Plan the perfect weekend with our picks.

 

Click here for ongoing events that run through the weekend, like all the museum exhibits.

All Weekend

Opening Weekend of ‘Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes’

April 13–September 2

Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th St.

 

Franklin Institute unveils an immersive exhibition featuring more than 300 original artifacts, including some of Marvel’s most iconic costumes, props, and original artwork, plus some one-of-a-kind photo ops! Read all about it in our preview.

Sesame Street Live

April 11—14

Liacouras Center, 1776 N. Broad St.

 

Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic brings Elmo, Abby, Cookie Monster, and the whole gang to Philly this spring! Sing and dance along with your favorite furry friends, and learn something along the way. A pre-show Meet and Greet experience with Elmo (and two muppets to be named later) is available as an add-on.

Anastasia

April 9—14

Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.

 

As Anya uncovers her mysterious past as the lost Grand Duchess, you’ll be swept away in 1920s style and show-stopping musical numbers. Journey to the past with the hit Broadway musical adapted from the animated film Anastasia.

Sake Garden at Shofuso

April 13—14, 1—9 pm
Horticultural and Lansdowne drives

 

Returning for this year’s Cherry Blossom Festival is the Sake Garden, a pop-up beer garden from one of our favorite family-friendly al fresco experiences, Parks on Tap. The garden will have beer, cocktails, and Asian fusion fare available to purchase and enjoy beneath the trees of Fairmount Park (along the walking path towards the gazebo and sundial). Be sure to check the website and social media, because the garden will not be open in cases of inclement weather.

Animal Superhero Weekend

April 13–14

Academy of Natural Sciences, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

 

How much do the superheroes of the animal kingdom inspire the superheroes (and supervillains) of comic books and movies? More than you think! Explore the real-life super abilities of animals from around the world with live animal shows, activity stations, crafts, and more. Come in your favorite superhero costume!

Pinkalicious: The Musical

March 29–April 14

Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St.

 

This “cupcake-tastic” musical based on the popular kids’ books by Victoria Kann and Elizabeth Kann is a fun and charming story for kids of all ages. Part of the WST for Kids series, this play has a very manageable one-hour runtime.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

Through April 28
Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St.

 

Winner of the Tony Award for Best Play, this adaptation of the popular novel is great for teens. See the world through the eyes of a unique fifteen-year-old as he investigates the death of his neighbor’s dog after being accused of the crime. Walnut Street Theatre has included a study guide online for anyone who wants to learn more.

Spring Training: Benjamin Flower’s Artificers and Makers

April 13—14, 10 am—5 pm

Museum of the American Revolution, 101 S. Third St.

 

Join costumed living historians as they recreate the work of supplying the army. During the Revolutionary War, Philadelphian Benjamin Flower commanded a group of “artificers,” soldiers who made and repaired cartridge boxes, canteens, and cannon carriages for the Continental Army. Discuss this work with costumed interpreters including hatter Andrew W. Kirk, shoemaker Brett Walker, seamstress Jana Violante, carpenter Brian McDonald, and tailor Dan Center, and try your hand at an array of trades.

The Berserker Residents present ‘Broccoli, Roosevelt and Mr. House’

April 12—14

FringeArts, 140 N. Columbus Blvd.

 

Recommended for kids ages 5 and up with their families, the Berserker Residents have whipped up a comedy that’s unpredictable, original, fun, vibrant, and sometimes interactive! Tickets available online.

Saturday

Access to Science: Opening Doors to Autism

April 13, 9—11 am

Academy of Natural Sciences, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

 

Children on the spectrum and their families are invited to experience the museum before the crowds. You can visit with the dinosaurs, and all the other exhibits, at your own pace. Pre-registration is required (same-day registration is available onsite). If you would like to attend, please contact visitor services at 215-299-1060 or reservations@ansp.org

Cherry Blossom Days at Morris Arboretum

April 13, 10 am — 3 pm
Morris Arboretum, 100 E. Northwestern Ave.

 

Experience the beauty of Morris Arboretum’s cherry tree collection in bloom, as well as traditional Japanese cultural activities to celebrate the season. The events will feature taiko drum performances, a traditional tea demonstration on April 13, and more. And if the weather cooperates, you can go on a 45-minute guided Cherry Walk to appreciate the variety of cherry species planted throughout the arboretum.

