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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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Announcements

Update regarding temporary memorial in Clark Park

November 27th, 2023

 

Dear Neighbors,

 

On Tuesday, November 28th, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PPR) will remove the installation that went up in Clark Park on October 28th, 2023. The date of the removal, originally scheduled for Monday, November 27th, was extended due to the holiday weekend.

 

The memorial in Clark Park has remained on public property for more than 15 days and now exceeds PPR’s policy regarding temporary memorials and displays. The City realizes that temporary memorials and displays in public spaces are often a response to a sensitive situation, and seeks to be respectful in any action taken with regard to the placement, relocation, or removal of such displays. PPR has been unable to contact the organization and/or individuals responsible for this display to discuss the removal. Individuals or organizations claiming responsibility for the display may retrieve any content from the display prior to its removal by PPR. 

 

PPR and the City of Philadelphia are committed to the consideration of and care for every community in our region that may be experiencing pain and trauma due to the conflict in the Middle East. The City offers support and resources to help anyone struggling in the face of these events. We encourage local residents who are in need of support amidst the current violence in Israel and Gaza to make use of the City and partner resources available to them.

 

Sincerely,

 

Orlando Rendon

Interim Commissioner

Philadelphia Parks & Recreation 

 

Events

  • Dec
    4
    Friends of Rittenhouse Square Holiday Tree Lighting
    5:00 pm to 6:30 pm
    Rittenhouse Square, 1800 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA

    Friends of Rittenhouse Square Holiday Tree Lighting

    December 4, 2023
    5:00 pm to 6:30 pm, 2 hours
    Rittenhouse Square, 1800 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA
    map
    Festivities will begin at 5 p.m. with refreshments, give aways, and music. Santa will make a special appearance! The tree lighting ceremony will then start at 5:30 p.m. Visit the Friends' website for more information. 
  • Dec
    5
    NATURE TOTS: Nature Gifts
    5:00 am to 6:00 am
    8600A Verree Road,Philadelphia,19115,US

    NATURE TOTS: Nature Gifts

    December 5, 2023
    5:00 am to 6:00 am, 1 hour
    8600A Verree Road,Philadelphia,19115,US
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    Children ages 2-5 years with an adult can join us for a story, simple craft, short walk, games and more. Join us for a story, simple craft, short walk & more. This month we will create gifts for birds at the center and to take home using natural items. Ages 2-5 years w/ adult. $5.00 per child. Adults are FREE. Please dress for a mess. Eventbrite fees apply if paying by card. If you'd like to pay by cash or check, those options can be found at checkout. 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/291102130518785/
  • Dec
    6
    SCIENCE FOR SENIORS
    1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
    Pennypack Environmental Center

    SCIENCE FOR SENIORS

    December 6, 2023
    1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, 3 hours
    Pennypack Environmental Center
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    Join us each month for a new adventure in natural sciences. Older Adults. FREE Registration appreciated at PEC@Phila.gov. https://www.facebook.com/events/293164110147842/

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