Monday

In Person Final Day of The Styers Peony Festival

Through May 31

4313 S. Creek Road, Chadds Ford

Experience 25 acres of more than 55,000 peonies in bloom. Stroll through the fields (or drive through!), buy flowers, and take beautiful family photos. Ticket sales and reservations are limited; book online.

Memorial Day Weekend at the Museum of the American Revolution

May 27—31, 10 am—5 pm
101 S. Third St.

Pay tribute on-site and online to the men and women who lost their lives in service to their country during the Revolutionary War and celebrate the freedoms they fought to secure for future generations. Plus, guests of all ages are invited to write a special message of gratitude for service members and their families throughout the weekend. The Museum will mail the messages to organizations supporting Blue and Gold Star Families. Veterans, active, and retired Military receive free admission throughout the weekend supported by Comcast NBCUniversal.

In Person Radnor Memorial Day Parade

May 31, 10 am

Lancaster Ave., Wayne

From veterans to classic cars, fire trucks to marching bands enjoy seeing the parade pass by along Lancaster Avenue From The Radnor Financial Center to the Center of Wayne. then at the parade’s end, join in honoring the veterans at the South Wayne Avenue Memorial.

In Person: In the Park with Mister John’s Music

May 31, 10 am

Lemon Hill Park

Philadelphia’s favorite early childhood music class is taking it outside! Through music, rhythm and movement, infants and toddlers learn about self-expression, teamwork, sharing, and empathy while rocking out to some favorite songs. BYO blanket and instruments. Tickets available online.

In Person Community Goat Walk

May 31, 11:30 am

Awbury Arboretum, 6336 Ardleigh Street

Join the Philly Goats for a walk at the farm. Walk is free, no registration necessary. Masks and distancing are required.

In Person Gladwyne Memorial Day Parade

May 31, noon

The parade assembles at 11 am behind the Gladwyne Park. Children are invited to decorate their bikes, wagons, strollers and walk or ride in the parade. The parade begins at noon followed by a ceremony honoring our veterans.

Stop-Motion Animation for Beginners

Tuesday

In Person: Nest Family Music

June 1, 9 am

Rittenhouse Square

With the weather warming up, Nest classes are going outside! Drop in ($20 per family) for a fun music and movement class for ages 6 months to 5 years in Rittenhouse Square. 

In Person: Storytime at Starr Garden

June 1, 10 am

600 Lombard St.

Bring your own blanket for a free, outdoor family storytime. All adults and kids over 2 must be masked.

In Person: Garden Storytime at Donatucci Library

June 1, 10 am

1935 Shunk St.

Join Miss Sunita for Storytime in the Donatucci Garden every Tuesday. Masks (for kids over 2) and social distancing required. Space is limited; first-come first-served. Ages 0-5. Bring Your Own Blanket. Weather permitting.

Music with Miss Jill

June 1, 10 am

Music with Miss Jill is a free, lively interactive music program for toddlers through kindergarten. Activities consist of songs, fingerplays, props, musical games, and puppets.

In Person PlayArts Movement Lab

June 1, 10:30 am and 10:45 am

Liberty Lands Park,  913 N. Third St.

Bring your own props and blanket for this class that explores basic dance concepts with lots of playful locomotion through songs, nursery rhymes, stories, and interactive games. Best for ages 2-4. Pre-register online.

In Person Outdoor Kids’ Yoga

June 1, 10:30 am

Aston Public Library, 3270 Concord Rd., Aston

Games, songs, and stories to teach breathwork and meditation and encourage movement and gratitude. Best for ages 2-5. Parents must participate with 2- and 3-year-olds. Bring your own mat and water. Free; pre-register online.

In Person Fun Ballers: Outdoor Preschool Sports

June 1, 11 am

Rittenhouse Square

Sandcastle Fun Co.’s “Fun-Structors” will guide kids ages 3-5 through all kinds of age-appropriate sports games. Drop-in passes available online.

At-Home Anthro: Write Your Name in Hieroglyphs

June 1, 1 pm

New Parent Virtual Support Group

June 1, 1 pm

Kith + Kin’s new parent support groups are facilitated by trained doulas who help guide the transition into the new role of parenthood. Share stories, ask hard questions, and more. Pay what you can; join on Zoom via Kith + Kin’s website.

Kings’ Crowns

June 1, 4 pm

Learn to make your own flower crown, like the one we see on the cover of The Tradition, with former Philly Youth Poet Laureate Husnaa Hashim. This workshop is designed for boys, though all children are welcome to attend. Caregivers are encouraged to help children under 10 years. The virtual session will include a reading of Hey Black Child, the One Book, One Philadelphia 2021 children’s selection by Useni Eugene Perkins. Registrants will receive a Zoom event link, and will be contacted to schedule a time to pick up flower crown kits.

