Saturday

06-21-2025 Vol 1998

Exciting Weekend Plans Await in Philadelphia: Festivals, Food, and Fun

Philadelphia is set for a vibrant weekend filled with unique experiences and festivities that cater to a variety of interests.

The Chinese Lantern Festival is making its return to Franklin Square, with a striking display of steel-framed and silk-wrapped lantern sculptures illuminating the historic area.

Visitors to this year’s festival can expect to see the much-loved 200-foot-long dragon alongside entirely new lantern designs and immersive cultural experiences.

Live performances celebrating Asian heritage will fill the air, while guests can indulge in Asian-inspired cuisine, American comfort food, and sip cocktails within a specially designed garden.

The festival offers a fantastic opportunity to witness the choreographed light display at the Rendell Family Fountain, and attendees can also engage in Philly Mini Golf and ride the Parx Liberty Carousel at discounted prices.

For the first time, locals can purchase the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival Pass, which grants unlimited entry throughout the festival’s duration for a price of $80 for adults and $45 for children aged 3 to 13.

During regular days from Monday to Thursday, ticket prices stand at $26 for adults and $16 for children, while Friday through Sunday tickets are set at $29 for adults, with similar discounts for children and seniors.

Moving on to musical delights, the Fête de la Musique will take place this Saturday at the Sofitel Hotel situated in Rittenhouse Square to honor the French celebration of World Music Day.

The event will unfold between 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. within the Liberté Lounge, showcasing a collection of French tunes played on vinyl.

Guests can savor delightful pay-as-you-go bites crafted by Executive Chef Sylva Senat, including miniature croque monsieurs, shrimp cocktails, and pork belly bao buns.

Inspired cocktails such as the Voulez Vous, featuring mezcal and a touch of gold, and the LoveQuest, which includes Empress Gin and Pommery Champagne, will surely tantalize attendees’ taste buds.

With DJ Romain spinning eclectic mixes of French music, the atmosphere promises to be lively and enjoyable.

Beer enthusiasts can mark their calendars for the inaugural Fishtown Beer Festival happening on Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.

This event will gather 15 local and regional breweries on Front Street, offering an impressive variety of beverages including IPAs, lagers, and more.

Participating breweries include Yards Brewing Company, Cartesian Brewing Company, Dock Street Brewing Company, and Tired Hands Brewing Company among others.

In addition to great craft beer, festival-goers can enjoy DJ sets, lawn games, and a selection of street eats throughout this lively block party.

Tickets are available for $45, providing guests with a souvenir glass and unlimited beer tastings, while designated driver tickets can be purchased for just $10.

At the same time, South Street’s Summer Solstice will come alive, offering a bustling celebration from noon to 7 p.m.

This vibrant street festival will transform S. 4th Street with artist pop-ups, shopping, live music, and an array of mouth-watering bites.

Highlights of the event include live music performances from MilkBoy South Street and a special celebration for Crash Bang Boom’s 20th anniversary.

Attendees can look forward to acoustic performances, a photo booth, henna art, face painting, and a selection of food trucks and local restaurant offerings at the “Bainbridge Food Bridge.”

For those interested in history and storytelling, The Public Universal Friend Walking Tour is scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m.

In recognition of Pride Month, this outdoor tour will highlight the intriguing life of the self-proclaimed Public Universal Friend, a nonbinary religious figure from the 1770s.

Led by a knowledgeable museum educator, the 60-minute tour will traverse historic landmarks including Elfreth’s Alley and Carpenters’ Hall.

Pricing for this enriching experience is set at $26 for non-members wanting a walking tour only, or $37 for those who wish to include museum admission.

Members enjoy a discounted rate of $16, and all participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

With such an array of events taking place, Philadelphia offers something for everyone, making this weekend a perfect time to explore the vibrant culture and community of the city.

image source from:metrophiladelphia

Benjamin Clarke