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City Cast Philly

Find the best that Philadelphia has to offer.

Abby Fritz

Happy fall! Both meteorologists and astronomers agree that September marks the beginning of the fall season.

Whether or not Philly's weather will chill out is TBD.

Your Guide to September 2026 in Philly

Hispanic heritage and culture are honored across the country with a month-long celebration starting Sept. 15, and Philly is getting the party started early. Kick off the festivities on Sept. 13 with the largest Latino arts and culture festival in the city, 

. And that's just the beginning: Throughout the month, you can also go to the 

Concilio’s Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade

Philly tends to get a bit sleepy over Labor Day weekend, with folks flocking to the Jersey shore for the three-day weekend. If you stick around, celebrate Philly's history as a loud and proud union town with the city's 

Every September, the city celebrates artists creating out-of-the-box performances with the 

. From Sept. 8 through 27, you'll be able to choose from more than 350 shows happening across the city. If you're feeling overwhelmed by all the options, creative producer Siani Colón wrote 

 breaking down this year's festivities by cost, location, and vibes.

Don't just see art this month, learn to make it! At 

 on Sept. 9, local film connoisseurs and animators from the movie club 

 will be your guides through an animation workshop at Fireball Printing in East Kensington. For a suggested donation of $10, both experienced and brand-new animators can learn about the lighting techniques, materials, and creative juices that go into producing stop-motion works.

You may be surprised to learn that Oktoberfest isn't just in October. The 16-day German festival starts at the end of September and was originally a celebration of the love of two Bavarian royals. It has evolved into one of the 

. While I won't be catching a flight to Munich, I will be grabbing some pints at 

 for an eight-hour beer-extravaganza on Sept. 26. The event is free, but if you want indoor seating, a buffet, seven beers, and private bathrooms, Brauhaus Schmitz on South Street is offering just that 

Raise a glass or a sax to the late and great jazz genius, John Coltrane. While he wasn't born here, he made Philly his home for over a decade and grew his musical practice in his Strawberry Mansion house. To celebrate what would've been his 100th birthday on Sept. 23, local jazz presenter Ars Nova Workshop is hosting iconic jazz composer 

 in West Philly. This kicks off a week of events honoring Coltrane and his legacy.

Summer may be ending, but the party continues with festivals, John Coltrane's 100th, and local farm boxes.

Your Guide to Philadelphia in September 2026

How to Spend September 2026 in Philly

Find the best of everything that Philadelphia has to offer.

Philly’s Best

Philly's Best

Siani Colón

September is set to be the busiest month for performing arts in the city thanks to the return of the Philadelphia Fringe Festival. Inspired by the historic Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland, Philly has been putting its own spin on the international “Fringe” movement for 30 years. To celebrate this major milestone, 2026’s lineup consists of roughly 330 performances. Here’s how to make the most of it.

Philadelphia hosts one of the largest Fringe Festivals in the country. What sets the annual event apart is its dedication to pushing the boundaries of what constitutes art by delivering performances in a variety of genres, from dance to puppetry. It even pushes the boundaries of where to host said performances, ranging from theaters to yoga studios to the 

Once concentrated solely in Old City, Philly Fringe takes place across the city in various neighborhoods. 

 are hosting performances throughout the event at one or more locations. 

 is the largest hub, with a third of Fringe performances at the Asian Arts Initiative, Icebox Project Space, and Box Spring Gallery.

Unless you’ve figured out how to clone yourself, teleport, or time travel, it’s impossible to see all 300+ shows. To narrow down your picks, you can browse through Philly Fringe’s 

 at a neighborhood partner. You can also 

 (Do you like circus arts? Cabaret? Magic?) or search keywords.

Some performances run for several days so if you can’t catch it one night, pencil in the next showing! With performances happening all over the city, choose what’s closest to you or explore a new neighborhood. If you find a cluster of back-to-back performances, why not turn it into a theater crawl?

If price is a factor, some events are free or pay-what-you-can. 

 are offered for students, industry workers, and FringeArts members. If you participate in 

, a curated experience of multiple shows in one day, that’s $250. Check individual event listings for exact pricing.

If you need someone to tell you what to see, here’s what’s on my Fringe Festival lineup.

“A Murder Most Felt; or It’s Not Easy Bleeding Green”

: A dramatization of a clash between Dr. Anthony Fauci and playwright Larry Kramer during the AIDS crisis

 An exploration of fractured memory through dance and spoken word

: A gathering of Philly’s clown community, complete with improv, comedy, and plenty of hijinks

The festival is celebrating its 30th anniversary with an expanded lineup of performances. 

Your Insider’s Guide to Philadelphia Fringe Festival 2026

What To See at 2026 Philly Fringe 

This is your friendly reminder that summer isn’t technically over until mid-September, so we still have an entire month to make the most of it.

