”19 Portraits: Honoring Black LGBTQ+ Philadelphians” at William Way LGBT Community Center
In honor of Juneteenth, the William Way Community Center will debut its newest exhibit, 19 Portraits: Honoring Black LGBTQ+ Philadelphians, by Prince Anthony Thomas. The exhibit, located inside the Center, will kick off with an opening reception on Thursday, June 5, from 6 to 8 p.m., and run through June 30. The free exhibit features exquisite pencil renderings of well-known and beloved figures in the LGBTQIA+ community, accompanied by biographies that pay homage to their contributions.
When: ends Monday, June 30
Where: William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St.
”Refigured, Unframed: An Exhibition with Philly Queer Life Drawing” at William Way LGBT Community Center
The exhibit showcases over 50 original works by 22 local artists — spanning pencil, charcoal, acrylic, watercolor, and digital media, alongside striking photographs that chronicle two years of Philly Queer Life Drawing events. Co-curated by Brielle DuBose, De’von Downes, and Jake Foster, the vibrant showcase consists of artwork featuring queer, trans+, fat, disabled, Black, and Brown models. By centering these bodies, the exhibition challenges traditional norms of life drawing and broadens the frame to include more authentic and diverse representation.
When: ends Monday, June 30
Where: William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St.
Red, White, & Blue To-Do Decorating Day
The Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee invites the public to participate in Red, White, & Blue To-Do Decorating Day. Volunteers will help decorate the 13 whimsical red wagon floats that will appear in the Second Annual Red, White, & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade. The floats – each celebrating themes from American history and Philadelphia heritage – are constructed using natural and creative materials like cranberry seeds, rice, flower petals, pool noodles, and more. The wagons are handmade in the United States by the Amish community and serve as the centerpiece of the parade honoring John Adams’ call for celebrating independence with “pomp and parade.” The Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee presents the Second Annual 2025 Red, White, & Blue To-Do celebration on July 2 as part of Philadelphia’s 250th celebration.
When: Monday, June 30 from 2-5 p.m.
Where: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch St.
Movies on the Mall
In partnership with the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation, the Trust brings history to life on the big screen with Movies on the Mall, an outdoor film series complemented by 18th-century games, crafts, and Park Ranger activities. Attendees may bring lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks; additional concessions are available at the nearby Liberty Garden. On Tuesday, “Independence Day” will be playing.
When: Tuesday, July 1 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Independence Mall, 6th and Market streets
Dino-Mite Summer
Connect with the wonders of the natural world through hands-on discovery, dinosaur exploration, and real science in action this July and August at the Academy of Natural Sciences. Unearth fossils like a paleontologist at The Big Dig, meet live turtles and insects, and chat with Academy scientists. From stormwater science and sustainability to fashion, dinosaur tours and a weekend-long celebration of insects, every visit brings new opportunities to investigate biodiversity, ecology, evolution and more.
When: Tuesday, July 1-Aug. 31
Where: The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
Red, White, & Blue To-Do
As Philadelphia gets closer to the 2026 spotlight, the Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee presents the Second Annual 2025 Red, White, & Blue To-Do celebration as part of Philadelphia’s 250th celebration. The celebration includes:
- Flag Raising Ceremony
- Kick off the second annual Red, White, & Blue To-Do with Betsy Ross herself and an interactive flag raising to get the party started. This is a free event.
- When: at 9 a.m.
- Where: Betsy Ross House, 239 Arch St.
- Scavenger Hunt
- ASMH has had 20,000 burials occur in its historic grounds – which ones can you find? Explore the 220-year-old meetinghouse and uncover the hidden stories of Quakers in the Revolution. Fun for all ages. More activities will also be available throughout the day. This is a free event.
- When: from 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Where: Arch Street Meeting House, 320 Arch St.
- Red, White, and Blue To-Do at AAMP
- Join AAMP for a dynamic day of history, music, art, and community. Visitors are invited to wander the galleries with Revolutionary War hero Ned Hector (11 am – 3 pm), who will share stories from his life and his time as a soldier. Step back in time with photographer Maurene Cooper, who will create 19th-century-style tintype portraits of visitors for free (pre-registration required at aampmuseum.org). Feel the rhythm with MadBeatz Philly on the plaza outside the Museum with live drumming 3:30–5:30 p.m. Then, gather for a powerful fireside chat (6 – 7 pm) exploring the roles and legacies of Black and Indigenous communities during the Revolutionary era. Admission is free all day.
