PHILADELPHIA – Philadelphia’s summer celebration continues this August as Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, in partnership with the Parkway Council, invites residents and visitors to The Oval Minifest, a popular free, family-friendly, series taking place on three Saturdays at Eakins Oval on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Following a historic summer filled with major events, neighborhood festivals, and community gatherings across the city, Philadelphia is continuing the momentum with even more free programming that brings people together in parks and public spaces. The Oval Minifest carries that spirit forward with live entertainment, local vendors, family activities, movie nights, lawn games, and more.
Three pop-up festival days will feature community programming, local food trucks, interactive activities, and performances for all ages.
Saturday, August 8
The series kicks off with the sixth annual Hip-Hop in the Park Festival, headlined by Philadelphia’s DJ AKTIVE and featuring hip-hop artists, live street art, dance performances, food vendors, community organizations, and family-friendly activities.
Saturday, August 15
Explore the Now + Then Marketplace: Summer Scorcher Market featuring local artists, makers, and resellers. Visitors can also take part in the Phone-Free Parkway Puzzle Hunt presented by PA Unplugged and Screen Free Philly before ending the evening with a free outdoor screening of Project Hail Mary (2026).
Saturday, August 22
The series concludes with Family Fun Day presented by Kith + Kin, featuring soccer-themed activities with Soccer Shots, crafts, lawn games, face painting, balloon art, a free book giveaway, and Mister John’s Music. The day concludes with a performance by Philadelphia’s Grupo Sumak and a free outdoor screening of The Incredibles (2004).
The Oval Minifest is the latest example of the City’s commitment to activating public spaces with free programming that brings communities together.
“Philadelphia has been the place to be this summer, and the celebration isn’t over,” said Mayor Cherelle L. 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.”
The Oval Minifest extends Philadelphia’s season of public programming, offering residents and visitors another opportunity to enjoy arts, culture, recreation, and entertainment in one of the city’s most beloved gathering spaces.
“This summer has shown what is possible when we activate our public spaces,” said Susan Slawson, Commissioner, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. “The Oval Minifest brings free recreation, arts, and entertainment back to the Parkway, welcoming families from every neighborhood to enjoy one of Philadelphia’s favorite summer destinations.”
For event schedules, programming details, and the latest updates, follow The Oval Minifest on Instagram at @theovalphl.