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Home / Community  / Things To Do This Week  / 30+ Things to Do With Kids This Week in Philly (and Online): August 2-8

30+ Things to Do With Kids This Week in Philly (and Online): August 2-8

At home and in person, plan your week!

Have some fun with our roundup of this week’s in-person and virtual activities! 

Go straight to: Monday      Tuesday      Wednesday       Thursday      Friday       WEEKEND

All Week

Candytopia

Through Labor Day

901 Market St.

 

This immersive– and highly instaworthy– pop-up devoted to all things sweet returns to Fashion District Philadelphia for a second limited run. Jump in the marshmallow pit filled with over 250,000 foam marshmallows, the rainbow-filled room with flying unicorn pigs and confetti explosions, and much more– plus candy in every room! Advance tickets required online. 

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!

Pick-Your-Own Fruit and Fishing at Linvilla Orchards

Daily, 8 am–4 pm

137 West Knowlton Road, Media

 

A summertime tradition returns to the farm. This year, pre-paid tickets and containers are required to limit capacity, so book your spot online if you have your heart set on a particular timeslot.

‘Big Time’ at the Philadelphia Zoo

Through September 30; advance tickets required

3400 W. Girard Ave.

 

The Philadelphia Zoo will host 24 life-size animatronic dinosaurs in a new and exciting experience that’s sure to be a must-do for any little dino-lover in your family. Big Time: Life in an Endangerous Age will take guests through the Age of Dinosaurs through to the present day, showing the powerful changes and challenges that caused them to become extinct—and how other creatures survived. Advance tickets are required due to high demand and reduced capacity. Social distancing and masks will continue to be required for guests ages 2 and older.

Parks on Tap 

Wednesdays through Sundays

100 N. Horticultural Drive, Fairmount Park; and Water Works, 640 Waterworks Drive

 

The popular family-friendly beer garden benefiting Philly settles at the beautiful Horticulture Center grounds and Waterworks for the season.  Reservations are strongly recommended, and masks are required.

Garden Railway at Morris Arboretum

Through October 11
100 E. Northwestern Ave., Philadelphia

 

A quarter-mile of track weaves its way through an intricate display featuring Philadelphia-area landmarks made of natural materials like bark, pinecones, and stones. Model trains and cable cars navigate the tunnels, bridges, and turns all set against the beautiful garden backdrop. The Garden Railway is one of the true highlights of the incredible Morris Arboretum, and is always a kid favorite. 

Crayola IDEAworks: The Creativity Exhibition at the Franklin Institute

Through November 28

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.

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

Through 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. 

Virtual Cooking Camp: Celebrate America

August 2–5, 1–3 pm

 

Young chefs (ages 9-13) will learn to prepare food from various parts of the US – including Southern Cookin’, Philly Phoods, California Cuisine, and Tex-Mex. Pre-register online.


Monday

In the Park with Mister John’s Music

August 2, 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.

Creative Babies in the Park

August 2, 10 am

Meet at Springfield Township Library (70 Powell Rd., Springfield)

 

Share bouncing and tickling rhymes, peek-a-boo games, short books, nursery rhymes, and music. Meet at the Youth Services entrance and walk to the park together. Bring your own blanket. Free; pre-register online.

Nest Outdoor Family Yoga 

August 2, 10:15 am

Rittenhouse Square

 

Nest Yoga Adventures uses creative storytelling along with an engaging flow of movement to support families looking to get in touch with their bodies and spirits. Kids ages 2-5 welcome. Pre-registration required.

Grow Up Green

August 2, 10:30–11:30 am

Sister Cities Park, 210 N. 18th St.

 

Philadelphia Parks and Recreation will take kids on an imaginative journey that emphasizes the importance of outdoor play with nature-inspired lessons and hands-on activities.

PlayMusic Family at Penn Treaty Park 

August 2, 10:30 am

Palmer Park, Frankford Ave. and E. Palmer St.

 

PlayArts takes their popular family music class for kids ages 5 and under to the park! Little ones will play instruments, move their bodies, and learn musical foundations along the way. Pre-register online.

Baby Storytime with Parkway Central Library

August 2, 10:30 am

Shakespeare Park, 1901 Vine St.

