Labor Day Events in Philadelphia: A City Guide

Philadelphia is a city with a rich history and plenty of culture. One of the oldest cities in the United States, Philadelphia has been a major hub for politics, industry, art, and education since its founding in 1682. It is home to over 1.5 million people, making it the fifth largest city in the United States. Philly is most well-known for its key role in the American Revolution, being the site of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. It also established the world’s first lending library as well as the first medical school in the US. Today, Philadelphia is an East Coast destination renowned for its vibrant arts and culture, iconic sites, and excellent food.

Each year, Philadelphia celebrates Labor Day with a variety of exciting events that are sure to delight visitors from near and far. From outdoor festivals to outdoor movie screenings and even a virtual 5K race, there is no shortage of things to do in the City of Brotherly Love over the long holiday weekend. In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of some of the best events taking place in Philadelphia during Labor Day weekend so you can make the most of your visit.

Outdoor Festivals

There are a number of outdoor festivals taking place in Philadelphia during Labor Day weekend that are sure to appeal to a wide range of visitors. The Xponential Music Festival is back for another year and will take place at the Camden Waterfront from August 29th to September 1st. This popular event features a variety of performers from all genres of music, including headliners The Avett Brothers, The Flaming Lips, and MGMT. There will also be a variety of food, drinks, and vendors on site for you to enjoy.

The Philadelphia Folk Festival will also be taking place from August 29th to September 1st. This festival is the longest continuously running outdoor music festival of its kind in North America, and it will feature over 60 performers from all genres of music including folk, blues, jazz, bluegrass, and more. There will also be workshops, activities for kids, and lots of vendors selling food and souvenirs.

Outdoor Movie Screenings

If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to spend your Labor Day weekend in Philadelphia, consider attending one of the city’s outdoor movie screenings. The Philadelphia Film Society will be hosting a variety of films at a drive-in theater at the Navy Yard from August 28th to September 3rd. There will also be outdoor movie screenings at Penn’s Landing on August 31st and September 1st.

Outdoor Activities

Philadelphia has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy over Labor Day weekend. From kayaking on the Delaware River to biking on the Schuylkill Banks trail to walking around one of Philly’s many parks, there is something for everyone. You can also take advantage of the city’s fantastic restaurant scene with outdoor dining options at some of Philly’s best restaurants. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a scenic tour on a hot air balloon or even explore the city from the sky in a helicopter tour?

Virtual 5K Race

The annual Labor Day 5K race is going virtual this year for safety reasons. The race will take place on September 6th and all you need to do is sign up online and then run your own 5k wherever you are. All proceeds from the race will go towards helping people in need of medical care as well as local organizations providing services to those affected by COVID-19.

Book an Experience Tour with Viator

If you’re looking for an immersive experience while visiting Philadelphia during Labor Day weekend, consider booking an experience tour with Viator. Viator offers a range of experiences that allow visitors to explore Philadelphia in a unique way. From food tours that explore Philly’s vibrant restaurant scene to history tours that highlight its important role in American history, there is something for everyone. Viator also offers bike tours so you can explore the city on two wheels and street art tours so you can take in some of Philly’s most vibrant murals.

Book a City Sightseeing Tour with GetYourGuide

If you want to get an overview of Philadelphia during your visit, consider booking a city sightseeing tour with GetYourGuide. GetYourGuide offers a range of guided tours that provide visitors with an in-depth look at some of Philly’s most iconic sites and attractions. From guided walking tours through historic neighborhoods such as Old City and Society Hill to bus tours that take visitors around the city, there is something for everyone. GetYourGuide also offers tours that focus on specific attractions such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall as well as tours that explore Philadelphia’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

Conclusion

Philadelphia is a great destination for visitors during Labor Day weekend, offering a variety of exciting events and activities to keep everyone entertained. From outdoor festivals to outdoor movie screenings and even a virtual 5K race, there is no shortage of ways to celebrate Labor Day in Philadelphia. You can also explore Philly’s vibrant restaurant scene or take one of Viator or GetYourGuide’s guided tours for an unforgettable experience. With so much to do in Philadelphia this Labor Day weekend, you won’t be disappointed!