THE PARKWAY

The Benjamin Franklin Parkway centers an amazing district of world-class cultural institutions, inviting green spaces, thriving business corridors, and vibrant neighborhood organizations. Explore below a list of outdoor and free summer events from partner institutions and organizations.

Summer on the Steps
Sep
27

Summer on the Steps

Every weekend this summer, enjoy an iconic view of the city at the top of the Rocky Steps. After you cool off in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, step outside for cocktails and Philly's best food trucks for an al fresco afternoon.

  • A selection of local food trucks

  • Pop-up bar from Constellation Culinary Group

  • Family friendly

  • Tables are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Weather permitting

Organized by the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

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Summer on the Steps
Sep
28

Summer on the Steps

Every weekend this summer, enjoy an iconic view of the city at the top of the Rocky Steps. After you cool off in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, step outside for cocktails and Philly's best food trucks for an al fresco afternoon.

  • A selection of local food trucks

  • Pop-up bar from Constellation Culinary Group

  • Family friendly

  • Tables are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Weather permitting

Organized by the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

View Event →

Summer on the Steps
Sep
21

Summer on the Steps

Every weekend this summer, enjoy an iconic view of the city at the top of the Rocky Steps. After you cool off in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, step outside for cocktails and Philly's best food trucks for an al fresco afternoon.

  • A selection of local food trucks

  • Pop-up bar from Constellation Culinary Group

  • Family friendly

  • Tables are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Weather permitting

Organized by the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

View Event →
Parks on Tap at the Spring Gardens
Sep
21

Parks on Tap at the Spring Gardens

A partnership between Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and FCM Hospitality, Parks on Tap was created to be a traveling beer garden throughout the city's various, beautiful parks all summer long.

This week it visits the Spring Gardens, a sprawling community garden and testament to the power of green spaces to transform neighborhoods.

Over 180 garden plots cultivate a diverse array of fresh produce, while fostering a strong sense of community among residents. Beyond gardening, Spring Gardens hosts a variety of events, from gardening workshops to community dinners, creating a vibrant hub for the neighborhood.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, connect with your neighbors, and savor the fruits of your labor at Spring Gardens.

PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A DOG FREE LOCATION.

Organized by Philadelphia Parks and Recreation.

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Summer on the Steps
Sep
20

Summer on the Steps

Every weekend this summer, enjoy an iconic view of the city at the top of the Rocky Steps. After you cool off in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, step outside for cocktails and Philly's best food trucks for an al fresco afternoon.

  • A selection of local food trucks

  • Pop-up bar from Constellation Culinary Group

  • Family friendly

  • Tables are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Weather permitting

Organized by the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

View Event →
Parks on Tap at the Spring Gardens
Sep
20

Parks on Tap at the Spring Gardens

A partnership between Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and FCM Hospitality, Parks on Tap was created to be a traveling beer garden throughout the city's various, beautiful parks all summer long.

This week it visits the Spring Gardens, a sprawling community garden and testament to the power of green spaces to transform neighborhoods.

Over 180 garden plots cultivate a diverse array of fresh produce, while fostering a strong sense of community among residents. Beyond gardening, Spring Gardens hosts a variety of events, from gardening workshops to community dinners, creating a vibrant hub for the neighborhood.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, connect with your neighbors, and savor the fruits of your labor at Spring Gardens.

PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A DOG FREE LOCATION.

Organized by Philadelphia Parks and Recreation.

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Three Mile Vision Tour
Sep
20

Three Mile Vision Tour

The Three Mile Vision Tour explores the past, present, and future of the Rail Park, highlighting the potential for this project to connect thousands of Philadelphia residents and visitors to green space and each other. 

This linear, street-level tour is approximately 3 miles in length, beginning at 2700 Pennsylvania Avenue and ending at Phase One of the Rail Park at 1100 Callowhill Street.  We do not loop back to the starting point. 

Your ticket fee goes directly towards supporting Phase One of the Rail Park and planning for future growth!  Learn more about the Three Mile Vision for the Rail Park.