Glen Foerd Easter Egg Hunt

April 13, 10 am — 1 pm

5001 Grant Ave.

 

When children aren’t hunting for eggs at this historic mansion on the Delaware, they are welcome to visit with the Easter Bunny and enjoy children’s crafts.

Easter Egg Hunt in FDR Park

April 13, 10 am—noon

20^th St. and Pattison Ave.

 

 

Come for food, candy, prizes, and fun! Top prizes include a Nintendo Switch.

Kids Explore: Forest

April 13, 10 am—noon

Wissahickon Environmental Center (Tree House), 300 West Northwestern Ave.

 

Kids ages 6-12 will go climbing over fallen trees, scrambling over rocks, running through a field, and much more as they learn to navigate the forest. Space limited; pre-registration required. Drop-off optional.

 Woodworking, Wooden Toys and Storytelling

April 13, 10 am—12:30 pm

Pennypack Environmental Center, 8600 Verree Rd., Philadelphia

 

 

Pennypack hosts a day of old fashioned woodworking demonstrations with hatchet, drawknife and penknife, making spoons and wooden toys. Storytelling sessions will take place at 11 am and 1:30 pm.

Arden Bookworms

April 13, 10—10:45 am

Hamilton Family Arts Center, 62 N. Second Street

 

Preschoolers (age 2-4) will read Jabari Jumps, and then use theater games, music, and creative movement to bring the story to life. Pre-register online.

Schuylkill River Trail Opening Trails Day

April 13, 10 am—2 pm

Schuylkill Center, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road

 

 

Celebrate Opening Trails Day at the Schuylkill Center’s new entrance to the Schuylkill River Trail. Create a nature craft, participate in a trail beautification project, and learn about the important health benefits of getting outside.

East Passyunk Easter Egg Hunt

April 13, 10:30 am—1: 30 pm (Rain Date: April 14)

South Philadelphia Older Adult Center, 1430 E. Passyunk Ave.

 

Kids will decorate egg-collecting bags, pose for photos with the Easter Bunny, enjoy music from BenFM and then hunt for eggs filled with toys and candy. Hunts are staggered by age group: kids 4 and under at 11 am, kids 5-7 at noon, kids 8-10 at 1 pm. Come 15-30 minutes before your age group. Be sure to check for special golden ticket eggs—they’ll be filled with gift certificates and prizes for kids and parents, too!

Schuylkill Saturday Special Edition: A Walk with a Wizard 

April 13, 10:30—11:30 am

Schuylkill Center, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road

 

Come take a magical walk, learning about spirits of the forest through stories from classical mythology. This whimsical and interactive hike will teach families about local flora and fauna through interactive storytelling. All ages welcome. No registration required.

Read and Romp at National Liberty Museum

April 13, 10:30—11:30 am

321 Chestnut St.

 

Kids ages 2-6 and their caregivers enjoy an exciting hour of imaginative storytelling, interactive games, and creative crafts centered around a book and its values. This week, read Not Norman: A Goldfish Story by Kelly Bennett and then do a pet-themed craft.

National Liberty Museum GiveBack Workshop: Little Free Library

April 13, 10:30 am—noon

321 Chestnut St.

 

You may have seen a Little Free Library around town—those decorative little boxes people can leave or take books. On Saturday, kids can help the museum create and decorate one that will be installed there! Families can also design fun bookmarks with messages of liberty for insertion in the library’s books. Children attending this workshop are welcome to bring a book to donate to the new library. Register online.

Easter Bunny Meet and Greet at Please Touch Museum

April 13, 11–11:30am, 12:30–1 pm, and 3–3:30 pm

4231 Avenue of the Republic

 

Celebrate springtime with special visits from the Easter Bunny throughout the day.

Penn Treaty Park Easter Egg Hunt

April 13, 11 am — noon

1199 N. Delaware Ave.

 

Free Easter egg hunt with prizes for all. Arrive before 11 am to ensure participation.

Macy’s Family Funday at AAMP

April 13, 11 am—3 pm

The African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch St.

 

Perfect for ages 5 and up. Macy’s Family Fun Day program will incorporate an exciting lineup of interactive art activities and performances all relating to April’s theme: “Express Yourself” in honor of National Poetry Month and Jazz Appreciation Month.  Activities include creating collage found poems and watercolor blow art, as well as special musical performances and workshops. The first 250 people get in free.

Baby Rave: No Sleep ‘Til Naptime

April 13, 11 am—2 pm

The Whole Shebang, 1813 S. 11th St.

