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🏙️ Billy Penn City Guide
✏️ Philly Quizzo guide
🎭 Philly Fringe Fest guide
🍓 Farmers market guide
✊🏾 Black history in Philly guide
🍦 Vegan ice cream guide
🥕 CSA farmshare 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 31
Soul Line Dancing on the River – (6:30 to 8 p.m.)
R & B soul line dancing for beginners and intermediate levels. Hosted by Monique (aka Mo’ Smooth) Combines both the mental and physical health benefits of exercise with a calming, scenic, clean, and open atmosphere of nature. Sneakers and comfortable clothing are strongly recommended. Every Monday through August 31. Free registration required; Waiver required signed.
Tuesday, September 1
WHYY After Dark: The Marble Hall Murders Premiere – (5:30 to 7:30 p.m.)
Be among the first to experience this mysterious new series as we gather for a special premiere event hosted by Patrick Stoner. Settle in, enjoy free classic movie snacks, and immerse yourself in a night of cinematic thrills as we unravel the mystery together. FREE registration is required.
South Philly Growers Mixer – (5:30 to 7:30 p.m.)
Mix, mingle and unwind with fellow growers at Blue Sky Gardens in historic Fort Mifflin. Includes a meal and tour. FREE to RSVP.
People’s Housing Lab launch party – (6 to 8 p.m.)
PHL is getting off the ground; come be a part of it! Attend the launch party, in partnership with North Kensington CDC, at Kensington Avenue. Mingling, food, quizzo and a panel of speakers discussing the intersection of writing (from journalism to deep research to storytelling) and housing justice. FREE to RSVP.
SEPTA: For the People – (6 p.m.)
Join cartographer, writer, artist, and lawyer Jake Berman to delve into the what, how, and why of SEPTA’s subway and regional rail lines. Part of “Philadelphia: For the People,” an exhibition that explores Philadelphia’s public infrastructure through the lens of the Declaration of Independence and its affirmation of government that exists to serve the people. This event will take place in Room 108 on the first floor of Parkway Central Library.
Dad Joke Quizzo – (7 p.m.)
It’s Always Punny in Philadelphia presents quizzo, groans guaranteed! Plus prizes and a guest comedian. Solo and team contestants welcome. Register for free.
Bluegrass Night at Cartesian Brewing – (7 pm.)
Features live music, a food pop-up and beer. At 1326 Passyunk Ave.
Wednesday, September 2
DIGIPOP: A Digital Literacy Workshop with Aniya Staley – (1 to 4 p.m.)
Curious about Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or Threads, but not quite sure where to begin? Want to feel more at home with your smartphone, take better pictures, or understand what everybody seems to be doing online? Bring your phone and your questions to this event at Painted Bride at 4029 Cambridge Street. Go at your own pace, all questions welcome, no pressure and no tech-speak! FREE registration.
First Prayer Walking Tour – (6 p.m.)
In celebration of that original opening prayer for the First Continental Congress, led by Rev. Jacob Duché of Christ Church and inspiring political delegates to work together towards forging a new nation, join this tour for the 252nd anniversary. Visit five nearby historic congregations: Historic St. George United Methodist Church, Old First Reformed Church, Mikveh Israel, Arch Street Meeting House, and Christ Church. The tour begins at Historic St. George, 326 New Street, and will conclude at Christ Church, where the current rector, Rev. Samantha Vincent-Alexander, will recite Duché’s original 1774 invocation. Reception to follow in the North Garden or Neighborhood House depending on weather. $25 tickets; $15 for Preservation Alliance members using code “PARTNERMEM”.
The Amazing Acro-Cats – (7 to 9 p.m.)
The Amazing Acro-Cats, featured in the Netflix series Cat People, are coming to Philadelphia! This troupe of trained house cats — all former orphans, rescues, and strays — give a one-of-a-kind, 90 minute purr-formance that includes cats riding skateboards, jumping through hoops, ringing bells, balancing on balls, and performing other feats of agility and acrobatics. The show finale is the only all-cat band in the world: Tuna and the Rock Cats! The Rock Cats play guitar, drums, and piano, and they’ve been joined by the Jazz Cats on saxophone, trumpet, and clarinet. Part of proceeds support Rock Cats Rescue. Ages 5+. At the Suzanne Roberts Theatre. $30-80 tickets.
