Philly has so many events and activities to offer in the summer, and makes fantastic use of its green and open spaces. We’ve compiled a guide to help you find all of the movies and musical performances (most of them free and open to the public) taking over local parks, waterfronts, cemeteries, and more.

Find out where to go to see Outdoor Concerts and Movies Around the Main Line and Outdoor Concerts and Movies Around Bucks for a summer’s evening of outdoor entertainment in the ‘burbs.

Where to Catch Outdoor Movies in Philly

On a beautiful summer evening there’s nothing like a movie under the stars. Philadelphia offers plenty of opportunities for families to grab some blankets and head to a screening at a park, riverbank, rooftop, or even right outside Independence Hall. All movies listed are free unless otherwise noted.

Schuylkill Banks

Address: Grays Ferry Crescent Esplanade (or grass north of the Walnut Street Bridge)

Dates: June 18, July 9, 16, 23 & 30, and August 6 & 13, 2026. Shows begin at sunset.

Enjoy river and sunset views before turning your attention to the big screen. On Thursday nights from June 18–August 13, the Schuylkill River Development Corporation will be showing a variety of movies on Schuylkill Banks. Flicks range from kid-friendly fare like The LEGO Batman Movie to date-night picks such as Before Sunrise.

Movies take place at the Grays Ferry Crescent Esplanade (east side of the Schuylkill River, near Wharton St. and Schuylkill Ave.) or the grassy area just north of the Walnut Street Bridge, Philadelphia.

Movies in Clark Park

Address: 43rd and Chester, Philadelphia

Dates: August 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2026. Shows begin at sunset.

Set aside Fridays in August for movies in the Clark Park Bowl. To celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, University City District is presenting a series of films tied to the theme of Freedom: A League of Their Own, Harriet, Zootopia 2, and The Matrix. Rain date set for September 4, 2026.

Movies on the Block

Address: Various locations, Philadelphia

Dates: June 5, July 10 & 31, and August 8, 21 & 22, 2026. Pre-movie activities at 6:30 pm and screenings begin at sunset.

The Philadelphia Film Society brings movies to neighborhoods across Philly with Movies on the Block. This screening program will include classics like Good Burger and Men in Black, as well as newer movies like Raya and the Last Dragon and The Incredibles.

Showings will include pre-movie activities and some will involve snacks, so you won’t even need to BYOP (popcorn). Movies on the Block events are free, but registration is strongly encouraged.

Cira Green Rooftop Park – Movie Nights

Address: 129 S. 30th Street, Philadelphia

Dates: June 17 & 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29, and August 12, 2026 (more dates to be announced). All showings start at 6 pm.

Sunset Social is not wasting a minute of summer — they are offering several Movie Nights up on the iconic Cira Green Rooftop Park.

Enjoy city and river views before settling back to watch nighttime screenings of movies like Jaws and Avatar: Fire and Ash. You can even bring your dog!

Independence Mall

Address: 599 Market Street, Philadelphia

Dates: June 10, August 21 & 22, September 19, and October 16, 2026. Pre-show activities start at 5:30 pm and movies show at dusk.

Celebrate the themes and history of Independence National Historical Park with Movies on the Mall. This year’s lineup features Harriet, National Treasure, and National Treasure 2.

Each of the four screenings will be preceded by activities such as 18th century games and Park Ranger programs. Then at dusk, settle on the lawn and get ready for Nic Cage’s “I’m gonna steal the Declaration of Independence” or Will Smith’s “Now, that’s what I call a close encounter.”

Find Outdoor Concerts in Philly

You don’t have to head to a huge stadium or sacrifice a beautiful summer evening to enjoy live music in Philadelphia. Chances are, there’s an open-air concert happening nearby. Here are some great outdoor music events to get your fingers snapping and toes tapping. All performances listed are free unless otherwise noted.

Pennypack Music Festival at Canstatter

Address: 9130 Academy Road (near Frankford Avenue), Philadelphia

Dates: June 3, 10, 17 & 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29, and August 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2026, from 7–9:30 pm

If you like classic rock tribute bands, you’ll love the Pennypack Music Festival. Spend a memorable Wednesday evening (or multiple) honoring icons like Black Sabbath, Tom Petty, the Rolling Stones, and Heart.

Admission is free and food and beverages will be available for purchase. No pets, outside food, drink, or coolers (except water in coolers) permitted.

Pastorius Park Concert Series

Address: 8177 Roanoke Street, Philadelphia

Dates: June 17 & 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29, 2026, at 7:30 pm

The Chestnut Hill Community Association’s Pastorius Park Concert Series is the longest-running free outdoor concert series in Philadelphia. Join the tradition and experience a variety of musical genres, from Celtic folk and blues, to chamber music, rock, and roots. Kids may particularly enjoy The Plants on June 17th, with their eclectic style that encourages creativity!

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics.

Kidchella at Smith Memorial Playground

Address: 3500 Reservoir Drive, East Fairmount Park, Philadelphia

Dates: June 26, 2026, from 4 pm–9 pm

Calling all kids: it’s time for Kidchella Music Festival 2026. Interact with bands like Ants on a Log and Jams for Junior Jawns, enjoy treats, giveaways, and wellness activities. For the finale, Kidchella concludes with a kid-tastic fireworks display!

Although admission to Kidchella is FREE, they warmly welcome any donations.

Arts on Center Stage at Dilworth Park

Address: 1 S. 15th Street, Philadelphia

Dates: June 18 & 25; July 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30; August 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2026, from 6 pm–7 pm

Arts on Center Stage is a series of free shows in the heart of the city presented by various Philadelphia arts and cultural organizations. Performances include orchestral music, jazz, opera, and dance.

Seating on the Greenfield Lawn is limited and guests are encouraged to bring their own blanket or chair.

Spruce Street Harbor Park

Address: 301 S. Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia

Dates: June 20 & 27; July 11; August 1, 14, 15 & 29; September 19 & 26, 2026, 7 pm–10 pm

Come to the Delaware River Waterfront and support emerging and established bands from Philly and beyond. The Summer Sounds Concert Series is a great way to enjoy free tunes right on the river.

All ages welcome. Food and drink options available for purchase. Visit the Know Before You Go guide for parking recommendations, directions, andFAQs.

Enjoying Outdoor Entertainment in Philadelphia

Whether you’re capping off a big day of activities in Philly (water fun, anyone?) or just looking for a summer evening activity, you can’t go wrong with golden-hour tunes or a nostalgic blockbuster under the stars.

Find even more arts and culture, and outdoor events on our Philadelphia Family Community Calendar.

Lead image courtesy of the Chestnut Hill Community Association.