6 Awesome Summer Festivals and Events in Philadelphia

Being in school while all your friends are gallivanting here and there is understandably depressing. But Philly in the summer can actually be pretty awesome! If you can find time during the long two-week break, or during the 10-week summer term, you can celebrate at one of these six summer events. These festivals and activities may not be as “summer-esque” as lying on the beach, but it’s worth it to visit at least one. Don’t miss out! Besides, the beach will always be in the same exact place, we promise.

1. Ambler Arts and Music Festival (June 12 & 13):

This festival combines the best pieces of art and music to offer you a giant party over the course of two days. You can enjoy a number of bands and musical guests at no cost at all. You can also witness amazing artwork from 70+ artists that will be displayed on Butler Ave.

2. Pride Parade and Festival (June 12-14):

If you’re up for the challenge, definitely consider being a part of the entire Pride weekend festivities. Start the weekend-long party on Friday from 6-10 p.m. at the Annual Kick-Off Block Party. There’s a $10-$15 cover charge, so be prepared. The Philly Dyke March starts at 4 p.m. on Saturday. If you don’t want to march, you can chill out at Kahn Park until 6 p.m. while you enjoy free water ice and performances. The Annual Pride Day Parade and Festival is on Sunday at noon. Parade around Philly for about an hour and a half, from 13th and Locust to Penn’s Landing, as you enjoy great performances and great people along the way. If you want to skip the parade, you can go straight to the festival at noon. The gates will be open at the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing, Columbus Boulevard, and Chestnut Street.

3. Manayunk Arts Festival (June 20-21):

If you’re an art junkie, then this is the event for you. This festival is known as the tri-state’s largest outdoor, juried arts festival. Artwork from nearly 300 artists from around the country will be displayed during the two-day celebration on Main Street in Manayunk. Go out and support local talent at the Emerging Artist Tent.

4. Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll (June 25):

This event is right in University City, so you really have no excuse not to attend. Take advantage of the amazing deals brought to you by some of West Philly’s businesses. Food and gifts will start at the low price of $1. These goodies will be accompanied by free live music and street performances.  If, for some reason, you miss this amazing event, don’t stress it! It’ll be back around during fall term on September 24.

5. Nightscape: A Light and Sound Experience at Longwood Gardens (July 1 – October 31):

This event is the most expensive of the bunch, but it will totally be worth it. This event will make its debut this summer, so make sure you’re one of the very first people to experience art come to life right before your eyes. Take an evening to journey through the beautiful Longwood Gardens in a completely new way that includes light, moving imagery, and sound.

6. Caribbean Festival (August 16):

Here’s your chance to go on that Caribbean getaway you’re dreaming about. Celebrate as the island’s unique music and food infiltrate Philly at Penn’s Landing Great Plaza. If you’re a reggae enthusiast, you won’t want to miss this festival, as entertainment is the focal point of the Caribbean Festival. You can also browse displays of island cultures and traditions at the Caribbean marketplace.

Festival season is right around the corner and just in time to celebrate the end of finals week! So take a break from school, you deserve it! These events are an awesome way to regain your sanity after the never-ending studying sessions you’ve endured. Take a stroll through the city; it has so much to offer! The pictures you’ll post might even be capable of making your friends at home jealous! Who needs three months for summer vacation when you can have an action-packed few weeks?

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