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City Cast Philly

Siani Colón

The Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts is celebrating its 50th anniversary this month, marking the celebration with a special performance on 

 featuring a new welcome center and plaza.

The Mann has established a reputation as a world-class entertainment venue, right inside Fairmount Park. But the outdoor concert space’s full history goes back over 100 years to its predecessor, the Dell Music Center.

Local historian and archivist Jack McCarthy collected this story in a new book, “A Century of Music Under the Stars: A History of the Mann Center for the Performing Arts and Robin Hood Dell.” 

He describes the Philadelphia Orchestra’s prominence in the 1920s, known to the world but out of reach to many Philadelphians. “There was this feeling that we have this phenomenal orchestra, but only a fraction of the local population gets to hear it — the people that can afford tickets in the Academy of Music, their regular season home,” McCarthy said. “There was this general belief in the cultural community, like, we have to make this orchestra more accessible to the people.”

Plus, after its regular concert season concluded in the spring, musicians were essentially out of work until the fall. So The Dell opened in July 1930 in East Fairmount Park as the orchestra’s summer home, narrowly avoiding the impacts of the Great Depression.

But in 1948, the Dell had its lowest-attended season yet due to bad weather and the fact that the Republican National Convention was in town. The venue ended the season three weeks early when money ran out. Help then arrived in the 

, a patron for the arts who made his fortune founding a cardboard box company. He agreed to help the Dell’s board with their troubles if he was granted full control of the institution.

“His strategy was to present the greatest music to the greatest number of people for the most affordable cost,” McCarthy said. “And so he began to present some free concerts and then, in 1952, he announced that the entire season would now be free. This is unheard of.”

Mann’s connections, innovative ideas, and wealth sustained the Dell for several more years. But as time went on, the venue’s golden era waned. Poor weather and the noisy, newly constructed Schuylkill Expressway disrupted performances. It was time to move.

The organization that founded the Dell East — renamed the Dell Music Center in 2010 — transferred management to the city in 1975. Then the Robin Hood Dell West opened across the river in 1976, and was renamed the Mann Center in 1979.

The opening of the new music center wasn’t without its hurdles. Ideally, a concert venue would have finished construction well before its debut. That wasn’t the case for The Dell West.

“The cement truck drivers went on strike that summer so there was no concrete delivered…things just were way, way behind,” McCarthy said. The seating in the balcony was installed like the day before opening night…The sod had not been laid on the lawn until like two days before. It was just a field of mud.”

The acoustics, the most important part, were the biggest problem.

“They did not have time to test and fine-tune that sound system, so it was a disaster,” McCarthy said. “They were able, over the course of the season, to fine-tune it. Then at the end of the season, they did a major upgrade so that the second season was much better.”

The move marked a shift in audience tastes. Though Mann was a big proponent of classical music, the market for that was shrinking as a new generation of music lovers preferred the genres dominating the airwaves. So Mann invited 

music promoter and founder of the Electric Factory, Larry Magid

, to present a series of rock and pop shows featuring artists such as James Taylor, Barry Manilow, and The Carpenters. Taylor was the first nonclassical artist to perform at the venue.

“Over the course of 30 years, it went from being a classical music venue with some rock and pop to a rock and pop venue with some classical music,” McCarthy said. “The audience for classical music was shrinking, but the cost of presenting the orchestra was rising dramatically, and they weren't getting enough income from those concerts to support that.”

The Mann remains the summer home of the Philadelphia Orchestra and has 

 across genres. It has connected with the Philadelphia community, especially its Parkside neighbors, through 

workforce development programs and arts education initiatives

. And as a result the Mann has remained an important gathering space for the city.

The full history with archival photos of both music venues and their impact on Philadelphia’s music scene can be read in “A Century of Music Under the Stars: A History of the Mann Center for the Performing Arts and Robin Hood Dell.” 

As the Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts celebrates a milestone on the cusp of the country's semiquincentennial, we look back at its interwoven history with the Dell Music Center and how it’s served Philly music lovers. 

A Dive Into the Musical Impact of The Mann and Dell Music Centers

People, places, and scenes from Philadelphia's past.

Philly History

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

Find the best of everything that Philadelphia has to offer.

Philly’s Best

Philly's Best

Alisha Miranda

Philadelphia knows world-class dining and entertainment. We also like to combine the two, with venues serving dinner while hosting jazz nights, cabaret, piano shows, and even opera performances.

Need a unique idea for a night out? This is our guide to see jazz, cabaret, and DJs while dining.

, with a history spanning over 100 years, has been revived and now hosts free 

 every Sunday. Reserve a table in the main dining room where blues and jazz performers share the stage under a grand mezzanine from 6 to 9 p.m. Rex offers a full menu of coastal Southern cuisine during performances. Don’t miss their fried green tomatoes, catfish and waffles, or signature shrimp and grits.

