“FINALLY FREEDOM: A Commemoration of Juneteenth”
Join Black Magic Woman Productions in a commemoration of Juneteenth. A quarter of a million black people were still enslaved in the state of Texas after “the peculiar institution” was abolished by the Emancipation Proclamation of 1863. We invite you to discover why Texas wassuch a hotbed of slavery after its legal end, dive into the importance of General Orders, No. 3, and delve into the real cultural significance of an African American tradition that spans generations. Black Magic Woman Productions grew out of a need to create opportunities for theatre artists of color. This programming is supported by the LEDC’s Art Committee, a volunteer group of The Lansdowne Economic Development Corporation.
When: Monday, June 15 at 6 p.m.
Where: 2020 House, 20 Lansdowne Ct., Lansdowne, PA 19050
Night Market
East Market’s vibrant, weekly Night Market transforms Chestnut Walk into a glowing open-air marketplace every Tuesday evening this spring. Weather permitting, visitors can explore a curated mix of local vendors offering fresh food, handcrafted goods, seasonal produce, plants, and much more, all set against the backdrop of live music and a lively happy hour atmosphere. Happy hour specials from the East Market Bar Cart and seasonal samples from restaurants Mi Vida and The Wayward add to the fun. Guests are encouraged to stroll beneath string lights, discover unique offerings at each vendor’s booth and unwind with friends as the sun sets over East Market.
When: ends Tuesday, June 16 from 3–7 p.m.
Where: Chestnut Walk, 34 S. 11th St.
Center City District SIPS returns
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: Wednesdays through Aug. 26 from 5-7 p.m.
Where: various locations including Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th St.
“Conceived in Crisis: Pennsylvania in 1776” at HSP
The Pennsylvania Provincial Conference was held June 18–25, 1776, at Carpenters’ Hall in Philadelphia. The Conference had a profound impact on American public opinion and facilitated the passing of the Declaration of Independence only a few days later. The 1776 Pennsylvania Constitution was radically innovative for its time, including a Declaration of Rights that predated the Bill of Rights and a provision that voters did not need to own property. Christopher Pearl, scholar and author of “Conceived in Crisis: The Revolutionary Creation of an American State,” will lead a discussion on the radical birth of the Keystone State. A number of original manuscripts from the Provincial Conference will be on view in a pop-up display just for the evening. Also, program attendees will have the opportunity to view the exhibition “Paths To Independence, 1765-1787,” which includes significant founding documents such as the only known printer’s proof of the Declaration of Independence. This event is free and open to the public.
When: Thursday, June 18 from 6:30-8 p.m.
Where: Historical Society of Pennsylvania, 1300 Locust St.
Phillies Pride Night
The Phillies invite you to celebrate Philadelphia’s rich LGBTQIA+ culture at our annual Pride Night presented by The GIANT Company at Citizens Bank Park on at 6:40 p.m. when the Phillies host the New York Mets. All members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as family, friends and organizations are invited to come out and show their pride at this event. Tickets are required.
When: Thursday, June 18 at 6:40 p.m.
Where: Citizens Bank Park, 1 Citizens Bank Wy.
Eddie Griffin comes Rivers Casino
Popular comedian-turned-actor Eddie Griffin is bringing his high-energy stand-up performance to Rivers Casino Philadelphia. Over his decades-long career, Griffin has become known for his sharp social commentary and animated storytelling. He blends personal experiences with cultural observations and shifts seamlessly from biting satire to playful crowd work, making him a consistent draw for live audiences nationwide. Griffin first rose to prominence in the 1990s and quickly became one of stand-up’s most recognizable voices. In addition to numerous comedy specials, he has appeared in films, including “Undercover Brother” and “Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo,” expanding his reach beyond the stage. Despite his success in television and film, live stand-up remains his creative home base, where his improvisational skills and unfiltered delivery shine brightest. Audiences attending the performance can expect an evening driven by Griffin’s trademark candor and comedic timing. Whether tackling current events, relationships or everyday absurdities, he brings a veteran’s confidence and willingness to push boundaries, ensuring a memorable night centered on his distinctive voice and comedic perspective.
When: Thursday, June 18 at 8 p.m.
Where: Rivers Casino Philadelphia, 1001 N. Delaware Ave.