 

A day rave for adults, kids, and babies! DJ music, snacks, and lots of dancing! Tickets available online.

Penn Museum Second Saturday: Cards, Dice, and Dominoes

April 13, 11 am—4 pm

3260 South St.

 

Discover a wide variety of board games from around the world. Learn how to play dominoes, design your own Mancala board, and take a scavenger hunt through the galleries!

Make Art with the Claymobile

April 13, 11 am—2 pm

4000 Woodland Avenue

 

Free art-making event led by The Clay Studio’s Claymobile. Children of all ages are invited to join in making clay pendants and participate in a large group clay sculpture project. The clay pendants will air-dry and can be taken home the same day. The event will take place at the historic Hamilton Mansion (and if it’s nice out, it will be outside).

Spring Stories

April 13, 11 am

Blanche A. Nixon/Cobbs Creek Library, 5800 Cobbs Creek Parkway

 

Come learn about spring with stories and crafts. This program is intended primarily for children ages 3-5 and their caregivers, but siblings of other ages are welcome.

SAT Practice Tests at the Library

April 13, 10 am

Teen Center at Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine St.

 

Start your SATurday right with SAT practice tests to improve your score. Contact TeenCenter@freelibrary.org or call 215-686-5395 for more info. Followed by a self-care workshop (see below).

Teen Self-Care Workshop

April 13, noon

Teen Center at Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine St.

 

Teens can explore efforts and crafts to help meet physical, emotional, and mental health needs. Contact TeenCenter@freelibrary.org or call 215-686-5395 for more info.

Indian Festival of Colors at Philadelphia Zoo

April 13, noon—4 pm

3400 W. Girard Ave.

 

Welcome spring with a day of Indian music, dancing, food, and fun featuring artists and vendors from Philadelphia’s vibrant Indian American community. Included with zoo admission.

Roxborough YMCA Egg Hunt

April 13, noon—1 pm

7201 Ridge Ave.

 

This free event is for ages 0-12, broken into four age groups.

Easter in Girard Park

April 13, 1–3 pm

Stephen Girard Park, 2552 S. 21st St.

 

Come for Easter egg hunts (those start promptly at 2 pm), crafts, DJ music, and a visit from the Bunny!

Literacy Carnival

April 13, 1 pm

South Philadelphia High School, 2101 S. Broad St.

 

Bethanna and the Mayor’s Office of Education present a family-friendly free afternoon of fun focused on reading! Enjoy carnival games, book giveaways, read alouds, performances, snacks, and more. Stop by the Free Library Book Bike to sign up for a library card, listen to a story, or check out a book.

Seafarin’ Saturday

April 13, 1:30—3:30 pm

Independence Seaport Museum,  211 S. Columbus Blvd.

 

Visit the MakerSpace,  and learn about the use of sea monsters on maps, and sailor myths and legends, by making your own sea dragon! Free with museum admission.

LGBTQ Teen Café

April 13, 1:30—4 pm

Tacony Library, 6742 Torresdale Ave.

 

Learn something new, meet new friends, or come to just chill with games and refreshments.

 Family Fest for Free Library of Philadelphia

April 13, 4—6 pm

Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine St.

 

At the Free Library of Philadelphia’s annual fundraiser, you and your family can enjoy crafts, storytelling, a kid-friendly buffet, and adult-friendly beverages. This event supports the library’s free programming throughout the city, like LEAP afterschool. Tickets available online.

‘The Muppet Movie’ at South Street Cinema

April 13, 4 pm

327 South St.

 

Watch the classic that started it all on the big screen. Featuring an epic road trip and songs like “Rainbow Connection,” it’s sure to delight the little ones.

Sunday

Sensory-Friendly Morning at Philadelphia Museum of Art

April 14, 9—10:30 am

2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

 

These mornings are specially designed for children on the autism spectrum or who have other sensory sensitivities. Space is limited. To reserve your spot, email AccessProg@philamuseum.org.

Drop-In Baby and Toddler Bubbles

April 14, 9—10 am

Fitness Work, 714 Reed St.

 

The hour-long parent-and-child class, open to little ones aged five months to three years, incorporates honed techniques developed by Holly Waters to teach children how to feel comfortable and move their bodies in the water, helping them build confidence while exploring new surroundings in a safe, fun and supervised setting. Drop-in for $25 per child.