- When: from 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Where: African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch St.
- Red, White, & Blue To-Do Celebrations
- There are a lot of fun activities going on at Independence National Historical Park. Swing by the park ranger desk at the Independence Visitor Center to find out about daily programs.
- When: from 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Where: Independence Visitor Center, 599 Market St.
- Red, White, & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade
- The Red, White, & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade kicks off at the National Constitution Center, traveling along Independence Mall, turning onto Chestnut Street and concluding on 3rd Street. Pre-registration to march in the Pomp & Parade is required, but everyone is invited to watch along the parade route.
- When: at 11 a.m.
- Where: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch St.
- All-American Block Party
- The All-American Block Party, produced in partnership with Wawa Welcome America, where visitors can enjoy music, games, family-friendly activities, highlights from Historic District attractions, and food trucks and seating.
- When: from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Where: 3rd Street between Chestnut and Walnut Streets
- Red, White, & Blue To-Do Craft Fair
- Curated by and for local artists, the craft fair features Philly-themed souvenirs, locally-made crafts, and fun gifts. Stop by for a showcase of the best of the City’s contemporary makers and artisans. Curated by Art Star. Pay-as-you-go
- When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Where: Independence Visitor Center, 599 Market St.
- Wawa Welcome America’s Salute to Service
- The United States Army Field Band presented by American Airlines — The U.S. Army Field Band returns to Independence Mall to conclude Red, White, & Blue To-Do with a rousing performance honoring our Soldiers and Veterans, while showcasing the talented musicians and artists in the Army. This free concert is presented by American Airlines and will feature a special performance by Grammy-nominated musical duo, The War And Treaty and will take place at the Independence Concert Series Stage presented by Visit Philadelphia.
- When: at 7 p.m.
- Where: Independence Mall, 6th and Market streets
Celebration of Freedom Ceremony
With Independence Hall as the backdrop, celebrate July 4th and observe the evolving history of America’s freedom. This inspiring event will feature remarks by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, the presentation of the Mayor’s One Philly Award and the 10th Anniversary of The Wawa Foundation Hero Award – both honoring individuals and organizations making a difference in our city, with musical guests DJ Diamond Kuts and Suzann Christine. This event is produced in partnership with the Office of the City of Representative.
When: Friday, July 4 at 10 a.m.
Where: Independence Hall, 5th Street between Chestnut and Walnut streets
Salute to Independence Parade
Bring your lawn chairs and the entire family and take a seat along the parade route to experience a visual and musical extravaganza celebrating our nation. This year’s parade begins with a traveling dance production set to the music of a special song written by the parade producer titled “America My Home Sweet Home”! Get ready to clap your hands and dance along! The parade will feature a diverse mix of floats, entertainers, marching musical groups, and more. For the first time ever, the World Champion Reading Buccaneers Drum and Bugle Corps from Reading, PA will canvas the parade route with amazing music and precision, along with the Corotegas Latin Marching Band, all the way from Honduras! A highlight of this year’s parade will be the debut of the first float set for the 2026 parade celebrating America’s 250th Birthday, with special features nodding to our country’s birth and its roots right here in the city of brotherly love.
When: Friday, July 4 at 11 a.m.
Where: 5th and Chestnut streets, then along East Market Street to City Hall
Freedom Fest Fireworks Festival
Philadelphia-based nonprofit One River Alliance (ORA) is proud to announce the full details for its highly popular annual 2025 FreedomFest Fireworks Festival. Partnering with State Street Events, FreedomFest takes place on the Fourth of July at Pleasant Hill Park and wraps up with a spectacular fireworks show. The free family-fun event offers the community the opportunity to experience a dynamic lineup of live musical performances, indulge in delicious offerings and unique goods from more than 20 local food trucks and artisan vendors, and see a breathtaking state-of-the-art fireworks display by Pyrotecnico shot from a barge in the middle of the Delaware River. FreedomFest kicks off with a performance of the National Anthem, followed by a high-energy set on the main stage from crowd favorites Philly Heart & Soul. Back by popular demand is the beer garden, which will feature libations from Philadelphia’s own Attic Brewing Co., Briganti Wines, City Distilling, and Crooked Eye Brewery.
