Community yoga, West African dance and more at The Oval this weekend

Throughout the summer, locals and visitors can head to The Oval — an public parking lot outside of the Philadelphia Museum of Art that has been transformed into an “urban oasis” — to check out its eight-acre space filled with food and beverages, art, music and entertainment, wellness experiences, and free special event programming. 

This weekend, the beloved outdoor pop-up has a full slate of events. On Thursday, Aug. 1, there will be a free outdoor community yoga class from 6 to 7 p.m. Participants should being their own yoga gear — mat, water, towels, etc. — and enjoy the calming wonders with the event’s organizer, Yoga Habit. All are welcome, and classes are beginner-friendly.

On Friday, Aug. 2, Troupe Da Da will showcase West African dance and music on The Oval’s main stage from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Troupe Da Da performs authentic African dance and singing in traditional African languages. The group also presents the unique African cultural performance of stilt walking and masquerade from Guinea, Liberia, and the Ivory Coast. The masquerade, or ‘Tall Spirit,’ acts as the spiritual authority of a village and community and, along with the musical accompaniment, brings good luck, peace, prosperity and balance in all of nature.

The free performance is part of  Parkway Presents, a series organized by the Parkway Council celebrating Philadelphia’s diverse and rich cultural scene, according to organizers.

Outside alcoholic drinks are not permitted, however, food and drinks may be purchased from Libertee Grounds beer garden and pop-up food bar and other Oval vendors.

The Oval is located in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, at 2451 Benjamin Franklin Parkway. For more information and a full list of events, visit myphillypark.org