 

Join Miss Mary Mondays at 10:30 am at Shakespeare Park (across the street from the library on Vine St) for Baby Storytime. Enjoy stories, songs, and fun! This program is intended for kids ages 2 and under and their caregivers. Weather-permitting. Please check CCD’s social media for cancellations day-of.

Virtual First Notes Preschool Music

August 2, 10:30 am

 

Together with Bala Cynwyd Library, the Music Training Center of Ardmore will present free toe-tapping virtual music classes for preschool kids (age 5 and under). Free; pre-register online to save your spot and get the Zoom link.

Baby Music & Movement at Malcolm X Park

August 2, 11 am

5100 Pine St.

 

Enjoy interactive songs, instruments, and much more! This free program is intended for ages 2 and under and their caregivers.

Crafts with Fabric Workshop and Museum at Sister Cities Park

August 2, 11:30 am

Sister Cities Park, 210 N. 18th St.

 

Join The Fabric Workshop and Museum to explore themes in their current exhibit, Hard/Cover. Kids will have the opportunity to create river prints, moon viewers, playful patterns, secret seed sculptures, and objects for a community table.


Tuesday

Nature Club at Dixon Meadow Preserve

August 3, 9–11 am

548 Flourtown Rd., Lafayette Hill

 

Join Andorra Library and Whitmarsh Foundation for a five-session program at Dixon Meadow Preserve. Participants will be given books, art, and writing supplies; learn about birds, butterflies, plants, and animals from expert naturalists every week. For grades 5-9. Space is limited; sign up by emailing libraryandorra@gmail.com

What Happens Next? Sidewalk Murals

August 3, 10 am–noon

FDR Park, 1500 Pattison Ave.

 

Young children and their families will explore new textures, colors, and sensations with the help of professional teaching artists from Fleisher Art Memorial. Participants will also receive art kits with materials and recipes to bring the creativity home! All events and materials are free; no registration required.

PlayArts Movement Lab

August 3, 10 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.

Garden Storytime at Donatucci Library

August 3, 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.

Toddler Time in the Park

August 3, 10 am

Meet at Springfield Township Library (70 Powell Rd., Springfield)

 

Stories, finger plays, puppets, rhymes, dancing, and music liven the atmosphere as concepts such as colors, numbers, and letters are introduced. The program is about 20 minutes long. Free; pre-register online.

Stories on the Porch

August 3, 10 am and 11 am

Media-Upper Providence Free Library, 1 E. Front St., Media

 

Children ages 0-5 are invited to join the library to sing, listen to stories, do movement activities and watch puppets on the covered porch. Free; pre-register online, as space is limited.

Story Art at Sister Cities Park

August 3, 10:30 am

Sister Cities Park, 210 N. 18th St.

 

The Free Library of Philadelphia will bring their popular storytime program outdoors for a morning full of movement, songs, and imagination. 

Stories in McMichael Park

August 3, 10:30 am

3299 Midvale Ave.

 

Falls of Schuylkill Library’s Ms. Meredith will be reading two books about emotions and nature at McMichael Park.

Fun Ballers: Outdoor Preschool Sports

August 3, 11:30 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.

Nature in the Park: Investigation Station

August 3, 11:30 am

Sister Cities Park, 210 N. 18th St.

 

Join the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, and go wild with fun games, experiments, and unique activities! Learn how animals, bugs, and dinosaurs are affected by climate change.

Games in the Park

August 3, 1–3:30 pm

Norris Square Park, 2100 N. Howard St.

 

Meet Kensington Library in the Northeast corner of the park every Tuesday for games, books and activities. Best for ages 8 and up.

Virtual At-Home Anthro: Think Like an Anthropologist

August 3, 1 pm

 

Step into the role of an anthropologist to unpack interesting information that artifacts can tell us, just by using your eyes. Learn the skills to decode secrets about artifacts by closely observing, questioning, and talking about them. This 45-minute session with the Penn Museum is free, and perfect for elementary and middle school kids. Pre-register online.

Virtual New Parent Virtual Support Group

August 3, 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.

Puppets with Amazing Mr. Q

August 3, 3 pm

Bustleton Library, 10199 Bustleton Ave.

 

Gather outside the library for a puppet performance, animal balloon creations, and giveaways for kids and teens.

Bird Lover’s Club for Kids

August 3, 4 pm

Chestnut Hill Library, 8711 Germantown Ave.