AAMP celebrates 50th anniversary at annual Juneteenth Block Party
The African American Museum in Philadelphia presents the museum’s Juneteenth Block Party. This year’s theme “Juneteenth Jubilee: Celebrating 50 Years of the African American Museum in Philadelphia,” honors AAMP’s 50th anniversary year. The museum will celebrate the occasion with performances from the legendary DJ Jazzy Jeff, Doug E Fresh, Slick Rick, and Leah Jenea along with local artists and performances, a vendor village, food trucks, and interactive activities. Presented with Wawa Welcome America and VISIT PHILADELPHIA®, the free, family-friendly celebration kicks off the 15-day Wawa Welcome America festival. The Juneteenth Block Party will be hosted by Philadelphia’s own Patty Jackson from iHeart Radio and WDAS-FM. Courtesy of Wawa, guests will have free admission to the museum. The block party will also include family-friendly activities and games that will be available to guests throughout the Block Party and will include a game zone with oversized chess, Connect 4, face painting, balloon art, and Secure the Bag: A real-world budget simulation TM, a life-sized, interactive financial literacy game by Teana Sykes, Financial Coach and creator of Tea Talk. The Juneteenth Block Party is a rain or shine event, free and open to the public.
When: Friday, June 19 from 12-5 p.m.
Where: African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch St.
Juneteenth Walking Tour
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens sits on a storied block. It is anchored on one end by an African Methodist Episcopal (AME) church, whose roots stretch back to 1793, when black preachers responded to segregation in Philadelphia churches by forming their own. On the other end of the block sits a historic firehouse, which once employed Philadelphia’s first black firefighters, better known as the Defenders of the Seventh Ward. For generations, the Seventh Ward was the indisputable heart of Black Philadelphia, boasting the largest black population of any northern city. Its rich, complex history is an inextricable part of PMG’s history. Find out why during this short talk, which will include an examination of one of Isaiah Zagar’s most iconic murals: Rose and the Firefighters. This short talk is free of charge and open to everyone. Reservations are not required. Tickets to Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens are not required.
When: Friday, June 19 at 2 p.m.
Where: Alder Street alley off South Street between south 10th and south 11th streets
Juneteenth Celebration
Families are invited to celebrate Juneteenth through storytelling, music, movement, and hands-on workshops honoring Black culture, creativity, and joy. Highlights include oral storytelling with Aunti Oni, sewing workshops with Seven Seventeen Sewing Studio, STEM activities with Science Education Academy, cupcake decorating with Chef Ken exploring the significance of red foods in Juneteenth celebrations, performing arts workshops with Dream Big Dream Black, and an end-of-day celebration led by the West Powelton Steppers and Band.
Where: Please Touch Museum, 4231 Avenue of the Republic
2026 Movies on the Mall — “Harriet”
The beloved family-friendly series “Movies on the Mall” will return to Philadelphia’s Historic District for a special expanded 2026 season in honor of the nation’s semiquincentennial. The series is presented by the Philadelphia Visitor Center (“Visitor Center”), Independence Historical Trust (“the Trust”), the National Park Service, and Liberty Garden, which is supported by the Historic District Partners. This free outdoor movie series invites families, friends, and history lovers alike to experience films under the stars on Philadelphia’s iconic Independence Mall. This weeks’ showing is “Harriet.” Festivities begin at 5 p.m., showtime at 8:30 p.m.
When: Friday, June 19 at 5 p.m.
Where: Independence National Historical Park
Yoga at Independence
Take a breath and enjoy the beautiful outdoor spaces at Independence National Historical Park with Yoga at Independence. This free program is open to all ages and experience levels, from beginners to advanced yogis. Sessions are led by Monarch Yoga instructors and offer a welcoming, relaxed environment to start your day. Participants are encouraged to bring their own mat or towel.
When: Saturday, June 20 from 9-10 a.m.
Where: Independence Historical Trust, 420 Chestnut St.
Fabric Row’s Summer Solstice Festival
The South Street Headhouse District will celebrate the longest day of the year with its 3rd Annual Summer Solstice Festival in the heart of the historic Fabric Row corridor. Known for its rich history as a destination for fashion, textiles, creativity, and independent businesses, Fabric Row will transform into a vibrant outdoor festival celebrating Philly’s thriving arts and culture scene. The free event will feature local shopping, live music, art experiences, food and drink vendors, interactive activities, workshops, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the day. The free event offers plenty of visual opportunities, highlights one of Philadelphia’s most historic commercial corridors, and supports the small businesses and creative entrepreneurs defining the neighborhood today.
When: Saturday, June 20 from 12-7 p.m.