In Person: Mini Musicians Outdoor Class with Miss Minor

June 1, 4:30 pm

Washington Square Park

Outdoor music and movement at Washington Square for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. First drop-in class is donation-only so you can try it out.

In Person: Little Warriors Family Yoga

June 1, 5:30 pm

McMichael Park, 3299 Midvale Ave.

Join Jai Vita Healing Arts for a 45-minute class appropriate for children ages 2-6. The five-class series begins Tuesday evening. Class is donation-based with a suggested donation of between $10-25 a class. 

Pajama Storytime with Haverford Township Free Library

June 1, 7 pm

Grab your jammies and a special friend and get ready for some stories before bed! Join free on Facebook.

Wednesday

In Person: Nest Family Music

June 2, 10 am

Rittenhouse Square

With the weather warming up, Nest classes are going outside! Drop in ($20 per family) for a fun music and movement class for ages 6 months to 5 years in Rittenhouse Square. 

Paleo Playdate

June 2, 10 am

Kids ages 3-6 and their grownups can have some fun with Academy of Natural Sciences experts and other young natural history fans for a science storytime. Admission is pay-what-you-wish; pre-register online.

In Person Music and Movement with Free Library of Philadelphia

June 2, 10:30 am

Shakespeare Park, 1901 Vine Street

Join Ms. Naomi at Shakespeare Park (across the street from the library on Vine Street) for songs, dance, and fun explorations of rhythm and movement! This program is intended for ages 6 and under and their caregivers. Adults and children over 2 must wear a mask, maintain 6 feet of social distance, and stay home if they are unwell.

In Person CantiCuentos: Spanish Songs and Stories for Kids

June 2, 11 am

420 S. Perth St.

Babies and toddlers (ages 0-3) will learn Spanish songs and stories at this weekly outdoor playgroup. Bring your own blanket! $10 per family.

Over the Rainbow Pride Storytime

June 2, 11 am

Join Delaware County Libraries for a celebration of LGBTQ families with a special storytime featuring Ms. Mindy from Rachel Kohl, Mr. Jason from Middletown, and Mr. Scott from Swarthmore! They’ll read books, sing songs, and do an activity to celebrate all kinds of families. Free; pre-register online for the Zoom link.

In Person Dog Days at Elmwood Park Zoo

June 2, 1–4 pm

1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown

Elmwood Park Zoo is inviting dog owners to bring their furry friends to visit the zoo on select days this spring! Pre-registration is required, and guests must complete an online waiver and submit required documents to attend this and all Dog Days events.

In Person PAWS for Reading

June 2, 4 pm

Helen Kate Furness Free Library, 100 N. Providence Rd., Wallingford

Each week, two dogs from PAWS will be on the library’s front lawn eagerly listening to stories or picture walks from kids ages 6 and up. Readers need to sign up for each individual class in the series in advance online.

In Person: Kids’ Yoga in Linwood Park

June 2, 4 pm

Join Andi and Aparna, two of Hummingbird’s wonderful teachers, for kids’ yoga and stories at the park. Free; donations accepted.

Teen Workshop: Take the Mic

June 2, 4 pm

“Take the Mic” is a virtual series of spoken word workshops that invites teens to explore the themes of The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo, the 2021 One Book, One Philadelphia Young Adult selection, and their own multiple identities using poetry and theater exercises. In this culminating session, participants will explore how to perform their poetry and rap using theater and slam poetry techniques. Free; pre-register online.

In Person: Kids’ Windchime Making Party

June 2, 4:30 pm

Primp & Play, 1520 Locust St.

Join Primp & Play for a fun and festive art class! Parents will receive 10% off any spa service during the event. Tickets available online.

Kids’ Cooking Class: Dirt Cups

June 2, 4:30 pm

Use the season’s best fresh fruits to create delicious sweets and treats. Kids will work step-by-step in each class to prepare “dirt cups” with fresh berries and homemade chocolate pudding from scratch.  Pre-register online. 

In Person Free Outdoor Movie Night: ‘Black Panther’

June 2, 6 pm (lawn games start at 5 pm)

Sunset Social, 129 S. 30th St., Cira Green roof

Located on the 1.2-acre Cira Green rooftop park with dazzling city and river views, enjoy lawn games and free outdoor movie screenings on summer Wednesdays! Food and drink available onsite.

Free Princess Party with Sleeping Beauty

June 2, 6:30 pm

Aurora is making a royal Zoom visit to Ridley Township Public Library. Join Sleeping Beauty for songs, stories, games, Q & A, and more. For ages 3 and up. Free; pre-register online.

Thursday

In Person Outdoor Movement Class at Lilypad

June 3, 9 am

Join Anne, a local pediatric occupational therapist and dancer for an outdoor movement class in the backyard at Lilypad! Attendees will learn stretches, yoga poses, dances, and explore other types of active movement with music and imagination play in an outdoor setting. Class is most appropriate for children ages 3-5. Email ambeckettf@gmail.com or contact @annemaija89 on Instagram to sign up.

