As the blossoms of spring begin to bloom, vibrant events pop up across Philadelphia, Delaware, and Atlantic City, welcoming residents and visitors alike to excitement and cultural engagement.
In Philadelphia, the annual Easter Promenade and costume contest is set to showcase the city’s best-dressed residents, with longtime MC Henri David returning for the 92nd annual event. This year’s celebration kicks off at noon on Easter Sunday, April 20, starting at 5th and South streets.
Participants are encouraged to don their most fabulous holiday finery as they compete in what is known to be the city’s most prestigious costume contest. Free bunny ears will be distributed, and each contestant will receive free candy, making this event a delightful family outing.
Meanwhile, Delaware Theatre Company will host the world premiere of “Stompin’ at the Savoy,” a musical inspired by the real-life swing dance legend Norma Miller. The performances are running through Sunday, May 4, at the theater located at 200 Water St., Wilmington.
Tickets for “Stompin’ at the Savoy” start at $64, and audiences can expect a thrilling display of energetic choreography, including jump rope and Lindy Hop, tied together with classic swing tunes. This event is an homage to the robust history of swing dancing.
Over in Atlantic City, music enthusiasts will be treated to a collaboration between two acclaimed singer-songwriters, Melissa Etheridge and Joss Stone. Etheridge is currently on her “I’m Not Broken” tour, and she will be joined by Stone for selected dates, including a stop at the Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena on Friday night, April 18.
Tickets for the concert start at $59, as Etheridge promotes her latest release, “I’m Not Broken,” live from Topeka Correctional Facility, while Stone supports her album, “20 Years of Soul.” Together, these Grammy winners promise an unforgettable night filled with music.
Mary J. Blige, known as the Queen of hip-hop soul, is making her appearance at the Wells Fargo Center on Thursday, April 17, joined by R&B artists Ne-Yo and Mario. Their concert is part of Blige’s For My Fans tour, where she celebrates her storied career and extensive discography.
For those looking for a serene and uplifting experience, The Lights Festival will take place on Saturday, April 19, at Plantation Field in Coatesville, featuring a stunning display of shimmering lanterns lighting up the night sky. This alcohol-free event focuses on unity and peace, offering families tickets starting at $73 for adults and $12 for kids 12 and under.
In the spirit of special events, several Easter Sunday celebrations are expected to take place throughout Philadelphia, including various family-friendly activities. Highlights include the Easter Eggstravaganza at Shady Brook Farm, which starts on Thursday and runs through Saturday, April 19, providing holiday-themed fun for both adults and children.
Other notable events include the SneakHer Market Popup, which will feature an Easter-themed outdoor pop-up event aimed at female-identifying sneakerheads with an adult egg hunt, music, and vendors set to take place on Saturday.
Additionally, the renowned Old Fashioned Easter Egg Hunt will return as a tradition in Peddler’s Village on the same day. An Easter Sunday Skate event will offer all-day roller skating, complete with a fun limbo dance battle between the Easter Bunny and Bugs Bunny.
Families looking to indulge in a lavish meal can still reserve tables for the Easter Brunch Buffet at The Sofitel’s French brasserie. With a fine selection of culinary delights, the buffet offers guests an extravagant holiday experience.
Springfest, another event lined up in Philadelphia, will be hosted at Bartram’s Garden from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. This free event is led by food ethnographer William Woys Weaver and is designed to connect communities with the land through activities like plant and seed planting and guided tours of the garden.
In observance of the International Day of Monuments and Sites on April 18, Philadelphia will celebrate its rich cultural heritage with various activities across the city on April 19. Establishments across Philadelphia will offer curated special events in honor of the occasion.
The Lights Festival is also set to energize the atmosphere with its prominent focus on community and shared experiences. As visitors release lanterns into the sky, organizations are emphasizing the transformative experience of light and togetherness.
The Wilma Theater is hosting “Archduke,” a poignant play by Pulitzer Prize finalist Rajiv Joseph, running through Sunday, May 4. Audiences can pay what they decide for tickets, allowing everyone the opportunity to engage with this meaningful theatrical presentation that examines the motivations behind the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, a pivotal moment in history.
Running from Friday, April 18 to Sunday, April 20, “Riverdance 30: The New Generation” will be performed at the Miller Theater. Fans of this iconic performance can expect to see new choreography, updated costumes, and contemporary lighting as the show debuts for its 30th anniversary tour.
World Circus Day will be celebrated on Saturday, April 19, at the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts, featuring a variety of free and ticketed workshops for all ages. Attendees can witness performances from youth troupes and the main circus performers, promising an entertaining day filled with incredible acts.
For families interested in interactive experiences, the 2025 Stamp Rally Contest will kick off at Awbury Arboretum at noon. This interactive scavenger hunt takes place from April 19 to June 21, with participants collecting stamps from historic neighborhoods and earning prizes for their efforts.
The season opening day at Franklin Square on Saturday will include various events promoting the Easter holiday, featuring a day filled with activities like the free Hop-A-Long Trail, arts and crafts, and a light and music show at the Rendell Family Fountain. The day runs from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and encourages children to stay active and engaged.
In food and drink, the Northeast Philly Beer Festival at Cannstatter Volksfest Verein will showcase over 20 breweries on Saturday. Tickets are being offered for $30, and in addition to a variety of beers, attendees will enjoy food trucks, live bands, and vendors.
For those seeking comedy performances, renowned comedian Marlon Wayans brings his Wild Child Tour to Live! Casino & Hotel on Friday night at 8 p.m. Tickets for his performance start at $49.99, as he shares new material during this fun-filled night.
Music lovers will have a fantastic weekend ahead, with several concerts in the Philadelphia area. From Mary J. Blige’s anticipated show at the Wells Fargo Center to AWOLNATION performing at the Theatre of The Living Arts, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music.
Denzel Curry is making a stop at Franklin Music Hall on Friday as part of his Mischievous South World Tour, with tickets starting at $39.50. The festival atmosphere continues as Bright Eyes headlines the Met Philadelphia on Saturday, showcasing their latest project.
With a wide array of activities encompassing music, arts, culture, and community events, the region is poised to welcome spring in style. Families and friends are encouraged to venture out, engage in the vibrant local scene, and take part in these enriching experiences.
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