Mark these spring events on your calendar

The weather is finally hinting at spring, which means everyone is itching to get out and celebrate. We’re marking our calendars now for a few of our favorite upcoming seasonal events. These will help us shake the hibernation blues and jumpstart a new season of exciting things to do in Philly.

Franklin Square

Credit: Jeff Fusco

The historic park reopened for the season at the beginning of the month. In our hearts, though, it wasn’t officially springtime until SquareBurger opened its concession windows this past weekend and the smell of burgers and fries came wafting out — though we might wait until it’s a bit warmer for the orange creamsicle milkshake.
www.historicphiladelphia.org

Cherry Blossom Festival

Few things say springtime in Philadelphia louder and stronger than the Cherry Blossom Festival, April 2-13. The annual celebration of Japanese culture packs a ton of educational and entertaining events into 12 days, and many of them are free to attend. There will be a drum and dance group, food tastings, film showcases and informative demonstrations at Liberty Place. This year the program introduces a karaoke kick-off, and we’re not missing it. From 7-10 p.m. on April 2 you’ll find us at Yakitori Boy singing our hearts out.
www.subarucherryblossom.org

The Porch at 30th

It’s hard not to admire the efforts of the University City District and what they’ve done with a slab of concrete outside of 30th Street Station. In 2011, UCD opened a piece of former parking lot up as a community space that incorporates live music, fitness programs, hands-on activities and some of the finest mobile food in Philadelphia. We’re ready to get back out there this spring, starting on April 2 at noon with a performance by Jersey singer Ginger Coyle. Check the porch schedule each month for the latest lineup of events and food trucks.
www.universitycity.org

Philly Food and Farm Fest

This will be the third go for the acclaimed one-day event that brings agriculture and local foods to the city. The event, produced by Fair Food and the Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture, has brought some seriously delicious vendors along for the ride. Think of it as the farmers market of the year. Plus there’s a Libations Lounge for those who want to sample local brews.
April 13, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m., Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch St., $20, www.phillyfarmfest.org

Here’s a peek at what else is on our calendar:
Philadelphia Science Festival, April 25-May 3

East Passyunk’s Flavors of the Avenue, April 26

Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival, May 3

Burger Brawl, June 8