Where: South 4th Street between Lombard and Catharine streets
Juneteenth Wellness & Arts Festival 2026
The Juneteenth Wellness & Arts Festival 2026 (#JWAF) is a vibrant, family-friendly celebration honoring the legacy of Juneteenth through cultural arts, wellness, and community engagement. Formerly known as the Juneteenth Wine & Arts Festival, the reimagined event now centers on holistic wellness, accessibility, and a zero-proof experience, featuring signature mocktails instead of alcohol. The festival includes live performances, including Barbara Sheree and Lady Stout; free health screenings and wellness resources; fitness and movement experiences; interactive art and community engagement; and local vendors across food, fashion, beauty, and home goods. Free and open to the public.
When: Saturday, June 20 from 1–6 p.m.
Where: Cherry Street Pier, 121 N. Columbus Blvd.
”The Great Privation (How to Flip Ten Cents into a Dollar)” — extended!
Experience “The Great Privation (How to flip ten cents into a dollar)” at Theatre Exile, a powerful and darkly comic production that explores a troubling chapter of Philadelphia history through themes of family, resilience, and survival. Set in both 1832 and the present day, the play examines the morally fraught world of grave robbing, the human cost behind America’s early medical discoveries, and the lasting impact these histories continue to have across generations. Written by Nia Akilah Robinson and directed by Ontaria Kim Wilson, the production balances unsettling history with humor, heart, and hope.
When: ends Saturday, June 20
Where: Theatre Exile, 1340 S. 13th St.
Celebrates Father’s Day at Sesame Place Philadelphia
Sesame Summer Splash, Sesame Place Philadelphia’s annual celebration of summer, will kick off with Father’s Day Weekend Fan Fest. Guests can play games, rock out to sports jams, and kick soccer balls with Phang, the mascot of the Philadelphia Union soccer team, to get ready to celebrate the world’s soccer tournament! Plus, meet mascots and icons from regional teams, including Rocky Bluewinkle from the Wilmington Blue Rocks baseball team. Guests can enjoy whirling rides, splashy water slides, exciting characters stage shows, and the award-winning Sesame Street Party Parade.
When: Saturday, June 20-21
Where: Sesame Place Philadelphia, 100 Sesame Rd., Langhorne, PA 19047
“Bluey’s Big Play”
Audiences of all ages will get to see Bluey, Bingo, Mum (Chilli), and Dad (Bandit) as they’ve never seen them before, as Bluey and her family embark on this unique live show adventure. When Dad feels like a little bit of afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans! Join them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag. With an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm and music by “Bluey” composer, Joff Bush, this is “Bluey,” for real life.
When: Saturday, June 20 and 21
Where: Miller Theater, 250 S. Broad St.
Father’s Day Cruises with City Cruises Philadelphia
Join City Cruises for their Father’s Day Signature Brunch Cruise and Father’s Day Signature Dinner Cruise. During both cruises, fathers receive a complimentary mocktail or beer upon boarding before guests can enjoy a chef-prepared buffet, a fully stocked cash bar, a live DJ, dancing, and games. During the brunch cruise, families can enjoy bottomless mimosas and games on the open-air decks, with memory-making fun for families of all ages.
When: Sunday, June 21 from 12-2 p.m. for brunch, and 5-7:30 p.m. for dinner
Where: depart from Penn’s Landing, 401 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd.
Stamp Rally
April marks the return of Historic Germantown’s highly-anticipated spring Stamp Rally. The theme for the popular program is “Trees of Germantown.” The free program allows participants to pick up a passport book and collect stamps at various sites, providing residents and visitors with a fun, interactive way to explore Germantown. Participants have the opportunity to discover the neighborhood through an entertaining scavenger hunt, with prizes awarded to those who complete the challenge.
When: ends Sunday, June 21
Where: various locations throughout Germantown
”Franklin’s Key”
Step into the world of “Franklin’s Key” from Pig Iron Theatre Company, a thrilling sci-fi adventure that transforms Philadelphia’s history of invention, revolution, and curiosity into an immersive live experience. Set across iconic Philadelphia landmarks, the Barrymore Award-winning production follows two teenage prodigies as they uncover a hidden mystery tied to Benjamin Franklin’s long-lost technology, leading them through secret tunnels, historic sites, and a race against powerful forces. Blending history, science, imagination, and spectacle, “Franklin’s Key” offers an unforgettable Philadelphia story perfect for families, students, and visitors exploring the city during the semiquincentennial.
When: through Sunday, June 28
Where: Pig Iron Theatre Company, 1714 Delancey St.