 

Children ages 3 and up will meet outside the library to learn about bird behavior through hands-on activities, stories, and crafts.

Woofstock Summer Concert

August 3, 5:30 pm

Seger Park, 1020 Lombard St.

 

Enjoy weekly live music at Seger Dog Park. Stay and play at the playground!

National Night Out

August 3, 6–9 pm

Wynnewood Shopping Center, 50 E. Wynnewood Rd., Wynnewood

 

Enjoy carnival rides, live music, games, food, and more at this annual night devoted to promoting police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.

Virtual Pajama Storytime with Haverford Township Free Library

August 3, 7 pm

 

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

August 3, 7 pm

 

Join Radnor Memorial Library and Main Point Books for a conversation with two beloved Newbery Award winning authors. Jerry Spinelli and Rebecca Stead will discuss Jerry’s new middle grade novel Dead Wednesday, the story of eighth-grader, Worm Tarnauer, who meets a ghost in order to start living his own life. Signed first edition books will be available from Main Point Books. Live via Zoom; pre-register online.


Wednesday

Goats to Storytime

August 4, 10 am

Falls of Schuylkill Library, 3501 Midvale Ave.

 

Join the Philly Goat Project for a free goat walk, interactive production of the Philly Goats Gruff, and some shady story reading with friendly furry friends. All ages welcome.

Upper Darby Summer Stage: ‘Spookley the Square Pumpkin’

August 4, 10:30 am

Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, 601 N. Lansdowne Ave., Drexel Hill

 

Celebrate Halloween in August this year with this fun kids’ musical! Tickets available online.

Creative Movement with Pennsylvania Ballet

August 4, 10:30–11:30 am

Sister Cities Park, 210 N. 18th St.

 

Instructors from the Pennsylvania Ballet will teach young children how to express themselves through the art of dance! These outdoor movement classes will include African dance and ballet movement.

Music and Movement with Free Library of Philadelphia

August 4, 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.

Virtual Brandywine Zoo: Ask an Animal Expert

August 4, 10:30 am

 

Join animal expert Daisy Fiore from the Brandywine Zoo to learn all about zoo animal diets and talk about an assortment of healthy animal foods. Free; pre-register online for the Zoom link.

Free Outdoor Fun with the Barnes Foundation at Mifflin Square Park

August 4, 11 am

Sixth and Ritner streets

 

A teaching artist will perform original plays inspired by some popular kids’ books, and will have art activities and art kits to hand out to kids! Ideal for kids ages 2-5 years old with their families. Free and open to all.

 CantiCuentos: Spanish Songs and Stories for Kids

August 4, 11 am

420 S. Perth St.

 

Babies and toddlers (ages 0-5) will learn Spanish songs and stories at this weekly outdoor playgroup. Bring your own blanket! $10 per family.

Virtual Ballet with Ballet 180

August 4, 11 am

 

Join Ballet 180 for a movement class on Zoom! Children ages 3 and up will be introduced to dance terminology, various music, new ways to communicate through movement, and exciting games. Participants will explore the action words in a story discovering creative ways to engage with a story.  Free; pre-registration required.

 Dog Days at Elmwood Park Zoo

August 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 Rap It Up! Workshop

August 4, 1 pm

 

Hip Hop and high tech collide, in this virtual workshop from spoken word artist and award-winning illustrator Jeffery Weatherford. Learn about hip hop history and the technology behind the beats and rhymes; see the hardware and software for recording and mixing tracks at home, and compose your own rap lyrics. For ages 10-18. This is a Zoom webinar which will also be shared live on Facebook, on the Youth Services and Programs page (https://www.facebook.com/FLPYouthServices) and will not be recorded.

Kids’ Yoga in Linwood Park

August 4, 4 pm

Linwood Park, Ardmore

 

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

Arts on Center Stage at Dilworth Park

August 4, 5:30 pm

Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th St.

 

Philadelphia’s robust network of arts and culture organizations, large and small, will be celebrated every week as they hold free performances at Dilworth Park this summer. This week, the Philly POPS little BIG Band will tune up for their Lights Up! Showtime! season with hits inspired by Motown and Sinatra.

Outdoor Movie Night at Sunset Social: ‘The Lion King’

August 4, 6 pm

129 S. 30th St.

 

Ride the elevator to the top of the city, and gather on Cira Green for movie night with a view. Lawn games begin at 5 pm, and movies begin at 6 pm. Food and drink are available on site.

