Looking for some fun and unique things to do for Memorial Day Weekend in Philly? We’ve got you covered.
Philadelphia Contemporary Circus Festival
The summer season in Philly brings the opportunity for many unique art events—but none quite like the Philadelphia Contemporary Circus Festival. Taking place May 23 to June 1, the occasion features 10 days full of shows, workshops and events highlighting some of the best Big Top talent in the region.
The Festival will be filled with different viewing opportunities, including Rebel Arts Movement’s ‘Finding Joy by The Rebellion Circus’(May 24 at 7:30 p.m.), Troy Lingelbach’s ‘International Lover’ (May 25 at 6 p.m.), plus learning opportunities spanning a Try and Fly Workshop by Wahoo Trapeze and an All Levels Handstands Workshop by Acro&. A full schedule of performances and workshops can be found online, with locations being housed in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Summer City Escape Package at Hotel Ana & Bel
For those staying in the city this weekend, you have the opportunity to enjoy some pool-side fun when booking a stay through the Summer City Escape Package at this trendy Fishtown hotel. Upon arrival, guests will enjoy a chilled bottle of bubbly before being able to spend time at the venue’s private courtyard pool. To complete the experience, the package features $100 of F&B credit to enjoy some poolside dining or, to explore the culinary offerings at Bastia and crafted libations at Caletta. Bookings can be found online.
1401 E Susquehanna Ave., larkindependent.com
Ballet in the Park
Families can head to Rittenhouse Square this Thursday to experience The School of Philadelphia Ballet’s rendition of ‘Peter and the Wolf.’ As a release describes, blending classical ballet with custom-designed puppetry, the performance introduces audiences of all ages to the wonder of live dance and storytelling in the open air. This free, one-night-only event is open to the public and features original choreography by Philadelphia Ballet’s Demi Soloist Russell Ducker.
No tickets are required for the event, which will have two showings on May 22, at 5 and 7 p.m.
18th & Walnut Streets, philadelphiaballet.org
‘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. Opening night is set for May 21, and due to popular demand, ‘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.
40 N. 2nd St., ardentheatre.org
Museum of the American Revolution
There are multiple ways to enjoy your time for Memorial Day Weekend in Philadelphia while at the MoAR. Guests can make Memorial Ribbons while there, watch different “Meet Joseph Plumb Martin” performances, head to the Camp Followers Discovery Cart, join in on indoor and outdoor History Walking Tours and much more.
Walking Tour tickets can be purchased online, while all other Memorial Day Weekend programming is included with regular Museum admission. The new special exhibit ‘Banners of Liberty: An Original Exhibition of Revolutionary War Flags’ is also included with regular Museum admission. Additionally, from Saturday, May 24 through Monday, May 26, all veterans, military, and Blue Star Families will receive free admission (note, free admission tickets cannot be reserved in advance and are available at the front desk only).
101 S 3rd St., amrevmuseum.org
‘Bees, Butterflies, & Blooms: A Pollinator Paradise’
The world of pollinators will be explored daily at Morris Arboretum & Gardens with their newest exhibition, ‘Bees, Butterflies, & Blooms: A Pollinator Paradise.’ Running May 23 through Sept. 30, the activation will feature different events, with one focal point being the addition of ‘Garden Railway: World Pollinators.’ Through this specific activation, guests will see a display of pollinators from around the world made from natural materials such as bark, leaves, twigs, mosses and acorns, set amongst Morris’ charming, natural train set.
100 E Northwestern Ave., morrisarboretum.org