When: Friday, July 4 from 5-9:30 p.m.
Where: Pleasant Hill Park, 9100 N. Delaware Ave.
Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise
City Cruises Philadelphia is inviting passengers to the ultimate USA birthday party on Friday as they host their 4th of July Signature Dinner Cruise. Guests will celebrate in style aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia, enjoying the city’s best view of the Independence Day fireworks as they light up the sky over the Delaware River. Guests will enjoy a delicious multi-course chef-prepared buffet along with a fully-stocked bar. For the ultimate dining experience, guests can choose from three bar-package options.
When: Friday, July 4, boarding at 6:30 p.m.
Where: departs from Penn’s Landing, 401 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd.
July 4th Concert & Fireworks
The Fourth of July celebrations in Philadelphia will conclude on the evening of July 4 with the Wawa Welcome America July 4th Concert and Fireworks starring the GRAMMY® Award-winning Hip-Hop icon LL COOL J and GRAMMY® Award-winning R&B singer and songwriter, and Philadelphia native, Jazmine Sullivan. Produced in partnership with Live Nation, the concert will be performed at 7:00 p.m. in front of a live audience on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and broadcast in English on NBC10 for viewers to enjoy from their homes. The concert will be followed by Philadelphia’s largest annual fireworks display over the iconic Benjamin Franklin Parkway courtesy of Wawa. Prior to the concert, guests can enjoy entertainment on the Pennsylvania Lottery Groove Stage on the Parkway.
When: Friday, July 4 at 7 p.m.
Where: Benjamin Franklin Parkway, enter at 20th Street and Logan Square
Fourth of July Fireworks at Assembly Rooftop Lounge
Assembly Rooftop Lounge, Center City’s swanky rooftop lounge with panoramic views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, City Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, is the place to celebrate the Fourth of July. On Fourth of July, guests are invited to take the elevator up at The Logan Hotel for Red, White & Views: Firework Viewing Party — an opportunity to experience the magic of the fireworks from the city’s best vantage point. The celebration will feature a four-hour open bar serving Assembly Rooftop Lounge’s signature cocktails, passed hors d’oeuvres, multiple chef-curated food stations, a decadent dessert spread, live music, and, of course, unbeatable views of the fireworks.
When: Friday, July 4 from 7-11 p.m.
Where: Assembly Rooftop Lounge, in The Logan Philadelphia, 1840 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
Drop In Science Workshop: Summer Styles
How does making clothing impact the global environment? What is upcycling and why is it so important? Learn all about how there is more than meets the eye in your choices for summer styles. Take a peek at the Academy’s Botany Collection. Bring an old pair of shorts and repurpose them into a lunch bag to take home.
When: Saturday, July 5 from 2–4 p.m.
Where: The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
Philly Foodie & Fireworks Festival
Harrah’s Philadelphia is excited to welcome guests to the Philly Foodie & Fireworks Festival for an action-packed Fourth of July celebration featuring live entertainment, top-tier food vendors, family-friendly activities and a spectacular fireworks display. Attendees can enjoy 25+ food trucks, a maker’s market, pop-up beer garden and an engaging Family Fun Zone with carnival games and a money machine with real prizes. At 9 p.m., Harrah’s legendary fireworks show will illuminate the sky, offering spectacular views from the grandstand and outdoor patio overlooking the Racetrack and Delaware River. Tickets are required.
When: Saturday, July 5 from 2-10 p.m.
Where: Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack, 777 Harrah’s Blvd.
“Where I’m From” at the Barnes
This summer, the Barnes Foundation and Mural Arts Philadelphia present “Where I’m From,” an exhibition of original work created by artists from Mural Arts Philadelphia’s Rec Crew, a 24-week job readiness and life skills program for justice-impacted young adults, and artists at State Correctional Institution Phoenix (SCI Phoenix), southeast Pennsylvania’s maximum-security prison for men. Free with general admission to the Barnes, “Where I’m From” will be on view in the second-floor classroom of the Collection Gallery.