Outdoor Concert: The BeatTells

August 4, 7 pm

2903 Walton Road, Plymouth Meeting

 

Bring a blanket enjoy the music of The Beatles at this free tribute concert.

Outdoor Concert at Pastorius Park

August 4, 7:30 pm

Millman Street and West Hartwell Lane, Chestnut Hill

 

Bring your blankets and catch Worldtown Soundsystem at this free outdoor concert.

Virtual Not A Peep Sleep Workshop

August 4, 8 pm

 

During this virtual workshop, sleep expert Maria Lopez of Not a Peep will teach you about the science of children’s sleep, why problems occur, how to prevent them and how to troubleshoot your current issues. topics include children’s sleep, ideal routines for each age, common sleep problems: regressions, night wakings, and short naps. Pre-register online, and bring all your questions!


Thursday

Rollin’ Rockers: Music and Movement

August 5, 9:30 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.

What a Hoot! Owl Stories and a Craft

August 5, 10 am

Media-Upper Providence Free Library, 1 E. Front St., Media

 

Kids ages 3.5 to 8 are invited for storytime and crafts on the porch. Free; pre-register online.

Upper Darby Summer Stage: ‘Spookley the Square Pumpkin’

August 5, 10:30 am

Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, 601 N. Lansdowne Ave., Drexel Hill

 

Celebrate Halloween in August this year with this fun kids’ musical! Tickets available online.

Storytime Fun in Shakespeare Park

August 5, 10:30 am

1901 Vine St.

 

Children ages 2-5 and their caregivers are invited to join the Free Library of Philadelphia in Shakespeare Park every Thursday during Summer of Wonder for a fun and exciting in-person, socially distanced storytime activity.

Art Museum Playdate in the Garden

August 5, 10:30 am and 1 pm

Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

 

Discover art in the Sculpture Garden, engage in looking activities, and make art outdoors. Best for ages 4–8. Free; pre-register online.

Garden Storytime

August 5, 10:30 am

Chestnut Hill Library, 8711 Germantown Ave.

 

Stories and rhymes celebrating all things summer for ages 3 and older (siblings welcome too). This program will take place in the library’s garden, weather permitting.

Virtual Summer of Wonder: Origami Workshop

August 5, 11 am

 

Discover the history of origami and why it is important today, then learn some hands-on origami skills for yourself! This program will take place on Facebook Live via the Youth Services and Programs page  (https://www.facebook.com/FLPYouthServices) and the video will be available for one month. 

Fun Ballers: Outdoor Preschool Sports

August 5, 11:30 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.

Hip Hop Fundamentals

August 5, 1:30 pm

McPherson Square Park, 601 E. Indiana Ave.

 

Join Hip Hop Fundamentals outside in McPherson Square Park and learn to dance hip hop in a free, six-week series. Feel free to bring a mat, but it is not required. In case of inclement weather the workshop will be moved indoors to the library.

Tween/Teen Crafts on the Porch: Book Hedgehog

August 5, 4 pm

Media-Upper Providence Free Library, 1 E. Front St., Media

 

Make an adorable hedgehog out of a repurposed book! All materials provided. Best for people ages 9 and up. Free; pre-register online.

Manayunk Stroll the Street

August 5, 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.

Live at Sister Cities Park

August 5, 5–8 pm

210 N. 18th St.

 

Live at Sister Cities Park brings local singer-songwriters together for a season-long party on the Parkway! A variety of snacks will be available for purchase at Sister Cities Café, including beer and wine (Please note, this program is not BYOB). Everyone is required to wear a mask and practice social distancing. Kids are free to frolic in the Children’s Discovery Garden and Boat Pond, which will stay open late.

Disney on Ice

August 5, 7 pm

Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St.

 

Get on your best princess dress and bring your light-up wand for skating, music, and adventure. Mickey’s Search Party includes favorite characters like Elsa, Ariel, Moana, Belle, and Miguel from Coco. Of course, Mickey, Minnie, and the whole gang are there too. Tickets available online.

Upper Darby Summer Stage: ‘Spookley the Square Pumpkin’

August 5, 7 pm

Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, 601 N. Lansdowne Ave., Drexel Hill

 

Celebrate Halloween in August this year with this fun kids’ musical! Tickets available online.