Register here.

Organized by Friends of the Rail Park.

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Barnes Create & Connect
Sep
20

Barnes Create & Connect

Barnes Create & Connect is a new workshop series designed to support individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners through meaningful experiences with art and creative expression. Presented in partnership with the Parkinson Council, the program focuses on connection—between participants, with works of art, and through shared moments of reflection and making. Free, registration required.

Organized by the Barnes Foundation.

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CollegeFest
Sep
20
to Sep 21

CollegeFest

CollegeFest is Campus Philly's official welcome-to-Philadelphia weekend, curated for new & returning college students in the Greater Philadelphia Region.

During CollegeFest weekend, happening September 20-21, 2025, students can explore 25+ Philly-area museums, national landmarks, and historic sites (including many on the Parkway!) for FREE—exclusively with their CollegeFest ticket. Your CollegeFest ticket also gets you deals & discounts on transportation, FREE access to our off-site activation at the Citizens branch in Center City (featuring the Phillie Phanatic!), plus FREE entry to the Campus Philly Block Party, happening at 19th & Race Streets on the Parkway on Saturday, September 20, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Organized by Campus Philly.

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Parks on Tap at the Spring Gardens
Sep
19

Parks on Tap at the Spring Gardens

A partnership between Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and FCM Hospitality, Parks on Tap was created to be a traveling beer garden throughout the city's various, beautiful parks all summer long.

This week it visits the Spring Gardens, a sprawling community garden and testament to the power of green spaces to transform neighborhoods.

Over 180 garden plots cultivate a diverse array of fresh produce, while fostering a strong sense of community among residents. Beyond gardening, Spring Gardens hosts a variety of events, from gardening workshops to community dinners, creating a vibrant hub for the neighborhood.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, connect with your neighbors, and savor the fruits of your labor at Spring Gardens.

PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A DOG FREE LOCATION.

Organized by Philadelphia Parks and Recreation.

View Event →
Parks on Tap at the Spring Gardens
Sep
18

Parks on Tap at the Spring Gardens

A partnership between Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and FCM Hospitality, Parks on Tap was created to be a traveling beer garden throughout the city's various, beautiful parks all summer long.

This week it visits the Spring Gardens, a sprawling community garden and testament to the power of green spaces to transform neighborhoods.

Over 180 garden plots cultivate a diverse array of fresh produce, while fostering a strong sense of community among residents. Beyond gardening, Spring Gardens hosts a variety of events, from gardening workshops to community dinners, creating a vibrant hub for the neighborhood.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, connect with your neighbors, and savor the fruits of your labor at Spring Gardens.

PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A DOG FREE LOCATION.

Organized by Philadelphia Parks and Recreation.

View Event →
Parks on Tap at the Spring Gardens
Sep
17

Parks on Tap at the Spring Gardens

A partnership between Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and FCM Hospitality, Parks on Tap was created to be a traveling beer garden throughout the city's various, beautiful parks all summer long.

This week it visits the Spring Gardens, a sprawling community garden and testament to the power of green spaces to transform neighborhoods.

Over 180 garden plots cultivate a diverse array of fresh produce, while fostering a strong sense of community among residents. Beyond gardening, Spring Gardens hosts a variety of events, from gardening workshops to community dinners, creating a vibrant hub for the neighborhood.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, connect with your neighbors, and savor the fruits of your labor at Spring Gardens.

PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A DOG FREE LOCATION.

Organized by Philadelphia Parks and Recreation.

View Event →
Summer Organ Concert
Sep
17

Summer Organ Concert

  • Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Enjoy a captivating series of 30-minute summer organ concerts in the awe-inspiring setting of the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul.
Performed by Mark Loria, Cathedral Organist, each concert will showcase the grandeur of the pipe organ with a special emphasis on American composers, including works by Philadelphia composers. Free and open to all.

Organized by the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul.

View Event →
Summer on the Steps
Sep
14

Summer on the Steps

Every weekend this summer, enjoy an iconic view of the city at the top of the Rocky Steps. After you cool off in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, step outside for cocktails and Philly's best food trucks for an al fresco afternoon.

