11 Family Activities in Philadelphia for Labor Day Weekend

As summer draws to a close, Philadelphia offers a plethora of family-friendly activities for locals and visitors alike to celebrate the last weekend of the season. The Labor Day weekend, often marked by the transition back to school routines, is an excellent opportunity for families to immerse themselves in the vibrant offerings the city has in store.

Throughout the extended weekend, Philadelphia will buzz with various events, from whimsical lantern displays at Franklin Square to carnival rides at Volksfest. Young children can also delight in meeting Elmo dressed in patriotic colors at Sesame Place, while vibrant sunflower fields at Doylestown’s farms provide picturesque settings perfect for family outings.

Numerous museums across the region are offering complimentary admission for children, allowing families to explore cultural offerings at no cost. Neighborhood parks will host engaging activities, including crafts and scavenger hunts, while waterfront areas invite guests to wrap up the season with leisurely activities like skating and enjoying seasonal foods from local vendors.

One of the highlight venues is the Delaware River Waterfront, where activities span multiple stops. At Cherry Street Pier, families can engage in art exhibits, savor delicious food from local vendors, and participate in fun camp-themed events. Spruce Street Harbor Park offers a relaxing atmosphere with hammocks and games, while RiverRink Summerfest engages visitors with skating, mini-golf, and classic boardwalk fare.

Labor Day weekend also features the third annual FDR Park Labor Day Celebration, where children can take part in archery, scavenger hunts, and crafts. The vibrant Cannstatter Volksfest, celebrating German heritage, presents live performances, traditional cuisine, and amusement rides, making it a festive highlight of the weekend.

Families can also explore the Museum of the American Revolution, offering free admission for children under 12 and various interactive experiences that delve into critical discussions of equality and freedom. The Chinese Lantern Festival at Franklin Square, with colorful lantern displays and cultural performances, marks its final weekend, providing a unique experience for attendees.

For those who appreciate artistic displays, the DroneArt Show at Sweetbriar Fields presents a mesmerizing light display of 20,000 candles and synchronized drones, set to classical music. Similarly, Sesame Place in Langhorne invites families to celebrate with themed events, including a fireworks show to cap off the weekend festivities.

As summer fades and the school season approaches, Philadelphians can indulge in one last round of summer fun, creating lasting memories with their children against the backdrop of the city’s engaging cultural landscape.