Love Philly? So do we. Let’s be friends. Sign up for the Billy Penn newsletter today.
🏙️ Billy Penn City Guide
✊🏾 Black history in Philly guide
✏️ Philly Quizzo guide
🍦 Vegan ice cream guide
🥕 CSA farmshare guide
🍓 Farmers market guide
🛝 Kid-friendly summer guide
☕ Philly coffee shop guide
🚶🏽♀️ Alt Philly history walking tours guide
🎭 Philly’s comedy scene
🎤 Philly Record Store 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, August 17
The Rhythm Section – (9 p.m. to 1 a.m.)
Live Band performance with a one of a kind open mic/ jam session with musicians, singers, rappers, & spoken word artist. Hosted by Philly’s own TreWay. At Margolis. Tickets start at $10.
Tuesday, August 18
ICE OUT! Community Training – (7 to 8:30 p.m.)
A community training to learn what Philly’s ICE Out legislative package covers and what it means for you. Plus training for community members on how to hold our city accountable in enforcing this legislation and clearing up any confusion. AT FACTS Charter School at 1023 Callowhill Street. FREE.
Cultural Workers Against Authoritarianism – (7 to 9:30 p.m.)
Authoritarianism is on the rise globally — and so is artists’ power to push back. This training offers insight and connection to meet this moment with strategy, courage, and creativity. Together, unpack how mass noncooperation can block authoritarian power, learn from global resistance efforts, and imagine how craft can power collective action. Take a look at key moments for U.S.-based movement-building in 2026— Bicentennial, Midterm Elections, etc. This training is co-hosted by Beautiful Trouble and US Dept of Arts and Culture. This session will be in English with Spanish and ASL interpretation. FREE online.
Wednesday, August 19
Newbold to Navy Yard – Philly Bike Train – (8 a.m.)
Meet at Ultimo Coffee at 15th & Mifflin at 8 a.m., roll at 8:10. Arrive at the Navy Yard around 8:30.
Estate Planning 101 – (1 p.m.)
Ready to tick ‘estate planning’ off your to-do list? Join other WHYY supporters for a FREE Zoom event on will-making basics with local expert attorneys. Get state-specific advice for Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. Submit your burning questions, learn the basics of estate planning, and explore the charitable giving options available to you.
Navy Yard Tour – (6 p.m.)
Since the closing of the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard in the late 1990’s, the area has been transformed into one of the most successful redevelopment projects in the city. Today it is a thriving, mixed-use riverfront community with more than 15,000 people and 150 companies and soon to be residential apartments. Learn about the Navy Yard’s past and see their plans for the future. Meet at the Picnic Benches near the corner of Normandy Place and S. 11th Street. $18 tickets.
PhillyCAM celebrates Philly Unpacked – (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.)
Join PhillyCAM and newsroom partners to celebrate the first season of their new show, Philly Unpacked. At the Pen and Pencil Club. FREE registration.
P&P Peeks: A Fringey Little Preview 2026 – (7 to 8 p.m.)
Spend the night with Plays and Players checking out snapshots from upcoming Fringe productions! Plus a Members Happy Hour providing light refreshments beforehand. Feat. “Your Best Odd Girl Out” (Adrian Collins), “BoyGirl Gymnastics” (Mime Baby), “Trauma Queen” (The Lemonade Stand), “Notice Me, Gwyneth” (Matthew Reid), “Folk Dance Fun!” (Nee Danse/Theatre), “Ideas of Grandeur” (Imani Lee Williams). Pay-as-you-wish/$10 suggested donation. Pub is cash only. Note: 3rd floor is only accessible by stair.
Thursday, August 20
Passyunk Passeggiata – (5 p.m. onwards)
Every Thursday at 5 p.m., all summer long through August 27. East Passyunk Avenue presents an Italian-Style Promenade featuring Happy Hour Specials from participating bars and restaurants, extended retail hours and a music series!
Reading in the Park – (6 to 8 p.m.)
