Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
BlackStar Film Festival
The BlackStar Film Festival is back this weekend to cast a spotlight on the traditions of Black, Brown and Indigenous people from around the world through visual storytelling.
Set to take place July 31 to Aug. 1, the annual fest will host screenings at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, the Wilma Theater and the Suzanne Roberts Theatre, plus, a variety of parties and events at venues around town. In total, the Festival is set to screen a total of 92 films representing 35 countries. Audiences can expect 20 World, 13 North American, 4 United States, 7 East Coast and 46 Philadelphia premieres for this go-around.
Some highlights to look out for in 2025 include the world premiere of Louis Massiah and Monica Henriquez’s’ TCB – The Toni Cade Bambara School of Organizing’, the North American premiere of Jenn Nkiru’s ‘The Great North’, a special screening of Kahlil Joseph’s ‘BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions’ and the North America premiere of Letitia Wright’s ‘Highway to the Moon.’
All screenings span in what they cover—from ways to use music as a tool of resistance, films that show pathways to thriving amidst political repression and environmental crisis and stories that highlight the importance of long-term, sustainable community building. Essentially, there’s a little something there for everyone. A full schedule can be found online.
Budapest Grand Prix Watch Party at F1 Arcade Philly
The recently opened F1 Arcade is celebrating its sport this weekend with an Austrian Grand Prix Watch Party. The fun kicks off Sunday, Aug. 3, at 9 a.m. with doors opening an hour earlier. As a release notes, tickets (normally starting at $29) are free for a limited time using the code BUDAPEST. Guests can also get in on unlimited sharing plates (like Wagyu sliders and truffle fries), drink tokens for wine, beer, or bubbles, and access to real F1 simulators. The space also features craft cocktails by Drink Masters winner LP O’Brien and an elevated menu of race-day favorites like Wagyu sliders and truffle fries.
1300 Chestnut St., philadelphia.events.f1arcade.com
Chinese Lantern Festival
The Chinese Lantern Festival is in full swing at Franklin Square. What Philadelphians can expect is the popular 200-foot-long dragon along with completely new lantern displays and immersive experiences, live cultural stage performances, Asian-themed bites, American comfort food, a cocktail garden, and a front-row seat to the choreographed fountain light show in the historic Rendell Family Fountain. Guests can also play Philly Mini Golf and ride the Parx Liberty Carousel at a discounted rate.
For the first time ever, locals can opt to purchase the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival Pass for unlimited entry throughout the duration of the occasion. Adult passes (with ID) run for $80 and children (ages 3-13) for $45. Typical Monday through Thursday tickets will be priced at $26 for adults, $16 for children (ages 3-13, 2 and under are free), $24 for seniors (65+) and active military (with I.D.). Friday through Sunday tickets, on the other hand, (timed tickets required) run for $29 for adults, $16 for children (ages 3-13, kids 2 and under are free) and $27 for seniors and active military.
200 N. 6th St., historicphiladelphia.org
Kaleidoscope Cove at the CAA
The Camden Adventure Aquarium’s new exhibit features more than 100 aquatic species, a portion of which have never been seen at the New Jersey venue before. What sets this particular addition apart is the fact that these species are united by vibrant colorful traits in both movement and bioluminescence.
As the lights shift, the exhibit changes, making each visit different. Featured species include flashlight fish, flamboyant cuttlefish, poison dart frogs, purple-striped jellyfish, clownfish and hippo tangs. There are a few other reasons to head to Kaleidoscope Hall outside of the showcase as well—like a glowing jellyfish exhibit for one, a hands-on touch experience at Sea Star Shores and the “Draw Alive” mural. With the latter, guests can sketch their own sea creatures, which will then animate and swim across a digital “ocean” in real-time. The experience is included with regular admission.
1 Riverside Drive, Camden, New Jersey, adventureaquarium.com
The Oval
Every year, Eakins Oval comes alive with different events and activations for the summer, and 2025 is no different. This go-around, locals can head to the family-friendly pop-up to check out a custom summer food and drink menu, plus, a themed nine-hole mini golf course. The menu will feature chicken sandwiches, wraps, a strawberry matcha milkshake and more, plus, a full bar offering house-made drafts, frozen cocktails, hyperlocal beers and N/A beverages.
The Oval will also feature some stand-alone events this sunny season. Free outdoor performances will be sprinkled throughout the summer (with acts like Parkway Presents and the fan-favorite Philly band, SNACKTIME.) The outdoor venue will also host weekend marketplaces and festivals on select Saturdays and Sundays. Thursdays will feature free yoga organized/run by Yoga Habit, and Sundays will be dubbed Family Fun Days with Quizzo, while Fridays will include movie nights (8 p.m.) throughout the season. A full schedule will continuously be updated online.
2601 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, parkwaytoparkfestival.org