When: Saturday, July 5-Aug. 25
Where: The Barnes Foundation, 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
”Demond Melancon: As Any Means Are Necessary” at AAMP
Demond Melancon (b. 1978) works solely with a needle and thread to sew glass beads onto canvas. He began this practice in 1992 when he first became part of the Black Masking Culture of New Orleans, a culture whose roots are woven through more than two centuries of history. Big Chief Demond Melancon is well known for creating massive Suits as a Black Masker. His Suits are sculptural forms based on the size of his body, which are composed of intricate, hand-sewn beadwork revealing a collective visual narrative. In 2017, Melancon pioneered an emerging contemporary art practice using the same beading techniques he’s been refining over the past 30 years in the Black Masking Culture.
When: through Sunday, July 27
Where: African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch St.
Discover play mode at the LEGO® Summer of Play
This summer, families in Philadelphia and beyond can get ready for a celebration of play like no other at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Philadelphia with an all-new event. The LEGO® Summer of Play event will have new activities to help kids discover their unique play mode — whether they love to create, discover, build, dance or simply play their own way. Families can join a workshop to learn how to create a LEGO bee and design a playful city with the Master Model Builder where their imaginations can run wild. Kids of all ages can boogie to the DJ GoodVibes dance party and then have fun spotting surprise LEGO creations in MINILAND which has Philadelphia’s cityscape created out of more than 1.5 million LEGO bricks.
When: through Sunday, Aug. 3
Where: LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Philadelphia, in Plymouth Meeting Mall, 500 W. Germantown Pk., Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
”Of Earthen Kin: Works by Katie Kaplan” at PMG
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens (PMG) presents a new exhibition titled “Of Earthen Kin: Works by Katie Kaplan.” The exhibition features new work by Katie Kaplan, a Philadelphia-based multidisciplinary artist whose work spans printmaking, sculpture, textiles, video, and installation. Her artistic practice is rooted in cultural organizing, activist art, and mutual aid. These values manifest through her commitment to collaborative and community-centered art-making. Her current body of work focuses on the environment, particularly through the lens of vibrating landscapes and close-up examinations of fungi and foliage.
When: through Sunday, Aug. 10
Where: Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, 1020 South St.
Center City District SIPS returns
The pay-as-you-go Center City District SIPS series is back for its 21st season with lots of happy hour revelry. Enjoy CCD SIPS happy hour al fresco at Cret Park and Dilworth Park. The weekly Wednesday night program offers substantial discounts at nearly 100 (and counting) bars, restaurants and beer gardens throughout Center City. The CCD SIPS promotion is simple: $5 beer, $6 wine, $7 cocktails and half-priced appetizers from 5 to 7 p.m. at favorites like Franky Bradley’s, Taste Cheesesteak Bar, Harp & Crown, Independence Beer Garden, Pizzeria Vetri, Square 1682, Bud & Marilyn’s, Cavanaugh’s, Chris’ Jazz Cafe, Continental Midtown and more. After happy hour, enjoy 15% off dinner at select locations.
When: Wednesdays through Aug. 27 from 5-7 p.m.
Where: Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th St.
East Passyunk’s Italian Passeggiata returns
East Passyunk Avenue, South Philadelphia’s historic commercial corridor known for its 160+ independently-owned restaurants and shops, will become the ultimate local hangout on Thursday evenings this summer. This year’s event is sponsored by Top Dog Cocktails with featured products available at bars up and down the Avenue. Participating bars and restaurants will offer special happy hour pricing, which includes $6 beers, $7 wines, and $8 cocktails, complemented by $8 small bites. Retailers and service businesses will activate the sidewalk in front of their businesses with pop-up shopping, bins of books and vinyl, flower bars, and more, encouraging visitors to leisurely stroll along the Avenue like an Italian promenade. This event echoes the Italian tradition of the passeggiata — a “leisurely walk or stroll, especially one taken in the evening.”
When: Thursdays through Aug. 28 at 5-7 p.m.
