Summer Fri-Yays: 4 Festive Events You Won’t Want to Miss
As your kids start to settle into summer mode and the stir-crazy stuck-at-home madness starts, it’s time to plan an activity the whole family can enjoy. Thankfully for you and your energetic kiddos, Longwood Gardens has a full schedule of summer fun on Fridays throughout the season, ideal to beat back boredom.
One Friday a month, there are signature sips for parents, plenty of play opportunities for the kids (that are equal parts fun and educational!) and impressive performances every family member will enjoy.
Here are four festive Friday events your family won’t want to miss:
July 12th (from 5:30-10pm)
For one night only, you can enter into the City of Lights without ever stepping foot on a flight. Longwood’s “A Night in Paris” party will transport you and your enfants to the stunning Parisian streets. Stroll by the illuminated fountains, listen to the busker-style performers, indulge in French macarons, sip on a signature cocktail, like the French Connection cocktail (cognac, raspberries, lemon juice and sparkling wine) with your significant other and enjoy the warmer weather. The piece de resistance of the evening is undoubtedly the elegant fountain performance inspired by Monet’s Garden. It’s destined to wow the whole family.
August 16th (from 5:30-10 pm)
Looking for something a little more Americana? Gather your group for the “Brews & Bands” night. The casual evening kicks off with an expert chat on the brewing process by the team at Victory Brewing Company. You’ll learn exactly what goes into making Longwood’s signature beers. Plus, they’ll be live music in the Beer Garden, special concessions for the kids and an incredible performance of the Rockin’ the Red, White and Blue Illuminated Fountain Performance.
September 6th (from 5-9 pm)
Wind down a wonderful summer by celebrating the magic of the movies. “Hooray for Hollywood,” is a theme the whole group will love. There’ll be special movie-themed concessions, performances of your favorite movie scores on the impressive 10,010 pipe Aeolian organ, and an energetic Illuminated Fountain Performance of Night at the Movies II. You can expect to hear the iconic sounds of The Greatest Showman, Footloose, Slumdog Millionaire and more as the dazzling water features create designs across the sky. Plus, there’s plenty of activities for the kids. Children are encouraged to dress up as their favorite movie character and can climb to the top of the Chimes Tower like Rapunzel or explore three tree houses Swiss Family Robinson-style.
October 18th (from 5-9 pm)
You have one last chance to soak up the last few long days of Fall before the cold weather hits. Why not spend it celebrating the City of Brotherly Love? Longwood’s “Philly, We Love You,” showcases all-things-Philadelphia including a Mummers-themed organ show, Rocky-inspired cocktails, aptly named The Rocky & The Adrian and pretzel braids.
Every Friday
Beyond the special events taking place, Longwood Gardens is always an ideal stop for a day of family fun throughout the warm weather seasons. Swing by any day of the week to experience the vibrant fountain performances, stop and smell the beautiful blooms or sip a few good brews with your buddies at the Beer Garden.
For more information about Longwood Gardens and planning your visit to Festive Fridays, click here.
This is a paid partnership between Longwood Gardens and Philadelphia Magazine
