Center City District SIPS
Center City’s premier after-work experience returns on Wednesday evenings this summer at dozens of locations. Participating locations will serve $8 cocktails, including specials made with Hornitos® Tequila, $7 wine, including selections from Kim Crawford, $6 beer, and appetizers under $10. For the first time, mocktails will be offered for just $6 at all locations. Some restaurants will offer 15% off dinner after 7 p.m. From vibrant beer gardens and lounges to popular restaurants, there’s a place for everyone at Center City District Sips.
When: ends Wednesday, Aug. 26 from 5-7 p.m.
Where: various locations including Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th St.
Found in the Archives: Women’s Work on the Paths to Independence
“For the Common Good” docuseries tells the vivid stories of pioneering women who made important contributions to the founding of America. These women shaped our nation, leading the way forward as businesswomen, religious leaders, educators, and more. By embracing a fuller concept of what it took to shape our nation, we can help make our founding history more relevant, accessible, and inclusive. This screening at HSP will be the premiere for the episode featuring Mary Norris Dickinson, a politically engaged correspondent and estate manager whose house was burned by the British during the Revolution. Other episodes shown at this screening will feature Dinah of Stenton, and Ann Wood Henry, Pennsylvania’s first female public official. Laura Keim, curator at Stenton, and Mickey Herr, researcher for the National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (NSCDA/PA) will discuss their archival work that supported the documentary work.
When: Wednesday, Aug. 26 from 6:30-8 p.m.
Where: Historical Society of Pennsylvania, 1300 Locust St.
Myles Smith comes to Philly
Myles Smith brings his biggest headline tour, the My Mess, My Heart, My Life. Tour in support of his debut album of the same name, across North America, Europe and the U.K. Over the past two years, Myles Smith has rapidly emerged as one of the UK’s most compelling new voices, known for his emotionally direct songwriting, rich vocal delivery and ability to translate personal experiences into globally resonant records. His breakout single “Stargazing” became a global phenomenon, amassing hundreds of millions of streams and introducing his music to audiences worldwide. The song marked a defining moment in his rise, establishing Myles as an artist capable of turning deeply personal moments into songs that resonate on a universal scale. For Myles, “My Mess, My Heart, My Life.” represents his most personal and ambitious work to date. The album explores emotional chaos, vulnerability and the sense of release that comes with confronting life head-on, unfolding as a journey through three interconnected worlds: Mess, Heart, and Life.
When: Wednesday, Aug. 26 at 8 p.m.
Where: The Met Philadelphia, 858 N. Broad St.
It Takes a Village to Feed One Child Back-To-School Event
Nonprofit It Takes a Village to Feed One Child (ITAVTFOC) in partnership with Elmwood Park Zoo, is hosting a free back-to-school food distribution for neighbors in need. Food available will be a mix of fresh produce, shelf-stable items, and other products kids need to succeed in school. No ID is required. Food and zoo tickets are available to the first 100 people who attend; recipients can visit the zoo that day or hold their tickets for a future visit.
When: Thursday, Aug. 27 from 9-11 a.m.
Where: Elmwood Park Zoo, 1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown, PA 19401
Twilight in the Gardens
Bring a blanket, snacks, and a friend for a captivating evening at the Magic Gardens Museum! Tap your toes to a live performance by Tipsy Wicked, a duo that brings a fresh spin to your favorite tunes! Then, head over to our art tables to learn screen-printing from local artist, Kristina Bickford! Make a small work of art or greeting card using a screen-print technique that lets you apply small bits of different colors at once, resulting in a surprising, swirling, vibrant design with every print pulled. Attendees can also enjoy self-guided tours of our rarely-seen mosaicked basement, and view the Museum’s latest exhibition, “Viviendo a través de la muerte (or Living Through Death)” by Ivette Chaires, on display in the indoor galleries.
When: Friday, Aug. 28 from 7-10 p.m.