Thursday, September 3
Ikebana Exhibition Opening Reception – (5 to 7 p.m.)
The Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center hosts this multiday showcase of traditional Japanese floral design starts with an opening reception providing an early look at arrangements created by practitioners from multiple ikebana schools, with brief talks and demonstrations exploring the artistic philosophy, structure and symbolism behind each piece. The exhibition runs through Sunday and is included with museum admission. $10 tickets.
Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll – (5 to 8 p.m.)
The final Dollar Stroll of the season! Sample everything from Ethiopian sambusas and shrimp egg rolls to cheesesteaks and dumplings, alongside vendors hawking handmade jewelry, books, plants and art prints from neighborhood makers and retailers. Along the route, at neighborhood spots including Trolley Portal Gardens, Clark Park and Cedar Park, you’ll find live music, dance parties, free activities and pop-up performances. Everything is $1, $3, or $5! Baltimore Avenue from 40th Street to 51st.
Vegan Night Market @ Pocket Park – (5 to 8 p.m.)
Inaugural vegan gathering in Roxborough! Enjoy music, food and local makers at 6170 Ridge Avenue. FREE.
Back-to-school Book Swap – (6 to 7:30 p.m.)
A Novel Idea hosts their first book swap, and it’s back-to-school themed. Join an evening of books, community, refreshments, and prizes. Bring three books to swap (no textbooks or ARCs, please!). All genres are welcome. Attendees get to bring home three books. $10 entry.
Creative Conversations: How to Publish Artist Books & Zines – (6:30 to 8 p.m.)
Have you ever thought about making your own publication, but felt unsure of where to start? Talk about creating, publishing, and promoting artist books and zines. At Da Vinci Art Alliance. $10 tickets.
‘The Sound of Philadelphia: A Tribute to Gamble, Huff and Bell’ – (7 p.m.)
Philly soul icons Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff and Thom Bell are being honored for their musical contributions in this concert featuring performances by The Spinners, The New Stylistics, Jean Carne and Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes. At Dell Music Center. Tickets start at $19.
The Amazing Acro-Cats – (7 to 9 p.m.)
The Amazing Acro-Cats, featured in the Netflix series Cat People, are coming to Philadelphia! This troupe of trained house cats — all former orphans, rescues, and strays — give a one-of-a-kind, 90 minute purr-formance that includes cats riding skateboards, jumping through hoops, ringing bells, balancing on balls, and performing other feats of agility and acrobatics. The show finale is the only all-cat band in the world: Tuna and the Rock Cats! The Rock Cats play guitar, drums, and piano, and they’ve been joined by the Jazz Cats on saxophone, trumpet, and clarinet. Part of proceeds support Rock Cats Rescue. Ages 5+. At the Suzanne Roberts Theatre. $30-80 tickets.
Friday, September 4
Apply for Sept. 10 Feast of Reason: A Dinner Discussion Across Divides
Among the many things for which Thomas Jefferson was renowned are his “Feast of Reason” dinners, where people gathered at Monticello to respectfully discuss the civic issues of the day. Inspired by this precedent — and given the current polarized and inflammatory state of civic dialogue in our country — Carpenters’ Hall, in partnership with the Dialogue Institute at Temple University, will host a “Feast of Reason” dinner series reimagined for our time. Over a family style meal, participants will be guided through a brief history of our evening’s topic, followed by a respectful and thoughtful discussion, guided by experts. Each meal will include 16 participants. A short reading will be sent out before each gathering. The Sept. 10 dinner will focus on public monuments and statues, guided by Yannick Trapman-O’Brien from Monument Lab. Subsequent dinners and topics will be held on October 1, November 12, and December 10. APPLY now; if accepted, tickets are $30 alcohol-free, $40 with alcohol.
Made in Philadelphia Market – (12 to 8 p.m.)