Conshohocken Summer Concert Series: The Boatloads

August 5, 7 pm

Mary Wood Park, Conshohocken

 

Bring lawn chairs and blankets into the park to set up a spot on the grass for a free night of music.

Kids’ Concert at Rose Tree Park: The Fabulous Greaseband

August 5, 7 pm

Rose Tree Park, 1671 N. Providence Road, Media

 

Bring your own blanket for oldies and classic rock Rose Tree Park.

Virtual Mystery Night for High Schoolers

August 5, 7 pm

 

Witches and wizards of Charmstone Academy, the headmistress has called an emergency meeting! Each participant will receive a part to play and solve a crime together. Attendance is limited to 10, and pre-registration is required.

Virtual Transitional Times Workshop with Miss Catherine

August 5, 7:30 pm

 

Join Miss Catherine via Zoom to discuss the best ways to transition to many different growth activities during toddlerhood: potty training, moving to a “big kid bed,” starting school, introducing a sibling, and promoting self-care and independence. Best for parents of ages 0-5. Pre-register online for the Zoom link.

Movies in the Park: ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’

August 5, sundown

Upper Roxborough Reservoir

 

Thanks to grants from Fairmount Park Conservancy, neighborhood parks around the city will be transformed into outdoor movie theaters on summer nights. Movies are BYOB (Bring Your Own Blanket) and begin at dusk. In case of rain, movies will be rescheduled by one week.

Outdoor Movie in Dilworth Park: ‘Jumanji: The Next Level’

August 5, 8:30 pm

1 S. 15th St.

 

Outdoor movie nights on the big screen return to Dilworth Park this summer during Pictures in the Park! This week, it’s the live-action version of The Lion King. Showtime begins at 8:30 pm, and virtual movie trivia will be offered at 8:15 pm. Bring your own blankets and chairs. Movie theater snacks will be available for purchase at the Air Grille, including freshly popped popcorn, candy boxes, and soft drinks.


Friday

Sand Jam Music and Movement

August 6, 9:30 am

Rittenhouse Square

 

In this Jamboree style class, kids ages 1-4 will explore engaging movement activities through a dynamic musical lens with Sandcastle Fun Co. Drop-in passes available online.

Stories on the Porch

August 6, 10 am and 11 am

Media-Upper Providence Free Library, 1 E. Front St., Media

 

Children ages 0-5 are invited to join the library to sing, listen to stories, do movement activities and watch puppets on the covered porch. Free; pre-register online, as space is limited.

Outdoor Storytime at Veterans Memorial Park

August 6, 10 am

354 Lawrence Road, Broomall

 

Weekly outdoor storytime in the gazebo at Veterans Memorial Park on Lawrence Road. Stories, songs, rhymes, wiggles, and fun! Recommended for kids ages 5 and under, but all are welcome.

Disney on Ice

August 6; 11 am, 3 pm, and 7 pm

Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St.

 

Get on your best princess dress and bring your light-up wand for skating, music, and adventure. Mickey’s Search Party includes favorite characters like Elsa, Ariel, Moana, Belle, and Miguel from Coco. Of course, Mickey, Minnie, and the whole gang are there too. Tickets available online.

Unbirthday Party at Ardmore Library

August 6, 11 am

108 Ardmore Ave., Ardmore

 

Kids ages 4-9 are invited to an “unbirthday party” and carnival with several stations set up for making a party hat, playing Alice in Wonderland inspired games, and “painting” the roses red. Space is limited, so pre-register online.

Frozen Escape Room Party

August 6, 11 am

Tinicum Memorial Public Library, 620 Seneca St., Essington

 

Join the library for a story and an awesome escape room, then bring home your very own Olaf take-and-make craft! The escape room is aimed towards ages 10-12, but younger children are welcome to join in on the fun! Space is limited, so pre-register online.

 Dog Days at Elmwood Park Zoo

August 6, 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.

Make a Mini Bottle Rocket

August 6, 3 pm

Upper Darby Township/Sellers Library, 76 S. State Rd., Upper Darby

 

Kids in preschool through second grade can make and launch a water bottle rocket using just a plastic bottle, water, and baking soda. Pre-register online, as space is limited.

Virtual: Art Club at Home

August 6, 3:30 pm

 

In this virtual program, create abstract works by playing with line, shape, and color with the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Best for ages 6–10. Free; pre-register online.

First Friday at Cherry Street Pier

August 6, 4–9 pm

121 N. Columbus Ave.

 

Enjoy the river views, see the Pier’s resident artists at work in their studios, shop the artisan market, and treat yourself to some on-site concessions.

Friday Night Dinos & Bites at Philadelphia Zoo

August 6, 5–8 pm

3400 W. Girard Ave.

 

To make our summer even more dino-riffic, the zoo has extended Friday night hours with the dino-themed food and fun of Big Time! Tickets available online.

Franklin Square Summer Splash

August 6, 5–9:30 pm

200 N. Sixth St.

 

To celebrate summer, Franklin Square is hosting a variety of local acoustic artists to entertain guests every weekend! Plus, the Franklin Square Fountain show runs every half hour with choreographed lights and music.

Narberth First Fridays

August 6, 5 – 9 pm

Downtown Narberth

 

Head to downtown Narberth for their First Friday events that include beer tastings and live music, and shop the stores that stay open late. 

Kids’ Night at Philly Rock Gym

August 6, 5:30–7:30 pm

All PRG locations

 

Kids’ Night offers two hours of unlimited Top Rope climbing hosted by PRG’s belay staff for kids ages 6-15 every Friday night. Plus, it’s drop-off, so you can go grab an adults-only dinner! Pre-register online.

Friday Night unWINEd

August 6, 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.

First Friday at Everfresh Yoga

August 6, 6–9 pm

2333 W. Darby Rd., Havertown

 

Support local artists and enjoy live music, refreshments, and community at this free event.

Julian Abele Park Summer Concert Series

August 6, 6–8 pm

Julian Abele Park, 22nd and Carpenter streets

 

Friends of Julian Abele Park will host free music and entertainment throughout the summer that’s fun for the whole family. Pack a picnic, including your beverage(s) of choice, for the music of Douglas Gillin.

Tuck Everlasting: The Musical

August 6, 7:30 pm

Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, 601 N. Lansdowne Ave., Drexel Hill

 

Based on the classic novel, which inspired a Disney movie, this charming new Broadway musical tells the tale of Winnie Foster as she yearns for excitement beyond her white picket fence. Best for ages 12 and up. Tickets available online.

Movies in Clark Park: ‘Black Panther’

August 6, sundown
4300-4398 Baltimore Ave.

 

The park will transform into an outdoor amphitheater to showcase a great lineup of films projected on a giant screen. Audiences are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair, and to make advance reservations for each screening. Reservation links will be provided one week before the film, and a limited number of walk-up spaces will also be reserved.

First Friday Movies Under the Stars and Stripes: ‘Alligator People’

August 6, sundown

Betsy Ross House, 239 Arch St.

 

Enjoy $7 admission, a tour of the Betsy Ross House, and a 1950’s campy sci fi movie in the courtyard! Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, as seating is limited, and you may bring food and a bottle of wine to watch the movie. Buy tickets here.


Weekend Events

Disney on Ice

August 5–8

Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S. Broad St.

 

Get on your best princess dress and bring your light-up wand for skating, music, and adventure. Mickey’s Search Party includes favorite characters like Elsa, Ariel, Moana, Belle, and Miguel from Coco. Of course, Mickey, Minnie, and the whole gang are there too. Tickets available online.

Peach Month Kickoff Weekend in Peddler’s Village

August 7 and 8

 

Take a trip to Peddler’s Village for a weekend of summer festivities including live entertainment, family activities, a petting zoo, local peaches and peach treats, and much more!

Shadybrook Farm Sunflower Festival

August 7 and 8

931 Stony Hill Rd., Yardley

 

Stroll through the beautiful sunflower fields, pick your own flowers and peaches, take wagon rides, play in the playground, and more family fun on the farm! Tickets available online.

Candytopia

Through Labor Day

901 Market St.

 

This immersive– and highly instaworthy– pop-up devoted to all things sweet returns to Fashion District Philadelphia for a second limited run. Jump in the marshmallow pit filled with over 250,000 foam marshmallows, the rainbow-filled room with flying unicorn pigs and confetti explosions, and much more– plus candy in every room! Advance tickets required online. 

