Free Philly Family-Friendly Events for Philadelphia on a Budget
Discover how to maximize family fun in Philly with our guide to the top free attractions and events.
There are always free Philly family-friendly events and things to do in Philly. Philadelphia brims with history, culture, and adventure. For families on a budget, finding new things to see and do can add up fast. But it’s possible to make memories as a family without breaking the bank.
Best of all, these free Philly events and activities are in and around the city. Get to know where you live or love where you visit.
Whether you’re a local looking for new ways to explore the city or a visitor wanting to make the most of your trip, Philadelphia offers a wealth of free activities and events that cater to all ages. From captivating museum days to outdoor movie nights, there’s always something exciting happening.
Dive into our guide to discover the best free family activities in Philadelphia, ensuring fun-filled days without the cost. Hungry for more? Browse free Main Line events and activities made for families.
Fun and Free Philly Family-Friendly Events and Activities
Meet & Greet Author Lady Carolyn: Book Signing & Self-Care Journaling Class
Yeadon Public Library 809 Longacre Blvd., Yeadon, PA, United StatesCarolyn Jenkins, a Philadelphia native, author, producer, screenwriter, and writer of creative non-fiction stories and journal books, is on a mission to help women take charge of their narratives with the release of her latest book, Her Life Lessons in a Clutch Journal & Short Motivational Stories. […]
Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches
Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PAOne-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]
Drag Bingo at PHS Pop Up Garden Manayunk
PHS Pop Up Garden - Manayunk 106 Jamestown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesPlay some fabulous bingo with Brittany Lynn, Billy Cavallo, and Demi Gawdess in the gorgeous pop up garden. All ages.
Schuylkill Banks Movie Night – Groundhog Day
East side of the Schuylkill River on the north side of the Walnut Street Bridge PhiladelphiaBring your family, friends, blanket, and picnic for a great time watching Groundhog Day riverside! The movie will start at sunset, which is around 8:30pm. Get there early to stake out your spot, watch the sunset, or take a riverboat cruise or kayak tour! The […]
Betsy Ross House Flag Raising
Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesStart the day in the charming Betsy Ross House courtyard. Join Betsy for a secret ceremony raising the thirteen-star flag and hear why this was especially daring in 1776.
Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches
Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PAOne-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]
Betsy Ross House Flag Raising
Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesStart the day in the charming Betsy Ross House courtyard. Join Betsy for a secret ceremony raising the thirteen-star flag and hear why this was especially daring in 1776.
Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom at Penn Museum
Penn Museum 3260 South St, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesBring the whole family for a festival filled with joyful performance, live DJ sets, captivating storytelling, and hands-on activities for all ages. Support Black-owned businesses at a community marketplace or grab a bite from local food trucks. The Juneteenth Festival will open access to the Penn Museum’s […]
Drag Queen Storytime at Andorra Library
Andorra Library 705 East Cathedral Road, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesChildren and families are invited to Andorra Library's family Pride event and kickoff to Summer Reading! Join Brittany Lynn for a Drag Queen Storytime. Hear stories about love, diversity, and acceptance.
Pride at Peak Fashion Show!
Peak Secondhand 105 S Center Street, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesNow in Audubon, NJ, a short ride from Philly, the Pride at Peak Fashion Show will include vendors, local organizations, kids activities, and performances from the shining Miss Redd. The event will culminate with a fashion show outside Peak Secondhand & music from Ella Boogie […]
Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches
Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PAOne-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]
Philadelphia Juneteenth Festival at Johnson House Historic Site
Johnson House Historic Site 6306 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesCelebrate Juneteenth and the passage and ratification of the 13th Amendment to the US Constitution that commemorates African Americans as free and slavery ended. Features all-day family-oriented activities: social issue panel discussion, reenactments, food trucks, performance arts, exhibits, vendor marketplace, resource tables, and historic tours.
Father’s Day Read-a-Thon at The Academy of Natural Sciences
The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesCome join this fun-filled Father's Day Read-a-Thon with Chase Books, where dads and kids can bond over their favorite stories! There will be games, storytime, giveaways, and a surprise special guest. Books and lunch are free for families in attendance. Registration requested. Entrance into the […]
Betsy Ross House Flag Raising
Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesStart the day in the charming Betsy Ross House courtyard. Join Betsy for a secret ceremony raising the thirteen-star flag and hear why this was especially daring in 1776.
Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches
Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PAOne-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]
Family Funday with PopUpPlay
Spruce Street Harbor Park 401 S Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesActivities include boat building, puppet making, and even constructing a working catapult. Each week promises captivating experiences for kids of all ages with a new make-and-take activity. This event is free and open to the public, and all ages are welcome. Activities are available on […]
48 Record Bar’s Dad Rock Special
48 Record Bar 48 S. 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA, United States48 Record Bar is pleased to present the 2nd annual Dad Rock Special! An evening of all your dad's "daddiest dad rock", such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, CSNY, Steely Dan, Neil Young, and Bruce Springsteen. There will also be ticket giveaways […]
Betsy Ross House Flag Raising
Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesStart the day in the charming Betsy Ross House courtyard. Join Betsy for a secret ceremony raising the thirteen-star flag and hear why this was especially daring in 1776.
Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches
Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PAOne-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]
Betsy Ross House Flag Raising
Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesStart the day in the charming Betsy Ross House courtyard. Join Betsy for a secret ceremony raising the thirteen-star flag and hear why this was especially daring in 1776.
Family Storytime at Bustleton Library
Bustleton Library 10199 Bustleton Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesOn Tuesdays at 11 AM, Bustleton Library hosts a family storytime. Bring your babies, toddlers, and older siblings for stories, songs, and play!
¡Canticuentos Spanish Storytime! at Falls of Schuykill Library
Falls of Schuylkill Library 3501 Midvale Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesJoin local storyteller Ana Atach for Canticuentos: songs and stories in Spanish, with a new animal theme each week. Spanish beginners (and their animal toys) welcome! Intended for ages 0 to 5 years old, along with a caregiver. Siblings welcome. Meets on Tuesdays from March […]
Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches
Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PAOne-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]
Yoga On The Pier
Pennypack on the Delaware 7801 State Road, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesJoin Riverfront North and Roots2Rise for an all levels outdoor flow at Pennypack on the Delaware, Tuesdays from 6-7 pm! All ages and abilities are welcome. This class is made possible by the Riverfront North Partnership. Class is free but donations are welcome and will […]
Betsy Ross House Flag Raising
Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesStart the day in the charming Betsy Ross House courtyard. Join Betsy for a secret ceremony raising the thirteen-star flag and hear why this was especially daring in 1776.
Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches
Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PAOne-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]
Betsy Ross House Flag Raising
Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesStart the day in the charming Betsy Ross House courtyard. Join Betsy for a secret ceremony raising the thirteen-star flag and hear why this was especially daring in 1776.
Juneteenth Block Party and Free Museum Day at AAMP
The African American Museum in Philadelphia 701 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesJoin the African American Museum in Philadelphia for "Audacious Freedom: Celebrating 160 Years of Emancipation", a Juneteenth block party including free museum admission! This family-friendly outdoor festival will be led by Philadelphia’s own Patty Jackson from iHeart Radio and WDAS-FM, featuring Grammy Award-winning DJ and […]
Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches
Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PAOne-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]
Betsy Ross House Flag Raising
Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesStart the day in the charming Betsy Ross House courtyard. Join Betsy for a secret ceremony raising the thirteen-star flag and hear why this was especially daring in 1776.
Meet the Women of the 18th Century at the Betsy Ross House
Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesMeet the Women of the 18th Century representing the diverse population of Colonial Philadelphia at the Betsy Ross House! Learn about their lives and the era they lived in by hearing their true, interactive stories.
Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches
Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PAOne-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]
Betsy Ross House Flag Raising
Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesStart the day in the charming Betsy Ross House courtyard. Join Betsy for a secret ceremony raising the thirteen-star flag and hear why this was especially daring in 1776.
Kids Craft Drop-In Days at Historic St. George’s Museum and Archives
Historic St. George's Museum and Archives 326 New Street, Philadelphia, United StatesJoin Historic St. George’s Museum and Archives for a Kid's Craft Drop-in class, on the third Saturday of each month. Each month will be a new theme.
Meet the Women of the 18th Century at the Betsy Ross House
Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesMeet the Women of the 18th Century representing the diverse population of Colonial Philadelphia at the Betsy Ross House! Learn about their lives and the era they lived in by hearing their true, interactive stories.
Freebie Events and Activities in Philadelphia
Make a day of it. Wander the city or plan it out ahead of time. Explore Philly bike trails, play at the playground, or search for a splash pad. Try a new restaurant or food truck. Keep it inexpensive (and memorable), and pack up a picnic for the park. Find something to do near the free event for a full day of family-focused fun and connection.
Check back often for new things to see and do all around the city. Banish boredom fast with the easy-to-use events calendar. This free calendar of Philadelphia activities and events is constantly updated and always maintained all year long. Don’t miss a single freebie thing — ever.
Need more ideas? Jump over to the Best for Families Guide for top-rated Philly activities and businesses from readers in the area.
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