The Library Bar inside The Rittenhouse Hotel

 | 210 W. Rittenhouse Square (Rittenhouse)

Sultry music, leather chairs, and vintage books make for an intimate evening at The Library Bar on Friday and Saturday nights. Here, vocalists and solo musicians perform jazz renditions from 9:30 p.m. until midnight. Order a classic cocktail inspired by “The Great Gatsby,”

like the Hemingway daiquiri, to learn why this bar is consistently ranked among the best in the city.

This 50-seat candlelit bar is known for creative cocktails, comforting tavern fare, and jazz trios who perform here every Sunday from 6 to 9 p.m. (and sometimes on Monday nights). No tickets or reservations are required. The good vibes continue upstairs in their sister bar, 

 that welcomes vinyl lovers and live musicians.

This lively Japanese izakaya, a sister restaurant of Queen Village’s 

, now hosts a live jazz series inspired by New York’s Tomi Jazz on Tuesdays from 4:30 to 7 p.m., featuring rotating food and drink specials under $20. No reservations, and first-come, first-served. Come here after work to watch from a table or the bar rail as jazz duos perform in front of the Sansom Street-facing window in the side dining room.

 also hosts free jazz performances on Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. A roaring fireplace, wood-paneled walls, a stiff martini, and a plate of fries hit different here.

 is the only Philadelphia restaurant where you can watch Broadway stars perform cabaret numbers up close. Dinner begins between 5:30 and 6 p.m. and includes a three-course meal followed by an intimate musical experience featuring award-winning actresses, singers, composers, and jazz pianists. 

 ‘70s-sound lounge are more your vibe, Percy has you covered. DJs spin records here several times a week, typically starting at 6 p.m. on weeknights and 9 p.m. on weekends. Tickets range from free to $10 per person, depending on the event. Eat dinner from the diner-inspired menu in the main restaurant beforehand, then enjoy a post-dinner drink inside the lounge.

😋 Plus, where to listen to opera while you eat!

Need a unique idea for a night out? Check out our guide to see jazz and cabaret while dining.

Best Dinner and a Show Experiences in Philadelphia

Where To Have Dinner and a Show in Philly

The latest on the best and newest restaurants and bars in Philadelphia. We'll help you find where to eat, drink, and socialize.

Philly Food & Drink

Food & Drink

 may be a fun group activity, but aren’t everyone’s speed. If you’re looking for something more flashy but still competitive, arcades in the Philly area offer excitement and sometimes a chance to win a prize. Whether you’re looking for classic pinball machines or to hop in the driver’s seat, play on at these arcades.

This Formula 1 Racing establishment is the newest addition to Philly’s gaming ecosystem. Channel Lewis Hamilton and rally with your friends in 80 full-motion racing simulators. And if you’re feeling hungry, enjoy some wagyu burgers or chipotle tiger shrimp tacos from the menu.

Barcade credits itself with introducing the arcade-bar combination to several cities in the U.S., including Philly. Gamers and beer-lovers can visit locations in Fishtown and Center City and play games from Donkey Kong to Street Fighter to Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker.

📍 1001 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA

Located inside the Fashion District, this arcade is decked out with claw machines and memorable games like Dance Dance Revolution. There’s also bowling and karaoke.

This well-known entertainment chain is a tried and true option for a night out with friends. Rock out with Guitar Hero or play Mario Kart at their Fishtown location on the Delaware River Waterfront or in Northeast Philly at the Franklin Mall.

This entertainment center in University City is filled with family-friendly activities. Enjoy classics like Ms. Pac-Man, air hockey, and pinball while earning prizes along.

An alternative option for adults in University City, this beer hall and game parlor offers drafts, cocktails, food, and wines with games like shuffleboard, skeeball, and other arcade classics. Are you good at trivia? Swing by Quizzo on Tuesdays.

Known for its extensive board and card game library, this restaurant also houses a basement video game arcade.

Whether or not you’re the next Tiger Woods, this place will make you feel just as competitive. Locations in Fishtown, Rittenhouse, and Logan Square offer vibrant, arcade-mode golfing simulators for all levels of play.

Sesame Place isn’t the only spot to have fun in Langhorne. The game gallery offers a range of classic arcade games, and hosts both pinball tournaments and a co-ed pinball league.

If you’re really searching for the classic arcade experience, head to Malvern. The Pinball Gallery has over 100 pinball machines, arcade games, and old-school console games to play. And the best part, no quarters needed!

From air hockey to racing games, Philly’s arcades will feed your competitive spirit. 


