Image by katemangostar on Freepik
Labor Day, a federal holiday in the United States and a reminder of the importance of workers’ rights, is upon us again. It’s going to be a long weekend marked by a vibrant mix of festivities, parades, and community events.
In Philadelphia, this day, aka the unofficial end of summer, is more than just a long weekend. It’s a celebration of the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and the contributions of its hardworking residents. Want to explore art and history at top museums, have fun at a park, or dive into some other festive activities? This city has it all. Here are some of the best things you can indulge in to make the most of Labor Day in the City of Brotherly Love.
Labor Day Weekend at the Vineyard at Penns Woods Winery
Are you in the mood for live music and wine? Join others at the vineyard for a special four-day weekend of live music on the lawn and award-winning wine in a postcard-perfect setting during Penns Woods Winery’s Labor Day celebrations. A different performer is set to hit the stage each night at the family-friendly event (though some areas of the winery may be restricted to adults). This event would run from August 30 – September 2, 2024.
Enjoy Beer in the Park
Parks on Tap will be at Penn Treaty Park in Fishtown on Labor Day from 12 pm-10 pm! Expect a laidback outdoor setting with beer, cocktails, and snacks ranging from cheesesteaks and pretzel nuggets to scallion pancakes and kimchi hot dogs.
Photo credit: Parks on Tap (Instagram)
Les Misérables at the Academy of Music
You can kick things up with one of the greatest musicals ever created. “Les Miserables“, one of the world’s most popular musicals, returns to the Academy of Music in Center City Philadelphia. This eight-time Tony Award-winning musical opens Tuesday, August 27, and runs through September 8.
Once Upon a Nation Storytelling Benches
Want to know more about American history? Specially trained, uniformed storytellers share the secrets of Philadelphia and the history of America through three- to five-minute stories. This runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on select days (and daily from August 30 through September 2, 2024).
These stories are told at special benches near several historic sites. You can locate these benches at:
- Independence Hall
- Independence Visitor Center
- Signer’s Garden
- Carpenters’ Hall
- Franklin Court
- Betsy Ross House
- National Constitution Center
- Franklin Square
Relax at Fairmount Park
Kick off your Labor Day by spending some time in Fairmount Park, one of the largest urban green spaces in the country. This park offers plenty of options for outdoor activities. You can enjoy a picnic or take a leisurely stroll along the Schuylkill River Trail.
Photo credit: Fairmount Park (Instagram)
Labor Day Weekend 2024 at the Museum of the American Revolution
If you’re in the mood to explore art and history, check out the Museum of the American Revolution over Labor Day weekend, Saturday, August 31 – Monday, September 2, 2024. Enjoy family-friendly activities, hands-on crafts, live performances, a chance to explore the special exhibit “Witness to Revolution: The Unlikely Travels of Washington’s Tent,” and more as another Revolutionary Summer comes to a close. The Museum of the American Revolution is celebrating Labor Day with free admission for the kids, so this is the best time to take in some history before school resumes.
Independence Blue Cross Riverrink Summerfest
The Independence Blue Cross Riverrink Summerfest is coming to a close on Monday, September 2. This is one of the Philadelphia Waterfront’s favorite summertime traditions. You can enjoy outdoor boardwalk games and rides, mini-golf, and great food and drinks, all with soaring views of the Delaware River and Ben Franklin Bridge. Summerfest is the perfect place for a family outing, a school trip, or a meet-up with friends.
Photo credit: ibxriverrink (Instagram)
Visit the Philadelphia Zoo
Philadelphia Zoo, America’s first zoo, is an excellent choice for a family-friendly Labor Day outing. Explore a world of wildlife at the zoo, which houses over 1,300 animals. There are a variety of exhibits and activities to keep you entertained. With beautiful landscaping and plenty of shaded areas, the zoo is a pleasant place to spend your Labor Day.
