University City District

FREE Outdoor Show with Tim Kubart and the Space Cadets
2026-05-03 15:00 - 16:30 (America/New_York) | Zellerbach Theatre, 3680 Walnut St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104
Join Grammy®-winning children’s musician Tim Kubart and his band, the Space Cadets, for a free outdoor concert and dance party. Packed with sing-along songs, tap dancing and joyful pop music, Kubart’s high-energy performances invite kids and grown-ups alike to sing, move and celebrate being themselves. Known as the host of Sprout’s Sunny Side Up and the ever-enthusiastic “Tambourine Guy” from Postmodern Jukebox, Kubart’s Penn Live Arts debut is guaranteed to have everyone smiling, moving and grooving together.

Spirituality on Tap
2026-05-06 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-06-03 19:00 - 20:00 | Dahlak Paradise, 4708 Baltimore Ave, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Calvary Church hosts Spirituality on Tap, an informal monthly gathering to discuss – not debate – questions related to spirituality, theology, religion, etc.

While SOT is not explicitly an interfaith group, and some discussions may be specific to a Christian context, all faith and religious/non-religious backgrounds and identities are welcome.

Drinks and food optional, and on your own.

Pop ups at the Trolley Portal Garden: Denise King
2026-05-07 17:30 - 19:30 | 40th St Trolley Portal, Trolley Portal Gardens at 40th and Baltimore, Philadelphia, 19104
This Summer, enjoy live art and music with the return of Pop Ups at the Portal! ☀️☀️☀️

Denise King is an international jazz musician who is influenced by the greats of music, from Simone to Sinatra. King has performed all over the world, and we are excited to welcome her to the Portal for this special, hometown show!

Presented by local artist Gretchen Elise, we invite all to come out every Thursday between May 8 – June 5, and enjoy 5 weeks of all age music, warm weather, and connecting with your community.

May 7: Denise King: International jazz vocalist. RSVP on Facebook.

May 14: West Philly Orchestra: Avant Folk Brass Band: RSVP on Facebook

May 21: Boogieman Dela & Friends ft. Nelly Line Dance: Hip-hop meets soul + A Line Dance Party: RSVP on Facebook

May 28: Solomon Dub: Roots reggae collective: RSVP on Facebook

June 4: Gretchen Elise: Energetic live jazz party during the Dollar Stroll! RSVP on Facebook

Spruce Hill Community Association 68th Annual May Fair
2026-05-09 12:00 - 21:00 | Clark Park, 4300-4398 Baltimore Ave, PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, 19104
The Spruce Hill Community Association is excited to announce that its annual May Fair community gathering returns to Clark Park on Saturday May 9th from noon to 6 p.m. This year’s event marks the 68th time that SHCA will host this popular West Philadelphia event, which features a wide array of family-friendly activities, local arts and crafts vendors, live music, food purveyors and our popular $1 raffle baskets. The event is free and open to the public. The 2026 May Fair will be focused as always on fun for the whole family, with live music throughout the day, a petting zoo, outdoor games, a moon bounce, and face painting. The city’s top food trucks and vendors will serve up delicious treats to keep guests energized all afternoon. The event will also feature more than 60 vendors offering an array of arts, crafts and other items for sale, alongside community organizations providing information and give-aways. The University City Garden Club will be present with a full selection of herbs, perennials, vegetables, and other plants for sale. A raffle will offer attendees the opportunity to win a variety of exciting baskets of prizes from some of West Philadelphia’s favorite businesses.

Local artists, vendors and community groups looking to participate in May Fair are invited to submit an application online by SUN MAY 3rd by following this link: https://forms.gle/mXYQpLdUccrcPQcr8

Adults Ballroom Dance Class at Musicopia
2026-05-09 13:00 - 14:00, 2026-05-16 13:00 - 14:00 | The Arts League, 4226 Spruce St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States
Join Musicopia for a welcoming dance class for parents/caregivers, principals, classrooms teachers, and extended community of our student program participants. This adult class series will provide an opportunity to connect, move together, and build community through social dance. Pop in for a single class or join the full series to learn a variety of social dances.

