As summer heats up, Philadelphia’s parks are gearing up for a lively array of events designed to engage families and individuals alike.
One of the highlights is the Family Field Day set to take place on July 26 at East Fairmount Park’s Mander Recreation Center, located at 2140 N. 33rd St. This free event runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and promises a full day of activities suitable for all ages.
Participants can look forward to enjoying a variety of youth sports, including soccer, baseball, football, and basketball. The event isn’t just for sports enthusiasts; it will also feature music, prizes, free face painting, craft activities led by Smith Memorial’s Pop-up Playhouse, as well as food options from pay-as-you-go food trucks.
While attendance is free, advance registration is recommended to receive important pre-event details. Through initiatives like these, the Fairmount Park Conservancy collaborates with partners such as Philadelphia Parks and Recreation and the Philadelphia Youth Sports Collaborative to offer engaging youth sports days at no cost to families.
This year’s Family Field Day marks the Conservancy’s first-ever event in East Fairmount Park and is notable as the only summer field day scheduled for this season.
On the same day, July 26, Franklin Square Park, located at 200 N 6th St., will celebrate its 19th birthday. The park, originally established by William Penn in 1682 and renovated in 2006, will host a series of thought-provoking and entertaining activities starting at 10 a.m.
Visitors can enjoy complimentary rides on the carousel for the first 100 attendees, as well as birthday crafts, a Chinese Lantern Festival scavenger hunt, music, games, giant bubbles, and fitness activities led by YoYo.
At 11 a.m., attendees can gather at the park’s benches to witness Once Upon A Nation Storytelling, which runs until 4 p.m. This program offers captivating stories highlighting real people and significant events from Philadelphia’s history and Valley Forge. Professional storytellers will share these narratives, connecting historical experiences with contemporary interests.
Also at 11:15 a.m., a special appearance by Benjamin Franklin will take place to mark the official birthday celebration, along with treats for festival-goers. Guests can also explore Franklin Square’s popular attractions, such as the historic Rendell Family Fountain, the Philly-themed mini golf course, or grab a meal at Squareburger featuring American comfort food.
This day also provides a unique chance to experience the 2025 Chinese Lantern Festival, which will be at the park until August 31.
For those unable to attend the events on July 26, Philadelphia Parks offers a plethora of summer activities to enjoy. Wellness Wednesdays will be happening in West Fairmount Park, featuring programs designed to promote health and wellness.
Hosted by the Fairmount Park Conservancy and Coach Shay of Inner Sanctuary Wellness, the meditative and reflective sessions occur on select dates through August, with the next ones scheduled for July 30 and August 27 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Additionally, the Second Saturday of each month invites locals to join free guided hikes, with themes like the Tree Tour on July 12 and a Summer Hike and Meditation on August 9, both occurring from 10 a.m. to noon.
Another engaging opportunity is Bailar en FDR, featuring Salsa dance classes at the historic FDR Park Boathouse. These all-level dance lessons take place from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. and are followed by a social dance hosted by DJ Val Flores and Philly Outdoor Bachata & Salsa on free nights, occurring on July 18 and August 22.
Lastly, the city will host a free outdoor movie series, organized by Philadelphia’s Park Friends Groups. Movie enthusiasts can bring blankets and snacks to various parks around the city on changing locations, such as Hissey Playground, Vernon Park, and Fotterall Square.
Upcoming movie showings include ‘Moana 2’ on July 17 and July 26, ‘Paddington’ on August 9, and ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ on August 28. A full schedule of films can be found online, ensuring fun-filled summer nights in Philadelphia parks.
image source from：metrophiladelphia
