It’s officially that time of year again! The days of second semester are flying by and before we know it, we’re all going to be moving out and heading back home for the summer. Let’s face it, most of us don’t live in places as cool as Philly, and will miss the hustle and bustle of life in the city. To make sure you soak up every bit of spring in Philly, take a break from the stresses of college and explore some of the awesome events that the city has to offer!
- The Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival
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April 4th and 5th, Fairmount Park Horticulture Center
Ok, I can tell from the name alone that this is a festival that you can not miss — I mean who doesn’t love cherry blossoms?! This festival celebrates Japanese culture and welcomes spring through dozens of events like sushi making, martial arts and displays of traditional dances with a backdrop of the stunning Fairmount Park. Of course, it also stays true to its name and has TONS of beautiful flower arrangements to finally get us in the mood for some warm weather.
- El Carnaval Del Puebla
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April 28th, South Philly
El Carnaval is a jaw dropping parade that marches through South Philly in commemoration of the Battle of Puebla, where the Mexican army defeated the French in the fight for Mexican independence in 1862. As you can imagine, this day of celebrating victory and Mexican culture has a lot of delicious food, dazzling costumes and dancing. Revelers march through the streets in huge costumes made to depict the soldiers, but of course in a creative and colorful way. This is totally a must see!
- South Street Spring Festival
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May 2nd, South Street
The fun literally can’t be contained at this festival — it takes up 12 blocks of the city! There is a ton of food, shopping, live music and dancing — all to celebrate the beginning of spring. But what’s great about going to this festival is that it’s a 2-in-1. There is also the German Maifest, which boasts tons of beer, traditional German clothes and flower crowns, which is also happening on South Street! I’m telling you, just hand your whole Saturday to South Street this spring and you will not regret it!
- Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby & Arts Festival
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May 9th, Trenton Ave & York St
If ~quirky~ art exhibitions are your thing, this is NOT optional! Even if art isn’t your favorite, this event looks beyond fun. Local artists create sculptures that also double as human-powered cars that then race down the streets of Kensington and Fishtown with excited spectators lining the roads. Strange? Maybe. Ridiculously fun? Totally. Along with all of the cool art to look at, there are also food trucks and live bands to make the atmosphere even more fun. Do not pass this up!!
Being at Temple can cause students to live in a bubble and forget they live in such a lively city. Before the school year is over, make sure to take advantage of the awesome events that are at our fingertips and enjoy being a part of the Philly community!