Saturdays from February 21 through May 16.1:00-2:00 PM.Beginner-friendly.Introductions to Salsa, Merengue, Foxtrot, Swing, and More.No dance experience is necessary.$10 per person per class.

Class dates: 2/21, 2/28, 3/7, 3/14, 3/28, 4/11, 4/18, 4/25, 5/2, 5/16.Please note that this venue is not wheelchair accessible and stairs are required to reach the dance studio.

Pop-ups at Portal: West Philly Orchestra
2026-05-14 17:30 - 19:30 | 40th St Trolley Portal, Trolley Portal Gardens at 40th and Baltimore, Philadelphia, 19104
This summer, enjoy live art and music with the return of Pop Ups at the Portal! ☀️☀️☀️

Don’t miss local legends West Philly Orchestra at Pop-Ups at the Portal!

WPO is an avant village folk brass band performing since 2006. You will find WPO at parties, stages, beer gardens, protests, and wedding celebrations throughout the Philadelphia region. ​West Philadelphia Orchestra found inspiration in the Romani brass “orkestars” and “fanfares” of Eastern Europe. Known for stellar musicianship and dynamic live shows, the band’s sound is vibrant, powerful and extremely danceable. WPO is celebrating 20 years in 2026.

Presented by local artist Gretchen Elise, we invite all to come out every Thursday between May 7th – June 4th to enjoy 5 weeks of all-ages music, warm weather, and connecting with your community.

May 7: Denise King: International jazz vocalist. RSVP on Facebook.

May 14: West Philly Orchestra: Avant Folk Brass Band

May 21: Boogieman Dela & Friends: Hip-hop meets soul

May 28: Solomon Dub: Roots reggae collective

June 4: Gretchen Elise: Energetic live jazz party during the Dollar Stroll!

Parks on Tap in Clark Park
2026-05-20 16:00 - 22:00, 2026-05-21 16:00 - 22:00, 2026-05-22 16:00 - 22:00, 2026-05-23 12:00 - 22:00, 2026-05-24 12:00 - 22:00, 2026-05-25 12:00 - 22:00 | Clark Park, 4300-4398 Baltimore Ave, PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, 19104
Parks on Tap, the popular roaming beer garden, is returning to Clark Park for five days over Memorial Day weekend!

A partnership between Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and FCM Hospitality, Parks on Tap was created to be a traveling beer garden throughout the city’s various, beautiful parks all summer long. Proceeds from Parks on Tap benefit the Fairmount Park Conservancy. Each park and location is collectively selected as a way to highlight and enhance the offerings that Philadelphia city parks provide. It aims for a simple aesthetic: well-kept outdoor spaces where friends and families can meet up to enjoy food, drinks, and fun in a natural green space. A portion of all proceeds benefits each park.

Wednesday, May 20th: 4 – 10 PM

Thursday, May 21st: 4 – 10 PM

Friday, May 22nd: 4 – 10 PM

Saturday, May 23rd: Noon – 10 PM

Sunday, May 24th: Noon – 10 PM

Monday, May 25th: Noon – 10 PM

Pop-ups at Portal: Boggieman Dela & Friends + Nelly Line Dance
2026-05-21 17:30 - 19:30 | 40th St Trolley Portal, Trolley Portal Gardens at 40th and Baltimore, Philadelphia, 19104
This summer, enjoy live art and music with the return of Pop Ups at the Portal! ☀️☀️☀️

With Boogieman Dela & Friends, hip-hop meets soul, with a chill, introspective, and slightly jazzy vibe—where vocals matter just as much as bars. We’ll also welcome Nelly Line Dance for a dance party for all levels!

