Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this spring? We’ve got you covered.
Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia
The Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia (JASGP) hosts the annual Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia with the 1,500+ cherry trees in Fairmount Park being the main focal point. Running now through April 27, the run of the festival will be full of programming, but the most popular activation is the free two-day Sakura Weekend, held April 13 and 14.
Held outside the Fairmount Park Horticulture Center and Centennial Arboretum, the event includes live entertainment, family and cultural activities, workshops, local food vendors, and a beer garden.
100 N Horticultural Dr., japanphilly.org
The Philadelphia Show
Now in its 62nd year, The Philadelphia Show will be in full swing at the Philadelphia Museum of Art this month, from April 25 to 28. Originally founded in 1962 as the University Hospital Antiques Show, the showcase—which was organized by Penn Medicine until 2018—summons a crowd every year to peruse through some of the most outstanding exhibitors in the country.
This year, the event will feature more than 40 exhibitors in the US, including six new exhibitors, specializing in fine art, collectible design, antiques, Americana, folk art, ceramics, porcelain, silver, jewelry, textiles, and decorative arts. As a release notes, there will also be several programs in advance of the show and a panel discussion during the fair featuring several of the show exhibitors who have also appeared on ‘Antiques Roadshow’ as specialists in their fields, along with the show’s Senior Producer, Sam Farrell. More information can be found online.
2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, thephiladelphiashow.com
Manayunk StrEAT Food Fest
Later this month on April 21, the Manayunk StrEAT Festival will be in full swing with 70+ food trucks and vendors on the line-up for 2024. Kicking off at 11 a.m. and running until 5 p.m., the event will boast 110+ total participating businesses spanning local creators, local businesses, live entertainment, and of course, food offerings.
Known as the largest food truck festival in Pennsylvania, Main Street Manayunk will be closed to vehicle traffic to allow all visitors a chance to explore the historic neighborhood in its totality during the StrEAT Fest.
Offerings span traditional and unique bites and eats like bacon skewers, gourmet corn on the cob, French crepes, hand-poured popsicles, funnel cakes, lobster rolls, Tibetan dumplings, cheesesteaks, poutines, craft sodas, banana whips, Brazilian BBQ and much more.
Old City Wedding Stroll
Taking place this year on April 24, from 5 to 8 p.m., the annual activation will showcase prospective couples the area’s notable venues, services, custom wedding attire, rings, flowers and more.
This year’s Old City Wedding Stroll will feature more than 35 individual businesses opening their doors for meet and greets, expert consultations, tastings, and of course, open houses at the city’s top bridal boutiques and custom tailors. The event is free to attend, however, registration is required and can be completed online, a release notes.
Registration to the activation not only offers the ingress to the area’s wedding perks, but also, a chance to win a prize on behalf of the District worth $4,000. The grand prize holds a basket with gifts like a free veil with a new gown purchase from Philly Bride, a free tungsten band from Hitched, hair and makeup application from JM&CO, a VIP dinner for two aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia, and much more.
Franklin Square
Franklin Square is a one-stop shop for many local families, with year-round mini-golf, a carousel, a fountain show and many food and drink options in its scenic venue. But this spring, the space has also added some events that are geared towards Philadelphians of all ages.
In mid-April, the 186-year-old historic Rendell Family Fountain will feature choreographed lights and fountain jets dancing alongside this year’s soundtrack, and shows will run every 30 minutes from noon to closing time once it starts. Also this month, Philadelphians can head to the outdoor venue for Earth Day activities and children’s crafts (April 20) from noon to 2 p.m.
The Franklin Square spring season’s official opening day (April 27), however, will mark the start of most of the venue’s activities kicking into high gear (including SquareBurger, home of the Original Cake Shake made with Tastykake Butterscotch Krimpets) and some new additions (like greenery around the park) will be added. On that date from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., visitors will be able to join in on free rides aboard the Parx Liberty Carousel and see the debut Fountain Show at noon.
200 N 6th St., historicphiladelphia.org