August is National Sandwich Month, so what better way to celebrate than to go to a festival dedicated to one? A cemita is a sandwich associated with Puebla, Mexico, and Cantina La Martina is inviting local restaurants and chefs to put their own spin on the iconic sandwich at its 

 across from Mural City Cellars on Aug. 9. The sandwiches are pay-as-you-go. Mural City Cellars will be providing wine and other drinks. There will also be traditional folk dances.

The Reading Terminal Market is hosting its annual 

 on Aug. 15. Pay-as-you-go and enjoy cold treats from ice cream vendors. You can also participate in contests and kid-friendly activities. Want the scoop on where else to get the best ice cream in the city? Check out 

Philly’s sporty summer isn’t over. The 

 is coming to our area for its championship game on Aug. 15. The top teams will compete at Subaru Park, home of the Philadelphia Union, just outside the city in Chester, PA.

North Philly has a rich jazz history, once home to several jazz clubs and social halls that saw legends such as Duke Ellington, John Coltrane, and Ella Fitzgerald. That legacy is being honored at 

 on Aug. 15. Cecil B. Moore Avenue will be closed to traffic and filled with live performances, a Kidz Zone, and community resources.

Not all of us can catch a flight to the Caribbean this summer, but luckily the Caribbean is coming to us. The 

 is celebrating its 40th year on Aug. 16. The party is at Cherry Street Pier. It will have live entertainment by international Caribbean artists, fashion shows, cultural exhibitions, and of course, the best Caribbean cuisine.

If you’re falling behind on your summer reading, now’s the time to bounce back. The 

 returns Aug. 22, encouraging readers to support independent bookstores around the city. Participating stores will offer discounts, autographed books, and giveaways.

After Robert Capron shaved his head last June, he said it was “one of the best months of my life.” To spread the joy of a hairless scalp, 

, inviting the bald and bald-at-heart to come together. Now he’s 

, this time at The Lawn at uCity Square on Aug. 29. Shave your head, bring a bald cap, or come as you are. The day will have live music, vendors, and raffles.

The semiquincentennial may officially be behind us, but Philly’s keeping the party atmosphere going through the rest of this summer. 


Your Guide to Philadelphia in August 2026

How To Spend August 2026 in Philly

After hyping it up all year long, the country’s semiquincentennial celebration is here. Independence Day is the buzziest topic in July, and we encourage you to participate in the remaining 

 festivities. But after the Fourth, what else is there to do for the rest of the month?

The World Cup wraps up this month, with Philly’s last game on July 4. If you’re looking for another sport to root for, Major League Baseball’s Home Run Derby and All-Star Game return to Philly July 13 and 14. But that’s not all. MLB is taking over for several days, including the 

 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center July 11 through 14.

The American Revolution isn’t the only revolt being celebrated this month. Bastille Day is July 14, celebrating the French Revolution. As the 

 on July 12 to raise funds for Alliance Française de Philadelphie, which supports the study of the French language and Francophone cultures. Also on July 12, local French organizations are 

celebrating 250 years of French-American friendship

 at Rittenhouse Square’s French Quarter. Speaking of that friendship, the Museum of the American Revolution is zooming in on France’s role in the American Revolution with 

“Red White & Bleu: Revolutionary Alliances.”

 runs from July 2 through 12, offering patrons discounts on dishes from African, African American, and Caribbean cultures. The series will also include a music and food festival at Love Park on July 11. Want to learn more about the cultures across the African continent? Visit 

The Philly Youth Music Fest returns for its third year, showcasing young performers participating in the city’s music programming.

 This year’s event is at Spruce Street Harbor Park

 on July 19. Attendees can listen to over 25 live performances, participate in workshops, and win prizes.

One of Philly’s prestigious art institutions is celebrating summer with its annual 

 event on July 12. The Barnes Foundation will have live DJs, art workshops, and a craft market. If you’re a Philly resident, take advantage of free admission not just that day, 

It’s market season, so stock up on goods from Philly’s small businesses. The 

takes over the Sheet Metal Workers Union on July 17 through 19. The 

 will shut down the 900 and 1000 blocks of South Street on July 31.

Honor and learn about Philly’s Mantua neighborhood at 

, an outdoor dance festival. The daylong movement event at Miles Mack Playground is on July 11. Over in Manayunk, go beyond your typical post-work happy hour experience with 

. The seasonal event features pop-up vendors, movie nights, and art demos every Thursday evening throughout July.

If you have a weird sense of humor, this alternative comedy festival is for you. 

 returns to the Louis Bluver Theatre at The Drake from July 9 through 13. The event features a mix of improv workshops, game shows, live readings, and screenings. After that, head to Helium Comedy Club on July 18 for the 

 featuring touring headliners and local acts.