Spend some time reading in the summer sun with Blue Stoop and Let Me Know Club at Rittenhouse Square Park. BYO blanket, a book to read, and a book to swap. Light refreshments will be provided. Feat. 1 hour reading time, a book swap and mingle time. FREE RSVP.
National Treasure Hunt’s Heist Night – (6 to 9 p.m.)
Team up with friends to crack clues, solve ciphers, and hack history as you race against foes to find the missing piece in a nearly 20-year-old treasure hunt! Presented by Independence Historical Trust. You’ll test your skills in history, science, logic, trivia, and more as you work together to solve a series of written and escape room-style puzzles in a character-driven quest. Learn surprising new skills in an exciting night out with your Heist Masters, Aubrey Paris and Emily Black, creators of the National Treasure Hunt podcast, book, and tour. Secrets will be revealed during this one-of-a-kind adventure. Will you join the hunt? At Carpenter’s Hall. $50 tickets.
Street Movies! Germantown – (7:30 p.m.)
Join us outdoors in Vernon Park for a curated night of local, international, and award-winning short films, plus discussion and live performance. Presented in partnership with the Friends of Vernon Park and Germantown Info Hub. Feat.:
“Gather(in) Memory: Archiving Hyperlocal History in Germantown” (USA / 2026 / 16 MIN),
“Wholesome” (USA / 2024 / 18 MIN), “Portraits of Philly Rumba: Imperfect Gallery” (USA / 2026 / 4 MIN),
“Underneath The Concrete (Sous Le Béton) (France / 2025 / 27 MIN).
FREE registration.
Friday, August 21
Neighborhood Jawnts Tour Series: South Broad Street – (2 p.m.)
Follow Broad Street’s remarkable transformation into the Avenue of the Arts and the birthplace of iconic American music movements. Along the way, explore the stories of legendary performers, pioneering record labels, vibrant cultural landmarks, and the neighborhoods that continue to shape Philadelphia’s identity today. FREE registration required. Meet at Independence Visitor Center.
Whimsy Girls in the City: Coloring in the Park – (5 to 8 p.m.)
“Life is difficult enough. Heal your inner child and come color, craft, connect, and unwind.” At Schuylkill River Park at 25 Spruce Street. BYO coloring book, craft, journal or creative project and supplies. BYO blanket and food. FREE; Donations optional.
Crayfish Party! – (6 p.m.)
Summer means spending time in nature, getting together with friends and family, and of course, putting on funny hats and bibs to eat crayfish! At the American Swedish Historical Museum’s terrace overlooking FDR Park. Features a buffet of crayfish and Swedish meatballs, alongside potatoes, cheese pie, cucumber and beet salads, desserts, and a glass of aquavit (for ages 21+), all outside under a beautifully decorated tent. $70 for non-members, $30 children 4-12. Cash/CC Bar. Register online by August 19th.
National Treasure Hunt Live: A Conversation with Director Jon Turteltaub – (6 to 7:30 p.m.)
Celebrate National Treasure with director Jon Turteltaub during a live podcast recording and audience Q&A. Hosted by podcast creators Dr. Aubrey Paris and Dr. Emily Black. Explore behind-the-scenes stories from the making of National Treasure, historical inspiration, cultural impact, the status of “National Treasure 3” and a Q&A. Space is limited, and advance registration is highly recommended. $5 tickets.
Street Movies! Chinatown – (7 p.m.)
Join us outdoors at the Chinatown Community Park for a curated night of local, international, and award-winning short films, plus discussion and live performance! This event is presented in partnership with Ginger Arts Center and PCDC. Features:
“Under the Wave off Little Dragon” (UK / 2025 / 14 MIN),
“Sandcastles” (Singapore, USA / 2024 / 17 MIN),
“Face to Face: It’s Not What You Think” (USA / 1996 / 17 MIN).
FREE registration.
Movies on the Mall: “National Treasure” (2004) – (5:30 p.m. activities, 8 p.m. film)
A free outdoor movie series celebrating the themes and history of Independence National Historical Park. FREE admission and popcorn. Arrive at least 45 minutes before dusk to join the pre-show fun. Registration recommended.
