Events labor day weekend 2022 near me

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Guide to Labor Day Weekend 2022 in Philadelphia

How to spend the last long weekend of the summer in Philadelphia and the Countryside, September 2-5, 2022...

Liberty Point Photo by D. Knoll for Visit Philadelphia

Made in America Festival Photo by A. Ricketts for Visit Philadelphia

Light: Installations by Bruce Munro at Longwood Gardens Photo courtesy Longwood Gardens

Note: Greater Philadelphia is open for business and welcoming visitors. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, individual businesses may still require masks. Your best bet: Check online or call ahead.

Labor Day weekend (September 2-5, 2022) signals the unofficial end of summer, and Philadelphia gives the season a proper send-off with plenty of fun things to do and exciting events happening all weekend long.

Philly’s Labor Day weekend celebration is anchored by the annual Made in America Festival on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The massive concert — the brainchild of hip-hop mogul Jay-Z — features a stacked lineup for 2022 including headliners Bad Bunny and Tyler, the Creator.

But the Parkway celebration isn’t the only big-time concert happening in Philly this Labor Day Weekend. The Wells Fargo Center welcomes Twenty One Pilots (September 2, 2022), and the legendary Red Hot Chili Peppers rock out at Citizens Bank Park (September 4, 2022).

At The Dell Music Center, radio personality Patty Jackson hosts her annual Party in the Park with performances from Tony Toni Tone, Stephanie Mills and Freddie Jackson.

What’s an end of summer party without fireworks? The season goes out with a bang during a stunning Labor Day Weekend fireworks display over the Delaware River (September 3, 2022).

Don’t miss out on the magic: The spellbinding Harry Potter: The Exhibition is in its final days at The Franklin Institute over Labor Day Weekend.

Extend your fun by booking the Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package, which includes two complimentary tickets to the world-premiere Harry Potter: The Exhibition at The Franklin Institute, hotel parking (valued at up to $100) and a bed you don’t have to make.

Below, find the best things to do in Philadelphia for Labor Day weekend 2022.

Note: Events in this article are arranged chronologically by section.

Last Chance

— Photo courtesy Eastern State Penitentiary

Through Sunday, September 4, 2022

Eastern State Penitentiary’s night tours offer visitors the opportunity to explore the historic prison’s cell blocks as the sun goes down. Admission includes an audio tour narrated by actor Steve Buscemi and featuring real voices of former prisoners and correctional staff, along with access to the award-winning exhibit Prisons Today and points of interest like Al Capone’s cell. After the tour, cool off at the pop-up beer garden on the penitentiary’s baseball diamond, offering craft beer from Triple Bottom Brewing Co. and other hands-on activities.

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Through Monday, September 5, 2022

Labor Day weekend marks the last chance to view Liberty: Don Troiani’s Paintings of the Revolutionary War at the Museum of the American Revolution. The immersive exhibition explores the works of renowned historical artist Don Troiani, whose paintings depict the diverse people and complex events surrounding the Revolutionary War. On Saturday and Sunday of the long weekend, visitors can experience first-person performances from Revolutionary-era reenactors. Bonus: Children 12 and under receive free museum admission all weekend long!

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Ongoing Highlights

— Photo by S. Ramones for Visit Philadelphia

Through Sunday, September 18, 2022

The brand-new touring exhibition all about Harry Potter’s Wizarding World is making its world premiere at The Franklin Institute. And the immersive exhibition is as-advertised: The paintings move, the candles float, the mandrakes scream and the dementors — well, they’re creepy! Check out sets and costumes from the blockbuster movies and have some fun with interactive experiences that bring the magic of Hogwarts to your fingertips. You’ll brew potions, launch a quaffle on the Quidditch pitch and earn points for your favorite Hogwarts house. Bonus: The Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package features two complimentary tickets to the exhibition and hotel parking (valued at up to $100). Wicked!

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Through Sunday, September 25, 2022

Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest transforms this Delaware River waterfront destination into the perfect summer hangout spot, complete with a roller rink, a boathouse-style lodge, a Ferris wheel and plenty of playful spaces to chill out.

