It’s finally August, which means we’re in the dog days of summer.
Summer is soon coming to an end. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to cool off in Philadelphia! And even with social distancing and other pandemic safety measures in effect, there are still so many incredibly fun and safe things to do in the city this month.
1-3. 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 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. August shows include:
- Candlelight: A Tribute to Pink Floyd
- Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen and More
- Candlelight: A Tribute to Radiohead
4. Listen to the best of Motown at this Concert Under The Stars
The groovy and soulful sound of Motown is taking over Liberty Point in Philly this fall. Located at Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia, Liberty Point offers stunning views of the Delaware River and and the breathtaking lights of the Ben Franklin Bridge.
It’s an incredibly romantic spot to take that special someone, so listening to “My Girl” by The Temptations, Stevie Wonder’s “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” and “(Love Is Like a) Heat Wave” by Martha & The Vandellas surrounded by twinkling lights feels appropriate. Additionally, you can sip on refreshing cocktails under the stars as a group of talented musicians perform beloved Motown songs.
5. Be Transported To Andalusia At This Traditional 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. Tickets are selling fast! This is one exhilarating experience you doh’t want to miss.
6. Dine In The Dark At This Next Level Foodie Experience
Step inside a restaurant cloaked in mystery and unlock the full potential of your senses with the Dining in the Dark experience in Philadelphia. Taking place at a lively spot in Philly, this one-of-a-kind event includes far more than questionable eyewear.
At The Twisted Tail, you will spend the evening distinguishing between flavors, focusing on sounds and smells, and debunking the age-old adage of “we eat with our eyes”. Dining in the Dark is an exclusive, 90-minute culinary experience and places are limited. Don’t miss out on the chance to taste the eclectic gastronomic offerings at The Twisted Tail in an entirely new way!
7. Be Transported To Another World At This Immersive Experience
A unique interactive art exhibit, Otherworld brings to life surreal worlds of science fiction and fantasy. This is family-friendly exhibtion will transport you to an ethereal world of wonder and mystique.
Upon entry, guests are thrusted into a cinematic experience. The exhibit features over 55 unique rooms and installations each with depth and a captivating narrative. Each room is completely different from one another and features iridescent creatures and primordial monsters.
Next, hypnotize your mind some more with crawlable tubes, infinite expanses of light and alluring art. The exhibit will encourage guests to roam and interact all at their own pace.
8. Last Chance To Catch The Chinese Lantern Festival
9. Last Chance To Catch Disney100: The Exhibition At The Franklin Institute
Fans of the beloved Disney franchise will now have the opportunity to step inside an immersive experience at Disney100: The Exhibition, taking visitors on a journey through 100 years of timeless memories and tales. This includes classics such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarves to modern gems such as Strange World.
10. Explore A Haunted Tavern While Sipping On Cool & 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…
Get your tickets here!
11. Enjoy Refreshing Cocktails And Small Bites At Center City District SIPS
The middle of the week could’t be more buzz-worthy! Now until August 30, 2023, every Wednesday enjoy the hottest happy hour in Center City. More than 60 bars, restaurants, and beer gardens throughout the downtown area have come together to offer offering $5 beer, $6 wine, $7 cocktails and half-priced appetizers.
Center City District’s SIPS happens every Wednesday from 5-7pm at select locations. This free, pay-as-you-go happy hour is a perfect way to enjoy the summer outdoors with friends. You can find out more by visiting their website.
12. Take An Adult-Only Ghost Tour Of Philly
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!
13. Enjoy Pixar-Inspired Mini Golf At The Philly 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.
14. Liven Up Your Thursday With Old City Eats
Now until the end of the month, more than 20 participating bars, restaurants and eateries in Old City offer small-plate and drink specials from 5 to 7 p.m. every Thursday.
In addition to returning participants like The Olde Bar, Stratus Lounge and Lucha Cartel, five new spots join the party for 2023, including Amina, Franklin Social American Kitchen & Bar and Vista Peru.
You can find out more by visiting their website here.
15. Seize The Day At The Independence Blue Cross River Rink
Now until September 24, 2023, you can seize the day and enjoy an array of family-fun. Not only is The Independence Blue Cross RiverRink have the city’s largest-outdoor skating rink, but there’s also an arcade, boardwalk games, rides and more. Take a break from fun and refuel with funnel cake from Skelly’s or crab fries from Chickie & Pete’s. There’s also a bar for you to boost your spirits. Admission to the park is free, everything as is pay-as-you-go.
16. Skating At The Rothman Orthopedics Roller Rink
Skate away Philly! The Rothman roller rink is open weekly from Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11:15 p.m. This is a family-friendly venue open to all ages. The cost for children 10 and younger is $8, and $10 for adults; the roller skate rental is $6. Matinee skaters can get $5 off admission Mondays and Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
There’s plenty of themed events, live DJs, and loads of fun during the outdoor skating season so add this to the top of your bucket list and skate away!
17. Relax Under The Stars In A Hammock At Philly’s Urban Beach
If you’re looking for Summer fun that combines the best of what Philly has to offer, then look no further! Spruce Street Harbor offers a beach atmosphere equipped with a boardwalk, food, and a great time! This awesome seasonal park is located on the waterfront of the Delaware River . It offers a free relaxing spot to enjoy the summer weather! With fun light installations, local delicious food and drinks, cool places to enjoy the beautiful weather, this urban park has it all!