  • A selection of local food trucks

  • Pop-up bar from Constellation Culinary Group

  • Family friendly

  • Tables are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Weather permitting

Organized by the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

View Event →
Summer on the Steps
Sep
13

Summer on the Steps

Every weekend this summer, enjoy an iconic view of the city at the top of the Rocky Steps. After you cool off in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, step outside for cocktails and Philly's best food trucks for an al fresco afternoon.

  • A selection of local food trucks

  • Pop-up bar from Constellation Culinary Group

  • Family friendly

  • Tables are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Weather permitting

Organized by the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

View Event →
Barnes Create & Connect
Sep
13

Barnes Create & Connect

Barnes Create & Connect is a new workshop series designed to support individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners through meaningful experiences with art and creative expression. Presented in partnership with the Parkinson Council, the program focuses on connection—between participants, with works of art, and through shared moments of reflection and making. Free, registration required.

Organized by the Barnes Foundation.

View Event →
Summer on the Steps
Sep
7

Summer on the Steps

Every weekend this summer, enjoy an iconic view of the city at the top of the Rocky Steps. After you cool off in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, step outside for cocktails and Philly's best food trucks for an al fresco afternoon.

  • A selection of local food trucks

  • Pop-up bar from Constellation Culinary Group

  • Family friendly

  • Tables are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Weather permitting

Organized by the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

View Event →
PECO Free First Sunday Family Day: Ants on a Log
Sep
7

PECO Free First Sunday Family Day: Ants on a Log

It’s the first Sunday of the month, which means free admission at the Barnes. Enjoy fun art activities, performances, and access to the Barnes collection. Today, the award-winning duo Ants on a Log presents Rainbow Seekers, an interactive musical that helps children discover their superpowers through the magic of self-expression, social-emotional skills, and community building. Free, capacity is limited, registration required.

Organized by the Barnes Foundation.

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Summer on the Steps
Sep
6

Summer on the Steps

Every weekend this summer, enjoy an iconic view of the city at the top of the Rocky Steps. After you cool off in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, step outside for cocktails and Philly's best food trucks for an al fresco afternoon.

  • A selection of local food trucks

  • Pop-up bar from Constellation Culinary Group

  • Family friendly

  • Tables are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Weather permitting

Organized by the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

View Event →
Spring Garden Sunflower Festival
Sep
6

Spring Garden Sunflower Festival

The Spring Garden Civic Association & Philadelphia 5th District City Councilmember Jeffery Young Jr. are proud to present a family-friendly event celebrating the end of the summer season, open to all residents in and around Philadelphia! Featuring 50+ vendors, artists & service providers; a kids play zone with crafts & games for families; food & beverages from local businesses & food trucks, including a beer garden with games for adults; and a day of special events & guests, and live music from local Philadelphia acts! Learn more here.

Organized by the Spring Garden Civic Association.

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Summer on the Steps
Aug
31

Summer on the Steps

Every weekend this summer, enjoy an iconic view of the city at the top of the Rocky Steps. After you cool off in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, step outside for cocktails and Philly's best food trucks for an al fresco afternoon.

  • A selection of local food trucks

  • Pop-up bar from Constellation Culinary Group

  • Family friendly

  • Tables are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Weather permitting

Organized by the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

View Event →
Summer on the Steps
Aug
30

Summer on the Steps

Every weekend this summer, enjoy an iconic view of the city at the top of the Rocky Steps. After you cool off in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, step outside for cocktails and Philly's best food trucks for an al fresco afternoon.

  • A selection of local food trucks

  • Pop-up bar from Constellation Culinary Group

  • Family friendly

  • Tables are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Weather permitting

Organized by the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

View Event →
Rodin Museum Garden Bar
Aug
29

Rodin Museum Garden Bar

Enjoy a change of scenery at the Rodin Garden Bar pop-up. Explore the Rodin Museum, enjoy refreshing summer cocktails and tasty small plates, listen to music, and take in the garden oasis.

