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🚶🏽♀️ Alt Philly history walking tours guide
🌱 Spring in Philly guide
🎭 Philly’s comedy scene
🎤 Philly Record Store Guide
⚽ Billy Penn’s FIFA World Cup Guide
🛍️ Thrifty in Philly guide
📚 Book lovers’ guide to Philly
🍹 Non-alcoholic Philly
😋 Dining in Philly
🏃🏽 Philly Runners Guide
NOTE: This list will be updated throughout the week.
Monday, May 25 (Memorial Day)
2026 Philadelphia Renaissance Faire – (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
Rain or shine at Fort Mifflin! $20 adults age 16+, $15 seniors and veterans, $10 youth age 5-15, free for kids under 5.
Memorial Day Weekend on the Waterfront – (1 to 10 p.m.)
It’s SummerFest and Family Fun Day on the waterfront! Kick off the unofficial start of summer on the Delaware River Waterfront as Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest and Spruce Street Harbor Park officially reopen for the 2026 season. Live jazz, colorful hammocks, roller skating, arcade games, boardwalk-style food, flea markets and more. See the full schedule online.
Tuesday, May 26
Crossing Streets and Sharing Stories: Black-Asian Solidarity in Philly – (6 to 7:30 p.m.)
In collaboration with Writers Room, join this storytelling workshop grounded in the shared histories of struggles and resilience in Chinatown and West Philadelphia. This event is part of Crossing Streets, a constellation of arts events celebrating culture and uniting people—and purpose—in two deeply rooted Philadelphia neighborhoods. At Asian Arts Initiative. FREE.
Centering Survivors and Solutions: A Gun Violence Talk – (7 to 10 p.m.)
This panel brings journalists and gun violence survivors/co-victims together to explore how to report on violence with sensitivity, impact, and care. By creating space for honest dialogue beyond traditional interviews, the Philadelphia Center for Gun Violence Reporting, the Association of Gun Violence Reporters and Survivor Connection aim to foster collaboration that leads to more ethical, accurate, and healing coverage. Moderators: Oronde McClain of PCGVR’s Survivor Connection and Sammy Caiola of Chalkbeat Philadelphia. Panelists: gun violence survivors Dashawn Walker and Angela Wade, as well as journalists Ellie Rushing (Philadelphia Inquirer) and Heather Chin (Billy Penn). At the Pen & Pencil Club. Free with registration.
Wednesday, May 27
Bicentennial Baby
Former Philadelphia Poet Laureate Yolanda Wisher will interview six other Philadelphians born in 1976 about what it means to be a “Bicentennial Baby,” turning a half a century old in 2026. The interviews will invite participants to reflect on the past fifty years of their lives, the changes the city and country have gone through since their birth, and what the future holds. Sound engineer V. Shayne Frederick will combine excerpts from the interviews with music and sound recordings to shape a limited series podcast.
Blend Your Own Tea Adventure – (3 to 5 p.m.)
A self-guided, interactive experience, think “choose your own adventure,” but for tea lovers. Hear stories, insights and inspiration to help you explore the world of tea and herbs as you craft your perfect blend. Materials provided. At the Random Tea Room. $50 tickets.
Youth Voices and Perspectives on the American Revolution – (5:30 – 8:30 p.m.)
Join this reception, exhibit tour and community conversation at the National Constitution Center about the significance of representation and America’s founding from a youth perspective. The special guest is Leon Smith, the National Teacher of the Year from Haverford High School. This event is free, but registration is required. Learn more and register online.
22nd annual Philadelphia Ride of Silence – (6:45 to 8 p.m.)
The annual Ride of Silence is an international ride that honors bicyclists killed or injured by motor vehicles. The ride starts at the North Apron of City Hall with a short memorial ceremony and slow bike ride that will travel an 8-mile route at 9.5 miles per hour through Center City before ending at the Art Museum for a memorial bike lift. The ride occurs rain or shine.
Put It Down Comedy Show – (7 to 9:30 p.m.)
This month, Johnny Brenda’s brings you a disorienting multimedia collage of the absolute funniest people on the planet. Hosted by Andrew Shearer and Kyle Harris + music from Desiree Dabice. $12.90-$18.90 tickets.
ArtPhilly Festival Opening Party – (7 to 10 p.m.)
What Now: 2026’s Opening Party sets the tone for our five-week, citywide multidisciplinary festival — a celebration of the artists, ideas, and creative energy shaping Philadelphia right now. A curated menu of some of Philly’s newest favorites and most iconic restaurants, plus seasonal beverages and soft-serve from Scout’s Frankie’s Summer Club. General Admission comes with two drink tickets.