Passover Singalong at PlayArts

April 14, 9:30—11 am

1241 N. Front Street

 

Rodeph Shalom will be there to sing favorite Passover songs and celebrate the holiday with friends. The sing-along is free, but play space fees apply.

Sakura Sunday

April 14, 10 am—5 pm
Horticulture Center in Fairmount Park, 100 N. Horticultural Drive

 

The biggest event of the Cherry Blossom Festival is Sakura Sunday. This day-long festival has everything: performances, food, shopping, crafts, fashion, a marketplace, even a dog parade! There is a full day’s worth of performance on multiple stages, including fashion shows, taiko drum and dance, J-pop, and so much more. Throughout the day, there will also be indoor activities like kimono dressing, calligraphy workshop, origami, and a demonstration of ikebana. You can find the full schedule of indoor and outdoor activities and performances online. Tickets are available in advance or at the gate. Kids age 12 and under get in free. If you buy tickets in advance online, you can save some money and pay $12, as opposed to $15 the day of the event.

 

Wordplay at the Art Museum

April 14, 10:30 am—3 pm

Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

 

Younger kids will embark on an alphabet hunt, while bigger kids will discover text in art inspired by the wonder of words. Family-friendly tours and art projects reinforce the theme.

Please Touch Museum’s Storybook Ball

April 14, 11 am—5 pm

4231 Avenue of the Republic

 

Meet fairy tale characters (plus creatures from the Academy of Natural Sciences), ride the carousel with the Queen, enjoy storytime and live science, and much more! Tickets available online.

Manayunk StrEAT Food Festival

April 14, 11 am—5 pm

Main Street, Manayunk

 

Along historic Main Street, grab everything from savory BBQ to sweet desserts from over 50 of Philadelphia’s best food trucks and gourmet food vendors; plus shopping, sidewalk sales, and more promotions from businesses in the neighborhood. In addition to eating and shopping, there will be live music for people of all ages to enjoy at Green Lane, Cotton Street, and Shurs Lane.

Bowling with the Bunny at Lucky Strike

April 14, noon—3 pm

1336 Chestnut St.

 

Enjoy two hours of bowling, sweet treats, and photos with the Easter Bunny! Book your spot by emailing philadelphiaparties@luckystrikesocial.com.

Solly Stables’ Easter Event

April 14, noon—3 pm

1140 Solly Ave.

 

Come for a fun filled day with an egg hunt, pictures with the horse bunny, bake sale, arts and crafts, and more.

PECO Family Jams: Tile Mosaics

April 14, noon—4 pm

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, 1020 South St.

 

Inspired by the Magic Gardens, kids can create their own mosaic using a standard kitchen tile as a base, then learn more about artist Isaiah Zagar’s method during family-friendly tours at 1 pm, 2:30 pm, and 3:30 pm. Free with admission.

Doggie Easter Egg Hunt

April 14, 1:30 pm (come at 1 pm to pick up your basket)

Goose Island Brewhouse, 1002 Canal Street

 

Bring your pups to Goose Island Brewhouse for an afternoon of fun. Each registered dog will receive a basket and will be allowed to participate in the egg hunt. Suggested donation of $15 (pre-register online); all proceeds will go to ACCT Philly.

PAFA Family Arts Academy

April 14, 2—4 pm

118-128 N. Broad Street

 

This week, listen to a short performance by the Delaware County Symphony and then join in and make your own musical art sculptures. As always, admission is free for this family workshop.

Easter Family Fun Day

April 14, 2 — 4 pm

American Swedish History Museum, 1900 Pattison Ave.

 

Children in Sweden dress up as Easter Witches with long skirts, headscarves, painted red cheeks and freckles, and go from house to house wishing people happy Easter, so the museum’s Easter Family Fun day includes Easter witch dress up along with traditional Swedish Easter crafts, face painting, and of course an Easter egg hunt! Free for kids 2 and under, $10 for non-members; pay at the door.

Fitler Square Easter Egg Hunt

April 14, 3 pm (Rain Date: April 20, 10 am)

23^rd and Pine streets

 

Bring your own Basket (BYOB) to Fitler Square for a park-wide egg hunt separated by ages. There will also be snacks for the kids. Come early if you actually want to get eggs, because this one starts on time and gets surprisingly intense and frantic for a children’s celebration.

 

 

 

Photograph courtesy of Please Touch Museum.