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Through Sunday, September 25, 2022

The riverside Spruce Street Harbor Park is the perfect escape for visitors looking to relax and locals hoping to unwind. Enthusiasts of riverside chilling enjoy hammocks, patio and arcade games, musical performances, and tasty treats from local purveyors while strolling the boardwalk at this warm-weather attraction.

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Paddle Penn's Landing — Photo courtesy Independence Seaport Museum

Through Sunday, October 23, 2022 (select dates)

Make your way around the calm waters of the basin at Penn’s Landing in a rowboat, or in a pedal-powered swan, flamingo or dragon. Whichever vessel you choose, you’re sure to enjoy smooth sailing and pleasant views of the Delaware River. After Labor Day, Paddle Penn’s Landing hours shift to noon until dusk on weekends only.

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— Photo courtesy Longwood Gardens

Through Sunday, October 30, 2022

A decade after British artist Bruce Munro first exhibited at Longwood Gardens, he returns with Light: Installations by Bruce Munro, comprising eight installations situated both indoors and outdoors. Don’t miss works like Field of Light, featuring 18,000 illuminated stemmed orbs lit by fiber optics along Longwood’s Large Lake, and a giant sphere made of 1,820 recyclable bottles in the East Conservatory.

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Events

Friday, September 2, 2022 | 8 p.m.

Ohio duo Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun — who have quietly become one of the most successful recording acts of all time (seriously, look it up!) — bring their brand of dark-yet-hopeful alternative rock to the Wells Fargo Center in support of their sixth studio album.

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Saturday, September 3, 2022 | 6:30 p.m.

While The Strokes and Thundercat are easily headliners in their own right, they set the stage for Red Hot Chili Peppers (RHCP) at this rockin’ stadium show. RHCP play all the hits and new tracks from their 2022 album Unlimited Love, the band’s first full-length release since the return of guitarist John Frusciante.

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Saturday, September 3, 2022 | 7 p.m.

WDAS radio host Patty Jackson returns to The Dell for another edition of her late-summer concert extravaganza, Party in the Park. This year’s smooth-singing lineup includes Tony Toni Tone, Stephanie Mills and Freddie Jackson.

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— Photo by Matt Stanley

Saturday, September 3, 2022 | 8:30 p.m.

Summer (unofficially) goes out with a bang at Penn’s Landing during this free fireworks display over the Delaware River. Looking for the best vantage point? Check out our guide on where to watch fireworks on the Delaware River waterfront.

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September 3-4, 2022

Made In America once again makes its mark on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway on Labor Day weekend. With headliners Bad Bunny and Tyler, the Creator, the hip-hop heavy lineup is sure to bring thousands of party-goers to the city, making the festival one of Philly’s landmark annual events.

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September 3-5, 2022

It’s the 150th anniversary of this three-day German festival in Northeast Philadelphia. The event is full of traditional German food, music, entertainment and — of course — beer! Visitors can buy one-, two- or three-day passes at the gate. Prost!

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Brazilian Day Philadelphia — Photo by A. Ricketts for Visit Philadelphia

Sunday, September 4, 2022 | 1-7 p.m.

PECO’s summerlong Multicultural Series continues with another large cultural celebration along the Delaware River waterfront on Labor Day weekend. Brazilian Day Philadelphia features a day of Brazilian culture, including traditional food, music and dancing.

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— Photo by Chris Burrows

September 5 - October 31, 2022

Get a jump on (slightly) spooky season at the charming Peddler’s Village, located about a 45-minute drive north from Center City Philadelphia. Beginning on Labor Day, more than 100 scarecrows (ranging from silly to scary) pop up all over the village as part of an annual competition among local residents and organizations. In between shopping and dining, check out all of the scarecrow creations and vote for your favorite via a paper ballot or through the village’s mobile app.

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Experiences

Sonesta Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square — Photo courtesy Sonesta Hotel Philadelphia Rittenhouse Square

Booking a stay over the long weekend? There’s nothing better after a summer day of exploring the city than cooling off in a pool — preferably one with a view. Before you book your stay, check out our complete guide to hotel pools in Philadelphia.

