We are in the final days of May, and what better way to cap off the month than with a vibrant mix of culture, reflection, and celebration? As we get ready to bid May goodbye, the City of Brotherly Love has a vibrant and unforgettable lineup of events for Black people and several others to connect, reflect, celebrate, and engage with the community.
Whether you’re a culture buff, a dance enthusiast, or simply searching for a long weekend to recharge, Philadelphia’s end-of-May lineup has something for everyone to enjoy and have fun. From honoring ancestors on Memorial Day, dancing at the Philly Tango Festival, to proudly celebrating Africa Day, there are fun opportunities to end the month memorably.
So, get ready to honor heritage, put on your dancing shoes, and celebrate the enduring spirit of the African diaspora as May winds down.
Reflect and Reconnect During Memorial Day Weekend (May 25–27)
Memorial Day, considered the unofficial start of summer in the United States, takes place on the last Monday in May. It’s a time to honor and show gratitude to the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the country during military service.
Photo source: Instagram/jjmara1
Wondering what to do on Memorial Day weekend? Philadelphia offers several meaningful ways to commemorate the holiday.
Join the Memorial Day Parade: You can start with the yearly Memorial Day parade that draws huge crowds along its route on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. You will get to watch marching bands, military units, and veteran floats make the trip from the Philadelphia Museum of Art, another must-see point of interest.
Dive into U.S. history at the museum: While the parade is one way to mark the day, visiting the Museum of the American Revolution is another. This is a great place to spend some time this Memorial Day, as special exhibits devoted to service people throughout history are featured along with the museum’s standing installations. Anyone curious about the country’s history should visit.
Visit the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall: No trip to Philadelphia is complete without seeing two of the city’s biggest landmarks. The Liberty Bell is the embodiment of American freedom, while Independence Hall is where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. Given their significance to both American History and war, it would be a nice place to spend the Memorial Day weekend.
Fun events for nature lovers, science geeks, and shoppers: If you need a break from the city and just want to admire nature’s goodness, the beautiful Fairmount Park is the perfect place. For the science geeks, the Franklin Institute Science Museum is sure to spark curiosity and wonder. And if you are looking for something more fun, the Fashion District is your go-to spot for cultural adventures, tasty bites, and engaging entertainment.
Embracing Culture Through Dance at Philly Tango Festival (May 23-26)
They say it takes two to tango, but at the Philadelphia Tango Festival, many more will have a swirl time on the dance floor. Whether you’re a pro or just curious, dancers of all backgrounds and levels will benefit from a wide range of activities, including workshops (beginner through advanced), live music lectures, milongas, social activities, a concert, and more.
The 2025 Philadelphia Tango Festival will take place over Memorial Day weekend, from Friday, May 23, through Monday, May 26, and will be celebrating Aníbal Troilo, one of the most beloved tango musicians in history.
This is an opportunity to join other tango enthusiasts from around the region and the world at the historic Lithuanian Music Hall in Philadelphia for a memorable weekend of music, dance, and celebration.
Whether you want to learn a few steps or lose yourself in the passion of the dance floor, anticipate a moment of inspiration, connection, learning, and lots and lots of fun.
Photo source: philadelphiatangofestival.com
Celebrate Black Identity during Africa Day
Africa Day is celebrated annually on May 25 to mark the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), now known as the African Union (AU). It is a day to reflect on the progress made towards African unity and to celebrate the cultural and economic potential of the continent. For Black communities across the diaspora, it is an opportunity to reconnect with heritage and acknowledge Africa’s profound impact on global culture.
Philly’s first-ever celebration of Africa Day took place at Fisher Park in 2024. The free event included African dance and drumming workshops, African fashion, and the making of African crowns.
Photo source: Instagram/ africadayireland
This year is another opportunity to join the Black community and others to honor the rich and diverse cultures of the African continent and its diaspora. Expect engaging workshops, traditional African dance performances, and discussions on Africa’s influence on global arts and culture. For those looking to immerse themselves in African traditions, the event offers opportunities to explore African cuisine, fashion, and storytelling.
So, if you are in Philadelphia and wondering what to do on Memorial Day weekend, the Philadelphia Tango Festival, and Africa Day, now you know!
Whether you’re grilling with your family and friends in honor of veterans, dancing your heart out at a tango workshop, or rejoicing in African heritage, ensure you make these final May moments count, stepping into June with a heart brimming with joy.
