Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
Philadelphia Bookstore Crawl
Clear some shelf space—the Philadelphia Bookstore Crawl is back this weekend. The event is set to return for its fourth year on Saturday, Aug. 22, bringing together nearly 60 independent bookstores across the city and surrounding suburbs for a day dedicated to celebrating literature. As the release puts it, the event, designed to feel like a citywide First Friday — only with bookstores instead of galleries — invites locals to create their own route, exploring as many participating shops as they can.
Each stop offers something different, including author signings, creative programming, exclusive giveaways, discounts and special activations. Sponsoring publishers like Quarto, Abrams, Blackstone and Berkley are providing prizes at multiple locations, plus coworking space Indy Hall will kick off the day with a publishing industry event for aspiring writers as well. A full schedule of happenings can be found online.
Third Thursday at the Philadelphia Navy Yard
The Philadelphia Navy Yard is bringing back its monthly outdoor series this weekend with Third Thursdays at Chapel Plaza. The dog-friendly event will run from 4 to 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month through October, transforming the plaza into a lively gathering space for the neighborhood.
Each event will feature an open-air festival atmosphere with rotating food trucks, local vendors, live entertainment and lawn games. The Aug. 20 experience will feature bites from El Tlaloc, Moocheeze and Poundcake Heaven, plus sips from Attic Brewing. Guests can also shop from a variety of local makers and small businesses, enjoy live music by Basic Cable Band, and play games like cornhole, Giant Jenga and Connect 4.
1200 Normandy Place, navyyard.org
Tour de Love City
Craft beer lovers and cycling enthusiasts now have a reason to partner up — Tour de Love City will be in full swing on Sunday, Aug. 23. The community bike ride will begin at Love City Brewing’s flagship Callowhill brewery and conclude approximately eight miles away at the recently opened Love City Manayunk taproom.
Participants can check in at the Callowhill location between noon and 3 p.m., where they can fuel up with a beer and a slice from Viva Pizzas before the ride. Cyclists can then travel at their own pace along the route (which primarily follows Kelly Drive). Love City notes that the experience is meant to be accessible for casual cyclists and seasoned riders alike, no pro experience necessary.
Once riders end at Love City Manayunk (last call will be by 7 p.m.), everyone can enjoy an afterparty featuring a DJ, local bike vendors, beer specials and community festivities running until 8 p.m. Throughout the event, ticket holders will automatically be entered into raffle drawings for Love City merchandise and cycling-themed prizes. Tickets ($29) are available online.
Dinosaur Days at the Academy of Natural Sciences
The museum’s Dino-Mite Summer has transformed the Academy into a hub of interactive exhibits, hands-on activities and special events—especially this weekend with Dinosaur Days on Aug. 22 and 23.
On these dates, guests can watch experts prepare real fossils, examine authentic specimens up close, create dinosaur-inspired crafts and lend a hand by dusting the Academy’s towering dinosaur mounts and casts. Visitors will also have the chance to hear from Academy scientists, who will share stories of paleontological research, discovery and more. The Academy is also extending its schedule with $10 Thursdays each week. Tickets (various prices) can be found online.
1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, ansp.org
Outdoor movies
This summer, parks across the city are hosting movie nights featuring a mix of new releases, family favorites, and popular classics. The screenings, organized by Philadelphia’s Park Friends Groups, aim to bring accessible entertainment and community gatherings to neighborhoods throughout the city. All locals have to do is grab a blanket, pack some snacks and gather with family and friends.
Residents planning to attend should arrive shortly before dusk and check with their local Park Friends Group for the most up-to-date information, including any weather-related changes or schedule updates.
MORE: Summer bucket list: Philly events and experiences before the season ends
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