”Dear Evan Hansen”
Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Dear Evan Hansen follows Evan, a high school senior who becomes entangled in a misunderstanding that grows into a fabricated story he cannot control. As the lie deepens, Evan must navigate the exciting new connections he’s created and the truth he’s avoiding. Featuring iconic songs like “Waving Through a Window” and “You Will Be Found,” this all-new production explores how young people navigate connection and mental health against today’s all-consuming social media landscape. This production is co-conceived with Jorge Cousineau, a longtime collaborator of the Arden whose past scenic and projection work includes Sunday in the Park with George, Next to Normal, and The Lehman Trilogy. In this production, projections and screens create a world where digital and real life intersect, reflecting how quickly a single moment can spiral in the age of social media.
When: through Monday, June 29
Where: Arden Theatre Company, 40 N. 2nd St.
”This Is (Not) a Celebration: Queer Resistance 1976/2026”
On Thursday, the William Way LGBT Community Center will debut “This Is (Not) a Celebration: Queer Resistance 1976/2026,” a powerful new exhibition reframing the Bicentennial. The exhibition features newly commissioned works by Philadelphia artists Scarlett DeLorme, Justin Jain, and Amy Cousins. Through wet-plate photography, ceramics, printmaking, and fiber-based installations, the artists explore themes of resistance, identity, and belonging while highlighting a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history. The exhibition is presented alongside materials from the John J. Wilcox, Jr. Archives, home to Philadelphia’s largest collection documenting LGBTQ+ history. Featured archival materials include the 1976 Lesbian Feminist Declaration by Dyketactics!, documentation from counter-Bicentennial demonstrations, and early coverage from publications including The Philadelphia Gay News, offering visitors a deeper understanding of how LGBTQ+ activists responded to the national celebration.
When: through Friday, July 3
Where: Huddle, 338 Brown St.
”CLUE: A Walking Mystery”
An all-new immersive experience that invites audiences to step into the world of the iconic CLUE board game as the descendants of its beloved characters — Mayor Green, Colonel Mustard, Solicitor Peacock, Professor Plum, Miss Scarlett, and Chef White. Players will explore Philadelphia and travel to different locations as newly minted detectives to solve the mystery of who murdered the elusive Mr. Boddy. The experience begins and ends at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, with clues hidden across multiple locations and landmarks throughout the city. Designed as a family-friendly experience, “CLUE: A Walking Mystery” is perfect for families, large groups, friends, and even unique date nights.
When: through Sunday, July 5
Where: Starts and Ends at the Kimmel Center, 300 S. Broad St.
”America Today: Voices in Contemporary Print” at the Print Center
“America Today: Voices in Contemporary Print” brings the works of more than 30 artists from across the country together to explore core principles of democracy, including civil rights, social justice, racial equality, and political engagement. With Philadelphia at the center of America’s founding, the exhibition bridges past and present, inviting audiences to reflect on how democratic ideals continue to evolve at a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. Featuring widely recognized artists whose work has been exhibited in major museums around the world, “America Today” offers a compelling opportunity to engage with contemporary perspectives on urgent national issues.
When: through Saturday, July 25
Where: The Print Center, 1614 Latimer St.
”Muliebrity” by Viola Bordon
Philadelphia-based interdisciplinary textile artist and educator Viola Bordon blends sculpture, drawing, printmaking, and fibers to explore the interplay between materiality and environmental fluctuation. Her textile-focused practice draws upon pre-industrial craft techniques like weaving and quilting, intertwining them with inquiries into contemporary issues in our society. For Radical Americana, Bordon conducted research at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania to create her exhibition, Muliebrity, where she examines the invention and evolving meanings of American liberty in the national identity.
When: through Sunday, July 26
Where: Museum for Art in Wood, 141 N. 3rd 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: through Sunday, Aug. 2 from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 1100 block of Filbert Street
”Freedom Dreams” at the Barnes
As Philadelphia and the nation prepare to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States, Freedom Dreams brings together powerful works by artists in film, video, and installation that invite viewers to immerse themselves in the memories, dreams, and histories of Black Americans. The exhibition features works by Arthur Jafa, David Hartt, Garrett Bradley, Ja’Tovia Gary, and Tourmaline, all exploring history, archives, and cultural memory. Freedom Dreams highlights the fluid boundary between past, present, and future and encourages viewers to reflect on how Americans of color have shaped identities and created spaces of resistance, joy, and resilience in the face of systemic oppression. The exhibition is co-curated by Maori Karmael Holmes, Chief Executive and Artistic Officer of BlackStar Projects, and James Claiborne, Fleischner Family Vice President for Engagement at the Barnes.
When: through Sunday, Aug. 9
Where: The Barnes Foundation, 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
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: through Sunday, Aug. 16
Where: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th St.
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: through 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.
”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.
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