Get ready to rock, because Kidchella kicks off its fifth year at Smith Memorial Playground this Friday, June 15! The “kindie” concert series—set in the fabulous 6.5-acre playground– features performances by six nationally acclaimed children’s music artists, over three separate Fridays this summer: June 15, July 20, and August 17.

This concert series has become a wonderful summer fixture in Philly, creating a space for kids and families to play, eat, and enjoy music together. It’s also a great excuse to play outside a little later into the evening as the days get longer!

In addition to the main stage in the playground, there will be a Youth Arts Zone beginning at 4 pm on Smith’s front lawn, featuring creative stations led by the Village of Arts and Humanities, as well as youth performances. There will also be local food trucks on site at each event, so families can grab dinner and make a night of it. Outside food will be allowed as well, so if you’re more of a picnic kind of family, pack up that basket!

Kathy O’Connell of WXPN’s Kids Corner returns to emcee the musical lineup. Here’s whose music you can expect to be singing and dancing along to all summer:

June 15

Enjoy electropop by The Pop Ups, and interactive rock by Philly Family LOVE Award winners Alex and the Kaleidoscope!

July 20

Shine and the Moonbeams bring the soul, and The Alphabet Rockers bring positive hip hop for kids.

August 17

Red Yarn bring their “Critters” for some folksongs and puppetry, and Vered and the Babes bring their doo wop inspired acoustic rock music to close out the series.

Kidchella takes place at Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse, located at 3500 Reservoir Drive in Philadelphia. All concerts begin at 6 pm, but doors open at 4 pm for pre-concert activities. The concerts are rain or shine.

Tickets are $5 for Smith members and $10 for non-members. Philadelphia Family and Main Line Parent Supporting Members get 50 percent off tickets! Want to join? Start here.

Erin Moran contributed to this report.
Photograph courtesy of Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse.