There’s not much better on a summer night than packing a picnic and sitting out with the kids, listening to music while the sun sets. Here’s this year’s list of Philly outdoor concerts; admission is free unless otherwise noted.

Smith Playground’s Kidchella

June 18, July 16, and August 13; 5–7:30 pm
Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse, 3500 Reservoir Drive

 

Enjoy music all evening long at Smith Playground! Enjoy food trucks, giveaways, pre-show performances, and fun on the Playground before the main concert at 6 pm. Bring a blanket and bring dinner or buy it from on-site foodtrucks. Tickets available online.

• June 18: Johnny Shortcake and Ms. Niki
• July 16: Alex & the Kaleidoscope and City Love
• August 13: Lard Dog and the Band of Shy and Larissa Hopwood Band

Live at Sister Cities Park

Thursdays through August 26, 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. Kids are free to frolic in the Children’s Discovery Garden and Boat Pond, which will stay open late.

The Arts on Center Stage at Dilworth Park

Wednesdays through August 25, 5:30 pm

1 S. 15th St.

 

Philadelphia’s robust network of arts and cultural organizations, large and small, will be celebrated every week as they perform in the center of the city. Shows will range from orchestral serenades and ballet ensembles to jazz instrumentals and beyond. The Air Grille will stay open with dinner and drink options, and kids can splash in the fountain to cool off!

Woofstock Summer Concerts at Seger Park

Tuesdays at 5:30 pm

Seger Park, 1020 Lombard St.

 

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

Franklin Square Summer Splash

Fridays and Saturdays from July 16 – August 28, 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.

Jazz on the Parkway

Sundays at 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.

Julian Abele Park Summer Concert Series

Select Fridays throughout the summer, 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:

• July 16: Elegance Quartet
• July 23: aijeecello
• August 6: Douglas Gillin
• August 13: Jeff Pettit
• September 10: Kamara

Pastorius Park Free Summer Concert Series

Wednesdays through August 4, 7:30 pm
Pastorius Park, Hartwell Lane and Millman Street

 

Pastorius Park Concerts is the longest-running outdoor concert series. Families and friends bring blankets and chairs and enjoy the music.

• July 14: Andrew Lipke and the Azrael String Quartet
• July 21: Meghan Cary with Analog Gypsies
• July 28: Jack Saint Clair and his Orchestra
• August 4: Worldtown Soundsystem

Kahn Park Summer Concert Series

June 30, July 28, August 18, and September 19; 7:30 pm

1119 Pine St.

 

This free summer concert series returns with four dates this summer:

• June 30: Hank’s Cadillac
• July 28: Dukes of Destiny
• August 18: Ensemble Novo
• September 19: Merion Concert Band

40th Street Summer Series

Returning for 2021; schedule TBA (check back soon!)

39th and Walnut streets

 

The Summer Series includes giveaways, activities for kids, and great music! Activities begin at 5 pm, and the performances start at 6 pm. Bring chairs or blankets and get ready to have fun!

 

 

Photograph courtesy of Smith Memorial Playground.