Fun things to do in Philly this weekend

Philly, things to do in Philly
The Delaware River Waterfront is open for summer.
J. Fusco for VISIT PHILADELPHIA

Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.

Art Cash for the Poor

The city’s most affordable art festival returns this weekend (on June 14) with more than 100 local artists offering their work for $250 or less. This free-to-attend, family-friendly festival will be held inside the Crane Arts Building and outside on the street along the arts corridor in South Kensington. Locals will be able to peruse through paintings, sculptures, handmade clothing, jewelry, homewares, decor, and more from noon to 6 p.m. All sales directly benefit the local artists and craftspeople attending the festival.

things to do in Philly
Art Cash for the Poor is this weekend.PROVIDED/BRESLOW PR

1400 N. American St., inliquid.org

Flag Day at the Betsy Ross House

Flag Fest concludes at the Betsy Ross House this Saturday with a grand finale. On June 14, The Philadelphia Flag Day Association will host a flag retirement ceremony to kick off the day at 10 a.m., then from noon to 2 p.m. a family-friendly performance of “Betsy Ross Presents: The History of the American Flag,” will run on-site. Audiences will have several opportunities to experience the performance during the afternoon.

The finale of it all will take place at 4 p.m. with “Lift Every Voice: A Flag Day Celebration of American Music.” The performance will feature the Philadelphia Heritage Chorale under the direction of J. Donald Dumpson with a special emphasis on compositions born of the African Diaspora.

Flag Fest, things to do in Philly
The Betsy Ross House has a full slate of events to celebrate Flag Day this weekend.Albert Yee

239 Arch St., historicphiladelphia.org

Curious Histories Fest

This Saturday, Curious Histories Fest is back to explore science, history and experimentation. In 2025, the free activation will be inspired by the SHI’s exhibit ‘Lunchtime: The History of Science on the School Food Tray’ and will askWhat’s for lunch?”

The day (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) will feature complimentary food samples (like ice cream), hands-on activities, free demonstrations (including cooking with the Vetri Mobile Teaching Kitchen), live music, plus, special guests (like the Society of Flavor Chemists, Monell Chemical Senses Center, La Llamita Vegana and more.) A full schedule of events can be found online.

things to do in Philly
Curious Histories Fest is back this weekend to explore science, history and experimentation.PROVIDED/SCIENCE HISTORY INSTITUTE

315 Chestnut St., sciencehistory.org

Delaware River Waterfront

You know it’s officially summer in the city when the Delaware River Waterfront begins to come alive with the addition of Spruce Street Harbor Park, the Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, and Cherry Street Pier.

In 2025, the attractions will all be there for locals to “Make Summer Yours”—a new slogan for the waterside section of the city, dubbed by the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. The theme will blend into those staple fan-favorite attractions, plus, some new events in the form of a treasure hunt, fitness classes, workshops, skating excursions and much more.

Spruce Street Harbor Park is always a fan favorite, with food and beverage vendors sprinkled throughout the eclectic oasis, along with colorful lights, comfortable hammocks, floating barges and plenty of space to unwind. Just a short walk away is Summerfest—but this locale mimics a boardwalk with beach-side attractions (in the form of carnival games) a rollerblading rink, and some seasonal treats.

Locals can additionally find art exhibits and seasonal bites at Cherry Street Pier from Philly Tacos and Irv’s Ice Cream. And those itching for some health-based activities can head to Race Street Pier this summer as well. A full schedule of activities can be found online.

Summerfest, things to do in Philly
Spruce Street Harbor Park is shown.Delaware River Waterfront

delawareriverwaterfront.com

‘Rent’ at the Arden Theatre Company

The wildly popular musical hits the 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. 

‘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.

Memorial Day Weekend in Philadelphia, things to do in Philadelphia
Matteo Scammel (Roger Davis) and Matthew Edward Kemp (Mark Cohen) are pictured in ‘Rent.’ Ashley Smith / Wide Eyed Studios

40 N. 2nd St., ardentheatre.org