The 2nd Street Festival returns for its 9th year

The best block parties have 11 things: food, shopping, live music and eight beer gardens. Whether you’re a Northern Liberties native or newbie, the annual 2nd Street Festival is a highlight of the summer that balances neighborhood spirit and mass appeal. Grab some snacks from food vendors around the city, explore the options for al fresco refreshments and do some shopping. In case you need some help with getting started, here are five things to explore at the 2nd Street Festival.

Pop by the pop up market

The crafty fair organizers at Art Star (623 N. 2nd St.) will have a pop up market with plenty of ware. The boutique that calls Northern Liberties home is an expert at curating and organizing flea markets throughout the region. Purchase music, clothing, jewelry and more from more than 40 local makers.

Bar hopping? Try beer garden hopping.

2nd Street Festival will have eight beer gardens in partnership with neighborhood favorites like North Bowl, Jerry’s Bar , and Dos Segundos. Sip your favorite summer ale, or try an adventurous cocktail at one (or more) of the oases.

Savory snacks

Can there be too many choices? Food trucks and tents will provide plenty of cuisine, along with the brick and mortar stores along the popular neighborhood block. Stop by Heritage (adventurous American) or Seiko (Japanese). Check out popular trucks such as Poi Dog (Hawaiian street food), Cow and the Curd (fried cheese curds) and The Taza Truck (Egyptian cuisine).

There’s always room for dessert

Don’t leave your sweet tooth at home. Little Baby’s and Weckerly’s will both be representing unique, seasonal ice creams made in Philly. The Sweet Lavender food truck will have baked goods and other desserts- try their famous lavender crème brûlée! Or go for a vegan, allergen free popsicle from Kennett Square based Mompops.

The setlist

2nd St. will be alive with the sound of music coming from the three performance stages. Kid Felix brings their upbeat rock to the Piazza. Take a walk to catch psychedelic soul act St. James & the Apostles at the Germantown Ave. stage. And stop by The Street Spot at Poplar at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. for the Open Busking hours.

If you go:
2nd Street Festival
Sunday Aug. 6, Noon-10 p.m.
N. 2nd St. and Spring Garden Ave.
2ndstfestival.org
Pay as you go