High Five! Philly Family-Friendly Weekend Events: May 11–12
Happy weekend! Plan the perfect weekend with our picks.
Plan the perfect weekend with our picks.
Click here for ongoing events that run through the weekend, like all the museum exhibits.
All Weekend
Mother’s Day Weekend!
For all our picks, including some very special brunches, check out our roundup!
Opening Weekend on the Delaware River Waterfront
May 10—12
Summer is coming! The Blue Cross RiverRink, Spruce Street Harbor Park, and Cherry Street Pier all get activated this weekend with festivals, skating, rides, food, and lots more family fun. Check back soon for our ultimate preview!
Parks on Tap: Columbus Square
May 8–12
1200 Wharton St.
Our favorite family-friendly beer garden hits South Philly! Plus, visit the Free Library Book Bike while you’re there!
Chinese Lantern Festival
May 1 — June 30
Franklin Square, 200 N. Sixth St.
The Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival brings 2,000 individual works of art consisting of giant sculptures wrapped in colorful silk and filled with thousands of LED lights to Franklin Square. In addition to the lantern displays, there will also be cultural performances, from acrobatics to the art of face-changing. The Chinese Lantern Festival requires tickets during its nighttime display, but access to Franklin Square and the lanterns is free during the day. Check out our preview of the festival here!
‘Bashirah and the Amazing Bean Pie’ at the Please Touch Museum
May 11, 12:30 pm; May 12, 12:30 and 2:30 pm
4231 Avenue of the Republic
Back by popular demand, local author (and one of this year’s LOVE Award winners!) Ameenah Muhammad-Diggins brings her book Bashirah and the Amazing Bean Pie to the stage, with a play about embracing what makes us special and finding connections bigger than differences. This programming ties in with the museum’s “America to Zanzibar” special exhibit on Muslim culture around the world, so be sure to check that out too, and hit up the Please Taste Cafe to try some bean pie yourself!
Pennsylvania Renaissance Fair
May 11—12
Fort Mifflin, Fort Mifflin and Hog Island roads
Step back in time with a day of costumed actors, performers, crafts, games, and more. Children’s activities include crafts, games, storytime, and even a fun photobooth where children can play with props and costume bits. Both the Knighting Ceremony and Tea Party are open to all children who wish to participate.
Butterflies Weekend at Camden Children’s Garden
May 11—12. 1—4 pm
3 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ
Learn about butterflies at the Camden Children’s Garden. Participate in a butterfly craft and visit live butterflies in the Butterfly House.
Opening Weekend: ‘Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality’
May 9—12
National Constitution Center, 525 Arch St.
The museum will celebrate its newest exhibit with a weekend of special events including gallery talks, tours, and family-friendly programming including Civil War reenactment, dress-up and photo opportunities, meet-and-greets with “historic figures,” and more.
Treasure Island
April 3–June 9
Arden Theatre, 40 N. Second St.
Arden stages a retelling of the classic pirate tale by Robert Louis Stevenson. In this version, Emily – a young girl with big dreams – transforms her living room into the wild seas!
Saturday
Love Your Park Week Kick-off Service Day
Over 60 parks across Philadelphia will host volunteer service days on May 18, and other service events all week. May 11 kicks it off across the city with service days and spring festivals. Visit loveyourpark.org/volunteer for a full list of participating parks.
Mother’s Day Pop-Up Flower Shop at Benna’s Café
May 11, 9 am—noon
1236 S. Eighth St.
Myrtle and Magnolia Floral Designs will be hosting a pop-up shop at Benna’s Cafe in honor of Mother’s Day! Preorder a Tea Pot ($55) or Tea Cup ($35) and bring the kids to make a bud vase ($10) while you have some coffee!
Dad Vail Regatta
May 10—11
Kelly Drive
Now in its 81st year, this is the largest collegiate regatta in North America, with over 100 colleges and universities participating over two days. Spectators can enjoy the competition, plus vendors and a food court.
Love Your Park at McMichael Park
May 11, 10—11:30 am
3200 Midvale Ave.
As part of the 90th birthday celebration of McMichael Park, Pop-up Play is joining the Friends of Mcmichael Park and creating a crafty time to make things that fly, butterflies, bugs birds and make your own catapult. Fun and creative activity for ages 3-12 years old.