Food-themed Board Game Night – (7 to 11 p.m.)
Tabletop Tuesdays feature a rotation of TTRPG (table top role playing games) one shots run by local GMs (game matters). Doors open 7 p.m., game starts 7:30. Beginners and first time players welcome. Dice and note pads, snacks and drinks will be provided. At SAIKA Cafe Clubhouse in Callowhill. $5 tickets.
Thursday, May 28
From Our Forefathers: Climate Crisis in Chemistry History – (2:30 to 3:30 p.m.)
Aislinn Pentecost-Farren introduces participants to a selection of discoveries behind iconic 20th century inventions. She re-narrates the Science History Institute’s permanent collection to reveal the start of the climate crisis within advances in modern chemistry. From a nylon stocking to a lightbulb, Pentecost-Farren illuminates our understanding of climate catastrophe by unearthing its origins. Free with RSVP. Other dates: June 4 and June 17.
Iron and Paper: Unfolding Philadelphia’s Chinatown – (2 to 6 p.m.)
Curator Dave Kyu and visual artist Colette Fu aim to provide an insider’s view of what makes Philadelphia’s Chinatown special. Interact with a new signature large scale pop-up book — a five-spread book operated by a rotating crank — that demands visitors consider the cultural contributions of Philly Chinatown and the future of democracy. The supporting table will resemble an altar with the rotating crank mechanism as a reference to a 1903 invention by Edmund Smith, derogatorily named the “Iron Chink”. At the Crane Community Center Lobby, 1001 Vine St. FREE.
Free Ben Custom Shoes Available – (4 to 7 p.m.)
“Ben” by M. Nzadi Keita honors the poet’s late brother, revealing the ways her family continues to carry his youthful energy and memory. Inspired by the poem, artist Nazeer Sabree created a collage artwork featured on the custom pair of sneakers and a matching drawstring bag. We invite Germantown community members to meet us at Lonnie Young Recreation Center (1100 E Chelten Ave) to take home a pair of sneakers. Individuals who previously took place in the virtual raffle are guaranteed a pair of shoes. The remaining shoes will be distributed on a first come, first served basis with limited sizes available.
Sail Through This To That – Procession – (4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.)
Join a public ritual that pays homage to the freedom practices of Ona Judge and Dominique Rem’mie Fells and the rivers that connect their histories which encircle Philadelphia. Poet Evangeline Getty Brooks will share incantations, poems and prayers, encouraging us to reflect on what Trans and Womanist Divinity can teach the world at large about wayfinding and liberation. Songs will be performed by choral, string and wind ensembles as arranged by musical director, V. Shayne Frederick. At the Delaware River, witness the project’s sails rising on the North Wind Schooner. Meet in the Independence Mall near the President’s House Site. Participants can write a freedom wish (a dream, a hope, a prayer) onto a piece of fabric that will be carried on the journey. Optional: Wear white clothing. FREE with RSVP.
Speaker Series: When The Declaration of Independence Was News – (6:30 to 8 p.m.)
Join historian and author, Dr. Emily Sneff at historic Christ Church for a presentation on her latest book, exploring how the Declaration was communicated to people in the new nation and around the Atlantic world — from the printers who worked through the night and the soldiers who heard it read in camp, to the diplomats who carried it overseas and the translators who shaped its message for a global audience, including various religious congregations. Plus, view Christ Church’s exhibit, “Fractured Symbols, Traditions, and Congregations.” Free with RSVP.
Friday, May 29
Mama Song Film Screening + Free Trying to Heal T-Shirts – (12 to 2 p.m.)
“Mama Song” illustrates by Wilson-Bennett’s journey through grief following the loss of her son, Justin. The poem was transformed into the short film by local filmmaker Eboni Zamani of Pearl Girl Productions in collaboration with EMIR (Every Murder is Real) Healing Center. In “Trying to Heal,” Cupit reflects on a time when life felt joyful and communal before the disruption of gun violence. The public artwork consists of t-shirts, designed by M Slater, in colors that Cupit remembers from annual family reunions when her great aunt encouraged everyone to wear the same unifying color. The shirts, which will be freely distributed, invite the community to share in that sense of kinship. At EMIR Healing Center, 5902 Greene St.
Neighborhood Jawnts Tour Series: East Passyunk – (2 to 5 p.m.)
