Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
Zoo After Hours + Art Festival
Locals can head to the Philadelphia Zoo this weekend for its After Hours event on Friday, Aug. 28. From 4 to 8 p.m., this particular evening offers guests the chance to slow down and enjoy the Zoo beyond its traditional daytime schedule, including a visit to the newly transformed Carey Bear Country.
Guests can also take a ride on the Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel and listen to live music from Jeni Englund on the Impala Lawn. The event is included with general admission or Zoo membership, with final entry permitted at 7 p.m. and the Zoo closing at 8 p.m.
Then, art and nature will come together the next day (Saturday, Aug. 29), during the inaugural Philadelphia Zoo Art Festival. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., more than 30 local artists and makers will showcase handmade creations inspired by the natural world. The family-friendly festival is included with general admission or membership and will take place rain or shine.
3400 W Girard Ave., philadelphiazoo.org
Fringe Bar’s Dog Days Celebration x Photo Shoot
Fringe Bar in Old City is celebrating the end of the season with a Back to School x Dog Days of Summer Photoshoot. Set for Friday, Aug. 28, from 5 to 10 p.m., the venue’s dog-friendly patio will feature a set-up where furry friends can pose for nostalgic yearbook-style photos (against a classic gray backdrop). Pet photos are free with any food or beverage purchase, or $5 on their own. Guests can also enjoy a special hot dog menu for humans alongside treats for their pets.
Those with or without dogs can additionally take advantage of Fringe Bar’s Philly Phridays menu from 5 to 7 p.m., featuring specials inspired by the city’s diverse neighborhood cuisine. Menu highlights include cheesesteak sliders with onion and Cooper Sharp ($10), a hoagie salad with Italian meats, provolone and garlic vinaigrette ($10), and an Eggplant Bahn-Mi with grilled eggplant, herbs, vegan mayo, pickled vegetables and jalapeños ($8). Reservations can be made through OpenTable, and walk-ins are also welcome.
Burlap & Barrel at Post Haste
There’s a unique get-together happening this weekend: Post Haste is teaming up with single-origin spice company Burlap & Barrel this Saturday, Aug. 29, for a one-night menu celebrating its new Everything Bagel Crunch blend. The highlight sip of the evening is the Everything Bagel Martini, made with Philly Shmear-infused vodka, Norden Aquavit, dry vermouth and Everything Bagel Crunch, with a toasted bagel garnish.
Chef Ari Miller will incorporate the blend into three food specials as well: A pickle-juice soft pretzel topped with Everything Bagel Crunch and served with either Witchgrass cheese and carrot mustard or smoked whitefish salad and Golden Osetra caviar; an Everything Bagel Crunch Duvet Dog featuring a pastry-wrapped Pennsylvania all-beef hot dog with carrot mustard and a pickle; and a pasta dish pairing the blend with salmon and cream cheese. The specials will be available à la carte alongside Post Haste’s regular menu. Walk-ins are welcome, reservations are also available via OpenTable.
2519 Frankford Ave., posthastephilly.com
PECO Multicultural Fest
The popular multicultural summer series by the waterfront will continue this weekend on Saturday, Aug. 29, with Celebrate Asia. Throughout the day, the event will spotlight the traditions and cultures of communities from across Asia through live performances, authentic cuisine, cultural demonstrations and interactive family activities.
The festivals are just one reason to visit. Before or after taking in the music, food and cultural performances, visitors can explore Spruce Street Harbor Park, paddle across the Delaware in a Chiliboat, ride glowing swan boats after dark, or lace up for roller skating at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest.
Andalusia Historic House and Arboretum
Andalusia Historic House, Gardens and Arboretum is still in peak of its 2026 season with a range of new features and experiences, including two special exhibitions in honor of the nation’s semiquincentennial: ‘Revolutionary Family: The Biddles & American Independence’ and ‘Radical Americana: Sophie Glenn & Jody Graff.’
Beyond the exhibitions, Andalusia’s award-winning gardens also debuted six towering rose pillars this season alongside new ornamental topiaries. Installed in the Walled Garden, these features were designed by acclaimed English garden designer Arabella Lennox-Boyd and represent the latest chapter in her decade-long collaboration with Andalusia, which began with a major garden reimagining in 2016. Andalusia’s summer weekend hours run on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
1237 State Road., Andalusia, andalusiapa.org
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Fun things,
Philly,
Philadelphia Zoo,
Fringe Bar,
Post Haste,
PECO Multicultural Fest ,
Andalusia Historic House and Arboretum