Best Arcades and Simulators in Philly

Play and Win at These Philly Arcades 

The biggest bash in July is Independence Day, but the party doesn’t stop on July 4. From movies-in-the-park to street fests to free boating, here’s how to have fun and stay refreshed this month.

 on July 1 at the Wagner Free Institute of Science, Carpenter’s Hall, and Paul Robeson Museum; on July 2 at The Mütter Museum; on July 3 at The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and Historic St. George’s Museum & Archives; and on July 4 at Cliveden of the National Trust, Fireman’s Hall Museum, and Arch Street Meeting House.

Philadelphia’s Historic District is kicking off Independence Day festivities with its 

. July 2 will be filled with a flag-raising ceremony at the Betsy Ross House, extended hours at attractions, and an 

Wawa Welcome America Fourth of July Concert

 is headlined by LL Cool J and Philly’s own Jazmine Sullivan. The concert will take place at 7 p.m. followed by fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

The city has pools and spraygrounds open at parks and playgrounds across Philadelphia. 

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can participate in free boating activities at 

If you’re willing to pay a little extra, the Independence Seaport Museum has 

 Fridays through Sundays. You can also opt for a 

 on the Delaware River on July 5 for $75.

From paddleboarding to whitewater kayaking, the Philadelphia Canoe Club is hosting 

Gone fishing? The Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed Partnership is offering free fishing lessons on July 1, July 8, July 23, July 26, and July 29 in neighboring Montgomery County. Find all events on its 

What’s a better way to celebrate Independence Day than watching “Independence Day”? The July 1 screening is part of an ongoing 

 right on Independence Mall. Pre-show activities start at 5:30 p.m.

Park Friends Groups across Philadelphia are hosting 

outdoor screenings at their neighborhood parks

 throughout the summer. Enjoy movies under the stars from “Paddington in Peru” to “The Wild Robot.”

 programming through July. Catch a movie Wednesday nights or Saturday mornings at Cira Green.

🛍️ Shop at These Markets, Pop-Ups, and Sidewalk Sales

 summer tradition is taking place July 10, July 17, July 24, and July 31 with pop-up vendors, live art demos, and music.

 returns this month on July 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. The market will take over Frankford and Cottman Avenues with music from The Great Scott Band.

 with Fleisher Art Memorial wraps up its stay at Cherry Street Pier on July 19 from noon to 5 p.m.

 is back on 2nd Street between Fairmount Avenue and Laurel Street on July 23.

. Between July 25 and July 27, stroll and shop for deals from the neighborhood’s small businesses.

If you’re searching for some additional family-friendly fun, 

 is taking place July 13 with the theme “The Place Where Art Meets Hope.”

Celebrate and learn about North Philly’s African American and Puerto Rican communities at Scribe Video Center’s 

. The four-day festival will take place between July 24 and July 27 with free programming at neighborhood parks and cultural centers.

🍽️ Take a Break From Manning the BBQ

Sip on some cocktails as you watch the Founding Fathers debate the country’s independence. The immersive experience will demonstrate to guests what happened at the First Continental Congress and what it took to found the United States. 

 launches July 2 and will proceed every Thursday from July 3 to August 28.

Taste the menu from Mt. Airy’s small business community at 

. The 7100 and 7200 blocks of Germantown Avenue will be closed to traffic for a community dinner, live music, and activities for the kids on July 9 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The rain date is July 16.

Reading Terminal Market’s Ice Cream Festival

 on Filbert Street. The pay-as-you-go event on July 12 from 1 to 5 p.m. will have a multitude of flavors to pick from in and outside the market, along with live demonstrations and DJ performances.

Aperol Spritz fans can band together for 

 at Cafe Click on July 17. The citrus experience will take place from 5 to 8 p.m.

The Philadelphia Zoo’s promising a wild time at its 

 on July 19. This 21+ event will have over 100 award-winning craft beers, ciders, hard iced teas, and hard seltzers, plus local food trucks.

 all month long in its Stoner Courtyard. Hear the musical stylings of the West Philadelphia Orchestra, Vertical Current, Los Bomberoes de la Calle, and Malidelphia.

Lucy Dacus, Remi Wolf, and Magdalena Bay are taking the stage at the 

Spruce Street Harbor Park’s summer concert series

 continues July 26 with a performance from Bartees Strange.

July’s full of fireworks, aquatic activities, and summer jam sessions. 

Your Guide to Philadelphia in July 2025

How to Spend July 2025 in Philly

Table-top games are a great way to bond with friends, strategize, and ease some boredom. Whether you’re into classic board games like Clue or roleplaying games like Dungeons & Dragons, there’s something for everybody looking for friendly competition. Here are the best places in the city to have a game night.

