Fluffy pink trees. Tulips in every hue. Luscious walks around the neighborhood on warm nights. These are the things we have to look forward to this spring in Philadelphia.
Scroll down this page a little bit to see all the fun things happening in Philadelphia this spring. In what looks to be the most normal season we’ve had since Covid, you’ll find the return of some of your favorite street festivals and block parties, like the Odunde Festival; the opening of local playgrounds, fountains and the outdoor skating rink at City Hall; and tons of concerts, theater and art that you’ll want to see.
Your presence at these events is a show of support for your city. Simple things, like having cocktails at a local bar out with friends Center City Sips or purchasing a ticket to a local show, are money in the bank for our local businesses, artists and organizations. An engaged city is a thriving city, and Philly desperately needs that right now.
With that said it’s smart to keep track of Covid protocols wherever you go. Chances are you’ll need masks and proof of your Covid-19 vaccination. And keep coming back to this list, we’ll be updating as the season moves along.
THINGS TO DO IN MAY IN PHILADELPHIA
Philadelphia Marketplace opens | May 6 to October 1
Shop a variety of goods from local artists, crafters and retailers at this weekly market that pops up every Friday and Saturday at Dilworth Park through fall from noon to 6pm.
Delaware Waterfront Attractions
Spruce Street Harbor Park and its neighboring Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest are open for the season with ferris wheels, floating beer barges, carnival games, roller skating, hammocks in neon-lit trees, cute little lodges you can rent with friends. It’s just too much excitement for one person to handle. Good thing it’ll be around for our enjoyment all summer long.
Garden Days on East Passyunk Avenue | May 7 to 30
Celebrate the Philadelphia Flower Show run-up at East Passyunk Avenue’s Garden Days. In the theme of “In Full Bloom,” horticultural events include a Community Garden Day Tour and Scavenger Hunt at the South Philadelphia Older Adult Center, a story session for the family at the Singing Fountain, and the farmer’s market. Retailers, bars and restaurants will feature floral products and specials highlighting sustainability and organic ingredients. Pop-up events and live music will be announced on the website, where you can also find details for events where preregistration is requested.
Take in some blooming nature and rushing waters in Wissahickon Park
There’s no shortage of things to do in spring in Wissahickon Park—whether it’s hiking one of its 50 miles of rugged, breathtaking trails, biking along Forbidden Drive, horseback riding, or trying to find as many of the 200 species of birds that live in the park as you can. We also recommend Sunday brunch at the homey Valley Green Inn, which sits at the base of several hiking trails and streams to explore.
Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink opening | Through July 17
The funky outdoor skating rink at Dilworth Park reopens for the spring and summer season this April. The rink is retro-inspired again this year, with a checkerboard floor and colorful beach balls hanging overhead. Admission this year is $8 for children 10 and younger, and $10 for adults. Skate rental is $5. Get your food and drink at Dilworth Park’s Air Grille beer garden. Spring event programming at Dilworth Park begins April 18, and includes outdoor fitness classes, themed skating nights, and arts performances.
Go for a lovely spring hike outside the city | all day, everyday
Our city is surrounded by gorgeous places to get out around blooming trees, open green space, rivers and streams. Check out this guide for ideas on where to go hiking near Philadelphia this spring—including Tohickon Valley Park, Hickory Run State Park and that place where the rocks actually sing to you.
Take a stroll around Fairmount Park
Fairmount Park is an idyllic spot to spend a sunny Saturday or Sunday afternoon this winter. You could just show up and set out on one of its many hiking trails, or plan your day around some upcoming events happening in the park, such as guided walks, bird watching tours and more. This digital guide will tell you all you need to know to get the most out of the park.
THINGS TO DO IN PHILLY IN JUNE
Center City SIPS | June 1 to August 31
Mark your calendar for Wednesday happy hours through the end of summer. This signature Center City event doles out discounts at participating Philly bars and restaurants every Hump Day for 14 weeks beginning June 1. The list of participating venues has yet to be released, but one thing is for sure: the deal. You’ll get $6 cocktails, $5 wine and $4 beer.
Pride weekend in Philadelphia 🌈 | June 3 to 5
Philadelphia’s Pride celebrations will look a little different this year, now that they’re under the reins of different organizers—the PHL Pride Collective. Dates are set for the first weekend in June, but details about specific events are still mum for now. One thing we know is that the traditional parade, with its glitter- and drag queen-covered floats, will be replaced with a march for unity—a first step toward PPC’s intention to create a local Pride that’s more inclusive and representative of all communities under the LGBTQ+ umbrella.
The Skirmish in Haddonfield | June 4
The popular and over-the-top Revolutionary War reenactment returns to Haddonfield after a two-hear Covid break. The Skirmish features heroic soldiers wielding muskets on horseback, looting redcoats, and a full day of fun, kid-friendly programming (sword fighting workshops, a yelling contest, pony rides, etc …) to complement the battling.
Odunde Festival | June 12
The oh-so-awesome annual African street festival—the largest of its kind—returns in June with more than 100 arts, crafts and food vendors, live performances stages and revelry out the wazoo taking up a 15 blocks in the vicinity of 23rd and South Streets. Bring an appetite and a pocket full of money. You’re going to want to try all the things.