The 10 best things to do in Philly July 8-14
Nuevo Fest, Christmas in July, American Street Summer Carnival, Tiny Room for Elephants Festival, and more.
📅 Submit an event to our calendar here.
Tiny Room for Elephants Festival
(Art) More than just an art festival, Tiny Room For Elephants is a living art gallery fused with music featuring dozens of artists all creating through different mediums. Stop by for a unique art experience and the chance to meet local bands, artists and art lovers. The festival kicks off July 8 from 6-8 p.m. with a happy hour, with more events throughout the month (Free and ticketed events, July 8-24, 121 N. Columbus Blvd., cherrystreetpier.com)
Friday Night Lights at ChesLen Preserve
(Music) What’s better than live music under the stars? Kick off your weekend with wine, s’mores, local food trucks and stargazing to the sounds of Sweet Lizzy Project and The Flying Komorowski Brothers. Local astronomy clubs will be on site to help you navigate the open skies. (July 8, 7-10 p.m., 1199 Cannery Rd., Coatesville, natlands.org)
American Street Summer Carnival
(Community) Local bands, food vendors, and more will be taking over the sidewalks on American Street for an epic summer carnival market. Punch Buggy and Escafe will be serving up tasty bites and New Liberty Distilling has drinks covered. Gypsymother will be playing live sets starting at 6:30 p.m. sharp. (Free, July 8, 5-10 p.m., 1445 N. American St., facebook.com)
Blueberry Festival at Linvilla Orchards
(Kid-friendly) July marks the start of blueberry season. Head to Linvilla to pick your own fresh berries perfect for making pies and sweet treats at home. While you’re there, don’t miss the blueberry pie eating contest, magic acts, and live music. (July 9, 8 a.m.-6 p.m., 137 w. Knowlton Rd., Media, linvilla.com)
Christmas in July Skate at Dilworth
(Kid-friendly) It may be summertime in the city, but it’s Christmas at the skating rink. Come say hello to a sun-kissed Santa as he skates around and snaps photos. The day will be complete with a pop-up snow shower, holiday snacks, and a free skating ticket for every skater. Don’t forget to wear your ugliest Christmas T-shirt. (July 9, 1:30-3:30 p.m., 1 S. 15th St., centercityphila.org)
Terrace on Tap Pop-Up
(Drinks) Enjoy your drink with a view on the terrace of the Independence Visitor Center. Perfect for the entire family: Stop by for specialty cocktails and light bites by Brûlée Catering and activities for all. (July 9, noon-7 p.m., 599 Market St., phlvisitorcenter.com)
Tinicum Arts Festival
(Art) More than 180 regional artists will come together for a weekend-long celebration. Bring the whole family to discover new treasures, bid during a silent auction, and meet local makers. Don’t miss out on live music performances, delicious treats from local food vendors, and special summer activities for kids. ($1-7, July 9-10, 963 River Rd., Upper Black Eddy, tinicumcivicassociation.org)
Nuevo Fest
(Music) Celebrate the vibrant sounds of Latin music at this free music festival right in the middle of the Parkway. First launched in 2013, this festival celebrates established and indie artists alike. This year’s lineup includes Combo Chimbita, Philly’s own pop-trap favorite REGOthereshego, and more. (Free, July 9, 4 p.m., 2451 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., songkick.com)
A Taste of the Culture
(Community) This series explores various Black-owned wine and spirit brands paired with a carefully curated menu. If you’re into whisky or looking to expand your palate, add this to your calendar. Every sip will be perfectly paired with food, ending with a sweet dessert and nightcap. (July 12, 7-9 p.m., 3025 Walnut St., universitycity.org)
Siempre Sala Philly Dance Party
(Dance) Grab your dancing shoes and get ready to salsa. Whether you’ve been dancing for years or just want to learn, this event is for you. Enjoy salsa music and leave with the steps you need to keep the party going. Get there before 8 p.m. to avoid a cover. (July 13, 7-10 p.m., 221 N. Columbus Blvd., facebook.com)
About the writer
Amber Burns is a writer and content creator living in Philadelphia. When she’s not writing, you can usually find her holed up in a coffee shop with a good book. Find her on social media @byamberburns.