Summer’s just getting started in Philly, and there’s plenty to keep you occupied after America’s birthday.

Your Guide to Philadelphia in July 2026

How to Spend July 2026 in Philly

Philadelphians are lucky to be surrounded by 

 whether they’re right in the city at Wissahickon Valley Park and Pennypack Park, or in the surrounding counties. With 

, you can cover new ground by finding people to share these adventures with.

The robust local trail system has fostered a community of hiking groups that bring together enthusiasts and newbies alike. Joining a trail club can introduce you to new hikes, help you feel safer on trails, and get you outside.

“BATONA” is an acronym for the phrase "back to nature," and 

 gave its moniker to a 53-mile trail in South Jersey back in 1961. This club goes back all the way to the 1920s and organizes meetups every weekend for both long and short hikes in and around Philly.

Body Liberation Hiking Club: Greater Philly Area

 gathers on the trails to celebrate the outdoors and all body types by making space for folks with marginalized bodies. 

 does more than just hike meetups; the group also organizes regional hikes paired with camping and swimming, and other day trips such as tubing and festival hangouts.

Focusing on wellness by prioritizing hiking and mental health, 

 is for Black women who want to share outdoor adventures. For over three years the group has organized hikes, trail runs, and meetups, sometimes partnering with other local organizations such as 

 centering health offers hikes, fitness challenges, social activities, travel experiences, and philanthropic opportunities. In the summer, the organization focuses on its 

 designed with the Upper Darby Township Recreation Department to introduce girls ages five to 12 to the outdoors.

, the nonprofit has been around since 1931. For $10 a year, you can become a member and join in on hikes most Saturdays and Sundays and bigger excursions like a yearly outing which has taken participants to Croatia, Italy, and the Czech Republic. The group also offers 

. Every event listing specifies the distance, location, time, and difficulty.

. While the focus is on the free seasonal hikes, you can also rock climb and bird watch with the group.

 has a membership-based program that aims to connect people through the outdoors. For $350 annually, you can participate in hiking, walking, classes, a book club, and other activities. With partners like REI, Free People Movement, and HOKA, this club has expanded significantly since its inception. It does host some free community hikes and other ticketed offerings if membership isn't your jam.

Hike with friends, or make new ones, by joining these Philly-area clubs.

Hiking in Philly and Beyond With These Groups

Philly’s Hiking Clubs

Philly parks want you to go outside this summer, whether it’s to 

have some drinks at a rotating pop-up beer garden

. The good times don’t have to end once the sun goes down. But your neighborhood park is the destination to catch some flicks, whether it’s a family-friendly film or a romance perfect for a date night. So bring a blanket or lawn chair, some snacks, and relax at these upcoming screenings.

’s Under the Stars Festival brings together moviegoers in West Philly’s Clark Park on Friday nights, showcasing independent films. The remaining two screenings in this series are 

 on June 13, plus “TCB - The Toni Cade Bambera School of Organizing” and 

 on June 19. Outside of this series, cinéSPEAK has other pop-up screenings at The Lawn at UCity Square and at Freedom Greens & Garden later this summer.

If you missed the Under the Stars Festival, that isn’t your last chance to see movies at this beloved park. The 

University City District will screen movies

 on Fridays in August. With 2026 being the semiquincentennial, this year’s theme is “freedom.” Come and watch “A League of Their Own” and “The Matrix.”

Get a bird’s eye view of the city while watching your favorite movie. Located at Cira Green Rooftop, Sunset Social hosts 

 on Saturdays. Upcoming evening films include “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” “Jaws,” and “Iron Man,” and daytime screenings include “Encanto” and “Ponyo.”

At Independence Mall, you can retrace the steps of the country’s Founding Fathers, see where the Declaration of Independence was signed, and watch a movie about a group stealing said document. The 

 takes over Independence National Historical Park from June 19 through Oct. 19. On the lineup are “Harriet,” the “National Treasure” franchise, and “Hamilton.” Sign up in advance and come early for a pre-show.

. Screenings will take place either at the Grays Ferry Crescent Esplanade or in a grassy area by Walnut Street. The film lineup features “Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark” and “Dirty Dancing.” And before the movie take a stroll by the water or rent a kayak for a tour.

The city’s network of over 100 park friends groups is committed to keeping your parks clean and making them true gathering spaces

. More than 20 of those groups are hosting movie nights

 in neighborhood parks like Mifflin Square Park, Benson Park, and Harrowgate Park.

From now through September, residents can watch everything from cult classics to samurai 

. The series runs primarily on Saturdays. Attendees can come at 7 p.m. to hear music from D.J.s and shop at local vendors before the movie starts.

Grab some popcorn and your coziest blanket to watch movies with your neighbors at your local park. 