Where: Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, 1020 South St.
KevOnStage comes to Philly
ctor, comedian, and content creator Kevin Fredericks, known as KevOnStage, brings his 2026 tour: Grief Sucks: A One Man Show By KevOnStage to the Fillmore. With his humor and quick-wit rooted in faith, family and relatability, KevOnStage channels personal loss into an unforgettable comedy experience. The tour follows the success of a four-show sold-out run at The Comedy Store in Los Angeles. Kevin Fredericks (aka KevOnStage) is an actor, stand-up comedian, entrepreneur, podcast developer/host, content creator, author, influencer, and filmmaker. As a prolific creator, his content has hundreds of millions of cumulative views across all platforms with strong engaged followings on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and more.
When: Friday, Aug. 28 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Fillmore Philadelphia, 29 E. Allen St.
”At Liberty: Life in the City of Brotherly Love During the Early Republic” at Arthur Ross
The Arthur Ross Gallery’s fall exhibition, “At Liberty: Life in the City of Brotherly Love During the Early Republic,” asks visitors to consider the role of visual culture in creating collective conceptions of Philadelphia and its residents, including America’s first international celebrity Benjamin Franklin, in the decades just before and after the nation’s founding. The 41 works on view — including paintings, prints, drawings, and sculpture — portray notable figures alongside depictions of daily life in Philadelphia. In addition to historical pictures and objects from the 18th and 19th centuries, the exhibition will include images of the era made to celebrate important national anniversaries, such as the marking of America’s 150th in 1926, through to the present moment, inviting exploration of Philadelphia, the birthplace of the nation and its first capital.
When: Friday, Aug. 28-Dec. 13
Where: Arthur Ross Gallery, 220 S. 34th St.
Sweat & Sculpt by Jacklyn Fit
Sweat & Sculpt by Jacklyn Fit is bringing its biggest event yet to the Philadelphia region, combining an energizing Pilates workout with an exclusive live performance by Waka Flocka Flame in a one-of-a-kind celebration of female empowerment, fitness, and community. One of the signature elements that has made Sweat & Sculpt stand out is its matching workout sets. Drawing on her experience as a former activewear brand owner, Romano introduced the matching sets as a way to elevate the experience while remaining inclusive for women of every body type. Workout sets are available in sizes XS through 4X, reinforcing the event’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring women of every shape, size, and fitness level feel welcomed. As a special thank you to her community, following the 50-minute workout, international superstar Waka Flocka Flame will perform during a private concert exclusively for Sweat & Sculpt attendees. The event will also feature sponsor activations, food and beverages, and opportunities for attendees to connect and celebrate together throughout the morning.
When: Saturday, Aug. 29 from 9 a.m.
Where: Friends Select School, 1651 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
History on the Street: Back-to-School Edition
National History Day Philly and the Historical Society of Pennsylvania invite visitors to an end-of-summer celebration for the whole family. Kick off the school year with museums, cultural organizations, and community partners sharing their resources through a day of fun and discovery. This street festival will feature vendors, activities, food trucks, and a live DJ. Connect with partner organizations like the Museum of the American Revolution and the National Constitution Center to explore what Philadelphia’s history community has to offer for students, teachers, and families alike. Then, step inside the Historical Society of Pennsylvania to experience the work of student historians as they share their National History Day projects—from documentaries to performances to websites. Plus, explore a pop-up exhibit highlighting HSP’s collection on local Black history.
When: Saturday, Aug. 29 from 12-4 p.m.
Where: Historical Society of Pennsylvania, 1300 Locust St.
Celebrate Asia
Hosted by Kampoeng Indonesia, Celebrate Asia showcases the traditions and cultures of communities across Asia through live performances, authentic cuisine, family activities and cultural demonstrations. The event highlights the organization’s ongoing efforts to preserve and share Indonesian heritage while celebrating the broader Asian community. Enjoy delicious food, cultural performances, and fun family activities. Celebrate Asia is part of the PECO Multicultural Series.