A diverse lineup of 50+ local artisans will showcase handmade jewelry, clothing, home goods, skin care, pet supplies and more. At Dilworth Park. Pay-as-you-go.
First Friday Flower Bar – (4:30 to 7:30 p.m.)
Elfreth’s Alley Museum hosts this night of free wine, flowers, local music, and community in a hidden garden on America’s oldest continually-inhabited residential street. Build-your-own flower bar, all proceeds support preservation work. Light snacks provided. FREE.
Yellow Fever Tour – (5 p.m.)
Uncover the tragedy and heroism of Philadelphia’s 1793 epidemic on a guided tour through historic Christ Church Burial Ground. Step back and confront the reality of Philadelphia’s most devastating epidemic. Walk through the grounds where both victims and key figures of the outbreak. Explore 18th-century medical theories, the breakdown of civic life, and the remarkable stories of care and courage that emerged during a citywide crisis. Every Friday in September. $12.51 tickets.
Chestnut Hill Arts & Eats – (5 to 8 p.m.)
A walkable First Friday experience, where galleries, restaurants and independent retailers stay open late with a mix of art openings, food and drink specials, and live music. The events bring together 30+ businesses, hosting everything from gallery receptions and artist talks to wine-and-cheese tastings and cocktail specials coupled with rotating exhibitions and performances. FREE.
First Friday at Arch Enemy Arts – (5 to 9 p.m.)
Celebrate a fresh exhibition lineup with seven new shows on view, including six solo features and the return of fan favorite group shows, SPECTRUM, back for its seventh edition. FREE.
Intro to Chain Mail – (6 to 9 p.m.)
A hands-on chain mail workshop where you will learn how to weave a chain mail bracelet or necklace from loose jump rings, using pliers. BYO favorite beverage; drinking glasses will be provided. Beginners welcome. Supplies provided. Taught by Nox Wulong. At Craft Nation, 2923 E Thompson Street. $75 tickets.
Filthy Fem Fest – (7 p.m.)
Enjoy queer art, cartoons and campy pop culture at 2nd Rodeo Studio, 1535 S Broad Street. FREE.
Storyville: “Land of Dreams” by Ambarien Alqadar – (7 to 9 p.m.)
This 40-minute film from 2025 centers on a migrant worker from India who chases his dream of becoming a filmmaker while working as a taxi driver in America. Shot over a decade, an intimate portrait of an immigrant following his dreams. At Scribe Video Center at 3908 Lancaster Avenue. $5 tickets; $3 for Scribe members.
The Amazing Acro-Cats – (7 to 9 p.m.)
The Amazing Acro-Cats, featured in the Netflix series Cat People, are coming to Philadelphia! This troupe of trained house cats — all former orphans, rescues, and strays — give a one-of-a-kind, 90 minute purr-formance that includes cats riding skateboards, jumping through hoops, ringing bells, balancing on balls, and performing other feats of agility and acrobatics. The show finale is the only all-cat band in the world: Tuna and the Rock Cats! The Rock Cats play guitar, drums, and piano, and they’ve been joined by the Jazz Cats on saxophone, trumpet, and clarinet. Part of proceeds support Rock Cats Rescue. Ages 5+. At the Suzanne Roberts Theatre. $30-80 tickets.
Saturday, September 5
Philadelphia Pagan Pride Day – (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
Friends of Clark Park welcomes all to celebrate earth-based spiritualities, community diversity, and autumn’s harvest season. Feat. educational workshops, open rituals, guest speakers, live music, a local artisan market, tarot readings, drumming circles and a food pantry collection. FREE.
Chestnut Hill Tour – (10 a.m.)
Take a leisurely stroll through this bucolic “Garden City” neighborhood, a suburban setting within the city limits. Learn how the Pennsylvania Railroad extension to this area, spearheaded by Henry Howard Houston in the 1880s, created this style-conscious development and later, with his son-in-law, George Woodward, continued it into the 1920s. Explore this haven of late Victorian, Arts & Crafts, English Cotswolds and Modern residences and see how it emerged as a desirable and complete neighborhood. Meet at the parking lot next to Springside Chestnut Hill Academy, 500 W Willow Grove Ave. Wear comfortable shoes. $18 tickets.
