Published March 05, 2020
While this winter has been relatively mild, we’re still longing for the days when the flowers bloom, the sun shines, and there’s finally outdoor seating at all your favorite restaurants. Once spring has sprung, there’s a certain level of vibrance to the city that’s hard to miss. Moods are lifted, days are longer, and there’s suddenly a ton of outdoor events calling our names, and we've rounded up some of the best ones for the Ultimate Spring Bucket List.
View this post on Instagram
The nation's largest horticultural event is back and better than ever this 2020. As one of the Philadelphia events that signifies the start of spring, the PHS Philadelphia Flower show fills the event space with unique petals, thorns, and plants that are nearly impossible to find anywhere else (think venus fly-traps). Each year, the Flower Show centers around a theme, and this year we escape to the South of France with a Riviera Holiday (oh la la)! Additionally, the flower show hosts horticulture and flower arranging competitions, as well as includes an array of vendors that sell jewelry, crafts, food, and alcohol.
When: February 29th - March 8th
Where: 1101 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
View this post on Instagram
You know spring has sprung when the sun is shining and the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom. There are many locations to admire these gorgeous trees, but Kelly Drive tops our list. From Kelly Drive, you can check out views of the Schuylkill River while you run along the bike path, all while taking in the sites and reminding yourself that winter is just a mere faded memory.
Where: 1 Boathouse Row, Philadelphia, PA 19130
View this post on Instagram
Running is always a little more tolerable when there’s a pretty view involved and thankfully, the Ben Franklin Pedestrian Walkway offers a scenic route spanning between Philadelphia and Camden. With spring weather in full force, runners, bikers, and cyclists can take advantage of this walkway, designed with exercising outside in mind.
Where: Philadelphia entrance: 5th and Race streets
View this post on Instagram
Take a trip about an hour outside the city and set your sites on acres and acres of tulips, daffodils, azaleas, cherry blossom trees and more! Inside you’ll find even more flowers filling the Conservatory - it’s peak bloom season and Longwood Gardens is the perfect place to take in the fresh air and admire the colorful palette of flowers blossoming before your eyes. To attend, purchase a general admission ticket for $25.
When: March 28 - May 3
Where: 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348
View this post on Instagram
There’s never an off-season when it comes to sports in Philly, but the Phillies Home Opener signifies the start of spring, (and tailgate season). Head to Citizens Bank Park and root, root, root for the home team as they play against the Milwaukee Brewers to kick-off baseball season. Don’t forget to grab Chickie's and Pete's Crabfries and a cheesesteak. PLAY BALL!
When: April 2nd
Where: 1 Citizens Bank Way, Philadelphia, PA 19148
View this post on Instagram
It’s wine o’clock somewhere, and from March 30th - April 6th, it’s in Philadelphia! Philly Wine Week celebrates wine culture at over 50 venues with tastings, dinners, and specials. Past years have included fan-favorite restaurants such as Hungry Pigeon, Bud and Marilyn’s, and Tria. The events range during the week, with some requiring tickets and others that are pay as you go.
When: March 30th - April 6th
Where: Various Locations
View this post on Instagram
The Cherry Blossom Festival originated in an attempt to plant more trees within the city and admire the gorgeous cherry blossom trees that bloom every spring. Over the years, the festival blossomed (!?) into what it is today. Enjoy learning about Japanese history through performances, crafts, sushi making workshops, flower arranging, and more!
When: April 4th, April 5th, April 11th
Where: Various locations through Philadelphia & Greater Philadelphia. For specific event locations, check their calendar.
View this post on Instagram
The Philadelphia Science Festival, which is organized by The Franklin Institute, is returning this year to educate the region on the science and technology that surrounds us every day. The week-long festival includes a range of events such as Coffee Lab which explores the science behind the grind, and Science After School, which aims to spark passion for STEM learning amongst children.
When: April 16th - April 25th
Where: Various Locations
View this post on Instagram
Spring means it’s officially festival season, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with the South Street Spring Festival. The free, outdoor fest spans approximately eight blocks and is lined with vendors, restaurants, boutiques, and live performances. Spring weather means you can finally spend time outside, so head to the festival for some outdoor weekend entertainment.
When: May 2nd
Where: South St, Philadelphia, PA