Your Guide to Outdoor Movies in Summer 2026 in Philly

Where To Watch Free Movies Outdoors This Summer

It’s time to finally use your PTO and get outside! June kicks off a jam-packed summer season throughout Philadelphia with outdoor festivals, the world’s biggest sporting event, and seasonal pop-ups. Here’s how to make the most of the official start of summer.

 is back, now pedestrianizing streets in Midtown Village. This iteration is switching things up with evening hours every Tuesday in June. From 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., enjoy live music, double dutch, and pop-up mini-golf.

Eat seasonally by stocking up on summer fruits and veggies! Take a day trip outside of the city to nearby farms like 

 to pick your own strawberries, cherries, and raspberries. Be sure to visit Shadybrook on June 6 and 7 for 

As the semiquincentennial approaches, from now until July 2 artists across the city are responding to the question 

 as we ponder what’s next for the United States. Explore more than 30 performances and installations from Art Philly on topics ranging from the climate crisis to the contributions of Philadelphia’s Chinatown.

It’s Pride Month, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. This year’s 

 will be June 7 on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway instead of the typical Gayborhood location. There's a $10 admission. If you can’t make it, 

 on June 7. For sapphics looking for love in a sober setting, 

Celebrate and Learn About the End of Slavery

June 19 commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. The annual 

 will depart from the Highmark Mann Center at 12:30 p.m. and conclude at Malcolm X Park, where a marketplace will already be in full swing and a music festival begins at 5 p.m. At Bartram’s Garden, there’s a 

 on June 14 with free workshops and storytelling. And over in Germantown, the 

Johnson House is celebrating its 20th Juneteenth Festival

 on June 20. Continue learning about the 

history of slavery and abolition in Philadelphia with these tours

Although we’ve been feeling summer temperatures for weeks now, we don’t officially transition seasons until June 21, when you can soak up the sun on the longest day of the year. 

 is hosting a celebration ahead of the solstice on June 18 with food, music, and free archery. On June 20, 

 is throwing a block party with an opportunity to view the sun through the museum’s telescope. In Torresdale, 

 is leading an eco-craft event on the actual solstice, making art with sun printing and natural dyes.

Wander Philly’s museums, pick fresh fruit, and celebrate the solstice throughout the month.

Your Guide to Philadelphia in June 2026

How to Spend June 2026 in Philly

May is National Bike Month, when we’re reminded of cycling’s multiple benefits, from exercise to transportation. While biking can be a solitary activity, Philadelphia has a strong community of cyclists who host meetups throughout the city for riders to safely cycle together. If you’re looking for a group near you to explore with, here are a few local clubs.

Have you ever heard of a walking school bus, where a group of students walks to school with chaperones? Similar to that concept, bike trains consist of cyclists commuting together to jobs, school, or other destinations. 

 has six main routes around the city, with riders meeting up weekly.

Riding your bike at night can be intimidating due to lower visibility and other dangers. But just because it’s dark out doesn’t mean you can’t go out. 

 organizes biweekly social bike rides throughout the city. Interested cyclists can learn about an upcoming ride and the designated route on the organization’s website and social media channels. The miles vary with each ride, and routes will note their difficulty levels.

this group hosts evening social bike rides

 but focuses on Northwest Philadelphia. Riders meet up every other Wednesday at 7 p.m. Upcoming dates and routes are posted on Instagram and 

Sometimes, to get people out of the house, you need to come up with a good theme. 

 leans into its name by organizing monthly themed bike rides. Past themes have centered on Earth Day, the spring equinox, and Valentine’s Day. Riders meet at the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps at 8 p.m. and head out at 8:30 p.m.

 promotes gender inclusivity and racial equity in biking and the great outdoors. The Philadelphia chapter has organized bike campouts, picnic rides, and “carb crawls” to local bakeries. The group also runs a gear library, sharing bike bags and camping equipment.

Want to join these groups but don’t know how to ride a bike? Adults and kids alike can practice biking in Hunting Park’s 

. And the Philadelphia Bicycle Coalition hosts two-hour adult learn-to-ride class every month at Lloyd Hall along Boathouse Row – 

Why bike solo when you can join a community that also loves exploring the city on two wheels?


Where To Ride a Bike With Others in Philly

Ride a Bike and Make a Friend at These Philly Biking Clubs

It’s warming up in Philly! Rising temps may have you eager to grab a swimsuit and head down to the Jersey Shore, but there are plenty of opportunities to splash around this spring and summer in the city itself. As we wait for the city to reopen our pools and spraygrounds (help them open quicker by 

 offers free community boating on Saturdays now through Oct. 17. Rowboats, kayaks, and canoes are available for 30-minute rides. Instruction is provided, so beginners are welcome! No signup required. The organization also hosts free family fishing every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Row merrily down Philly’s rivers or learn how to catch a fish at these seasonal programs. 


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What To See at 2026 Philly Fringe

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