Teddy Bear Picnic – (10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.)
You and your teddy bear are invited to a picnic with the Berenstain Bears! Design a bear bandana, try to win a prize in the Scavenbear Hunt, stop by a Teddy Bear Clinic with Philadelphia Zoo Vet staff, play lawn games and learn about the real life bears at the Zoo. BYO picnic or pre-order them for $59 to get branded blankets, bandanas and more. Included with $34 Zoo admission.
Firstival: First Signing of the Constitution (1787) – (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
We the People … signed here first! The U.S. Constitution was inked in Philadelphia, setting the course for democracy. At the National Constitution Center. FREE.
TCG Legends Expo – (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
Same legendary experience, brand new energy. At Rivers Casino Event Center, 1001 N Delaware Ave! Features Pokémon, One Piece, Disney Lorcana, and Magic: The Gathering with up to 200 vendor tables, illustrators, artists, voice actors, guest animators and original artwork! Tickets start at $25.
Fringe Fair at Cherry Street Pier – (12 to 5 p.m.)
Can’t wait for the Festival to begin? Whether you’re a longtime fan or newbie, Fringe Fair is your chance to jump into the excitement before opening night. Come explore, connect, and kick off the festival with organizers. Pop-up performances, character interactions, activities and other surprises. FREE.
154th Annual Labor Day Volksfest – (12 to 6 p.m.)
Founded in 1873 and modeled after Stuttgart’s historic harvest festival, it’s an Oktoberfest-style celebration featuring live music from bands like Heimatklänge and The Adlers, along with traditional folk dance performances by groups including GTV Almrausch. Food offerings include German menu staples like bratwurst, schnitzel, leberkäse, maultaschen and kassler rippchen, alongside American fair staples, and, as you might expect, German beers. Tickets are $10 Saturday and Monday, $15 Sunday.
Made in Philadelphia Market – (12 to 8 p.m.)
A diverse lineup of 50+ local artisans will showcase handmade jewelry, clothing, home goods, skin care, pet supplies and more. At Dilworth Park. Pay-as-you-go.
Science & Activism Tour – (2 p.m.)
Every Saturday, the Science History Institute’s museum offers drop-in tours. This week focuses on the impact made by people on scientific discovery, environmental justice, and public health. What does science look like when it leaves the lab and is put to work in local communities? Stories include the influential book Silent Spring and the rise of the environmentalist movement, the AIDS crisis and the fight for patient-centric healthcare, the Black Panthers’ lead role in community testing for sickle-cell anemia, and other examples of how neighborhood coalitions have led the movement to hold government and industry accountable for environmental harm. FREE, but limited spots. Age 13+.
The Amazing Acro-Cats – (7 to 9 p.m.)
The Amazing Acro-Cats, featured in the Netflix series Cat People, are coming to Philadelphia! This troupe of trained house cats — all former orphans, rescues, and strays — give a one-of-a-kind, 90 minute purr-formance that includes cats riding skateboards, jumping through hoops, ringing bells, balancing on balls, and performing other feats of agility and acrobatics. The show finale is the only all-cat band in the world: Tuna and the Rock Cats! The Rock Cats play guitar, drums, and piano, and they’ve been joined by the Jazz Cats on saxophone, trumpet, and clarinet. Part of proceeds support Rock Cats Rescue. Ages 5+. At the Suzanne Roberts Theatre. $30-80 tickets.
Sunday, September 6
PECO Free First Sunday Family Day: Arte y Libertad – (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Enjoy free admission at the Barnes to check out the collection and “Just Us,” the annual restorative justice exhibition. Welcome traditional Mexican dance group Ñuuxakun for a special performance of “Art and Freedom / Arte y Libertad.” Learn about the rich tradition of Mexican folk dance and music from regions such as Sinaloa, Aguascalientes, and Veracruz. FREE.
