Summer in University City

There’s nothing like summer in University City! Read on for details on UCD’s signature summer events that highlight the sights, sounds, and tastes that make our neighborhood one-of-a-kind!

Each summer, University City District partners with local businesses, restaurants, organizations, and performers to present a robust schedule of free and fun events throughout University City. Scroll on to explore details about our 2026 Summer in University City 2026, and make sure to bookmark our Community Calendar so you can keep up-to-date on all the great events happening throughout the neighborhood all year long!

University City District Summer Programming

Pop-Ups at The Portal

Pop-Ups at the Portal is an annual music series presented by University City District in partnership with local artist Gretchen Elise for 5 weeks in May and early June. Pop-up musical performances bring out community members, families, local employees, and passersby to enjoy UCD’s beautiful Trolley Portal Gardens, located at the 40th Street Trolley Portal. In 2026, performances run from May 7th through June 4th.

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Baltimore Ave. Dollar Stroll

Returning in 2026 on Thursdays June 4th and September 3rd from 5 to 8 PM! During this unique event, University City’s Baltimore Avenue between 40th & 51st Streets showcases its charm with $1, $3, and $5 bargains from neighborhood favorites & community vendors. Grab everything from bites from signature restaurants to pet supplies to theater tickets & more, plus enjoy live music, arts & crafts, and more fun!

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University City Summer Series

The Summer Series is a free, family-friendly monthly concert series highlighting local talent at The Lawn at uCity Square, happening once a month in June, July, and August from 5 PM to 8 PM. This year, we’ll welcome Johnny Showcase + Friends on June 25th, Worldtown Soundsystem Collective on July 30th, and Lady Alma on August 27th. Bring friends, a blanket or chair, and enjoy great music in a vibrant community space!

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Dining Days

University City Dining Days is UCD’s popular “3 Courses, 3 Prices” promotion at many of University City’s most popular dining destinations. For 2026, Dining Days will run from July 16 through July 26. The promotion includes dozens of participating restaurants and special 3-course menus, and draws diners to our eclectic dining scene featuring cuisine from around the globe.

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Movies in Clark Park

Movies in Clark Park will return for the first four Fridays in August from 7 PM – 10 PM, with a rain date on September 4th to screen one film if needed. In 2026, we’ll be screening four films tied to the theme of “Freedom” that were selected via a community vote: A League of Their Own on August 7th, Harriet on August 14th, Zootopia 2 on August 21st, and The Matrix on August 28th.

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