Producers’ Forum: Fire Through Dry Grass by Andres “Jay” Molina and Alexis Neophytides – (7 to 9 p.m.)
Screening: “Fire Through Dry Grass” by Andres “Jay” Molina and Alexis Neophytides (USA, 2023, 89 min): As COVID-19 raged through nursing homes, a group of Black and brown disabled artists decided to document in real time the harrowing experience of residents inside the Coler Rehabilitation and Nursing Care Center. $8 tickets, $5 students/seniors, $4 for Scribe Members.
Saturday, August 22
4th annual Philly Bookstore Crawl – (All Day)
A city-wide celebration by and for indie bookstores and the people who love them. There are no tickets required and no route to follow! Just bop around for a party vibe at pretty much every bookstore in town, all day long. Discounts, swag, prizes, games and more at indie bookstores across the city!
Neighborhood Jawnts Tour Series: South Broad Street – (10 a.m. + 2 p.m.)
Follow Broad Street’s remarkable transformation into the Avenue of the Arts and the birthplace of iconic American music movements. Along the way, explore the stories of legendary performers, pioneering record labels, vibrant cultural landmarks, and the neighborhoods that continue to shape Philadelphia’s identity today. FREE registration required. Meet at Independence Visitor Center.
First Selfie Firstival – (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
Celebrate Philadelphia ingenuity at the 52 Weeks of Firsts Firstival honoring the First Selfie. Enjoy the story of the First Selfie from a Once Upon A Nation Storyteller, free entertainment from the West Powelton Steppers, Asian American Dragon & Lion Dancers, free balloon animals, and capture a selfie with the Phillie Phanatic and much more. Also, free cyanotype activities with Kaitlyn Dougher and Fujifilm Instax Selfies with Unique Photo by Fujifilm. Free giveaways and the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival Scavenger Hunt round out the fun. At Franklin Square Park. FREE.
Streets Dept Excursion: Art on East Market – (11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.)
Guided tour of one of Center City’s most unexpectedly art-filled corridors, where incredible works are hiding in plain sight. We’ll explore bold abstract window installations, striking murals, overlooked artworks high above the sidewalks, surprising discoveries below ground, and dozens of creative details that most people walk past without ever noticing. Along the way, we’ll reveal the stories behind these hidden gems while discovering how local artists and organizations are working to bring art to this busy stretch of Philadelphia. Led by Conrad Benner and/or Eric Dale. Tour starts at 6th and Market, and ends at 13th and Market. It lasts roughly 1 hour. Wear comfortable sneakers. Rain or shine. $24.97 tickets.
Philly Naked Bike Ride – (time TBA)
Free, no registration required event with thousands of people to promote body positivity, cycling advocacy, fuel reduction and joy. Check their socials for time and details.
3rd annual Fungadelphia Festival – (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
The Philadelphia Mycology Club is returning to the Schuylkill Center with Fungadelphia. This annual festival will feature hikes, live music, workshops, games and food. All mushroom-themed! FREE to attend.
Secondhand Saturday at Philadelphia Brewing Company – (Throughout 8/22)
Shop vintage finds, oddities, clothes, records, furniture, and whatever other treasures vendors drag out of their closets, basements + garages. Other dates are Sept. 19 and Oct. 3. FREE to attend.
Dachshund Meetup – (12 to 3 p.m.)
Dogs and beers! BYO dog to Evil Genius Beer. FREE.
Meet Gastley!: Mischief Toys event – (12 to 6 p.m.)
Mischief Toys x The SpaceLab proudly present a one-of-a-kind designer toy exhibition celebrating the world of Gastley! Explore custom creations from 30+ talented artists, each bringing their own unique vision to this iconic designer toy. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the art toy scene, this is your chance to experience exclusive artwork, meet fellow collectors, and celebrate the creativity of the designer toy community. Merch for sale. FREE to attend.
