As Philadelphia shakes off the last of its snowfall and winter chill, spring events are starting to bloom around the city. From street festivals to exhibits and weeklong celebrations, Philadelphia comes alive as the seasons change. These are the best spring events coming to Philadelphia in 2019.
PHS Philadelphia Flower Show
March 2nd – March 10th
Philadelphia has been hosting the annual Flower Show since 1829. This year’s theme celebrates the 50th anniversary of Woodstock with their “Flower Power” show. Expect to see many colorful flowers and daisies filling the Pennsylvania Convention Center throughout this year’s Flower Show.
Philly Wine Week
April 1st – April 7th
Wine lovers and connoisseurs, this week is your time to thrive. With over 200 events at more than 60 participating restaurants in the city, patrons can experience exquisite wine tastings and pairings from local and exotic wineries. From fancy cocktail hours to fun dinners, there is an event for every wine lover this week.
Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival
April 6th – April 14th
Nothing rings in the rebirth of spring than the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival. For just a short time out of the year you can admire these beautiful pink flowers before they fall off of the trees. With music and family friendly events at multiple locations, including the Shofuso Japanese House, you can celebrate the new season.
African American History and Culture Showcase
April 20th – April 21st
Explore and celebrate 400 years of African American history and culture at the Pennsylvania Convention Center with private exhibitions, performances, concerts, readings, films and documentaries, and much more. Artists will show off their talents as people get together and celebrate together.
Philadelphia Black Pride
April 25th – April 28th
The Philadelphia Black Pride festival celebrates African American LGBTQ+ communities with fun activities, dancing, performances and more while boosting awareness and helping people express themselves throughout this weekend.
Flavors on the Avenue
April 28th
Spend the day walking along East Passyunk Avenue trying small dishes from local restaurants and admiring vendor’s crafts and products. Live music and DJs line the avenue providing entertainment to patrons. Don’t forget to stop by the Singing Fountain!
Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival
May 1st – June 30th
Franklin Square Park is transformed into a magical place during the Chinese Lantern Festival. Thousands of colorful LED lights are strung up around the park to create beautiful scenes at night. Enjoy a Franklin Fountain ice cream while admiring this artistry.
South Street Spring Festival and Maifest
May 4th
East South Street and Headhouse Square celebrate the warmer weather with food trucks, eating contests, drinks, live music, and much more at this spring festival. As always, there will be a giant colorful Maypole with dancing and fun for everyone.
Italian Market Festival
May 18th – May 19th
Spend the weekend eating cannoli, sausage and peppers, and sipping on cappuccinos at the Italian Market Festival. Celebrate the history of the open air market and enjoy live music while tasting traditional Italian food with a touch of Philly on South 9th Street.
Philly Beer Week
May 31st – June 9th
There are many breweries in Philadelphia that will be participating in Philly Beer Week along with many restaurants. Patrons can enjoy special beer flights and beer pairings throughout the week. There is a beer for everyone during this weeklong celebration.
Odunde Festival
June 9th
Celebrate the Yoruba New Year at the largest African American festival on the east coast. This is the 39th year this festival will take place in Philadelphia. Enjoy drinks, food, music, and dancing while admiring vendor’s products. The festival, as always, will start with a spiritual procession along the Schuylkill River.
Juneteenth
June 22nd
Celebrate the day when Union soldiers came to Texas and announced the Civil War was over and the Emancipation Proclamation has been in effect at this fun and exciting festival. With a parade to kick off, vendors, food, and dancing, this festival is day to celebrate and reflect.
Which Philadelphia Spring Events Will You Attend?
Now that it’s warmer outside and events are happening almost every weekend this spring, which ones will you attend? Whether you are new to Philly or have been born and raised here, there is a festival or event for everyone to enjoy and celebrate this spring.