Philly250 invites you to experience the soul of South Philadelphia on a journey through East Passyunk, where every corner tells a story and every guest finds a seat at the table. On this immersive tour experience, you’ll wander from the melodic community hub of the Singing Fountain to the neon-lit crossroads of the world-famous Pat’s and Geno’s cheesesteak rivalry. Led by local hosts and insider perspectives from a neighborhood leader, the route blends modern creativity at Electric Street with the deep-rooted history of the Moyamensing Prison site and the transformed BOK building. No matter how you pronounce the name, everyone is invited to eat and explore. FREE but tickets required. Meet at the Independence Visitor Center.
Iron and Paper: Unfolding Philadelphia’s Chinatown – (2 to 6 p.m.)
Curator Dave Kyu and visual artist Colette Fu aim to provide an insider’s view of what makes Philadelphia’s Chinatown special. Interact with a new signature large scale pop-up book — a five-spread book operated by a rotating crank — that demands visitors consider the cultural contributions of Philly Chinatown and the future of democracy. The supporting table will resemble an altar with the rotating crank mechanism as a reference to a 1903 invention by Edmund Smith, derogatorily named the “Iron Chink”. At the Crane Community Center Lobby, 1001 Vine St. FREE.
Root Song World Premiere – (7:30 p.m.)
Premiering at Bartram’s Garden, Root Song blends live vocal chamber music by Roomful of Teeth with storytelling by Tchin, creating an immersive experience that channels the wisdom of our forests. Inspired by ground-breaking research on mycorrhizal networks connecting trees and rooted in Indigenous Knowledge.
Saturday, May 30
Neighborhood Jawnts Tour Series: East Passyunk – (10 a.m. & 2 p.m. options)
Philly250 invites you to experience the soul of South Philadelphia on a journey through East Passyunk, where every corner tells a story and every guest finds a seat at the table. On this immersive tour experience, you’ll wander from the melodic community hub of the Singing Fountain to the neon-lit crossroads of the world-famous Pat’s and Geno’s cheesesteak rivalry. Led by local hosts and insider perspectives from a neighborhood leader, the route blends modern creativity at Electric Street with the deep-rooted history of the Moyamensing Prison site and the transformed BOK building. No matter how you pronounce the name, everyone is invited to eat and explore. FREE but tickets required. Meet at the Independence Visitor Center.
Ray’s Reusables Refresh Party – (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
Your favorite NoLibs eco-shop is celebrating all things sustainability and 4 years of being in operation. Free to attend.
PAAFF’s Second Annual Spring Showcase – (11 a.m. onwards)
A full day of screenings, conversations, and community to cap AANHPI Heritage Month. Starts at 11 a.m. at Symphony Philly with Genre Shorts, then at 12:30 p.m. at Penn Museum with “American Doctor,” then at 3 p.m. at Penn Museum for “No Room For Love.” Varying ticket prices for each.
Chinatown Arts & Lifestyle Fair – (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
Plant giveaways, free garden tours in the 11th Street community garden, Inch-by-Inch, local vendors, food, drinks, trinkets and community! Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month by supporting local AAPI artists and small business owners. At 1023 Callowhill Street.
THE STREETS ARE TALKING Public Art Tour & Closing Celebration – (2 to 6 p.m.)
2-4 p.m. – Walking Tour | Starting at Pastorius Community Garden, 10 East Pastorius St.
4-6 p.m. – Closing Celebration | Tree Lab Park (5508 Germantown Ave, Across from Imperfect Gallery)
Join an intimate walking tour, exploring a selection of Germantown’s newest public art as well as the poetry & stories behind them. You can expect a slow, intentional walk through Germantown stopping at select Healing Verse installations. Guides will share context about the poems, the artists, and the neighborhood – creating space for reflection, conversation, and connection. Free with RSVP.
Iron and Paper: Unfolding Philadelphia’s Chinatown – (2 to 6 p.m.)
Curator Dave Kyu and visual artist Colette Fu aim to provide an insider’s view of what makes Philadelphia’s Chinatown special. Interact with a new signature large scale pop-up book — a five-spread book operated by a rotating crank — that demands visitors consider the cultural contributions of Philly Chinatown and the future of democracy. The supporting table will resemble an altar with the rotating crank mechanism as a reference to a 1903 invention by Edmund Smith, derogatorily named the “Iron Chink”. At the Crane Community Center Lobby, 1001 Vine St. FREE.
FREEDOM IS… – Opening – (4 to 5:30 p.m.)
