After hyping it up all year long, the country’s semiquincentennial celebration is here. Independence Day is the buzziest topic in July, and we encourage you to participate in the remaining Wawa Welcome America festivities. But after the Fourth, what else is there to do for the rest of the month?
Be an All-Star
The World Cup wraps up this month, with Philly’s last game on July 4. If you’re looking for another sport to root for, Major League Baseball’s Home Run Derby and All-Star Game return to Philly July 13 and 14. But that’s not all. MLB is taking over for several days, including the HBCU Swingman Classic on July 10 and an All-Star Village at the Pennsylvania Convention Center July 11 through 14.
Celebrate Bastille Day
The American Revolution isn’t the only revolt being celebrated this month. Bastille Day is July 14, celebrating the French Revolution. As the “Frenchest” American City, of course we have to celebrate. Attend a party inspired by 1960s Paris on July 12 to raise funds for Alliance Française de Philadelphie, which supports the study of the French language and Francophone cultures. Also on July 12, local French organizations are celebrating 250 years of French-American friendship at Rittenhouse Square’s French Quarter. Speaking of that friendship, the Museum of the American Revolution is zooming in on France’s role in the American Revolution with “Red White & Bleu: Revolutionary Alliances.”
Try African Cuisine
African Restaurant Week runs from July 2 through 12, offering patrons discounts on dishes from African, African American, and Caribbean cultures. The series will also include a music and food festival at Love Park on July 11. Want to learn more about the cultures across the African continent? Visit Southwest Philly’s Africatown.
Listen to Philly’s Young Talent
The Philly Youth Music Fest returns for its third year, showcasing young performers participating in the city’s music programming. This year’s event is at Spruce Street Harbor Park on July 19. Attendees can listen to over 25 live performances, participate in workshops, and win prizes.
Bring the Family Out to the Barnes
One of Philly’s prestigious art institutions is celebrating summer with its annual Barnes on the Block event on July 12. The Barnes Foundation will have live DJs, art workshops, and a craft market. If you’re a Philly resident, take advantage of free admission not just that day, but all month long.
Shop Local
It’s market season, so stock up on goods from Philly’s small businesses. The Punk Rock Flea Market takes over the Sheet Metal Workers Union on July 17 through 19. The Night Out On Ninth: Night Market will shut down the 900 and 1000 blocks of South Street on July 31.
Explore These Philly Neighborhoods
Honor and learn about Philly’s Mantua neighborhood at Celebrate Mantua, an outdoor dance festival. The daylong movement event at Miles Mack Playground is on July 11. Over in Manayunk, go beyond your typical post-work happy hour experience with Stroll After Hours. The seasonal event features pop-up vendors, movie nights, and art demos every Thursday evening throughout July.
Laugh Out Loud
If you have a weird sense of humor, this alternative comedy festival is for you. Variety Pack returns to the Louis Bluver Theatre at The Drake from July 9 through 13. The event features a mix of improv workshops, game shows, live readings, and screenings. After that, head to Helium Comedy Club on July 18 for the Last Call Comedy Showcase featuring touring headliners and local acts.
