The Story of the U.S.
Constitution: Past and Present
Akhil Reed Amar and David Blight of Yale University join National Constitution Center President and CEO Jeffrey Rosen for a sweeping conversation about the Constitution and the debates that have shaped America — from the founding era to today. They’ll examine transformative moments in American history and landmark Supreme Court decisions.
This program is presented in partnership with the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute and the Organization of American Historians.
When: Monday, June 23 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Where: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch St.
Cherashore Pool Party
Celebrate the season opening of the pool at Cherashore Playground and an evening of fun, hosted by Jefferson Einstein Philadelphia Hospital. DJ Caesar will be spinning throughout the event, while guests enjoy free food, giveaways, arts and crafts, a water slide, local vendors, and the opportunity to learn about healthcare services and job opportunities at Jefferson Health.
When: Tuesday, June 24 from 4-7 p.m.
Where: Cherashore Playground, 851 W. Olney Ave.
MomMom Craft Night:
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens hosts Sue Liedke of South Philly Time Capsules for a throwback craft session where guests dive into the vintage art of latch hooking! This retro fiber arts technique – popular in the ’60s and ’70s – is making a comeback, and Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is bringing it to life with a pop art twist inspired by Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE statue. This session is perfect for beginners and seasoned makers alike. Participants will learn the basics of latch hook, prepare the yarn, and begin the piece in class, then take it home to finish. All materials are provided; just bring your favorite beverage, creativity, and a little love!
When: Tuesday, June 24 from 6-8 p.m.
Where: Magic Gardens Studio, 1002 Watkins St.
Wawa Hoagie Day
Join Wawa for historic Hoagie Day®, honoring local heroes, and building and serving Wawa Shorti Hoagies. Hoagies will be served free at noon along Arch Street between 5th & 6th Streets in the Independence Mall area. Guests can enjoy a performance by the Six String Soldiers, along with free admission all day to the National Constitution Center courtesy of Wawa Hoagie Day®. Admission is free courtesy Wawa.
When: Thursday, June 26 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch St.
Vet Fest
Join us for an inspiring day as we honor the courage, sacrifice, and service of our nation’s veterans, and recognize the outstanding organizations who support them. This special event, presented by American Airlines and produced in partnership with the Office of Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson and the Philadelphia Office of Veterans Affairs, will begin with Denise King singing the National Anthem and a ceremony honoring local veterans and groups making a profound impact in the community. Following the ceremony, the celebration continues with live performances by Russell Thompkins Jr. & the New Stylistics, Dan Harrison, Gooch & Brianna Nelson, Denise King, DJ Queen Yaszy and Mina SayWhat. Veterans and their families will have an opportunity to connect with veteran-focused services and resources, complimentary refreshments, giveaways, and more!
When: Wednesday, June 25 at 11 a.m.
Where: City Hall Courtyard, 1400 JFK Blvd.
Marian Anderson Youth Design mural dedication
Lead teaching artist and muralist Josh Smith, assistant teaching artist Ahn Ly, and the Rec Crew worked with the Marian Anderson Recreation Center after-school program for 10 weeks to design a colorful abstract mural to brighten and beautify their outdoor programming space.
When: Thursday, June 26 from 4-6 p.m.
Where: Marian Anderson Rec Center, 740 S. 17th St.
5 Points Night Market
The 5 Points Night Market will bring food, music, and community pride to Rising Sun Avenue, featuring food trucks, local vendors, live performances, summer fun, and activities for all ages.
When: Thursday, June 26 from 5-9 p.m.
Where: Cottman and Rising Sun avenues
Independence Week Celebrations
Visitors can join the National Constitution Center for an array of patriotic festivities surrounding Independence Day, exploring the history of the Declaration of Independence and how the definition of “We the People” has expanded since Thomas Jefferson penned the famous words “…all men are created equal…” in 1776. Attend the interactive Independence Day show, participate in American flag history and etiquette workshops, create Colonial-era crafts, and stop by the Revolutionary War encampment on the museum.’
When: Thursday, June 26-July 6
Where: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch St.
Open Wardrobe for the Reentry Community
Returning Wardrobe is available to any Philadelphian who has recently been released from a federal, state, or local prison or has a history of incarceration and is currently unemployed. While this program is always available, Open Wardrobe days provide free clothing and additional resources to a specific population with no appointment needed. In addition to clothing, attendees at this event will receive support services from community partners to help our guests move forward in life and work. Grooming services will be provided at our Kennett Square location. Attendees must RSVP at wardrobepa.org.
Where: Available at all 4 locations: 62 W. Marshall Rd., Upper Darby; 413 N. 4th St., Philadelphia; 345 Scarlett Rd., Kennett Square; Exton Square Mall (2nd floor near Boscov’s); PA Career Link Bucks County, 4800 E. Street Rd., Trevose
Read-In for restoration of Philadelphia schools’ libraries
The Philadelphia Alliance to Restore School Librarians (PARSL) in partnership with the Pennsylvania School Librarians Association (PSLA) and EveryLibrary will be holding a Read-In. The Read-in is a silent gathering of anyone who wants the School District of Philadelphia (SDP) to provide librarians and libraries in all their schools. Everyone brings their own book and reads silently for 45 minutes and then we will disperse. Although not an activity of the ALA Conference, we are hoping that librarians attending the Conference will walk over to the SDP Administration building to participate. This is not a rally or protest, but we will have a large sign so people know what the Read-In is about.
