Philadelphia

Skate, Stroll and Volunteer: Things to Do in and Around Philly

From the fun to be had along the Delaware River to an iconic regatta on the Schuylkill River to a run down the shore, there is plenty of fun to be had

Philadelphia and its surrounding counties always have something going on. Whether it’s roller skating by the Delaware River or celebrating parks is full of fun every weekend in the Spring. We’ve found the top (and affordable) choices of what to do this weekend, May 10 to 12, in Philly and New Jersey.

What: Philly Love Your Park Week

Philly Love Your Park Week kicks off with community service days Saturday. You can sign-up to help in your neighborhood. Other events this weekend includes bird watching, the Fitler Square Spring Fair and Ridge Runners Car Show.

Where: Various parks around Philadelphia

When: Saturday through May 19

Cost: Free to volunteer

What: Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest

Roller skate on the rink, ride the carousel or Ferris wheel, play some carnival games or mini golf, or just sit back and relax with the entire family as the Penn's Landing attraction opens for the season.

Where: 101 South Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia

When: Opens at 1 p.m. Friday. Weekends only for next two weeks.

Cost: Free to enter, pay-as-you-go for attractions

What: Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta

The nation's largest collegiate regatta, in its 81st year, returns to the Schuylkill River Friday and Saturday. Thousands of rowers from around North America will take part. The event is free to watch.

Where: Kelly Drive from Hunting Park Avenue to the Grand Stand near the Columbia Avenue Bridge.

When: Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cost: Free to watch

The annual Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta is taking place this weekend along the Schuylkill River. The president of the organizing committee, Jim Hanna, is here to tell us about the rowing competition bringing collegiate rowers from around North America to Philadelphia.

What: Rittenhouse Fine Craft Fair

Admire and shop for fine artwork made by some of the state's best craftspeople.

Where: Walnut Street from Broad to 18th streets, Philadelphia

When: Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cost: Free to attend

What: Festival of Fountains

This fantastic fountain show features more than 1,000 jets, vibrant colors, music and more.  

Where: Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, Pa.

When: through Sept. 29

Cost: Varies

What: Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival

Handcrafted lanterns illuminate the square after sun set each night, along with live performances and a beer garden.

Where: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th Street, Philadelphia

When: through June 30

Cost: $18

What: Marvel: Universe of Superheroes

Check out this superhero comics and movies exhibit showing off Marvel’s most iconic memorabilia, like props, costumes, sketches and more.

Where: The Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th Street, Philadelphia

When: Saturday through Sept. 2

Cost: Tickets start at $35 for adults and $31 for children

If you love all things Marvel, then Philadelphia is the place to be this weekend. Marvel Universe opens at The Franklin Institute on Saturday and NBC10’s Tim Furlong is giving you a sneak peek inside.

What: Creatures of Habitat: A Gazillion-Piece Animal Adventure

Life-size LEGO brick animals will fill the Philadelphia Zoo during this event in order to tell the story of endangered wildlife. Visitors can learn how human behavior impacts endangered species and be inspired to take action to stem the global change. The Zoo Key, a former local tradition, will also make its return with this exhibit. The Zoo Key will unlock secrets and stories about animals throughout the zoo.

Where: Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Avenue, Philadelphia

When: through Sept. 30

Cost: Zoo admission is $16 for child ages 2 to 11 and $19 for any 12 or older

New fun changes are happening at the iconic Philadelphia Zoo. The zoo has opened new exciting programs for children as well as exhibitions like its LEGO-themed Creatures of Habitat: A Gazillion-Piece Animal Adventure.

What: PHS Pop Up Garden

Throughout the summer this garden will host creative events, planet exchanges, arts and crafts for the kids and flower crown Fridays.

Where: 15th and South Street, Philadelphia

When: Open through October, Monday through Thursday from 5 to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 2 p.m. to midnight and on Sunday from noon to 10 p.m.

Cost: Free to enter

Correction: This story initially listed some events for the wrong dates.

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