Little Chefs Kid’s Pizza Class at Pizzeria Vetri
May 11, 10 am
1939 Callowhill St.
Let your little chef get hands-on at Pizzeria Vetri at a pizza class guided by their head chefs. Kids will create their own mini pizzas and watch them bake while also enjoying “make your own pizza” coloring pages. A mini dough ball will be given to take home so they can bring their new skills into your home kitchen. Small bites will be available for snacking. Register at link in title.
Spring Native Plant Sale
May 11, 8:30 am—4 pm
Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Rd.
Bring the whole family out to the Schuylkill Center’s Spring Native Plant Sale, with local makers, food vendors, a bird walk, and even a perennial planting activity for kids to do for Mother’s Day. Plant experts and knowledgeable volunteers will be available to answer all of your questions and help you find the plants you need.
Fitler Square Spring Fair
May 10—11
23rd and Pine streets
Fitler Square’s annual fundraiser includes live music, raffles, food, and more.
Queen For A Day: Mother’s Day Party at Nest
May 11, 10 am — noon
1301 Locust St.
Moms will receive the “royal treatment” including champagne, a flower, a quick chair massage, and a selection of sweet treats. Children will create a special gift for mom. Register in person or over the phone at (215) 545-6378.
Mother’s Day Celebration at Kith + Kin
May 11, 10 am—noon
3060 W. Jefferson St.
Karith from Nimble Craft will help kids create custom necklaces and a personalized gift box to give to mom on her special day. Plus, while the kids craft, the grownups will enjoy mimosas! Register online.
Moms and Mimosas
May 11, 10—11:30 am
The Logan Hotel, 1 Logan Sq.
Bring the kids and enjoy a complimentary DIY Mom-osa bar and chair massages on the hotel’s outdoor terrace while the kids are led through a fun, kid-friendly yoga class (ages 4 and up). The event is free and first come, first served.
Theater Workshop: Fairy Tale Mix-Up
May 11, 10 am—noon
Hamilton Family Arts Center, 62 N. Second Street
Kids in Grades K-2 will work together to create a new mashed-up version of their favorite tales to be performed for family and friends at the end of class. Pre-register online.
Arden Bookworms
May 11, 10—10:45 am
Hamilton Family Arts Center, 62 N. Second Street
Preschoolers (age 2-4) will read Whistle for Willie by Ezra Jack Keats, and then use theater games, music, and creative movement to bring the story to life. Pre-register online.
AdventureWoods Open Public Hours
May 11, 10 am—2 pm
The Secret Garden at Awbury Arboretum, One Awbury Road
This innovative, sustainable, and natural playscape engages children in creative, imaginative, and active discovery.
Free Library Comic Con
May 11, 10 am—4 pm
Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine St.
Gaming, cosplay, workshops, art, and panel discussions at this free annual event. Online registration is required.
Kids’ Mother’s Day Container Garden Workshop
May 11, 10:30 am—noon
Morris Arboretum, 100 E. Northwestern Ave.
Each child (ages 7-12) will have the opportunity to select plants to fill their container and decorate the garden with accessories and fresh cut flowers. There will also be craft supplies to make a keepsake card. Pre-register online, and bring a box to take home your arrangement.
AAMP Macy’s Family Fun Day: Nurture and Grow
May 11, 11 am—3 pm
African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch St.
In honor of Mother’s Day weekend, kids age 5 and up can make tissue paper flowers, nature-themed jewelry, and flower crowns. The first 250 people will receive free museum admission for this event.
The Illusionists
May 11, 11 am, 3 pm, and 8 pm
Merriam Theater, 250 S. Broad St.
This mind-blowing magic spectacular showcases the jaw-dropping talents of six of the most incredible illusionists on earth, and is fun for all ages. Tickets available online. Save 20% on tickets using code: MAGIC20
Military Families in the Revolution
May 11, 11 am—3 pm
Museum of the American Revolution, 101 S. Third St.
What makes a military family? Who holds down the home front, who travels with the military, and who serves the cause? Come to the museum to learn about the many ways soldiers and their families on both sides contributed to the Revolutionary War with special tours and stories.
East Passyunk Community Center Comic Book Day
May 11, 11 am—1 pm
1025 Mifflin St.
Meet Captain Marvel, get a free comic book, get your face painted!