When: Friday June 27 from 1-1:45 p.m.
Where: School District of Philadelphia Administration Building, 440 N. Broad St.
Gospel on Independence
The concert will return for yet another moving and soul-stirring performance on Independence Mall with Independence Hall in the background. This powerful celebration of gospel music will bring together an incredible lineup of local artists, choirs, and musicians for a night of uplifting performances you won’t want to miss. This year’s concert will feature a special guest performance by multi-platinum selling and GRAMMY-nominated artist Marvin Sapp.
When: Friday, June 27 at 7 p.m.
Where: Independence National Historical Park, 1 N. Independence Mall
Red, White, & Blue To-Do Decorating Days
A vibrant display of patriotic celebration, the second annual Red, White, & Blue To-Do on July 2, brings together museums, historic sites, and local businesses in America’s most historic square mile to honor our nation’s founding. This monumental occasion features the Red, White, & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade, festooned decor, concerts, games, extended visitation hours at area historic attractions, restaurant specials, and much more. To prepare, Philadelphia’s Historic District is hosting Decorating Days, where community members are welcome to join us to help create the official wagon floats for the Red, White, & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade! Wagon decorating will take place at the National Constitution Center. The activity is free, but space is limited, so advance registration is strongly encouraged.
When: Saturday June 28-July 1 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 3-5 p.m.
Where: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch St.
Last days for Spring Makers Market at Dilworth Park
Christmas Village organizers in partnership with Center City District present Center City’s largest outdoor spring market focused on artists and makers from the Philadelphia region. Look for nearly two dozen rotating artists and makers from the tri-state region with everything from home decor, jewelry, fashion, sweets, treats, posters, art, skincare, men’s products, candles, plants, flowers and more.
When: Friday and Saturday June 27-28 from 12-6 p.m.
Where: Dilworth Park, 1 S 15th St.
Queer Circus Fest
The East Kensington Arts Committee (EKAC), a volunteer-run group working in partnership with the East Kensington Neighbors Association (EKNA), are we’re thrilled to announce the first annual Kensington Queer Circus Fest — our neighborhood’s own PRIDE celebration! This isn’t just a festival. It’s a vibrant celebration of diversity, inclusion, creativity, and community — a joyful space where queer voices and circus arts come together to create something magical. The event features circus shows like Roller Circus, Tangle, Spider Wolf Circus, 2nd Hand Circus; Queer Arm Wrestling; Clown Contest; Drag Story Time; vendors; food; PBC Beer and more!
When: Saturday, June 28 from 3-9 p.m.
Where: Martha Street between York and Hagert streets
Philadelphia Fireworks Dinner Cruise
For guests who can’t attend on July 4, join City Cruises Philadelphia for an early Independence Day celebration. Join us aboard our Signature Philadelphia Fireworks Dinner Cruise on the Delaware River for a delicious chef-curated buffet for all ages and dancing beneath the glittering night sky. You’ll soak in views of Philadelphia’s iconic landmarks, such as the Ben Franklin Bridge from the breezy open-air decks and comfortable indoor spaces while our live DJ sets the vibe with crowd favorites. This unforgettable Independence Day bash is complete with a fully stocked cash bar, games, and dancing into the night!
When: Saturday, June 28, boarding at 6:30 p.m.
Where: departs from Penn’s Landing, 401 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd.
Celebration of Black Music Month and Fireworks
Celebrate Black Music Month, founded in Philadelphia, with a unique experience taking over the Dell Music Center campus, featuring performances by Kindred the Family Soul, Philadelphia Freeway and DJ Aktive. Curated by Philadelphia music legend Dyana Williams and co-hosted with Laiya St. Clair, this celebration will feature multiple expressions of music pioneered by Black musicians. Guests will be treated to incredible music, delectable food, local vendors, and fun activities, including soulful yoga with Karen Taylor Bass, a roller-skating rink and performances by Great on Skates, line dance lessons from Kenny “Kenny J” Johnson, a Double Dutch activation by Philly Girls Jump with professional instructors and giveaways, and more! This evening is sure to have something for all ages and will conclude with a dazzling fireworks display. Free tickets for this event will be available at The Dell Music Center Box Office.
When: Sunday, June 29 from 4-9 p.m.
Where: The Dell Music Center, 2400 Strawberry Mansion Dr.