Boogieman Dela is a Philadelphia-based artist known for blending hip-hop with neo-soul, R&B, and jazz influences. His sound combines smooth vocals and melodic rap over laid-back, groove-driven production, creating a vibe that’s both introspective and easygoing. Drawing from a strong musical background, he brings a live, soulful feel to his work while exploring themes like relationships, self-growth, and individuality. Boogie is the driving force behind Stereotype Sound Sessions, an event brand rooted in West Philly that has been thriving since 2016. Through it, he’s built a strong platform and community for artists, creating opportunities for connection, collaboration, and consistent mutual growth.

As a line dance instructor, Nelly brings energy, patience, and a passion for helping others feel confident on the dance floor. She breaks down steps in a way that’s easy to follow, making sure everyone—from beginners to seasoned dancers—feels included and has fun. Her upbeat attitude and ability to read the room help her keep classes engaging, and she genuinely enjoy building a sense of community through music and movement. A certified Yoga and Fitness instructor, event maven and the life of any party, Nelly will have you line dancing like a pro in no time.

Presented by local artist Gretchen Elise, we invite all to come out every Thursday between May 7th – June 4th to enjoy 5 weeks of all-ages music, warm weather, and connecting with your community.

May 7: Denise King: International jazz vocalist. RSVP on Facebook.

May 14: West Philly Orchestra: Avant Folk Brass Band: RSVP on Facebook

May 21: Boogieman Dela & Friends ft. Nelly Line Dance: Hip-hop meets soul + A Line Dance Party: RSVP on Facebook

May 28: Solomon Dub: Roots reggae collective: RSVP on Facebook

June 4: Gretchen Elise: Energetic live jazz party during the Dollar Stroll! RSVP on Facebook

Meditation Through Coloring™ at The Arts League
2026-05-23 10:00 - 12:00 | The Arts League, 4226 Spruce St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States
Take a moment to slow down, breathe, and create. Join The Arts League for a relaxing Meditation Through Coloring™ workshop designed to reduce stress, support mental wellness, and spark creativity. No experience needed—just come and enjoy a peaceful, creative experience.This is a recurring event with additional classes on May 23, May 30, June 6 & June 13.

Pop-ups at Portal: Solomon Dub
2026-05-28 17:30 - 19:30 | 40th St Trolley Portal, Trolley Portal Gardens at 40th and Baltimore, Philadelphia, 19104
This summer, enjoy live art and music with the return of Pop Ups at the Portal! ☀️☀️☀️

Enjoy a roots raggae collective with Solomon Dub!

Solomon Dub is a roots reggae and dub collective from the Philadelphia, South Jersey, and Bucks County region, made up of veteran musicians with deep ties to reggae’s foundation and culture. . Fronted by Mikey Luvsmith, the band delivers heavy basslines, dubwise arrangements, and conscious roots reggae through dynamic, highly interactive live performances. Known for strong audience engagement and a communal stage presence, Solomon Dub creates shows that feel participatory rather than passive. Their performance history includes respected venues and festivals throughout the region—such as Sol Splash, Morrisville Tavern, and Kung Fu Necktie—and they have opened in Philadelphia for the legendary HR of Bad Brains. With a loyal following, distinctive merch, and a reputation as true artisans of reggae, Solomon Dub brings authenticity, energy, and cultural integrity to every booking.

Presented by local artist Gretchen Elise, we invite all to come out every Thursday between May 7th – June 4th to enjoy 5 weeks of all-ages music, warm weather, and connecting with your community.

May 7: Denise King: International jazz vocalist. RSVP on Facebook.

May 14: West Philly Orchestra: Avant Folk Brass Band: RSVP on Facebook

May 21: Boogieman Dela & Friends ft. Nelly Line Dance: Hip-hop meets soul + A Line Dance Party: RSVP on Facebook

May 28: Solomon Dub: Roots reggae collective: RSVP on Facebook

June 4: Gretchen Elise: Energetic live jazz party during the Dollar Stroll! RSVP on Facebook

Intro to Handbag Construction Sewing Class
2026-05-30 11:00 - 13:00 | The Arts League, 4226 Spruce St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States
Master the intersection of relaxed silhouettes and functional design by constructing a custom slouch bag. This hands-on session will dive into the pattern making, construction, and finishing of a boutique-quality accessory.