Virtual Escape Room

June 3, 9 am

Ludington Library’s Miss Melody will lead you through a fun virtual escape room. Join free on Facebook Live.

In Person Rollin’ Rockers: Music and Movement

June 3, 10 am

Rittenhouse Square

From shakers to tambourines and drums, choose your favorite musical instrument to join the band and rock out with Sandcastle Fun Co. as they take kids ages 1-5 on a rock and roll journey. Drop-in passes available online.

In Person PlayArts Movement Lab

June 3, 10:30 am

Gold Star Park, 613 Wharton St.

Bring your own props and blanket for this class that explores basic dance concepts with lots of playful locomotion through songs, nursery rhymes, stories, and interactive games. Best for ages 2-4. Pre-register online.

In Person Read, Baby, Read Storytime

June 3, 10:30 am

Richmond Library, 2987 Almond St.

Join Ms. Meghan in front of the library for lap time with stories, songs, rhymes, and bounces. For babies with caregivers; siblings welcome.

In Person  Storytime at DiSilvestro Park

June 3, 11 am

1701 S. 15th St.

Join the Free Library, socially distanced outdoors at DiSilvestro Park, for outdoor storytime for little ones. Free, no registration required.

In Person Little Yogis

June 3, 11 am

Lovett Memorial Library, 6945 Germantown Avenue

Take a fun and playful yoga journey led by Sarah of Surya Moon Yoga. Learn individual and partner poses through songs and storytelling, all while building confidence, creativity, and strong, healthy bodies. Children and parents will practice how to center themselves through breathing and relaxation. This class is designed for families with kiddos aged 2 to 5 years old, but anyone is welcome. Bring your own yoga mats and/or beach towels to practice on. This program will take place outside, at the library. Physical distancing and masks are required.

In Person Fun Ballers: Outdoor Preschool Sports

June 3, 11 am

Rittenhouse Square

Sandcastle Fun Co.’s “Fun-Structors” will guide kids ages 3-5 through all kinds of age-appropriate sports games. Drop-in passes available online.

Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding Virtual Support Group

June 3, 1 pm

Kith + Kin moves their group online so you can continue on your journey while you’re home. Facilitated by an international board-certified lactation consultant who can help answer your questions and provide tips for success, the group meets on Zoom (call-in info in the link in title); pay what you can over Venmo.

Young Composers Workshop: Introduction to Songwriting

June 3, 3 pm

Discover the fundamentals of music creation in this three-part workshop series (the two previous parts are accessible online if you missed them). Join virtual sessions with Abigail Kanes, Libby Ronon, and Sophia Mo. These three young composers are from the Chris Oatts music program at Shipley School. Musicians of all ages and skill levels welcome. Free; pre-register online.

In Person Manayunk Stroll the Street

June 3, 5–8 pm

Main Street, Manayunk

Manayunk will host vendors, live music, and more as visitors and residents walk, shop, and eat. Restaurants and businesses on the street will also have special deals for the night.

Friday

In Person ‘The Pigeon Comes to Philadelphia! A Mo Willems Exhibit’ Opens

June 4-September 12

Please Touch Museum, 4231 Avenue of the Republic

Your favorite books like Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!, the Elephant and Piggie series, and more will come alive in a new interactive exhibit that will give children the opportunity to make art that is inspired by these beloved books and to learn about the social and emotional lives of the author’s popular characters. Capacity will be limited, and online reservations are required for your desired “session.” The museum is open Thursdays – Sundays with morning sessions (9 am – noon) and afternoon sessions (1:30 – 4:30 pm) with a midday closure for cleaning and sanitizing. 

Art Playdate at Home: Summer Magic

June 4, 10:30 am and 3:30 pm

Celebrate the solstice with some sorcery. Become spellbound by artworks of fairies, dragons, and enchantment at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Best for ages 4–7. Free; pre-register online. Registration ends at noon the day before the program; a link will be sent to registrants prior to the program.

Penn Museum Virtual Passport: Africa and Egypt

June 4; lessons at 11 am and 1 pm

This special event series is open to all home learners, pods, K-12 students, and K-12 classrooms. Travel across the African continent to hear about the amazing kingdoms that existed there throughout history. See inside an ancient Egyptian tomb and learn more about hieroglyphs, tomb offerings, and a special passageway between the world of the living and the dead. Get inspired by the Adinkra symbols used by the Asante/Ashanti people, and practice creating your own Adinkra stamp. Registrants also gain access to a virtual classroom space full of digital activities, videos, and articles to further explore the theme throughout the day. Pre-register online.

