Looking for some fun and unique things to do this weekend in Philly? We’ve got you covered.
Summer Fun at Dilworth Park
The Philadelphia Marketplace in Dilworth Park takes place every Friday and Saturday from now to June 28 (noon to 6 p.m.). While there, Philadelphians will be able to peruse through handmade artwork, home goods, jewelry, and more from a revolving line-up of small businesses from the Greater Philadelphia and tri-state region.
Vendor names to look out for include BK Ceramics, Petal to The Metal Decor (art made with pressed fruit and flowers), Delectable Cookies, The Crochet Chick, Unique Payne’s Candle Creations, Harleysville Beekeeper (locally sourced honey), Cracked Bell (merchandise for Philadelphia), Cutie Pies Jewelry and more.
While at Dilworth, locals can also hit the Rothman Roller Rink. The retro-inspired rink—featuring a checkerboard floor and overhead art installation by Philadelphia’s Lucky Dog Studio— is currently open to the public for the season. Tickets run for $10 for adults and $8 for children 10 and under, skate rental is $6 (group discounts are available for parties of 12 or more). The rink will remain open daily (hours vary) through June 29.
1 S 15th St., madeinphila.com
Philadelphia Contemporary Circus Festival
This weekend has plenty of opportunities to see unique art events—but none quite like the Philadelphia Contemporary Circus Festival. Taking place now through June 1, the occasion features shows, workshops and events highlighting some of the best Big Top talent in the region.
A full schedule of performances and workshops can be found online, with locations being housed in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Spruce Street Harbor Park
Spruce Street Harbor Park is always a fun weekend outing, with food and beverage vendors sprinkled throughout the eclectic oasis, along with colorful lights, comfortable hammocks, floating barges and plenty of space to unwind.
The “Lazy Hammock” area features a performance venue with a stage, bar, and a 16-foot video wall. The Barge area boasts local beers alongside seasonal cocktails, while The Trading Post mimics a corner store with Philly-made snacks and goods. Food-wise, locals can find options from Chickie’s & Pete’s, Ay Burrito! by Philly Taco, Philly Tacos and Frozen Delights. Adult and N/A beverages can also be found throughout the waterside park.
The Park will also feature a series of pop-ups and events to go along with the season. Local emerging bands will play every Thursday beginning at 7 p.m., Spruce Street Dance Nights will take place every Friday and a “Family Fun Day Sunday” with PopUpPlay will happen weekly from 1 to 4 p.m.
Other events to look out for in the 2025 season include Jazz Summer Night concerts (Fridays at 7 p.m. in August), monthly DJ parties on Saturdays, sunset events with artisans and musicians (select Saturdays from 3 to 8 p.m.) and more.
‘Rent’ at the Arden Theatre Company
The wildly popular musical is on stage at the Arden this weekend. According to a release, with songs like ‘Seasons of Love’ and ‘I’ll Cover You,’ the production tells the story of a close group of young artists and musicians struggling to survive and create a life in New York City’s East Village during the height of the AIDS crisis. Due to popular demand, ‘Rent’ has been extended through June 22.
Single ticket prices ($65+) vary by performance and are available online, by phone at 215-922-1122, or at the box office at Arden Theatre Company.
40 N. 2nd St., ardentheatre.org
‘Bees, Butterflies, & Blooms: A Pollinator Paradise’
The world of pollinators will be explored daily at Morris Arboretum & Gardens with their newest exhibition, ‘Bees, Butterflies, & Blooms: A Pollinator Paradise.’ Running now through Sept. 30, the activation will feature different events, with one focal point being the addition of ‘Garden Railway: World Pollinators.’ Through this specific activation, guests will see a display of pollinators from around the world made from natural materials such as bark, leaves, twigs, mosses and acorns, set amongst Morris’ charming, natural train set.
100 E Northwestern Ave., morrisarboretum.org