When: Saturday, Aug. 29 from 1-5 p.m.
Where: Cherry Street Pier, 121 N. Christopher Columbus Blvd.
“Little Things”
“Little Things,” a new musical dramedy by David Smith and Tom Fosnocht about a Philadelphia father starting over, will present a showcase performance produced by the Philadelphia Theatre Company. The showcase caps nearly a decade of development for the Philadelphia-rooted musical, which has moved through staged readings, workshops, and festival competitions across the country. The Philadelphia-centered cast of ten includes six Barrymore Award-winning or nominated performers.
When: Saturday, Aug. 29 at 3 p.m.
Where: Suzanne Roberts Theatre, 480 S. Broad St.
”Invincible” brings the ultimate Michael Jackson experience to Rivers Casino
“Invincible: A Glorious Tribute to Michael Jackson” will bring its high-energy celebration of the King of Pop to Rivers Casino Philadelphia’s Event Center on Saturday, Aug. 29 — what would have been Michael Jackson’s 68th birthday. The world-class production celebrates the legendary entertainer with a concert-style experience featuring live vocals, a full band, dynamic choreography and many of Jackson’s biggest hits. Created, produced and directed by New York Dance and Performance (The Bessies) Award-winning producer Darrin Ross, the show spans Jackson’s remarkable career from Jackson 5 classics to his most iconic solo recordings. With choreography inspired by Michael Jackson’s performances and created by longtime collaborator LaVelle Smith Jr., every iconic move — from the moonwalk to the gravity-defying lean — is re-created with precision and authenticity. Combined with state-of-the-art lighting, immersive sound design and electrifying stage production, “Invincible” delivers a spectacle that captures the energy of Jackson’s otherworldly concert performances. Fans can expect to hear legendary hits, including “Billie Jean,” “Thriller,” “Beat It,” “Smooth Criminal,” “Man in the Mirror” and many more, woven into a nonstop journey of music, dance and emotion.
When: Saturday, Aug. 29 at 8 p.m.
Where: Rivers Casino Philadelphia, 1001 N. Delaware Ave.
The Philly Major Taylor Cycling Club
(Philly MTCC) is proud to celebrate the return of the Philadelphia Cycling Classic presented by AmeriGas®, one of North America’s most historic professional cycling events, returning to Philadelphia after a decade-long absence. The event will feature elite men’s and women’s professional races, a Fan Fest, community rides, and international competition on the city’s iconic course, including the legendary Manayunk Wall. As one of the nation’s leading African American cycling organizations, Philly MTCC will participate in the festivities by welcoming visitors to its community exhibit, where members will showcase the club’s mission, history, and commitment to promoting cycling, health, mentorship, and inclusion throughout the Greater Philadelphia region. Founded to honor the legacy of Marshall “Major” Taylor, the first African American world cycling champion in 1899, Philly MTCC provides opportunities for riders of all ages and abilities through recreational rides, endurance events, safety education, mentoring, and community outreach. Women’s race begins at 8:30 a.m.; men’s race begins at 12 p.m.
Where: Start on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival 2026
In celebration of the Year of the Horse — symbolizing energy, passion, freedom and transformation — the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival in Franklin Square will glow with breathtaking light, art, culture, and global spirit. The Festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage and master craftsmanship behind this timeless art form. Visitors will wander through glowing landscapes filled with magnificent, illuminated sculptures, each piece crafted from steel frames and vibrant silk. All of the lanterns will be brand new, including one-of-a-kind lanterns celebrating the international events coming to Philadelphia this summer. The lanterns blend the magic of Chinese tradition with the spirit of global connection and friendly competition, along with themes of animals and flowers. In addition to the stunning lantern displays, guests can enjoy live cultural stage performances, a choreographed fountain light show at the historic Rendell Family Fountain, as well as food and drink offerings such as Asian cuisine, American comfort food, and signature cocktails in the Cocktail Garden.