A convenient spot for nearby college students, The Board and Brew is home to over 700 games right in University City. The game board cafe also has an expansive breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. So no matter what time of day you’re coming to play, you can chow down on vegetarian chorizo tacos, buttermilk fried chicken thighs, or double dark chocolate cake.

Located within alternative music store Digital Underground, Dark Depths Games specializes in Magic the Gathering and Warhammer. You can purchase cards and miniatures from its brick-and-mortar or online shop. If you’re looking for in-person gaming events, join the shop’s Discord server to stay updated.

The library has more than just books in its collection! Branches across the system host board game nights for all ages. Keep an eye on the 

 for upcoming events. Is your local branch missing? Reach out to staff with your idea for a game night.

Whether you’re looking to buy board games, trading cards, accessories, or geeky gifts, The Philly Game Shop has it all. In addition to its expansive collection for purchase, the shop hosts weekly, unplugged gaming experiences in its space. Swing by for table-top RPG night, miniature painting, Dungeons & Dragons, and more.

Queen & Rook is the perfect spot for parties with more than 1,000 games to pick from, whether you’re looking for something more collaborative or competitive. Its menu is vegetarian-friendly with plant-based and gluten-free Korean and Latin inspired cuisine. If digital games are more up your alley, the cafe now has an arcade in its lower level. Queen & Rook also has dedicated 

Since opening its doors in 2009, Red Cap’s Corner founder Benn Roe wanted to create an inclusive space and not have to travel to the suburbs to game. The store hosts 

A newer addition to the gaming scene, Rune Hammer opened in the East Kensington section of the city in late 2024. Part bookstore, part gaming hangout, Rune Hammer is perfect for fans of sci-fi and fantasy.

As the name might suggest, BUBS (Breakfast/Boardgames Under Berks Station) is designed to be that elusive third space in Philly. There’s no kitchen, but you can bring your own snacks, and pricing is per table. Check their Instagram page for 

Kick back and relax (or flip the board in frustration) at game night at these Philly gaming spaces.

Where To Play Board Games in Philly

Best Board Game Cafes and Game Rooms in Philly

Block parties are a staple summer tradition in Philly, with partiers line dancing in the streets, cooks throwing hot dogs on the grill, and folks cooling off in the 

. A piece of string and an array of cones blocking off a residential street isn’t an uncommon sight this time of year, but hosting a block party comes with certain requirements. Here’s how to plan your celebration without any problems from the city.

You’ll need 75% of households (and apartment complexes) on the block to sign a petition to get a block party approved. You just need one adult signature per household.

Make sure you have a clear date and time for the event listed on the petition. Block parties are allowed between 8 a.m. and 8:30 p.m., but can't go longer than eight hours. The party can take place on weekends, approved weekdays, and holidays.

This is a great way to get to know your neighbors, so get ready to knock on some doors. Leave a note if no one answers.

 to help break the ice or see what additional support is available.

Getting things done through the city can sometimes be a slow process, so make sure to give yourself plenty of time to apply to close your street for the block party. You can 

You can also pick up or drop off an application at the Municipal Services Building concourse.

Plan to turn your application in at least 21 days before your event to save money ($25 instead of $60). If you want to host a block party on a weekday, however, you’ll have to cough up $150 regardless of when you submit your application.

From there, your application will go to your local police district for review. 

, it’ll then be transferred to the Streets Department to check for impacts on traffic or potential construction. Once you receive final approval, you can make the required payment. You should then receive your permit within two weeks of your event. Call (215) 686-5500 to track the status of your application.

Get Special Permits Before Adding Additional Attractions

Before you rent that bouncy house, dunk tank, or giant waterslide, you may want to pause. These types of carnival attractions require a special permit from the 

After you get support from your neighbors to have the party, don’t lose their trust. Make sure to stay on top of the whole process.

People can be forgetful. Be sure to post signs promoting the event and noting its start and end time.

Have a game plan when it comes to trash. Assign designated areas for trash and recyclables to be disposed of, and consider assigning someone to collect litter throughout the day. You’ll also want to be mindful of your block's trash collection schedule when selecting what day to host the event.

Music is a given when it comes to parties, but be sure to keep noise levels under control and abide by the 

Cars can be a hurdle when it comes to block parties. Drivers aren’t obligated to move their vehicles, but it can create more room in the street and lessen the risk of damage if they do. Coordinate with neighbors the night before regarding relocating cars, and be mindful of vehicles still parked on the street when the party starts. The street, however, must remain accessible to the following:

People who must drive on the street to conduct normal daily activities

Make folks feel welcome. Ask your neighbors if there is any way they’d like to contribute to the event. And finally, consider music, games, and activities that are likely to be enjoyed by everyone who lives on your block.

Block parties are a great way to get to know your neighbors. Here’s how to do it legally in Philly. 


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