Where: East Passyunk Avenue
Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival
For 2025’s Year of the Snake, the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival in Franklin Square will showcase magnificent giant lighted sculptures crafted from steel frames and wrapped in vibrant silk, blending light and culture. The popular 200-foot-long dragon returns along with never-before-seen giant lantern displays, with more lights, more lanterns, and more wattage than ever before. Exploring more than 1,100 individual sculptures placed in nearly 40 groupings, visitors will embark on a magical journey through enchanting forest-themed displays and a radiant underwater realm, where lanterns and interactive delights showcase the splendor of China’s culture alongside diverse wildlife and vibrant marine wonders. In addition to the gorgeous light installations, guests can enjoy live cultural stage performances, see the choreographed fountain light show in the historic Rendell Family Fountain, taste food and drink options including Asian cuisine and American comfort food, drink a toast at the Cocktail Garden, and shop for Chinese folk artists’ crafts.
When: through Sunday, Aug. 31 from 6-11 p.m.
Where: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th St.
”Word Powered: Exploring Free Speech Through Art” at NLM
“Word Powered: Exploring Free Speech Through Art” is a juried exhibition that examines the dynamic relationship between censorship, freedom of expression, and diverse perspectives. Bringing together a range of artistic voices, mediums, and subject matter, the exhibition challenges visitors to reflect on their role in safeguarding the right to free speech and better understand how language can be manipulated, suppressed, or celebrated. The works on display invite audiences across the political and cultural divide to engage with the potency of words, demonstrating how art can spark vital conversations and illuminate our collective voice.
When: through Monday, Sept. 8
Where: National Liberty Museum, 321 Chestnut St.
“The Pearl Bailey Showcase” at AAMP
Pearl Bailey was an award-winning actor, singer, songwriter, and author. Whether she was performing on Broadway, opening for Duke Ellington, captivating audiences in Philadelphia nightclubs, or starring in her own daytime television show, Pearl Bailey’s passion and talent made her a beloved entertainer worldwide. Objects from the Bailey-Bellson Collection, including scrapbooks, archival photographs, and letters from friends and admirers worldwide, will be on display.
When: through Sunday, Sept. 13
Where: Where: African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch St.
”Voices of the Community: Local Black Preservation” at HSP
The Historical Society of Pennsylvania (HSP) proudly announces the opening of its summer exhibit, “Voices of the Community: Local Black Preservation.” Support for this exhibit comes from The Haverford Trust Company and the Pennsylvania Abolition Society Endowment Fund of the Philadelphia Foundation. The exhibit explores the history, migration, and preservation of African American communities in Philadelphia, and Lawnside, New Jersey. Through personal archives, flyers, photographs, and ephemera, the exhibit highlights how Black individuals and communities have preserved their own stories across generations through the built environment, music, memory, and collective action.
When: through Friday, Sept. 26
Where: Historical Society of Pennsylvania, 1300 Locust St.
Storytime in the Square
Join Ms. Chen from Independence Branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia every other Wednesday for free storytime and crafts in the Pavilion or on the Great Lawn. Stories, rhymes, and dancing explore different themes throughout the season ending with bubbles and fun crafts. All kids and their caregivers are welcome.
When: through October 22 from 10-11 a.m.
Where: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th St.
Lansdowne Farmers Market
The 18th season of the Lansdowne Farmers Market features the borough’s first-ever fully themed summer lineup. The new program is designed not only to nourish our bodies but also to strengthen community connections and promote mental well-being. Following a successful winter pilot and the buzz-worthy Egg-nostic Egg Hunt, the market will now feature a unique theme every Saturday including Pride, Juneteenth, Classic Cars, Food Truck Day, International Blues Day, and more. Each week, visitors will find live music, fresh local food, artisan vendors, and interactive nonprofit and community partners offering a welcoming space to connect, decompress, and celebrate together. Themed programming is part of a broader effort by the Lansdowne Economic Development Corporation to create consistent, joyful experiences that support emotional wellness and reduce social isolation—an urgent public health need.
When: Saturdays through Oct. 25 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Veterans Landing, 30 N. Lansdowne Ave.
Stay informed and connected — subscribe to The Philadelphia Tribune NOW! Click Here