At Broad Street Love, 315 S. Broad Street. Nigerian-American artist Odili Donald Odita has created a monumental new work that takes the form of a triptych of sheer fabric banners suspended from the vaulted ceiling of Broad Street Love, a historic site of sanctuary. Bathed in light from the site’s stained-glass windows, the work pulses with abstract shapes and vibrant color — a visual response to its own open-ended title. Created in collaboration with The Fabric Workshop and Museum, this permanent commission honors Philadelphia as both the birthplace of America and a sanctuary city, and lifts up the voices of those whose contributions have too often gone unrecognized. FREE Tickets.
Performance: Takahiro Yamamoto – (7 to 8 p.m.)
Approaches to Hollow Center explores erasure/nothingness and existence/being as a place of refuge from the accomplishment-oriented society that perpetuates isolation and the present-day threats associated with being an immigrant in the U.S. At Asian Arts Initiative. FREE/Pay-what-you-wish.
Sunday, May 31
Neighborhood Jawnts Tour Series: East Passyunk – (10 a.m. & 2 p.m. options)
Philly250 invites you to experience the soul of South Philadelphia on a journey through East Passyunk, where every corner tells a story and every guest finds a seat at the table. On this immersive tour experience, you’ll wander from the melodic community hub of the Singing Fountain to the neon-lit crossroads of the world-famous Pat’s and Geno’s cheesesteak rivalry. Led by local hosts and insider perspectives from a neighborhood leader, the route blends modern creativity at Electric Street with the deep-rooted history of the Moyamensing Prison site and the transformed BOK building. No matter how you pronounce the name, everyone is invited to eat and explore. FREE but tickets required. Meet at the Independence Visitor Center.
Black Book Club – (1 p.m.)
“BBC” is a book club for Black queer folks. Each month, the group chooses a book by a black author, read it, and discuss it together. The inaugural gathering will be at Trunc, discussing “Funeral Diva” by Pamela Sneed. At 929 N. 2nd Street.
Rewilding Philadelphia Kensington Community Field Day – (1 to 4 p.m.)
A microforest is coming to Kensington! Celebrate this future public green space at 2717 Jasper Street. Part of the ArtPhilly What Now: 2026 festival. The outdoor shindig will feature free food from Amy’s Pastelillos, art-making with artist-in-residence Pedro Ospina of The Open Kitchen Sculpture Garden and Mural Arts, facepainting, games, and live music.
Through June 9
Healing Verse Germantown: The Streets Are Talking, Launch Celebration – (2 to 5 p.m.)
The exhibition features 19 public art poems by Germantown community members about healing from the impacts of gun violence. Celebrate these poets with remarks, food, poetry activations, guided tours, and community. At the Friends Free Library (5418 Germantown Ave) and Ubuntu Fine Art (5423 Germantown Ave), directly across the street from each other. Art includes a collage poster series, video installations, augmented reality constellations, interactive floral offerings, a stained glass panel installation on a SEPTA bus shelter, a wrapped SEPTA bus, and more.
Through July 2
ArtPhilly Festival
A five-week, citywide multidisciplinary festival — a celebration of the artists, ideas, and creative energy shaping Philadelphia right now. Various locations and times.
Through July 5
Philadelphia Latino Arts & Film Festival
Six weeks of programming across the city, showcasing the extraordinary and innovative work of emerging and established Latine/x/a/o filmmakers. Programming includes the activation of community spaces with screenings of groundbreaking works from all genres: short film, narrative, documentary, animation, emerging media and more. Our programs focus on offering community centered spaces in the Philadelphia region and beyond. Prices and locations vary.
Through July 11
El Mercado Cultural at Cherry Street Pier – (11 a.m. to 5 p.m)
A series of spring and summer markets presented in collaboration with Fleisher Art Memorial. Shop from vendors, savor tasty bites, and enjoy the rotating entertainment. Occasional Saturdays: April 18, May 30 and July 11.
No Arena: Making a Movement – (2 to 6 p.m.)
On the occasion of America’s 250th Anniversary, “No Arena: Making A Movement” highlights a decentralized grassroots movement that was led by people of color, serving as a model for what our democracy can be. Interactive with events programming through July. Gallery is open Thursdays through Saturdays.
Through October
A People’s Exposition!
Join us for a citywide exhibit and engagement series to take a critical and honest look at key issues shaping Philadelphia today, to envision a more just and equitable future for our city, and to act on solutions that address our greatest challenges. At the Kensington Engagement Center.
