Great Escape: Local Festivities

The garden has been planted, the yard work finished. The kids are about to put their school bags and books away for a few months. You’ve packed away your sweaters and dug out shorts and swim suits. So now what do you?

Well, we have a few ideas: five to be precise. Enjoy the outdoors, good food, and more at these great summer events.

1.) Fun Fest: Interac’s Fun Fest on The Ridge is sure to live up to its name. Stationed at the historic Langhurst Mansion, this evening event will feature a number of kid’s activities, great food from local restaurants and venders, and a chance to learn about Intercommunity Action’s programs. Intercommunity Action is a nonprofit health and human services agency. Contact 215-487-0567 for more information about the event.
Date: May 25, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Address: 6012 Ridge Avenue

2.) Jazz and Arts: Come out to the West Oak Lane Jazz and Arts Festival June 17-19. For years, residents and visitors have partied in the shut-down Ogontz Avenue for this renowned event, which features everything from kids’ games to some of the city’s--and the world’s--best music. With two stages hosting salsa, soul, reggae, jazz, R&B, and more, you’d be hard pressed to find a better local music festival. And with the better part of Saturday dedicated to kids’ music, workshops, and gaming arcades, this is truly an event for the whole family.
Date: June 17-19
Address: Ogontz Avenue, West Oak Lane

3.) Manayunk Arts: The 22nd Annual Manayunk Arts Festival is, once again, sure to please witha weekend of great art, festivities, and fun. This is the region’s largest outdoor, juried arts festival, and it boasts exhibits from artists across 22 states. From paintings to crafts and everything in between, you’re sure to be surprised and pleased with the art on display during this weekend event.
Date: June 25-26, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address: Main Street, between Green and Shurs Lanes

4.) Books!: For those looking to start their summers off with some great reads and literary discussions, look no further than the Third Annual Chestnut Hill Book Festival. With everything from writer’s workshops to panel discussions to author readings and a singer-songwriter slam, there is no place better for a budding artist or reading enthusiast than right here. And with a number of children’s activities, including costumed characters and other fun events, there is something for everyone here.
Date: July 9-10,
Address: 8130 Germantown Avenue

5.) Support Your PD: Though more low-key than the other festivities listed, there is no better way to show your appreciation for your local Philadelphia police than stopping by the 14th District Police Department  on July 16. The flea market, which will be held at Vernon Park right off Germantown Avenue, is a great opportunity to snag some deals and say thank you to the men in uniform near you. Contact Calvin Johns at 215-685-2147 for details.
Date: July 16, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address: 5900 Germantown Avenue