Oval MiniFest – (1 to 10:30 p.m.)
Kick off the day’s festivities at Eakins Oval with Soccer Shots for kids ages 2 to 8 where children learn soccer skills and confidence while having fun! (1 to 3:30 p.m.) Followed by Family Fun Day until 6 p.m., including pop-up imaginative cardboard flower garden and clay mosaic experience that invites little hands (and grown-up ones, too!) to create together. Plus: lawn games, a free book giveaway courtesy of Tree House Books, face painting, balloon creations and live music at 5 p.m. from Mister John’s Music. Then an 8 p.m. screening of “The Incredibles.” BYO blanket or chair!
John Coltrane Listening Session – (2 p.m.)
Join the Philadelphia Jazz Legacy Project to celebrate 100 years of John Coltrane. At Fishtown Library.
Sweet Juice Fest 2026 – (2:30 to 9:30 p.m.)
An annual gathering of artists, musicians, healers, and dreamers centering joyful connection and radical creativity. A local line-up of bands, performance and visual artists, as well as food, beer, and service vendors. All revenue from ticket sales goes to paying the artists, the venue, and making sure guests are as comfortable as possible. Children under 5 may attend for free. $10-45 sliding scale admission.
National Treasure Hunt’s Heist Night – (5 to 8 p.m.)
Team up with friends to crack clues, solve ciphers, and hack history as you race against foes to find the missing piece in a nearly 20-year-old treasure hunt! Presented by Independence Historical Trust. You’ll test your skills in history, science, logic, trivia, and more as you work together to solve a series of written and escape room-style puzzles in a character-driven quest. Learn surprising new skills in an exciting night out with your Heist Masters, Aubrey Paris and Emily Black, creators of the National Treasure Hunt podcast, book, and tour. Secrets will be revealed during this one-of-a-kind adventure. Will you join the hunt? At Carpenter’s Hall. $50 tickets.
Movies on the Mall: “National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets” (2007) – (5:30 p.m. activities, 8 p.m. film)
A free outdoor movie series celebrating the themes and history of Independence National Historical Park. FREE admission and popcorn. Arrive at least 45 minutes before dusk to join the pre-show fun. Registration recommended.
Street Movies! West Powelton – (6 to 9:30 p.m.)
Join us outdoors at the Sloan Street Community Garden for a curated night of local, international, and award-winning short films, plus discussion and live performance! Arrive early at 6 p.m. for the Sloan Street Mural Dedication w/ Mural Arts, then enjoy live jazz and food at 7:30 p.m. feat. the Joshua Peeler Trio before the 8 p.m. screening and discussion.
Features: “History of Sloan Street Community Garden Mural” (USA / 2026 / 5 MIN),
“I Spoke to a Tomato Plant” (USA / 2026 / 29 MIN). FREE registration.
Summer Ale Fest at the Philadelphia Zoo – (7 to 10 p.m.)
The wildest beer festival in Philly returns with 100+ beers, ciders, seltzers, mead, spirits, and non-alcoholic options (including 13 new vendors) — plus local food trucks and live music—to our 42-acre campus for the wildest festival of the season! Performing this year are Philly-based bands Nik Greeley and the Operators, Echo Kid, and Moonroof. Age 21+ only. Taps close at 9:30 p.m. s close at 9:30 PM. No day-of sales. $85 tickets or $45 for non-drinkers.
Sunday, August 23
Neighborhood Jawnts Tour Series: South Broad Street – (10 a.m. + 2 p.m.)
Follow Broad Street’s remarkable transformation into the Avenue of the Arts and the birthplace of iconic American music movements. Along the way, explore the stories of legendary performers, pioneering record labels, vibrant cultural landmarks, and the neighborhoods that continue to shape Philadelphia’s identity today. FREE registration required. Meet at Independence Visitor Center.
Physical Media Swap – (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)
Optional BYO new or lightly used physical media items if you would like to participate in the swap. Signed vinyl raffle to support local educators. Pop-up shop on site at Almost Famous at 922 Market Street. Free Polaroids for the first 20 attendees.
