Summer may be unofficially over, but the fun never ends at Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, even when the seasons change. From festivals to fishing to finales, there is something for everyone. Check out these upcoming events brought to you by our staff and partners:

This week’s highlights include two festivals:

Latin America Thrives in Philadelphia

September 7, 2023
11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Love Park–1501 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, 19102.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month early at this annual festival. The event features live music, dancing, and a variety of goods from local businesses. Enjoy delicious food and an exciting dish competition. Learn more and register on Eventbrite.


Philly Fun Fishing Fest

September 9, 2023
7 a.m. to noon
Awards ceremony at 11:30 a.m.
Schuylkill Banks–2499 Walnut Street, 19103.

Grab a rod and head to the catch-and-release Philly Fun Fishing Fest at Schuylkill Banks. No experience is necessary. No fishing license is required. Fishing gear is available for use on a first-come, first-served basis. Fishing Fest is ADA accessible. The rain date is September 23, 2023. Organized by Parks & Rec, the Philadelphia Water Department, PA Fish and Boat Commission and Schuylkill River Development Corporation. Register for the event.


Other upcoming events:

Parks on tap

September 6–9, 2023
4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Columbus Square–1100 Wharton Square, 19147.

Attendees can enjoy a variety of food and drinks including beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. Events may be canceled due to bad weather. Check Parks on Tap’s website before you go.

Mindfulness in the garden

September 7, 2023
3:15 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Bartram’s Garden–5400 Lindbergh Boulevard, 19143.

Come rest and revitalize your physical and mental health. Relax with mindfulness, meditation, and group yoga in the garden. Read more about this free event.

Outdoor movie nights: “Labyrinth”

September 8, 2023
Movies begin at dusk
Shot Tower Recreation Center–101-31 Carpenter Street, 19147.

Grab a blanket or a chair and enjoy a movie under the stars. “Labyrinth” is a 1986 musical fantasy film. Directed by Jim Henson. Produced by George Lucas. Movies may be canceled due to rain or wind. Be sure to check the schedule before leaving.

Kick-off campfire

September 9, 2023
6 p.m.
Pennypack Environmental Center–8600a Verree Road, 19115.

Enjoy a campfire, s’mores and more. Come learn about the environmental center’s Teen Advisory Council. Visit Facebook for more information.

“Mind the Gap”

September 9, 2023
3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Venice Island Performing Arts and Recreation Center–1 Rector Street, 19127.

Shadow Company performs “Mind the Gap,” a one-act play. It explores the minds of teenagers. Bullying, mental health and post pandemic are some topics explored. Shadow Company presents an original drama focusing on what the eyes don’t see. Buy tickets on Yes and Collaborative Arts’ website.

Footsteps of the first people: a hike and meditation

September 10, 2023
9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Belmont Plateau–West Fairmount Park, Army Road.

Lenape nature healer Krista Nelson will lead a guided hike and meditation along the Trolley Trail. Come rekindle your love of nature. Krista is a 6th generation Lenape grandmother. Event hosted by Fairmount Park Conservancy. Get FREE tickets.

Opera in the park

September 10, 2023
6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
FDR Park–Broad Street and Pattison Avenue, 19145.

Bring the whole family for an evening of live performances, food trucks, and opera on the big screen at FDR Park. At 7 p.m., baritone Kevin Godínez, soprano Ethel Trujillo, and pianist Ting Ting Wong will perform. At 7:30, watch an outdoor screening of “Hansel and Gretel.” (Spanish and English subtitles.) Presented by the Fairmount Park Conservancy and Opera Philadelphia. Learn more and register for tickets.