In Person Dog Days at Elmwood Park Zoo

June 4, 1–4 pm

1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown

Elmwood Park Zoo is inviting dog owners to bring their furry friends to visit the zoo on select days this spring! Pre-registration is required, and guests must complete an online waiver and submit required documents to attend this and all Dog Days events.

Virtual Storytime with Miss Sunita

June 4, 3 pm

Explore exciting new worlds through stories, songs, and interactive crafts in this weekly storytime. Free on Facebook Live.

Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion Virtual Gallery Tour

June 4, 3 pm

This innovative and engaging virtual experience will showcase a wide array of arthropods, including tarantulas, scorpions, praying mantis, and much more. Free; pre-register online.

In Person Kingsessing Library Summer Kick-Off

June 4, 5 pm

1201 S. 51st St.

Start the summer off with a blast at this outdoor party for all ages with music, dancing, food, giveaways, and prizes. Bartram’s Garden and University City Arts League will be on site for kids’ arts and crafts activities. Plus,  a short classes on African dance and chair yoga from Studio 34. The party will take place on the Rec Center grounds on the north side of the library, between the building and the tennis courts. Masks required.

In Person Friday Night unWINEd

June 4, 5:30 pm (music starts at 6:30 pm)

Shady Brook Farm, 931 Stony Hill Rd., Yardley

Enjoy live music in the Festival Field every Friday evening this summer at Shady Brook Farm. Bring the whole family for kids’ activities, lawn games, food, drinks, and fun. Kids under age 2 are free. Tickets available online.

In Person Movie Night at Arch Street Meeting House: ‘The Lorax’

June 4, 7 pm

320 Arch St.

Bring a picnic blanket and the whole family for a fun movie night in Old City! Free on-site parking is available, and light refreshments will be available for purchase. All attendees are required to practice social distancing, and wear a mask when in close proximity to others or entering the building. Free; pre-registration required online.

Weekend Events

The Philadelphia Flower Show

June 5-13

FDR Park, 1500 Pattison Ave.

For the first time ever, the Flower Show is being held in the summer and taking it outside, in what is sure to be a popular and unique iteration of the iconic event. The event will be held June 5 through 13 in FDR Park. Another notable change for this year: due to capacity restrictions, tickets must be reserved for a specific date and time, and are not good for the entire day. Tickets are very limited, so be sure to reserve yours early.

‘The Pigeon Comes to Philadelphia! A Mo Willems Exhibit’ at the Please Touch Museum

June 4-September 12

Please Touch Museum, 4231 Avenue of the Republic

Your favorite books like Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!, the Elephant and Piggie series, and more will come alive in a new interactive exhibit that will give children the opportunity to make art that is inspired by these beloved books and to learn about the social and emotional lives of the author’s popular characters. Capacity will be limited, and online reservations are required for your desired “session.” The museum is open Thursdays – Sundays with morning sessions (9 am – noon) and afternoon sessions (1:30 – 4:30 pm) with a midday closure for cleaning and sanitizing. 

Dino Stroll

June 5 and 6

Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Station Avenue, Oaks

 Over 70 life-like animatronic creatures, reptiles, and life-size dinosaurs come to town for a walkthrough adventure. Tickets available online. Read more in our preview, and enter our giveaway!

Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest and Spruce Street Harbor Park

Through September 26

Delaware River Waterfront

After a shortened season turning the roller rink into a socially-distanced “beach” last year, the Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest is open for 2021 in all its former glory. Enjoy skating, rides, food, games, and more! Plus, SSHP is now open for the season with food, games, and hammocks! Timed tickets required for skating; other activities are open to the public pay-as-you-go. Details in our preview!

Rothman Roller Rink at Dilworth Park

April 30–June 27

1 S. 15th St.

In place of the ice rink, Dilworth is debuting a new feature this spring: roller skating! Enjoy the retro-inspired design and pop-up grille and beer garden (with snacks for the kids), too! Hour-long sessions should be reserved online. Limited in-person sales may be offered, but sellouts are likely due to reduced capacity, so preorder to save your spot. You can rent skates and reserve lockers on site. 

Strawberry Festival at Shady Brook Farm

June 5 and 6, 10 am–4 pm

931 Stony Hill Rd., Yardley

Celebrate the start of summer with wagon rides to the strawberry patch, pick-your-own berries, live music, and lots of kids’ activities including sports zone, rides, games, and much more. Tickets available online.

Crayola IDEAworks: The Creativity Exhibition at the Franklin Institute

Through July 18

222 N. 20th St.

A highly colorful and interactive exhibit makes its debut at the Franklin Institute. Crayola IDEAworks is an immersive experience that uses state-of-the-art technology to challenge visitors, expand creativity, and hone problem-solving skills. Even cooler, with more than 150 physical and digital inquiry-based interactive experiences and challenges, guests can track their progress on an RFID wristband and receive a customized summary of their unique creative strengths discovered on their journey! Read more details in our preview.\

Photograph by Laura Swartz.