Looking Back at Summer in University City 2025

A summer to remember: See the highlights from our Summer in University City signature event series!

A group of people dancing at an outdoor concert

Scroll on for a recap of the University City Summer Series 2025

Each year, University City District collaborates with local businesses, artists, restaurants, and organizers to produce a full summer schedule of free, family-friendly events. In 2025, we were excited to invite our neighbors out to two editions of the Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll, three free Summer Series concerts, 10 days of dining deals during University City Dining Days, and the 10th anniversary of Movies in Clark Park. Take a look back at how we spent summer 2025, and check out our community calendar to stay up-to-date on other events happening in the area!

Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll

This summer, we hosted two editions of the Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll in June and September, bringing thousands of neighbors and visitors out to the lively corridor!

From 40th to 51st Streets, local businesses and community vendors offered $1, $3, and $5 deals, while musicians and artists kept the avenue alive with entertainment. We partnered with the All Love Block Party to bring music and dancing to 48th Street to join community vendors and Dollar Stroll sponsors.

he Dollar Stroll has grown into a beloved tradition since launching nearly 15 years ago, and this year was no exception. Food, music, and unbeatable bargains made Baltimore Avenue the place to be this summer. Huge thanks to all of our partners and vendors for helping make both events a success!

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A mother and daughter dance at the Summer Series outdoor concert

Summer Series: Free Outdoor Concerts

This summer, we filled University City with music with three free concerts at The Lawn at uCity Square in partnership with Wexford Science + Technology. On June 12, BlocoFunk kicked things off with an evening of classic covers, traditional drums, and capoeira. A month later, we welcomed the return of house music legend Lady Alma with support by Vertical Current, and on August 21, we closed out the series with Catbite, the high-energy band that’s leading the charge on Philly’s ska music revival.

Each show opened with a curated DJ set by local artist poetik selektions, while The Lawn came alive with food trucks, lawn games, and drinks from the uCity Square Beer Garden.

Thanks for joining us for nights of music, food, and good vibes under the open summer sky!

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A group of people smiling sitting on blankets during Movies in Clark Park

Movies in Clark Park Celebrates 10 years

This year, we celebrated 10 years of Movies in Clark Park!

In honor of the anniversary, we chose four films that were also marking milestone anniversaries.

Throughout August, families and friends gathered in the Clark Park bowl for Friday night favorites: The Goonies (1985), Clueless (1995), Madagascar (2005), and Creed (2015). Each screening began at sundown, inviting the community to enjoy these beloved films on the big screen once again. Our screening of Clueless was a particularly fun night–we started the evening with a best-dressed contest and then counted over 900 people in the park for the film!

Since its debut in 2015, Movies in Clark Park has grown into a cherished neighborhood tradition, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Huge thanks to our partners Friends of Clark Park, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, and Premiere Outdoor Movies for helping make this season possible!

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University City Dinning Days Bartender Mixing Drinks

University City Dining Days

Since its launch, Dining Days has been University City’s own spin on restaurant week: an annual celebration of the neighborhood’s vibrant food scene.

From July 17–27, diners enjoyed three-course meals at fixed price points of $20, $30, or $40 from over 30 West Philadelphia restaurants. It was a 11 full days of fun and flavor that gave people the chance to try something new, revisit favorites, and celebrate the culinary creativity that makes our community unique.

 

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University City Dinning Days Couple Eating
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Discover Other Things to do in University City