TCG Legends Expo – (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
Same legendary experience, brand new energy. At Rivers Casino Event Center, 1001 N Delaware Ave! Features Pokémon, One Piece, Disney Lorcana, and Magic: The Gathering with up to 200 vendor tables, illustrators, artists, voice actors, guest animators and original artwork! Tickets start at $25.
154th Annual Labor Day Volksfest – (12 to 6 p.m.)
Founded in 1873 and modeled after Stuttgart’s historic harvest festival, it’s an Oktoberfest-style celebration featuring live music from bands like Heimatklänge and The Adlers, along with traditional folk dance performances by groups including GTV Almrausch. Food offerings include German menu staples like bratwurst, schnitzel, leberkäse, maultaschen and kassler rippchen, alongside American fair staples, and, as you might expect, German beers. Tickets are $10 Saturday and Monday, $15 Sunday.
Made in Philadelphia Market – (12 to 8 p.m.)
A diverse lineup of 50+ local artisans will showcase handmade jewelry, clothing, home goods, skin care, pet supplies and more. At Dilworth Park. Pay-as-you-go.
Brazilian Day Philadelphia – (1 to 7 p.m.)
Part of the PECO Multicultural Series. At Spruce Street Harbor Park. Organized by Project Capoeira Inc., join to celebrate Brazil’s art, music, culture, food and more. FREE.
Opera on Tap Presents: Whimsy in the Garden at Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion – (2:30 to 5 p.m.)
Join us in the Victorian garden for a kid-friendly introduction to classical singing, musical theater and opera story time! Plus an interactive Opera Story Time in the middle of the show, followed by coloring, crafts, bubbles, fidget toys, and more. The full show will be around 90 minutes, including story time and intermission. BYO: chairs, blankets, picnic food & drinks, & a sense of whimsy. $20 adults, $10 ages 5-18, free children under four!
Philly 30s/40s Mixer at the Philadelphia Museum of Art – (3:45 p.m.)
Join fellow art lovers for an unforgettable evening at the PMA, followed by drinks and conversation at a nearby bar. The event will be coordinated by email and the chat app.
Museum admission is free on first Sundays. $7.50 for the event.
Monday, September 7 (Labor Day)
39th Annual Tri-State Labor Day Parade & Family Celebration – (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.)
Join the SAG-AFTRA Philly local in celebrating “Our Day” with family and friends by walking in the Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO’s annual parade. Rally before the 10 a.m. parade start and 11 a.m. outdoor/indoor celebration with food, vendors and more. At Sheet Metal Workers Local 19 Union Hall at 1301 S. Columbus Blvd. RSVP required to participate. FREE to spectate.
Walk Around Philly: The Northeast – (9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.)
Join Walk Around Philadelphia for a segment of their fall journey walking the circumference of the city. Group A will be walking counter-clockwise, starting in Torresdale and making their way to Somerton, while Group B will be walking clockwise, starting in the same location but ending up in Bridesburg. Pay-what-you-wish. Register separately for Group A or Group B.
Labor Day Birding – (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
Celebrate the unofficial end of the summer with us at FDR Park as we stroll through the park in search of early avian migrants. Meet at the boathouse. FREE.
Labor Day at the Lakes – (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Gather for archery, crafts, DJ, water ice, backpacks and more at FDR Park while picking up a Park Passport to collect 7 stamps to earn a prize. FREE.
154th Annual Labor Day Volksfest – (12 to 8 p.m.)
Founded in 1873 and modeled after Stuttgart’s historic harvest festival, it’s an Oktoberfest-style celebration featuring live music from bands like Heimatklänge and The Adlers, along with traditional folk dance performances by groups including GTV Almrausch. Food offerings include German menu staples like bratwurst, schnitzel, leberkäse, maultaschen and kassler rippchen, alongside American fair staples, and, as you might expect, German beers. Tickets are $10 Saturday and Monday, $15 Sunday.
Through August
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.
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.
Into November
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.
Roach Show – (5 to 8 p.m.)
Featuring roach-inspired roach-sized art by 30 local Philly artists, including sculpture, painting, mixed media, fiber art and bolo ties! At STITCH AND DESTROY, 523 S 4th Street. The exhibit ends November 1.
