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Philadelphia Parks & Recreation

Protecting over 10,200 acres of public land and waterways, and managing hundreds of recreation, environmental, and cultural centers.

Philadelphia Parks & Recreation

What we do

Philadelphia Parks & Recreation connects the city’s residents to the natural world, each other, and fun things to do and see.

Our dedicated staff help manage:

  • Parks, rec centers, playgrounds, and pools.
  • Permits for picnics, sports fields, and important venues.
  • Creative and inclusive programs.
  • Signature city events and important historic and cultural sites.
  • Trees in parks and along the public right of way.
  • Capital and natural lands projects.
  • Recreation paths, trails, and boat launches.
  • Community gardens, farms, and orchards.
  • Special venues such as:
    • Environmental education centers.
    • The Dell Music Center.
    • Ice skating rinks and golf courses.

Connect

Address
1515 Arch Street
10th floor
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Email parksandrecreation@phila.gov
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Events

  • Dec
    10
    Tree Lighting and Toy Drive
    5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
    Houston Playground, 900 Grakyn Ln, Philadelphia, PA 19128, USA

    Tree Lighting and Toy Drive

    December 10, 2023
    5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, 2 hours
    Houston Playground, 900 Grakyn Ln, Philadelphia, PA 19128, USA
    map
    Come enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, treats, and fun activities. Santa Claus will make a special appearance. Please drop off NEW unwrapped toys or gift cards for children 12 years and under. 
    All items will be donated to the Salvation Army. Learn more details on Facebook. 
  • Dec
    12
    Friends of Rittenhouse Square Hannukah Celebration
    5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
    Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, USA

    Friends of Rittenhouse Square Hannukah Celebration

    December 12, 2023
    5:00 pm to 6:00 pm, 1 hour
    Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, USA
    map
    Celebrate Hannukah with the Friends' group and B'Nai Abrahm Chabad. Learn more about this free event. 
  • Dec
    14
    WILDLIFE WALK: BIRD COUNT PREVIEW & PRACTICE
    10:00 am to 11:00 am
    8600A Verree Road,Philadelphia,19115,US

    WILDLIFE WALK: BIRD COUNT PREVIEW & PRACTICE

    December 14, 2023
    10:00 am to 11:00 am, 1 hour
    8600A Verree Road,Philadelphia,19115,US
    map
    Explore the Nature Sanctuary in search of sights, sounds & signs of wildlife. This hike we will prepare for the Christmas Bird Count with an introduction (or refresher) on how to ID and count birds. Adults Only. Free. Parking is available at the center with additional street parking. The center, bathrooms, and picnic areas are all accessible, however, the trails are rocky and uneven. This is an all-weather, outdoor program. Please dress for the weather and hiking. Photos will be taken of participants during this program for use by the Pennypack Environmental Center and Philadelphia Parks and Recreation. If you wish to opt out, please let us know before the program. City of Philadelphia Covid-19 information at phila.gov . Ticks don't hibernate. TICK CHECK upon return and every day after nature play. For questions or to register by phone/email. Contact us at pec@phila.gov or 215.685.0470. https://www.facebook.com/events/1397019834210216/

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