Metro Philadelphia

Summer isn’t over yet, Philly.

The city is bringing more free programming to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway with the return of The Oval Minifest, a three-weekend series at Eakins Oval featuring live entertainment, outdoor movies, local vendors and activities for the whole family.

Hosted by Philadelphia Parks & Recreation in partnership with the Parkway Council, the free event will take place on three Saturdays in August.

The lineup

The series opens Aug. 8 with the sixth annual Hip-Hop in the Park Festival, headlined by Philadelphia DJ AKTIVE. The event will feature performances by local hip-hop artists, live street art, dance showcases, food vendors, community organizations and family-friendly activities.

On Aug. 15, visitors can browse the Now + Then Marketplace: Summer Scorcher Market, which will spotlight local artists, makers and vintage resellers. The day also includes the Phone-Free Parkway Puzzle Hunt, presented by PA Unplugged and Screen Free Philly, before concluding with a free outdoor screening of ‘Project Hail Mary.’

The final event, set for Aug. 22, centers on Family Fun Day, presented by Kith + Kin. Programming includes soccer activities led by Soccer Shots, arts and crafts, lawn games, face painting, balloon art, a free book giveaway and music from Mister John’s Music. The evening concludes with a performance by Philadelphia’s Grupo Sumak and a free screening of ‘The Incredibles.’

“Philadelphia has been the place to be this summer, and the celebration isn’t over,” said Mayor Cherelle Parker. “We have welcomed the world for historic sporting events, concerts, and citywide celebrations, and now we are building on that momentum by creating even more free opportunities for every Philadelphian to enjoy our parks, public spaces, and everything our city has to offer.” 

If you go… 

Eakins Oval is located at 2451 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, directly in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.  

Food and drinks will be available on site and are pay-as-you-go. All events are weather permitting. 

For event schedules, programming details, and the latest updates, follow The Oval Minifest on Instagram at @theovalphl. 

MORE: Center City Philadelphia is packed with lunch deals, drink specials and free events this month