When: ends Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th St.
The Plaza at Reading Terminal Market
Reading Terminal Market will extend its footprint outdoors this summer with The Plaza at Reading Terminal Market presented by Jefferson, a new pedestrian-friendly destination transforming 15,000 square feet of the 1100 block of Filbert Street into an outdoor gathering space in the heart of Center City. The Plaza at Reading Terminal Market presented by Jefferson will feature expanded outdoor seating, live entertainment, local vendors, sponsor activations, and a bar operated by Molly Malloy’s. The eight-week activation arrives as Philadelphia prepares to welcome visitors for a summer filled with major events, including FIFA World Cup activities, America’s 250th anniversary celebration, and MLB All-Star Week. Market Day Stalls on the Plaza will feature more than 15 rotating local entrepreneurs offering handmade goods, artwork, apparel, candles, cosmetics, and other specialty products. Reading Terminal Market will also operate a Market Merch cart featuring limited-edition soccer and market-themed apparel, with proceeds benefitting the nonprofit steward of Philadelphia’s public market, the Reading Terminal Market Corporation.
When: ends Sunday, Aug. 30 from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 1100 block of Filbert Street
Planet Fitness’ Free High School Summer Pass
As summer kicks off, Planet Fitness is opening its doors to local teens. Now in its sixth year, the initiative encourages high school teens ages 14 to 19 to prioritize fitness this summer by working out for free at any of Planet Fitness’ 2,900 participating locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. Teens can register today at PlanetFitness.com/SummerPass to gain club access beginning Monday.
When: ends Monday, Aug. 31
Where: Planet Fitness near you
”Printmaking by the People: Posters for a Reimagined Declaration of Independence” at Parkway Central Library
What would the Declaration of Independence say if ordinary people from all walks of life came together to write it today? This spring, Mural Arts Philadelphia and the Free Library of Philadelphia present Printmaking by the People: Posters for a Reimagined Declaration of Independence, an exhibition of hundreds of posters created by Philadelphians who were asked to share their visions of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” This special exhibition is part of Printmaking by the People, the largest 2026 public art and engagement project in Philadelphia inspired by the 250th anniversary of the country’s founding. The vibrant, colorful, and compelling artworks in the exhibition were created by hand in 35 artist-led workshops, held in 13 neighborhoods across the city. Over a thousand people attended these workshops, utilizing various printmaking techniques to bring their ideas to life—including some of the very same techniques used to communicate during the time of the American Revolution. The result is hundreds of unique posters and prints, representing a rich and diverse assemblage of aspirations for our nation, our city, and ourselves, as we move into the next chapter of our country’s historic journey.
When: through August 2026
Where: Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine St.
“Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design” at AAMP
The African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP) presents a cultural milestone exhibition “Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design.” The acclaimed exhibition, celebrating the power of art, identity, and imagination, marks its Philadelphia debut with nearly 80 original costumes from films that have shaped global culture — including “Black Panther,” “Selma,” “Do the Right Thing,” “Amistad,” “Dolomite is My Name,” “Coming 2 America,” “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” and, for the first time ever, “Sinners.” As the first Black woman to win two Academy Awards, Ruth E. Carter has transformed costume design into a form of cultural storytelling, honoring the past while envisioning what’s possible for the future. Her journey from Springfield, Massachusetts, to Hollywood’s most celebrated stages resonates deeply with Philadelphians.
When: through Sunday, Sept. 6
Where: African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch St.
”Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition” at Franklin Institute
Step inside the creative and innovative world of theme parks through the lens of Universal’s fan-favorite attractions, including “Jaws,” “Illumination’s Minions,” “The Secret Life of Pets” and “Sing,” SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, “Jurassic World,” DreamWorks Animation’s “How to Train Your Dragon,” Universal Monsters, and more. Play your way through eight themed galleries, where 100 original artifacts bring each experience to life. From authentic costumes and iconic props to early concept models, experience the creativity, artistry, and innovation behind Universal’s most epic attractions. Snap a photo, storyboard a ride, design and animate horror masks, cue a live show, and experiment with animation and projection mapping — all while hearing directly from the creators, animators, and show writers who make it happen. “Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition” is a timed-entry exhibit, which allows the museum to manage the number of guests in the exhibit, providing the best possible experience for everyone. Advanced tickets are recommended.
When: through Monday, Sept. 7
Where: The Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th St.
Twilight Tours
Enjoy a free after-hours walking tour around the national park hosted by Independence Historical Trust. Knowledgeable Twilight Guides lead visitors through iconic landmarks and hidden corners, sharing stories that bring Philadelphia’s history to life. Meeting Point at the Liberty Bell Center viewing window.
When: through Monday, Sept. 7 at 5:15 p.m.
Where: Liberty Bell Center, 101 S. Independence Mall W.
”Paths to Independence, 1765-1787” at HSP
In 1763, most American colonists proudly saw themselves as members of the British Empire. Yet by 1776, many were ready to break from Britain and condemn King George III as a ‘Royal Brute.’ Paths to Independence explores how this remarkable shift happened in just over a decade. The exhibit showcases rare documents from the Historical Society of Pennsylvania—including letters, pamphlets, broadsides, prints, and early drafts of the Articles of Confederation and the U.S. Constitution. Tracing the complex path to American independence, these documents reveal the ideas of well‑known leaders such as Benjamin Franklin, John Dickinson, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and James Wilson, as well as the everyday Philadelphians whose experiences shaped the struggle for independence.
When: through Friday, Sept. 18
Where: Historical Society of Pennsylvania, 1300 Locust St.
”Garden Railway: Revolutionary Philly”
Just in time to mark America’s 250th, Morris Arboretum & Gardens brings America’s past and present vividly to life through three interconnected exhibitions. Garden Railway: Revolutionary Philly invites visitors of all ages to take a miniature journey through eighteenth-century Philadelphia. Bustling model trains wind along more than a third of a mile of track, passing handcrafted replicas of iconic landmarks such as Independence Hall, and scenes modeled after events like the Battle of Germantown. Running in conjunction with the Garden Railway, the self-guided exhibition Plants from the Colonial Era highlights the trees, herbs, and flowers that fed, healed, sheltered, and inspired colonial Philadelphians.
When: through Wednesday, Sept. 30
Where: Morris Arboretum & Gardens, 100 E. Northwestern Ave.
Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest
The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation welcomes the return of Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest for its 2026 Season. While Summerfest returns for the season with its signature roller skating in partnership with Independence Blue Cross, DRWC is expanding its wellness programming across its Waterfront parks, offering more opportunities for visitors to stay active through accessible outdoor experiences, including Wellness on the Waterfront: Yoga at Race Street Pier presented by Independence Blue Cross, Tai Chi at Spruce Street Harbor Park, and Fishing with Friends at Pier 68 in partnership with Riverways. The Independence Blue Cross RiverRink has long shaped the Philadelphia Delaware River Waterfront as the go-to destination for seasonal traditions and outdoor recreation. This Summer 2026, Independence Blue Cross RiverRink will transform into Summerfest – offering Philadelphia’s ONLY outdoor roller-skating rink – to create the ultimate family-friendly summer hangout. Against the backdrop of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Summerfest will continue to prioritize accessibility with free entry and flexible, pay-as-you-go options that invite visitors to create their own experience
Where: Spruce Street Harbor Park, 301 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd.
