Looking for some fun and unique things to do for Labor Day weekend in Philadelphia? We’ve got you covered.
PECO Free First Sunday Family Day at The Barnes Foundation
This Sunday, Sept. 1, another Free First Sunday Family Day will be in full swing at The Barnes Foundation with the theme of “Happy Birthday, Sonia Sanchez!” From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., visitors can check out art activities, poetry readings, plus gain free access to the first-floor collection galleries and the ‘Matisse & Renoir: New Encounters at the Barnes’ exhibit.
As a release notes, in September, the Foundation is celebrating the 90th birthday of legendary poet, professor, and activist Sonia Sanchez—Philadelphia’s first poet laureate. A leading figure in the Black Arts Movement, Sanchez has written over a dozen books of poetry, as well as short stories, critical essays, plays, and children’s books. This event is part of a monthlong celebration of Sonia Sanchez’s 90th year across the city.
2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, barnesfoundation.org
Panorama Wine Bar
Those who get hungry over Labor Day weekend in Philadelphia can head to Panorama Wine Bar on Sunday, Sept. 1, for the venue’s new ‘Pranzo’ service. The “midday family supper” boasts a multi-course chef’s dinner complete with shareable antipastos and desserts, carafes of wine, and classic Italian dishes.
Pranzo takes place every Sunday from 2 to 8 p.m., reservations are available on OpenTable.
14 N Front St., pennsviewhotel.com
East Passyunk’s Passeggiata
It’s the last weekend to check out East Passyunk’s summer event series. What the Passeggiata features is a list of area bars and restaurants offering special happy hour deals, and a sidewalk market from 5 to 7 p.m.
While strolling around the picturesque area of the city, Philadelphians can indulge in $5 beers, $6 wines, and $7 cocktails, along with $7 small bites from spots like Barcelona Wine Bar, The Bottle Shop, Cartesian Brewing, Ember & Ash, Flannel, Human Robot Süd, Juana Tamale, Laurel, Le Virtu and more (a full list can be found online.)
At the same time, retailers and other businesses will adorn the sidewalk in front of their venues with specials and sales to encourage visitors to casually explore the Avenue in the way you would see in an Italian promenade, the release also notes. A full list of everything being offered and more detailed information on East Passyunk’s Passeggiata can be found on their site.
Family Football Fest at the Deptford Mall
Both Fall and the Eagles’ season are fastly approaching, and the 2024 Deptford Mall Family Football Fest is looking to gather some city spirit and bring together sports personalities, all for a good cause.
Taking place this Saturday, Aug. 31, activities will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. in the Deptford Mall parking lot near Almonesson Road and Macy’s. As a release notes, Family Football Fest is a celebration for the whole family, with activities designed to engage and entertain all ages, and admission is free.
Philadelphia Eagles players will be onsite from 2 to 4 p.m. and families (with tickets) will have the chance to snap pictures and get autographs from Brandon Graham, Quinyon Mitchell, and Jeremiah Trotter Jr. On top of the special guests, Family Football Fest will also feature a Beer Garden from Bonesaw Brewing, live entertainment, fitness activities, food vendors, face painting, balloon sculpting, magic shows, caricature artists, bounce houses, live animal encounters, an assortment of games and much more.
1750 Deptford Center Road, Deptford, New Jersey, deptfordmall.com
Smoked Out Saturdays at Red Owl Tavern
Red Owl Tavern launched this BBQ-themed menu service in July, and there are two more sessions left of this tasty activation. The series features a rotating lineup of BBQ specialties available from 10 a.m. until sold out, with this weekend’s line-up including a smoked pit beef sandwich.
Next week will include a 3-meat combo of brisket, ribs and jalapeno-cheddar sausage to finish the activation off (Sept. 7.), and additionally, families dining at Red Owl Tavern can opt for a complimentary kid’s hot dog meal with the purchase of any BBQ selection as well.
433 Chestnut St., redowltavern.com
Blues Brunches at The Twisted Tail
On Saturday, Aug, 31, and Sunday, Sept. 1, from noon to 3 p.m., brunch-goers will be serenaded by Christopher Dean (Saturday) and Randy Lippincott (Sunday), while enjoying some signature brunch dishes.
Highlights include a Chicken & Waffle ($18), Brioche French Toast ($15) plus a Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich ($13). Diners can pair the dishes with Champagne Pops ($13) or punch bowls for the table (small, 3-5 people, for $40 and large, 6-8 people, for $80). More information and reservations can be found online.
509 S. 2nd St., thetwistedtail.com
