Summer is in full swing and with it comes all the panic of having to figure out what to do with all that extra time everyday and on the weekends. Before you enter any emotional spiral, always remember that Philadelphia is a vibrant yet quirky city, with lots of cultural offerings ready for you to explore.
Lucky for us and you, this year there’s so much to do! Read on to find the best events and activities in the city, from mesmerizing Candlelight Concerts in gorgeous Philadelphia venues to tantalizing dining in the dark experiences.
1. Experience music by candlelight with these sensational concerts
Enjoy live music this summer in a new light with these sensational concerts at some of the most sensational venues across Philly in the likes of Adventure Aquarium, BOK Auditorium and World Cafe Live. Throughout July and August, the Candlelight Concert series will feature a wide variety of tribute concerts to timeless composers, iconic film scores and some of the most influential contemporary artists in pop and rock history.
From Taylor Swift, Stevie Wonder and Frank Ocean to Pink Floyd, Queen and magical movies that have left a mark on our childhoods, there’s something for everyone. Add to that the enchanting glow of hundreds of flickering candles, making for a night you won’t forget any time soon.
2. Be transported to Andalusia at this traditional Spanish flamenco show
Brought by the Royal Opera of Madrid and Fever, Authentic Flamenco presents Yolanda Osuna, the internationally renowned Córdoba-borne flamenco artist. The Spanish traditional art form is an expression of passion, love and tragedy, that celebrates and embraces human emotions.
After enormous success in Brazil and major cities across the US, it’s making its way to Philly’s own BOK Auditorium, choreographed by the award-winning dancer and choreographer Amador Rojas. Mark your calendars, tickets go on public sale tomorrow, at 9:00 am. Ole!
3. Dine in the dark at this next-level foodie experience
If you’re a foodie, imagine a brand new way to enjoy a meal where you can focus solely on taste. For Fever Originals, Dining in the Dark, the restaurant is blanketed in complete darkness, and you’ll be served an incredible three-course meal, taking in all of the delicious flavors while blindfolded. Sounds divine, doesn’t it? Hurry up and secure your spot!
4. Join in on the fun at this Dark Philly Adult Night Tour
It’s all in good fun, of course, but if you love a good scare, consider going to The Dark Philly Adult Night Tour. The “frightening walking nightmare in Philly” was created by a university professor. It covers compelling stories about vampires, sex, ghosts, and more where you and your friends can sightsee important Philadelphia spots made famous during the Revolutionary War Period in Philadelphia, including Alexander Hamilton’s home, The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and more. Sign up here!
5. Explore a haunted tavern while sipping on cool and refreshing cocktails
If you love all things haunted, head to the The Haunted Tavern in August, an immersive cocktail experience run by the descendants of Ichabod Crane. Located on Gazela Historic Ship, you’ll first be greeted by the tavern keeper, who will then guide you through a 4-part interactive cocktail journey.
Fear not, you’ll immediately know you’ve found the right spot, because upon setting foot in the tavern, you’ll be immersed in a grim and spine-chilling setting. All the while you hear the sinister tales that haunt the venue. Bring your friends, you won’t want to get in on your own, especially if you encounter the tavern’s ghost…
6. Head to the movies for the latest Summer Blockbuster
Fever has partnered with AMC Theatres®, so the best movies are at your fingertips, whether you love comedies, action flicks, and everything in between, with just a click of a button. Get your ticket for one AMC black ticket so you can see any 2D movie on any day of your choosing! Secure your discount tickets here!
7. Enjoy a night of comedy and magic in the streets of Philly
If you’ve always been fascinated by magic and are a huge comedy fan, then this next walking tour is for you! Join a fun walking tour led by award-winning magician Robert Malissa, as you explore the most historic places in Old City. It doesn’t end here though. This one-of-a-kind tour also allows you to enjoy a few magic tricks along the way and you might even win a special prize if you become the magician’s assistant
8. Visit a charming beach town near Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a city full of adventure and energy. However, if you’re looking to decompress there’s no better way than to visit a charming beach town. Luckily there are quite a few within close proximity to the city. Enjoy a lazy day at the beach, eat yummy summer food staples, and explore the local boardwalks and shops in these towns. We’ve rounded up ten of the best beach towns for a day of exploration and fun.
9. Kick back at a local beer garden for great ale and a great time
It’s warm weather season in the city and pop-up beer gardens are abound! From hard Kombucha to IPAs, now is the time to enjoy a cold brew and some outdoor scenic ambience. We’ve rounded up five local beer gardens in the city to enjoy your favorite Ale for a refreshingly good time.
10. Kick some serious putt at a Pixar-inspired mini-golf experience on the Philadelphia Waterfront
If you’re a fan of Pixar, you’re going to want to mark your calendars. Pixar Putt, the ultimate pop-up, mini golf experience is taking over the Philadelphia Waterfront.
11. Visit one of these storybook small towns near Philadelphia for a magical day of exploration
Philadelphia is a city full of culture, diversity, art, and and adventure. Just outside of the hustle and bustle of the city, there lies several small towns cloaked in their own respective magic. Sometimes referred to as “the burbs”, these 7 small towns near Philly are picturesque and storybook in nature. Spend a day in one of these small towns and you’ll become completely smitten. Lucky for you, they’re all pretty close to Philadelphia just in case you never want to leave.
12. Take in the sights of beautiful downtown Philly aboard the city’s first horseless electric carriage
The electric carriage is a battery-powered vehicle which resembles a traditional horse-drawn carriage, but does not require animal labor. Carriage Horse Freedom was founded in 2017 by Janet White. It’s goal is to address the animal welfare and public safety issues associated with horse-drawn carriages, . “This carriage is the first step in transitioning away from horse-drawn carriages. It provides all of the charm, with none of the harm,” said Founder and Director, Janet White.
13. Enjoy a perfect summer swim in one of these refreshing lakes near Philadelphia
If you’re feeling adventurous and in need of a day trip, try road tripping to one of these refreshing nearby lakes. Soak in the sun and swim in cool wild waters. There’s no better time to pack up the cooler, fill up the tank, and go!
14. Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the birth of Hip-Hop
The iconic musical genre hip-hop turns 50 this year and celebrations are taking place globally as well as regionally right in our city. Philadelphia is home to some of hip-hop’s most trailblazing acts from Meek Mill, to Lil’ Uzi Vert, and more. Summertime is here which means their are plenty of festivals and concerts to celebrate Hip-Hop.
[featured image: Shutterstock]