Memorial Day weekend is finally here Philadelphia and there’s plenty of things to do around the city. Whether you are looking to honor our heroes, get outside with the kids, sip wine in the sun, or party on purpose, the city (and the ‘burbs) are pulling out all the stops.
Here are 10 exciting things to do in and near Philadelphia this long weekend. Cheers to the unofficial start of summer
1. Rock out with Metallica at the Linc 🎸
Yes, Metallica is coming to town –twice. Catch them live on both Friday (5/23) and Sunday (5/25) nights with openers like Limp Bizkit and Ice Nine Kills. It’s the perfect way to let loose and kick off the summer. Get your last-minute tickets here.
📍Where: 1 Lincoln Financial Field Way
2. Party under the stars this Memorial Day 🎆
Powered by OneGroup, celebrate Memorial Day Weekend in style at DUSK at Stratus Rooftop on Sunday, May 25 at 5PM, featuring music by DJ AMH and DJ Bria G, Casamigos cocktails, and rooftop vibes. This special edition event promises a vibrant atmosphere, seasonal sips, and an unforgettable night above the city. Tickets are available here.
📍Where: 433 Chestnut St.
3. Horse around at the Devon Horse show 🏇🏽
Now until June 1st, don’t miss the oldest and largest horse show of its kind in the U.S. -the Devon Horse Show. If you’ve never been, this is your sign. This family-friendly extravaganza is complete with competitions, a festive fair vibe, and a family-friendly Memorial Day celebration. For tickets and more information, check out the official website.
📍Where: 23 Dorset Rd, Devon, PA 19333
4. Feel the heat at the Philadelphia Tango Festival 💃🏽
This Memorial Day weekend, Port Richmond is heating up with four full days (May 23-26) of dancing, lectures, and live concerts during the Philadelphia Tango Festival. Come for the culture, stay for the passion. For tickets, visit the official website.
📍Where: 2715 E. Allegheny Ave
5. This Memorial Day weekend travel back in time at the Philly Renaissance Faire 🏰
Taking over historic Fort Mifflin, the Philly Renaissance Faire has jousting, storytelling, live music, food, and quirky characters galore. Come dressed in costume -or just come curious. The Faire runs all weekend from May 24-26, 2025. For tickets and more information, visit here.
📍 Where: 6400 Hog Island Avenue
6. Experience the magic of the Philadelphia Contemporary Circus 🎪
Big top energy meets artistic flair. The brand-new Philadelphia Contemporary Circus at FringeArts is where acrobatics, dance, and theater collide. A unique experience for both kids and adults. The circus is unfolding now until June 1st throughout various venues across the city. Indeed, it is the perfect way spend the holiday weekend. For tickets and more information, visit the official website.
📍Where: various locations
7-8. Pay tribute at a local Memorial Day Ceremony ❤️
It’s not just about the barbecues -Philly knows how to honor the fallen, you can attend Memorial Day events at Eastern State Penitentiary, Laurel Hill Cemetery (the site of Philly’s first-ever Memorial Day), or watch a traditional parade in Doylestown or Perkasie.
📍Where: 2027 Fairmount Ave (ESP)
📍Where: 3822 Ridge Ave (Laurel Hill Cemetery)
9. Take a trip down the shore (sans the tolls) 🚔
Indeed, Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer. Which means –Philadelphians are headed “down the shore”. This Friday, May 23rd, Chickie’s and Pete’s will PAY FOR ALL THE TOLLS for cars travelling Eastbound through the Egg Harbor Exit during Rush Hour. Chickie’s and Pete’s will again team up with South Jersey Transportation Authority (SJTA) and the Atlantic City Expressway. Chickie’s and Pete’s picks up the toll tab on May 23rd from 5:00pm to 6:00pm. So, pack the cooler and hit road!
📍Where: Atlantic City Expressway
10: Visit this secret beach 2hrs from Philly
This memorial weekend, take a last-minute escape to this hidden gem only two hours outside of Philly -and it was recently named one of America’s Best Secret Beaches.
📍Where: see here