Fiber Crafts at Wynnefield Library
May 11, 11 am
5325 Overbrook Ave.
Join Sisters interacting through Stitches as we spend a fun day making creative items using different fabrics, materials, and techniques. All ages are invited.
BYO Baby Barre Class
May 11, 11—11:45 am
Y2B Fit, 7101 Emlen Street
This babywearing barre class is designed for mamas and babies (through crawling age). Step up to the barre for a great postnatal workout while spending quality time with your little one. Register online.
Hawthornes’ 10th Annual IPA, Champagne and Rosé Block Party
May 11, 11 am—8 pm
Hawthornes Beer Café, 738 S. 11th St.
Celebrate ten years of this all-day, all-ages street festival with live bands, food trucks, family fun and dozens of the best IPA’s, champagnes, roses and wines around! Family fun zone includes face painting, jumpy slide, and more!
DIY Spring Wreath: A Love Your Park Event
May 11, 11 am—1 pm
Starr Garden, 600 Lombard St.
Welcome spring with this great free craft event in the Starr Garden rec center.
Saturday Free Boating at Bartram’s Garden
May 11, 11 am—3 pm
5400 Lindbergh Blvd.
Kayak or rowboat on this quiet stretch of the Schuylkill River. No registration or boating experience necessary! Kayak excursions limited to 30 minutes, rowboat excursions limited to 45 minutes. All ages are welcome, minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Tacony LAB Art Club for Kids
May 11, 11 am—2 pm (Toddler Time from 11 am—noon; Ages 5 and up from noon—2 pm)
6918 Torresdale Avenue
On Saturdays, the Tacony LAB holds free art activities for kids. Stop in to draw, paint and create! Mural Arts Philadelphia teaching artists lead Art Club meetings, organizing projects and developing creative skills. 11 am to noon will be toddler time for ages 2-4; then noon to 2 pm will be for ages 5 and up.
Saul High School’s Country Fair Day
May 11, 11 am–3 pm
7100 Henry Ave.
This family-friendly event includes food trucks, crafts, silent auction, petting zoo, demonstrations, games, and much more.
Rockin’ The Ridge Car Show
May 11, 11 am–3 pm
6300 Ridge Ave.
Fun for the whole family, this annual tradition includes antiques, street rods, and more!
The Animated Orchestra
May 11, 11:30 am
Kimmel Center, 300 S. Broad St.
Kids will learn about the orchestra and its instruments through the help of Ari, a playful ferret, and even be a part of the story! This concert has been designed to create a welcoming environment for families with children with special needs and sensory sensitivities, and anyone who may benefit from being in a more relaxed environment.
Stories in the Square
May 11, 11:30 am
Rittenhouse Square, 210 W. Rittenhouse Sq.
Join Free Library of Philadelphia staff for stories and activities. Meet at the goat statue in Rittenhouse Square.
Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby and Arts Festival
May 11, noon — 6 pm
Trenton Avenue (from Norris to Hagert)
The centerpiece of this festival is the “derby” portion, where teams drive their human-powered parade floats through a three-mile obstacle course that includes challenges like a mud pit! Prizes are awarded for categories like Best Costume and Best Engineering. The festival also features over 200 local arts vendors, food trucks, and live performances.
Plazapalooza
May 11, noon—7 pm
Triangle at Gray’s Ferry, 2235 South St.
Enjoy live music, food trucks, beer, and even a designated Kid’s Corner with activities, games, and more.
Clark Park May Fair
May 11, noon—6 pm
4300 Baltimore Ave.
Food, music, petting zoo, kids’ games, local artisans, and more!
A Day of Color at Spruce Street Harbor Park
May 11, 1—9 pm
301 S. Columbus Blvd.
Celebrate the Waterfront’s opening weekend with free face painting, fun with the Clay Studio, balloon art, airbrush tattoos, and more. Registration is required. Register online HERE (or register on site that day) and pick the color you want to represent the entire day. Then rotate from station to station and enjoy a variety of free activities based on the color you choose!
Spring Fest at Marconi Plaza
May 11, 1—4 pm
2800 S. Broad St.
Celebrate Love Your Park Week with music, face painting, and pony rides.