Art Deco Tour – (10 a.m.)
This popular early 20th century style, synonymous with the Jazz Age, has been described as having one foot in the past and one foot in the future. Its sleek appearance foretells the debut of Modernism while its use of Mayan and Aztec motifs echoes the past. Among Philadelphia’s outstanding examples featured on this walk is the flamboyant WCAU Building on the 1600 block of Chestnut Street. Meet outside Liberty Place on the corner of 17th and Chestnut streets. $18 tickets.
Flavors of FDR: Food Market Tasting Tour – (10:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.)
Join Fairmount Park Conservancy and the Vendors Association of FDR Park for a tasty tour of the Southeast Asian Market. Led by an expert guide to lead you around dozens of food tents, with the chance to sample and buy fresh sugarcane juice, tropical fruit smoothies, homemade spice blends, fermented bean pastes, and so much more. Come with an open mind and an empty stomach! $25 tickets, plus cost of food.
The Ritzy Film Festival 2026 – (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
At the Landmark Ritz Five at 214 Walnut Street. The color theme is Dark Red. No outside food allowed. $16 tickets. After-party tickets are $8.
Cha O’Clock – (12 to 2 p.m.)
At The Random Tea Room for Chinese teatime (gong-fu cha). Taste RTR’s Tea Of The Day* (Quanzhou Milk Oolong), enjoy the relaxing vibe of traditional tea in a tea house, learn more about the cultural hobby, and meet Philly cha-friends.
Happy Birthday, Marsha! Cookout – (3 to 9 p.m.)
A day of joy, care, and celebration honoring the life and legacy of LGBTQ+ activist Marsha P. Johnson. “Marsha taught us that showing up for each other is its own kind of liberation. In that spirit, we’re gathering for an afternoon of free food, live music, performances, and community care.” At the uCity Lawn. FREE.
Philly Bakes A Book: Bodega Bakes – (5 to 6:30 p.m.)
A cookbook club featuring a different cookbook monthly. Venmo & RSVP $15 to get event info and link to spreadsheet to sign up for your recipe. Bring your dish with a serving utensil and bring tupperware to take home other dish leftovers!
Teacher Comedy Night feat. The Unteachables – (8 p.m.)
The Unteachables are a group of stand-up comedians who just happened to fall backwards into educating America’s youth. Their material extends far beyond just the chaos that exists in their classroom. Part of their Paid Time Off Tour. A night of uncensored standup and an unhinged Q&A. Doors open 1 Hour prior to showtime. At Helium Comedy Club. $21 tickets; $32 reserved seats.
Street Movies! South Philadelphia – (7:30 p.m.)
At the boathouse lawn at FDR Park. This event is presented in partnership with the Friends of FDR Park and the Southeast Asian Market at FDR Park. There will be vendors with food, snacks, and desserts available throughout the night. Come early to catch an ethereal jazz vibraphone performance by Hudson River from 7 to 8 p.m.
Features: “Bittersweet Survival: Southeast Asian Refugees in America” (USA / 1982 / 30 MIN),
“Sandcastles” (Singapore, USA / 2024 / 17 MIN),
“Sound of Silence” (Bangladesh / 2025 / 12 MIN).
FREE registration.
Through October
Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival – (6 to 11 p.m.)
Now extended through August 30! The popular annual festival in Franklin Square Park features live performances, snacks including $1 dumplings, and free carousel rides and free mini golf offered on select weekdays. Tickets range from $16 to $32 daily; children under 2 are free.
Let’s Do Lunch!
Center City’s new lunch promotional deal, offering $10, $15 and $20 pre-fixe lunch menus at participating restaurants.
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.
Through November 8
Dia de los Muertos tribute to Isaiah Zagar
“Viviendo a través de la Muerte” will remain on view at the Philadelphia Magic Gardens through the Day of the Dead, Nov. 1, before closing on Nov. 8.
