Unlike the unbearable heat of Miami and Arizona where I’ve spent most summers, Philadelphia summers aren’t meant to be spent indoors. As we all learn how to get back out there after a year of isolation, I find myself feeling a sense of wanderlust. The race is on to just pig out on all the city has to offer. Philadelphia is BACK, and if the traffic wasn’t enough of an indicator, the return of live outdoor performances, parties, events should be. Here are some of the homegrown things I’ve loved seeing happen already, and a few more that I’m looking forward to seeing soon this summer.
If you missed it, you missed out! Philly’s long-running Flower Show, which happened June 5-13 was the perfect way to kick off our summer of freedom. Philly loves its superlatives, and this event doesn’t disappoint- it’s the nation’s largest and longest-running flower show- with this year ringing in its 193rd birthday by celebrating the event out of doors for the first time, at South Philadelphia’s FDR park. It’s not difficult to understand why this annual event draws nearly a quarter-million visitors to the city. The event was in full bloom (pun intended) last month with three distinct sections, each with its own unique themes and experiences. You don’t need to be a master gardener to appreciate the color explosion and creativity- it’s like nature candy for your eyes!
An outdoor experience there’s still time to catch is Summer Splash, Franklin Square’s newest summer beer and cocktail garden. As a part of Summer Splash, the beautiful open-air tent is open Thursdays through Saturdays in the evening, along with numerous free programs from yoga sessions, dance lessons, live music, to fountain shows, and even storytelling from Once Upon a Nation. It’s family-friendly and perfect for any age, so I highly recommend checking it out. I might even see you there!
If you’re a Philly resident and have yet to experience the delicacy that is Southeast Asian street food, check out the Asian Food Market tour at FDR. This event is Saturday, July 24th from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM in the FDR parking lot by Meadow Lake. Tickets are “pay what you can” spanning from $10 to $20, and you will have the chance to try free samples. This is a great opportunity to explore some delicious cuisines and support local vendors simultaneously!
Man- I must love FDR park right now! But seriously, while you’re there, you might as well check out the awesome new scavenger hunt available on mobile devices! It’s pretty easy- just download the GooseHunt app and complete the various challenges around the park. There are even chances to win some cool prizes! This scavenger hunt runs until August 16th, so be sure to try it out before then.
Finally, and although this type of event isn’t typically outdoors, I just had to share my emotional play of the week- which comes with a heaping helping of ugly crying. I went to the movies for the first time since March 2020 and ugly cried just to be sitting in the theater. I ugly cried again when the first trailer started, and then I pretty much just alternated ugly crying and goosebumps throughout the movie- In The Heights. It was just luxuriously beautiful and exactly what this theater kid needed to help my emergence from the pandemic cocoon! My two teenage daughters who sat on either side of me at the theater were horrified and embarrassed–which sort of made me feel like I was doing my job as a mom.
I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to get out there and explore my city with what’s left of our summer. Hoping to share more about what we’ve done or plan to do soon. In spite of the obstacles we’ve faced, Philly persevered and adapted. The world of theatre will too–and I’m grateful to be a part of the experience.
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