Small Favors 2025
The Clay Studio Center for Innovation in Ceramic Art (The Clay Studio) (1425 N. American Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122), Philadelphia’s preeminent ceramic arts center, announces the 19th annual Small Favors exhibition. Opening April 10, nearly 400 intricate artworks in four-inch cubes will be on display and for sale in The Clay Studio’s Jill Bonovitz Gallery through June 29. The popular annual exhibition includes works submitted by nationally known artists similar to what they typically create, at a reduced scale or something entirely new and unique, alongside works by some of the best of Philadelphia’s up-and-coming artists.
When: ends Sunday, June 29
Where: The Clay Studio, 1425 N. American St.
Pride Month at Philadelphia Zoo
Philadelphia Zoo continues to celebrate Philly Pride Month as a part of its mission to ensure the Zoo is a welcoming and inclusive space for guests of all walks of life. In addition to Pride-themed animal enrichment in habitats around the Zoo, the Conservation Education team will be inviting guests to draw their families and compare them to the wide array of family structures throughout the animal kingdom. Also be on the lookout for a chalk art activity to celebrate the Zoo as a “Zoo For All” and special Pride-themed face painting options. Later in June, look for a special Pride edition of a new Fridays at the Zoo program, to be announced soon! Visit the Philadelphia Zoo website and social media closer to June 1st for additional details. Included in the cost of a regular Zoo admission ticket, no charge for Zoo members.
When: ends Sunday, June 29
Where: Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Ave.
”Franklin’s Key”
Pig Iron Theatre Company presents the world premiere of “Franklin’s Key,” a thrilling sci-fi adventure reimagining Benjamin Franklin’s legacy in an alternate universe where science and magic collide. During the War of Independence, the British feared that Benjamin Franklin could control the weather. But what if that were true? Set amid iconic Philly landmarks, “Franklin’s Key” follows two high school prodigies racing to protect Franklin’s hidden technology from shadowy forces.
When: ends Sunday, June 29
Where: Plays & Players Theatre, 1714 Delancey Pl.
”A Summer Day”
Experience the haunting beauty of Norwegian playwright Jon Fosse’s “A Summer Day,” directed by inventive Co-Artistic Director Yury Urnov (Mr. Burns, Minor Character, 12th Night) in a production that delves into the depths of human connection, memory, and existential longing. Is there one day in your past that you keep replaying again and again? When do we start spending more time in the past than in the present? Through Fosse’s poetic language and Urnov’s innovative direction and immersive visual design, audiences are transported into an epic and intimate world where past and present intertwine, inviting reflection on the fleeting nature of time and the eternal search for meaning. Often referred to as a modern-day Ibsen, Fosse won a Nobel Prize in Literature in 2023 – one of the few playwrights to ever receive that honor – and is rarely produced in the United States.
When: ends Sunday, June 29
Where: The Wilma Theater, 265 S. Broad St.
Red, White, Blue and YOU: Wheels in the Windows
Store windows along Chestnut Hill’s Germantown Avenue will be transformed into a vibrant display of patriotic pride in anticipation of the Fourth of July celebrations. Once again, local businesses are partnering with children and families to adorn their storefronts with creative and eye-catching decorations on bikes, wagons, and scooters featuring the iconic red, white, and blue colors. The festive wheels will be on display from June 29 to July 3, leading up to the holiday. On Friday, July 4th, the decorated wheels will be part of the annual kids’ parade.
When: Sunday, June 29-July 4
Where: Chestnut Hill, 8000 to 8600 blocks of Germantown Avenue
”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: through 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: through Monday, June 30
Where: William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St.
”Katie Hudnall: The Longest Distance between Two Points” at Museum for Art in Wood
Museum for Art in Wood presents “Katie Hudnall: The Longest Distance between Two Points,” the first museum-organized solo presentation of fine woodworker Katie Hudnall’s unique and captivating work. The exhibition features a series of sculptural works and a large-scale interactive installation created from salvaged wood that captures Hudnall’s eye for the absurdly mechanical and uncanny. Curated by Jennifer-Navva Milliken, Hudnall’s unique and captivating work reveals a rare glimpse into the artist’s rich inner world.
When: through Sunday, July 20
Where: Museum for Art in Wood, 141 N. 3rd St.
”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 Saturday, Sept. 13
Where: Where: African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch St.
The Oval on the Parkway
Philadelphia Parks and Recreation, in partnership with the Parkway Council, presents The Oval — the popular seasonal park on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway — with an expanded summer season of free, family-friendly programming and dynamic public space activations. Highlights include a beer garden, pop-up kitchen, Philly-themed mini-golf by Fairmount’s Libertee Grounds, lawn games and children’s play zones, a rotating selection of food trucks, and a diverse calendar of free events, including movie nights, live music, cultural performances, community celebrations, and special festival and market days. This year’s Oval places a strong emphasis on youth-focused fitness, wellness, and community safety. Programming includes teen-led activation nights, weekend youth basketball tournaments, a mini-golf competition, and family-friendly health and wellness events — all designed to create safe, joyful spaces for young people to gather, grow, and lead.
When: Wednesday-Sundays through Sept. 14
Where: Eakins Oval, 2451 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
”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.
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