The Joan Bressler Set in Philadelphia Screenwriting Competition
The Joan Bressler Set in Philadelphia 2027 Screenwriting Competition, which is presented by the Greater Philadelphia Film Office, is open to all screenwriters, world-wide, who submit a feature length screenplay or an original TV pilot length screenplay that can be shot in the Greater Philadelphia Metropolitan Area. Whether you’re an experienced writer or fresh talent, we want to celebrate voices in storytelling while highlighting the opportunity and potential of Philadelphia locations by focusing on scripts that can be brought to life locally. And showcase the city and surrounding region as a viable and compelling setting for film and television. Your screenplay has the opportunity to carry forward a legacy of creative excellence, supported by the resources and partnerships of our city’s film office community. All genres accepted. Writers do not need to be from Philadelphia, and scripts do not need to be explicitly set in Philadelphia. They must simply be feasible to shoot in the Philadelphia region. This year, the competition features over $20,000 in cash prizes, alongside direct industry exposure and detailed feedback opportunities for participating writers.
When: deadline is Monday, Oct. 19
”Living Through Death” by Ivette Chaires
Ivette Chaires, the 2024 Julia Zagar Residency for Women Artists recipient, is a multidisciplinary artist deeply influenced by her surroundings. She uses sculpture, printmaking, and photography to explore traditional themes in Mexican Folk Art. Living in Puebla, Mexico, Chaires draws inspiration from local traditions such as Día de Muertos, which led her to specialize in cartonería, a traditional Mexican craft of creating papier-mâché sculptures, figures, and decorative objects by layering paper and glue over a framework and painting or embellishing them. For the past 15 years, she has focused on traditional cartonería, creating calaveras and teaching workshops, blending craftsmanship with cultural storytelling. In “Living Through Death,” Chaires merges contemporary imagery with traditional techniques and patterns.
When: through Sunday, Nov. 8
Where: Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, 1020 South St.
”Ancient Egypt in Watercolors: Paintings and Artifacts from Dra Abu el-Naga” at Penn Museum
Spotlighting century-old watercolor paintings by Egyptian artist Ahmed Yousef, Ancient Egypt in Watercolors: Paintings and Artifacts from Dra Abu el-Naga will go on view at the Penn Museum. Last exhibited in Cairo during the 1920s, the watercolor paintings have been carefully preserved in the Penn Museum’s Archives for more than 100 years. They have never been on display in the United States. Ancient Egypt in Watercolors reveals the often underappreciated, but critical function of art in archaeology. The 1,500 sq. ft. exhibition highlights elaborately decorated tomb chapels during the New Kingdom (approximately 1550 BCE-1070 BCE), a “golden age” that marked the height of Egypt’s power and wealth. Many affluent officials built their tombs at Dra Abu el-Naga — a key part of the larger Theban Necropolis. Their tomb paintings show scenes from everyday life and imagery depicting the journey to the netherworld — illuminating how much the ancient Egyptians valued family bonds, honoring their ancestors, and continuing one’s identity into the next life. Ancient Egypt in Watercolors will close in November — just ahead of the grand opening for the Penn Museum’s “Egypt Galleries: Life and Afterlife” on Dec. 12.
When: through November 2026
Where: Penn Museum, 3260 South St.
”A Nation of Artists” at PMA, PAFA
With storied histories of their own, the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (the country’s very first art school and museum) delve into the richness and diversity of American art history. The two institutions team up with avid art collector (and Phillies’ managing partner) John Middleton and his wife and partner Leigh for this blockbuster exhibition titled “A Nation of Artists.” Threading together 300 years of American art, the collection features over 1,000 portraits, sculptures, furniture, photographs and more across both museums. Viewers find some of art’s biggest names — including Mary Cassatt and Charles Willson Peale — exhibited side-by-side with oft-overlooked Black, Indigenous, immigrant and historically underrepresented artists and contemporary talents. “A Nation of Artists” debuts as a cultural milestone celebrating the nation’s creative and artistic legacy at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.
When: through Monday, July 5, 2027
Where: Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
When: through Sunday, Sept. 5, 2027
Where: Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, 118-128 N. Broad St.
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