This workshop is for intermediate sewists who have basic machine and pattern-making confidence and are ready to dive into accessory construction and professional-grade assembly.

Participants will learn how to construct a slouch bag, execute professional assembly, and master finishing techniques including inset linings, facings, and hardware closures.

Participants will walk away with a custom, high-fashion slouch bag and the technical expertise to replicate professional accessory designs for their own handmade wardrobe.

The Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll
2026-06-04 17:00 - 20:00 | Baltimore Avenue, Baltimore Avenue, PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, 19143
On Thursday, June 4th, Baltimore Avenue between 40th and 51st Streets will showcase its charm with amazing bargains from standout neighborhood businesses.

Enjoy $1, $3, and $5 offerings, plus live performances, interactive activities, a block party, and more! Come out for the deals, stay for the music, community & good vibes. See the list of vendors here: https://www.universitycity.org/stroll/

Can’t make it to this event? Save the date for the second Dollar Stroll of the year, happening September 3, 2026.

Pop-ups at Portal: Gretchen Elise
2026-06-04 17:30 - 19:30 | 40th St Trolley Portal, Trolley Portal Gardens at 40th and Baltimore, Philadelphia, 19104
This summer, enjoy live art and music with the return of Pop Ups at the Portal! ☀️☀️☀️

Gretchen Elise returns with a West Philly family jam during the Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll!

Get ready to be moved, lifted & wrapped in pure soul with the incredible indie singer-songwriter Gretchen Elise. Gretchen creates an experience that captivates listeners worldwide. She is a master at weaving the listener into her creations, creating new collaborations in the moment. Composing original music from jazz to hip hop in Berlin, Boston, and her hometown Philadelphia, her original releases (since 2004) can be heard on all streaming platforms. Her newest indie soul release video, “Running,” is an animated journey of resilience. Her current project “Grateful Love” is a danceable response to a car crashing into her house. Follow at @gretchenelisemusic; more at www.gretchenelise.com.

We invite everyone to come out every Thursday from May 7 to June 4, and enjoy 5 weeks of all-age music, warm weather, and connecting with your community. Be sure to support Renata’s Kitchen while you’re there!

Presented by local artist Gretchen Elise, we invite all to come out every Thursday between May 7th – June 4th to enjoy 5 weeks of all-ages music, warm weather, and connecting with your community.

May 7: Denise King: International jazz vocalist. RSVP on Facebook.

May 14: West Philly Orchestra: Avant Folk Brass Band: RSVP on Facebook

May 21: Boogieman Dela & Friends ft. Nelly Line Dance: Hip-hop meets soul + A Line Dance Party: RSVP on Facebook

May 28: Solomon Dub: Roots reggae collective: RSVP on Facebook

June 4: Gretchen Elise: Energetic live jazz party during the Dollar Stroll! RSVP on Facebook

Young Artist Summer Camp: Potions & Pigments: Art from the natural worlds
2026-08-03 09:00 - 18:00 | The Arts League, 4226 Spruce St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States
Our youngest witches and wizards explore the magic of the natural world through sensory play and simple crafts. They’ll collect plants and flowers, make natural paints from berries and leaves, create fairy gardens, and learn that nature holds endless creative possibilities.

Blooms (3rd-5th Grade): Herbalists & Makers

Middle-level students dive into natural dyeing techniques, create herbal sachets and botanical crafts, and learn about the properties of different plants. They’ll experiment with creating pigments from natural materials, press flowers, and make outdoor potions while understanding how people have used plants throughout history.

Roots (6th-12th Grade): Wild Craft Studio

Our oldest students master advanced natural dyeing techniques like eco-printing and bundle dyeing, learn about foraging ethics and plant identification, and create herbal remedies. They’ll explore the intersection of art, herbalism, and sustainability, transforming foraged materials into sophisticated textiles, natural inks, and botanical art while deepening their connection to the natural world.
