and illustrator Jonathan Lyndon Chase, whose work primarily focuses on queer Black bodies in everyday environments. (215) 561-8888, fabricworkshopandmuseum.org
June 13, 2021
ODUNDE FESTIVAL. The largest African American street festival on the East Coast comes to West South Street during this annual event that features cultural, historical and family-friendly events. (215) 732-8510, odundefestival.org
June 19–September 19, 2021
RALSTON CRAWFORD: AIR & SPACE & WAR. The Viltek Foundation and Brandywine Museum of Art organize an exhibition of works by a onetime member of the Army Air Force’s Weather Division, pieces that evolved from photographs to paintings, real to abstract. (610) 388-2700, brandywine.org
June 2021 (TBA)
FETE DAY. For nearly a century, residents of historic Elfreth’s Alley have opened their doors for one afternoon in June, offering a rare opportunity for ticketed visitors to step into these private homes and to learn about how generations have protected the structures while adapting them to modern living. elfrethsalley.org
June 2021 (TBA)
PHILADELPHIA JUNETEENTH PARADE & FESTIVAL. Philadelphia marks African Americans’ emancipation from slavery with two days of reenactments, entertainment, an African children’s village, a cultural marketplace and a parade. juneteenthphilly.org
June 2021 (TBA)
MANAYUNK ARTS FESTIVAL. Featuring artists from around the country, along with crafts, food and music, this two-day festival runs along Main Street in Philadelphia’s Manayunk neighborhood. (215) 482-9565, manayunk.com
June 2021 (TBA)
PHILADELPHIA DYKE MARCH. Dyke-identified people and their allies hit the streets with protest signs and raised voices calling for more visibility and equality for marginalized queer voices in the pride community; the march begins and ends at Louis I. Kahn Park. phillydykemarch.com
July–August, 2021 (TBA)
SHAKESPEARE IN CLARK PARK. Since 2005, this theatre company has welcomed visitors to grab a blanket and some food under the stars and enjoy some of the world’s greatest plays for free. (215) 764-5345, shakespeareinclarkpark.org
August 2021 (TBA)
PHILADELPHIA FOLK FESTIVAL. Philadelphia’s answer to Woodstock, now in its 59th year, attracts musicians, storytellers and craftspeople for a weekend of song and merriment at Old Pool Farm in Schwenksville. (800) 556-FOLK (3655), pfs.org
Through September 6, 2021
ONCE UPON A NATION. Memorial Day through Labor Day, storytellers and History Makers wearing 18th- and 19th-century period dress fill the Historic District, offering live perspectives on the early days of the United States from specially designated benches and historic locations. historicphiladelphia.org
September 2021 (TBA)
FESTIVAL O21. Opera Philadelphia’s groundbreaking festival returns for an epic fourth year with company and world premieres of sung comedy, myth, tragedy and satire. (215) 732-8400, operaphiladelphia.org
September 2021 (TBA)
MUSHROOM FESTIVAL. Kennett Square’s 35th annual Mushroom Festival puts the fun in fungi during a weekend of music, food, contests, exhibits and activities in the “Mushroom Capital of the World.” (610) 925-3373, mushroomfestival.org
October 2021 (TBA)
PHILADELPHIA FURNITURE SHOW. Home furnishings ranging from innovative contemporary designs to adaptations of classical styles are on view at this nationally acclaimed event at the 23rd Street Armory. (215) 387-8590, philadelphiafurnitureshow.com
Through August 5, 2024
SPIT SPREADS DEATH: THE INFLUENZA PANDEMIC OF 1918–19 IN PHILADELPHIA. Mütter Museum of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia offers its most ambitious exhibition to date — a multi-disciplinary recounting of a global pandemic that took thousands upon thousands of local lives in two years — only 100 years ago. (215) 560-8564, muttermuseum.org
VISIT PHILADELPHIA® is our name and our mission. As the region’s official tourism marketing agency, we build Greater Philadelphia’s image, drive visitation and boost the economy.
On Greater Philadelphia’s official visitor website and blog, visitphilly.com and uwishunu.com, visitors can explore things to do, upcoming events, themed itineraries and hotel packages. Compelling photography and videos, interactive maps and detailed visitor information make the sites effective trip-planning tools. Along with Visit Philly social media channels, the online platforms communicate directly with consumers. Travelers can also call and stop into the Independence Visitor Center for additional information and tickets.