‘Newsies’ at Greene Street Friends School
May 11, 1 pm and 5 pm
5511 Greene Street
The Middle School presents Newsies! Email Jaimee Nelson (jnelson@greenestreetfriends.org) to reserve your tickets, or purchase at the door.
Mother’s Day in the Independence Seaport Museum MakerSpace
May 11, 2—4 pm
Independence Seaport Museum, 211 S. Columbus Boulevard
Kids will create a custom laser-cut wood picture frame with a springtime design in the museum’s MakerSpace, plus a “Thanks for Helping Me Grow” planter. Tickets available online.
Acting Workshop: Treasure Island
May 11, 2—5 pm
Hamilton Family Arts Center, 62 N. Second Street
Kids in Grades 3-5 will use scenes from Arden’s spring production of Treasure Island and put their own spin on the characters they see on-stage! Selected scenes will be performed at the end of class for family and friends. Pre-register online.
Sunday
Mother’s Day Breakfast at Adventure Aquarium
May 12, 9—10:30 am
1 Riverside Dr., Camden, NJ
Enjoy a breakfast buffet and aquarium visit with family-themed animal talks throughout the morning. Moms receive a complimentary flower upon arrival, plus a special Shark Realm talk and family photo opportunity! Reserve online.
Mother’s Day at PlayArts
May 12, 10 am—noon
1241 N. Front St.
Celebrate Mom with mimosas, balloons, and giveaways. The event begins at 10 am with open play in the playspace, followed by complimentary champagne at 11 am and a balloon drop at noon. Regular drop-in rates apply.
Mother’s Day Crafts and Brunch at Craft Hall
May 12, 10 am—3 pm
901 N. Delaware Ave.
Celebrate a day of family-friendly fun on Mother’s Day at our favorite new spot to drink with kids: Craft Hall! They’ll have arts and craft stations for the kids to make Mom a handmade card and are serving brunch til 3 pm. And don’t forget to visit the chickens and bunnies outside!
Indoor Goat Yoga
May 12, 10—11 am
6336 Ardleigh St.
Participants in this all-levels class will have 45 minutes of guided time on the mat while Nigerian Dwarf goats cuddle, play, and meet you in down-dog! There will be 15 minutes at the end of class to take selfies and photos with the goats. Tickets available online.
Things with Wings
May 12, 10:30 am—3 pm
Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
At this week’s family Sunday, take flights of fancy in the galleries and discover things with wings, including dragons and bugs, and then make art as a family in the balcony studio.
Barcade Family Day
May 12, noon—5 pm
1114 Frankford Ave.
Barcade will have a kids’ menu, arcade games, and fun for the whole family!
PECO Family Jams: Mummer Creations
May 12, noon—4 pm
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, 1020 South St.
The captain of Golden Sunrise—one of the fancy-dress clubs—and other Mummers will come with costumes and hats to help families construct their own one-of-a-kind wearable creations. Plus, family-friendly tours of the Magic Gardens at 1 pm, 2:30 pm and 3:30 pm.
Dream Philly Festival
May 12, 1—4 pm
Cherry Street Pier, 121 N. Columbus Blvd.
Presented by Dreamline, a Philadelphia-based global initiative that aims to help students connect and take action toward their dreams, the Dream Philly Festival aims to create an inclusive and participatory celebration where people of all ages can share their dreams. At the center of the festival will be an exhibit of thousands of student-crafted Dreamline Banners showcasing the dreams of children from around the world. Learn how to create your own banner through a fabric workshop, stop by Studio 5 for Dream Match (an opportunity to connect with organizations and individuals who’ve created dream), enjoy food vendors, poetry performances in The Platform, dream merchandise, and take home your very own free dream-in-a-bottle kit.
Mother’s Day Tea at Museum of the American Revolution
May 12, 1 pm and 2:30 pm
101 S. Third St.
Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Museum with Founding Mother, Martha Washington! Enjoy a delicious buffet with tea sandwiches and scones, then explore the museum and learn about all the amazing women of the Revolution. Reserve online.
Mother’s Day Make-and-Takes at PHS Pop-Up Garden
May 12, 1—4 pm
1436 South St.
Create your own blooming picture frame, complete with colorful paper flowers and unique plant materials. Crafts are $10.
Photograph by Laura Swartz.
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