A lively gathering of people at outdoor summer events in Philadelphia, showcasing art and music.
Philadelphia’s summer of 2025 is set to be filled with cultural experiences and outdoor activities, from art exhibitions to music festivals. Key highlights include the Morris Arboretum’s pollinator exhibition, an outdoor concert series at Penn Museum, and the return of the Chinese Lantern Festival. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy the revitalized waterfront attractions. This vibrant season promises a rich array of events celebrating arts, music, and community, inviting all to explore and immerse themselves in the city’s festive spirit from late May through early September.
Philadelphia’s summer of 2025 promises an exciting lineup of events and activities that cater to art, music, dance, and outdoor enthusiasts. Highlights of this vibrant season include a range of festivals, outdoor concerts, and exhibitions across the city, which will run from late May through early September.
The Morris Arboretum & Gardens will unveil the ‘Bees, Butterflies, & Blooms: A Pollinator Paradise’ exhibition starting May 23 and continuing until September 30. This unique exhibition will feature a display of global pollinators, crafted from natural materials such as bark, leaves, and twigs, organized in a miniature railway setting. Visitors will also have the opportunity to enjoy the Hummingbird Hut, designed for close-up views of these fascinating birds. Additionally, ‘Pollinator Friday’ events will be celebrated on June 6, July 11, and August 1, while Morris Pop-Up Meadows, showcasing pollinator-inspired art, will debut on June 28. The ‘Exuberant Blooms’ annual display, featuring tropical plants, will officially kick off in July.
The Penn Museum will start its outdoor concert series on July 9, featuring the West Philadelphia Orchestra. Concerts will take place every Wednesday throughout July, with engaging performances by artists such as Vertical Current on July 16, Philly Bomba Plena on July 23, and Malidelphia on July 30. Each concert will run from 5 to 8 p.m., during which ticket holders will also have after-hours access to the museum galleries. General admission tickets are available for $15, with discounts for PennCard holders and free entry for museum members.
Franklin Square will welcome the return of the Chinese Lantern Festival on June 20, featuring a spectacular 200-foot-long dragon lantern display as well as new immersive experiences. This event will offer a mix of cultural performances, diverse food options, and a cocktail garden. Attendees can also look forward to discounts on Philly Mini Golf and Parx Liberty Carousel rides during the festival.
Christ Church Burial Ground will host a new outdoor jazz series on the first Saturday of each month from May through September. Meanwhile, Rittenhouse Square will celebrate its 98th annual Fine Art Show from June 6 to 8, featuring an impressive lineup of 145 artists. The Philadelphia Folk Festival, a staple in the music scene, will take place from August 15 to 17 at Old Pool Farm, offering live music, delicious food, and family-friendly activities, including an early concert for campers on August 14.
Summer will also include various outdoor experiences such as nighttime park tours and movie screenings. Seasonal attractions along the Delaware River waterfront include the Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, which features a roller rink and mini-golf, as well as Spruce Street Harbor Park, providing amenities like hammocks and local dining options. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Pop-Up Gardens are set to reopen in South Street and Manayunk.
Philadelphia will also commemorate LGBTQ+ culture with the Philadelphia Pride March and Festival, featuring a lively parade and various festival events. The city will be bustling with festivities, including the Wawa Welcome America festival, scheduled from June 19 to July 4, which will spotlight concerts and a grand fireworks display. Significant cultural observances such as the Juneteenth Parade & Festival will add to the summer’s rich tapestry, along with multiple street festivals throughout the season.
As part of the city’s ongoing commitment to cultural enrichment, plans for the opening of Calder Gardens, dedicated to artist Alexander Calder, are set for 2025. Key venues for these outdoor concerts and festivals will include Penn’s Stoner Courtyard, various waterfront parks, and historic districts in Philadelphia.
For those planning to attend these events, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended to ensure attendance at this summer’s exciting lineup of activities.
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