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

Through 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. 

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!

Art Kids Studio: Field of Flowers

August 7 and 8, 10:30 am–3 pm

Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

 

In this drop-in family program, celebrate someone special by printing and stamping to create a project inspired by the work of Faith Ringgold.​ Artists of all ages are welcome. Included with admission (kids under 12 are always free at the art museum). 

Crayola IDEAworks: The Creativity Exhibition at the Franklin Institute

Through November 28

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.\

Parks on Tap 

Wednesdays through Sundays

100 N. Horticultural Drive, Fairmount Park; and Water Works, 640 Waterworks Drive

 

The popular family-friendly beer garden benefiting Philly settles at the beautiful Horticulture Center grounds and Waterworks for the season.  Reservations are strongly recommended, and masks are required.

‘Big Time’ at the Philadelphia Zoo

Through September 30; advance tickets required

3400 W. Girard Ave.

 

The Philadelphia Zoo will host 24 life-size animatronic dinosaurs in a new and exciting experience that’s sure to be a must-do for any little dino-lover in your family. Big Time: Life in an Endangerous Age will take guests through the Age of Dinosaurs through to the present day, showing the powerful changes and challenges that caused them to become extinct—and how other creatures survived. Advance tickets are required due to high demand and reduced capacity. Social distancing and masks will continue to be required for guests ages 2 and older.

Elmwood Park Zoo’s Zoo Revue Concerts

August 7 and 8, 11 am–3 pm

1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown

 

Every weekend throughout the summer, EPZ hosts live entertainment as various talented performers take the Zoo Revue stage! Included with admission.


Saturday

Free Library Summer of Wonder Sendoff with Author Janay Anderson

August 7, 10:30 am

Shakespeare Park, 1901 Vine St.

 

Meet across from the library, where local author Janay Anderson will read her book I Love My Curls and teach kids about hair positivity and self-love. This event is for children ages 11 and under and their families. Each child will receive a free book and Summer of Wonder prizes, courtesy of the Free Library. Attendees will also have an opportunity to purchase a copy of I Love My Curls and get the book signed by the author.

Cruiser Movers

August 7, 10:30 am

Rittenhouse Square

 

Join Sandcastle Fun Co. for fun and creative movement games that are sure to excite your toddlers (18 months-3 years). Drop-in passes available online.

Schuylkill Saturday: Self-Guided Nature Exploration for Families

August 7, 10 am

Schuylkill Center, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road

 

Pick up a nature exploration kit at the Visitor Center and then hit the trails with your family to complete the activities inside. Dive into a different theme and collect a new explorer badge each week. Explorer kits can be picked up anytime between 10 am and noon. All ages welcome. No registration or fee required. Masks are required when picking up your kit.

Big Ideas for Little Learners featuring the Positive Movement Drumline

August 7, 11 am and 1 pm

National Liberty Museum, 321 Chestnut St.

 

Join NLM for this month’s Read ‘n’ Romp story hour featuring the Positive Movement Drumline! Read Be a King: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s Dream and You by Carole Boston Weatherford and learn what it means to be responsible. Positive Movement will lead children and families in a drumstick-making workshop, and Lila Liberty and NLM Educators will help you make your very own “Giving Gloves” to practice taking care of yourself, others, and the world around you. Attending families can also bring home Take & Do bags to continue learning all month long. Positive Movement will lead a workshop and musical performance at noon; pre-register, as space is limited. Free with museum admission. Best for PreK children and their families.

Feathered Serpent and the Five Suns Storytime and Craft

August 7, 11 am

Belmont Hills Library, 120 Mary Waters Ford Rd., Bala Cynwyd

 

Miss Gwen will read a folktale by author/illustrator Duncan Tonatiuh and make a feathered serpent. Pre-register online for a free take‐home project kit.

Cartoon Picnic at Sunset Social

August 7, noon–3 pm

129 S. 30th St.

 

An afternoon of cartoons on the big screen, lawn games, and food and drink specials atop the city.

Mixed Media Family Workshop at Main Line Art Center

August 7, 1 pm

746 Panmure Road, Haverford

 

Learn a variety of techniques, skills, and processes revolving around the art of mixed media, and experiment with the endless possibilities of art while enjoying time together. For kids ages 7 and up with a guardian. Pre-register online.

