7 Spring Festivals in Philly (with Free Food!)

With the winter we had, you’d be crazy not to take advantage of the amazing spring weather we’re getting into. The best way to do this would be to go outdoors and soak up the sun and breeze before it’s just sun and no breeze. Of course, while you’re in college, you’re mainly attracted to words like “free” and “food”. And when they’re combined together as “free food” it’s the ultimate score. This spring, try to attend one of the many festivals and fairs that are happening in Philly!

1. Fairmount Arts Crawl (April): 

This annual event attracts thousands of people each year. You can enjoy music, dancing, live demonstrations, and much more as you stroll down the neighborhood of Fairmount, gazing upon tons of art. Dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops turn into art venues for your enjoyment at no cost.

2. Third Annual South Street Spring Festival (May 3): 

The South Street Spring Festival is basically a large block party on South Street between Front and 8th streets. It’s free and open to all ages! You can enjoy great food, great people, and great live music that will be on three main stages and eight other performance areas. There will also be vendors there that will cater to your shopping needs. 

3. Celebration of Black Writing (May): 

This is the nation’s longest-running celebration of contemporary black writing. The Celebration of Black Writing offers an entire month of literary discussions and workshops, music showcases, and film screenings. At this festival, you can witness outstanding regional and national talent in the visual, literary, and performing arts. 

4. Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival (May 2):

Every Sunday in May, you can experience six blocks of Rittenhouse’s amazing food, fashion, arts, and entertainment. To make sure you won’t go hungry at this festival, there will be about 40 restaurants lined up on the streets giving out free samples of their food. If you’re of age, you can also enjoy free wine tasting! The stores we all know and love will set up outdoor booths to accommodate our inner fashonistas. You can also enjoy live music and/or family-friendly activities during the Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival.

5. The Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby & Festival (May 16):

 All day, you can cheer on the quirky spirit of the community. Watch as a wild array of human powered vehicle floats make their way through the derby. Then, explore the festival that celebrates East Kensington’s incredible mix of artists, musicians, and eateries. Over 200 local arts and food vendors bring out thousands of attendees to the cobblestone road of Trenton Avenue. 

6. Italian Market Festival (May 16 & 17):

 Everyone’s Italian during the South 9th Street Italian Market Festival! Come to the nation’s largest outdoor market to indulge in the Italian culture in a variety of ways. Come hungry to make sure that you have room to enjoy every Italian delicacy imaginable. Chill out with live entertainment and get revved up for fun concerts and more! Witness a part of the Roman Catholic culture as you watch the Procession of Saints, which is a tradition. If you’ve never been to the Italian Market before, this would definitely be a great time to give it a try.

7. Devon Horse Show and County Fair (May 22):

 If you’ve never been to a horse show, consider going to the Devon Horse Show. The Thursday Grand Prix is sure to attract tons of horse lovers. If you’re not into the show, but you still want to be a part of the experience, that’s where the County Fair comes into play. You can tour stables, meet horses and riders, and enjoy food from vendors. As always, your shopping desires are taken care of.  You can browse around boutiques in cottages to score some souvenirs, collectibles, pottery, jewelry, custom-made boots, and much more!

There’s no better way to enjoy the spring than with food, fashion, music, art, and fun. Take a break from your busy spring schedule and enjoy Philly’s culture at one of the many festivals. Although you may have to pay for some aspects of the festivals such as clothing and art pieces, the experience and entertainment are completely free.