  • Family-friendly

  • Leashed four-legged friends are welcome in the garden.

  • Tables are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Weather permitting.

  • A guided exhibition tour of Rodin’s Hands meets in the Main Gallery.

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Preschool Storytime
Aug
29

Preschool Storytime

Join Scout for stories, songs, and rhymes, and stay for playtime afterwards! Intended for our friends ages 6 and under and their caregivers. This program has ASL interpretation.

In good weather, this program will be held outdoors in Shakespeare Park, directly across the street from the library's main entrance.

In case of bad weather, this event will be moved indoors to the Parkway Central Library's Montgomery Auditorium, on the ground floor.

Find more information on the Children’s Department of the Parkway Central Library here.

Organized by the Free Library of Philadelphia.

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Summer Block Party Series #2
Aug
28

Summer Block Party Series #2

Join Friends of Eastern State Penitentiary Park and Fairmount Civic Association for the second evening of their summer block party series.

This community gathering will be the perfect opportunity to enjoy warm weather and connect with neighbors.

The event will feature live music, delicious food from local vendors, and fun activities for all ages mark your calendars and bring your friends and family.

Organized by Friends of Eastern State Penitentiary Park and Fairmount Civic Association.

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SIPS at Cret Park
Aug
27

SIPS at Cret Park

Philadelphia’s favorite happy hour tradition pops up weekly for the ultimate after-work hangout featuring live DJs. SIPS specials include $7 Hornitos® Tequila cocktails, $6 wine, $5 beer and select half-priced appetizers

This event is limited to adults 21 and older with proper identification.

Organized by Center City District.

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Summer Organ Concert
Aug
27

Summer Organ Concert

  • Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Enjoy a captivating series of 30-minute summer organ concerts in the awe-inspiring setting of the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul.
Performed by Mark Loria, Cathedral Organist, each concert will showcase the grandeur of the pipe organ with a special emphasis on American composers, including works by Philadelphia composers. Free and open to all.

Organized by the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul.

View Event →
Music and Movement
Aug
27

Music and Movement

Join Ms Naomi for singing and dancing in this movement-oriented storytime followed by playtime! 

This program is designed for children ages 6 and under, along with their caretakers. If you require ASL interpretation, please contact us in advance and we would be happy to accomodate you!

Outdoors in Shakespeare Park weather permitting, and indoors in Montgomery auditorium as needed. 

Find more information on the Children’s Department of the Parkway Central Library here.

Organized by the Free Library of Philadelphia.

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All Ages Art Making at The Galleries at Moore
Aug
26

All Ages Art Making at The Galleries at Moore

This Summer, spark your creativity and immerse yourself and the whole family in art! Drop into The Galleries at Moore to create your own masterpieces amongst works on display. Experience new methods of making every week beginning June 17th through August 26th. Materials provided. All ages welcome!

Organized by Moore College of Art and Design.

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Read Baby Read: Baby & Toddler Storytime
Aug
25

Read Baby Read: Baby & Toddler Storytime

Join Miss Mary for stories, songs, rhymes, and bounces! Stay for playtime immediately following storytime! Intended for our friends ages 2 and under and their caregivers.

Cooler weather? We'll have storytime in the auditorium on the ground floor! Warmer weather? We'll be in Shakespeare Park, across the street from the library!

Read, Baby, Read is a series of programs focused on language and literacy development for babies and toddlers, and their caregivers. Read Baby Read made possible by a grant from the William Penn Foundation.

Find more information on the Children’s Department of the Parkway Central Library here.

Organized by the Free Library of Philadelphia.

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Summer on the Steps
Aug
24

Summer on the Steps

Every weekend this summer, enjoy an iconic view of the city at the top of the Rocky Steps. After you cool off in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, step outside for cocktails and Philly's best food trucks for an al fresco afternoon.

  • A selection of local food trucks

  • Pop-up bar from Constellation Culinary Group

  • Family friendly

  • Tables are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Weather permitting

Organized by the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

View Event →