Tuck Everlasting: The Musical

August 7, 7:30 pm

Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, 601 N. Lansdowne Ave., Drexel Hill

 

Based on the classic novel, which inspired a Disney movie, this charming new Broadway musical tells the tale of Winnie Foster as she yearns for excitement beyond her white picket fence. Best for ages 12 and up. Tickets available online.

Science in the Wild: Bug Night Crawl

August 7, 7:30 pm

Rushton Conservation Center, 911 Delchester Road, Newtown Square

 

When the sun goes down, the bugs come out! Join our scientists from the Academy of Natural Sciences as the night comes alive at Rushton Conservation Center for an exclusive outdoor opportunity to do some community science. Take a guided flashlight tour of the preserve and discover the invertebrate species that live there. Try your hand at light-trapping and learn how this awesome entomology technique helps track invertebrates of all stripes. You’ll meet real scientists and find out how research at the Academy is making the world a better place, one many-legged specimen at a time. Tickets available online.

Delaware County Summer Festival at Rose Tree Park: Four Lean Hounds

August 7, 7:30 pm

Rose Tree Park, 1671 N. Providence Road, Media

 

Bring your own blanket for a free outdoor performance of acoustic Grateful Dead favorites.


Sunday

Petapalooza

August 8, 11 am–2 pm

Germantown Avenue, Chestnut Hill

 

Celebrate your four-legged friends, with a variety of activities for both animals and their favorite humans along Germantown Avenue. Treat your furry pals to a day in the refreshing doggie pools and dog parkour! Plus, enter raffles, try out pet treat samples, take some photos on the Petapalooza runway, get a drawing by the pet caricaturist, and visit dog training exhibitions and onsite pet providers. If you don’t have a dog (or just want more!) more than a dozen pet rescue and adoption agencies will be there, too! Check out specials and dog-friendly restaurants throughout the Avenue as well.

The Rock and Roll Playhouse: Grateful Dead for Kids!

August 8, 11:45 am (doors at 10:45 am)

Ardmore Music Hall, 23 E. Lancaster Ave., Ardmore

 

Using the songs from the most iconic musicians in rock history, the Rock and Roll Playhouse offers its core audience (typically kids ages 3-8 years old) games, movement, stories, and of course an opportunity to rock! Tickets available online.

Touch a Truck

August 8, noon—4 pm

Chester County Government Services Building Parking Lot, 601 Westtown Road, West Chester

 

This free, hands-on event gives children the opportunity to see, touch, interact with and learn about dozens of vehicles.

Sunday Fun Day at Awbury Arboretum

August 8, 1–4 pm

The Farm at Awbury, 6336 Ardleigh St.

 

Every Sunday is a Fun Day at The Farm at Awbury Arboretum! Free family-friendly activities every weekend: See the goats and chickens, take wellness classes, go on farm tours, and more. The Philly Goat Project will be on site from 2–4 pm. All events are free.

Bluebird Nesting Box Tour

August 8, 1 pm

Tyler Arboretum, 515 Painter Rd., Media

 

For the past fifty years, volunteers at Tyler Arboretum have been monitoring the nesting activities of the Eastern Bluebird. Join them for a tour to check on bluebird boxes, active nests of bluebirds, and young nestlings. This family-friendly program ends by providing you with a chance to catch up on the progress of the arboretum’s new nest box live camera program. Tickets available online.

Virtual Tuck Everlasting: The Musical

August 8, 2 pm

 

If you can’t make the show in person, UDPAC is streaming it, too! Based on the classic novel, which inspired a Disney movie, this charming new Broadway musical tells the tale of Winnie Foster as she yearns for excitement beyond her white picket fence. Best for ages 12 and up. Tickets available online.

Jazz on the Parkway

August 8, 4 pm

Capriccio Café and Bar at Cret Park, 110 N. 16th St.

 

Local jazz ensembles will perform every Sunday afternoon this summer at Cret Park. Grab a drink or snack, or just grab some lawn seating to enjoy the music.

Delaware County Summer Festival at Rose Tree Park: 22 Park Avenue

August 8, 7:30

Rose Tree Park, 1671 N. Providence Road, Media

 

Bring your own blanket and picnic, and enjoy a free concert of Big Band music.

 

 

Photograph courtesy of Feld Entertainment.

Contributing Writer

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