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The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University — Photo courtesy The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

It’s still summer, and things can get a little steamy in Philadelphia. Beat the heat by heading indoors to one of Philly’s must-see museums and attractions. Discover one of the largest public collections of Auguste Rodin’s works outside of Paris at the Rodin Museum, explore a towering castle brimming with pre-industrial tools at the Mercer Museum in nearby Doylestown, or connect with nature at The Academy of Natural Sciences — America’s oldest natural history museum.

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South Philly Barbacoa — Photo courtesy South Philly Barbacoa

Philadelphia loves its food. (And we’re not just talking about cheesesteaks and pretzels.) The city is home to dozens of award-winning chefs and must-visit restaurants, ranging from no-frills to fancy AF. Looking for the crème de la crème? Eat at one of nearly 30 James Beard Foundation-honored restaurants in the city, including iconic spots like Vedge and Zahav, and more recently honored eateries like Hardena, Kalaya, and South Philly Barbacoa.

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The Rocky Statue — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Let’s face it: We’re all looking to save a few bucks these days. Luckily, many of the best things to do in Philly are completely free! Take a day (or two) to enjoy some of the top free things to do in Philly. The city’s list of fee-free fun includes quintessential historic attractions (like the Liberty Bell Center and other attractions in Independence National Historical Park); outdoor hangs (like Spruce Street Harbor Park and Franklin Square); iconic public art (Rocky Statue, LOVE sculpture) and much more. Looking for more ways to save on your visit? Check out our tips for exploring Philly on a budget.

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Philly’s Delaware River waterfront has undergone a major glow up in recent years. And with the completion of a major stretch of the Delaware River Trail — running from Pier 70 in South Philadelphia to Penn Treaty Park in Fishtown — exploring the waterfront has never been easier. Hit the newly paved waterfront path to check out photo-worthy spots like Liberty Point or Race Street Pier, or cruise the Delaware River in style with City Cruises Philadelphia.

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John's Water Ice — Photo by D. Knoll for Visit Philadelphia

Water ice is one of Philly’s most cherished warm-weather treats. Cool off with a few scoops of the good stuff at one of Philadelphia’s top water ice spots, including beloved Italian American stalwarts (John’s, Pop’s), West Philly favorites (Fred’s, Siddiq’s), modern mobile vendors (D’Emilio’s) and many must-try shops in between.

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Independence Beer Garden — Photo by M. Fischetti for Visit Philadelphia

Cold beer, fresh air, can’t lose. Home to 108 craft breweries, Greater Philadelphia’s beer game is on point, and its beer garden scene follows in the summer. After exploring the historic district, soak in the suds and sunshine at Independence Beer Garden, or quench your thirst at riverside spots like Morgan’s Pier, The Garden at Cherry Street Pier or Landside Beer Garden at Spruce Street Harbor Park.

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Looking for great food, good brews and a view? Take date night to new heights at one of Philly’s many rooftop bars and restaurants. Enjoy sweeping views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway at the swanky Assembly Rooftop Lounge, or keep it more low-key at a solid neighborhood spot like Standard Tap in Northern Liberties.

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Brunch is undeniably one of the greatest crossovers of all time. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or something in between, it’s always a good time at Philly’s top brunch spots. Take down some homestyle favorites at Honey’s Sit ‘N Eat in Northern Liberties, enjoy a baja breakfast at Fishtown’s LMNO, or go the bottomless mimosa route at Veda in Center City.

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25

Get active in Fairmount Park

Trolley Trail in Fairmount Park — Photo courtesy Fairmount Park Conservancy

A respite from the urban cityscape, Fairmount Park is a sprawling, 2,000-acre greenspace on either side of the Schuylkill River. Feeling outdoorsy? Hit the trails, zipline from tree to tree, or visit the animals at the nation’s first zoo.

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Last Chance

Ongoing Highlights

Events

Experiences

Visit Philly Overnight Package

The Perfect Hotel Package for an Easy Philly Escape

The Visit Philly Overnight Package — booked more than 190,000 times since 2001 — comes with free hotel parking (worth up to $100 in Center City Philadelphia), overnight hotel accommodations and choose-your-own-adventure perks.

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