Things to do in Philadelphia this Memorial Day

It's finally feeling like summer, summer, summertime ☀️!

This Memorial Day there will be plenty of fun things to do in the Greater Philadelphia area. From festivals to parades, we have a list of events you should check out.

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But also keep this in mind while you enjoy the long holiday weekend. Memorial Day might be known as the "unofficial start of summer," but it's about more than just beach trips and a day off from work.

It's about honoring and remembering U.S. military members who had lost their lives while serving the country.

The holiday can carry a somber tone for some, so maybe also take time to have a moment of reflection during this weekend as well.

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There's plenty to do during the long holiday weekend in our region as we enjoy the unofficial start to summer before Memorial Day. NBC10's Ted Greenberg and Deanna Durante have more.

Have a safe and fun weekend!

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The highlights

Spruce Street Harbor Park opens | 👪🍴🥂
All summer long until Sept. 29

Summer fun returns to Spruce Street Harbor Park with colorful hammocks, floating gardens, stunning technicolor lights, local craft beers and delicious food. Plus - there will be several new bars, as well as a concert stage and marketplace.

The event has been around ten years already. And, with the construction going on a little further down on Penn's Landing, the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation said they want to make sure this summer is one for the books and that everyone has a free place to go and enjoy themselves.

Spruce Street Harbor Park in Philadelphia has officially reopened for another summer as many hit the beaches at the Jersey Shore. NBC10's Brian Sheehan and Tim Furlong report while First Alert Weather meteorologist Justin Godynick has your forecast.

Fairs and Festivals

Philadelphia Renaissance Faire | 👪🎫🍴🥂
May 25 through May 27

Hear ye! Hear ye! The Philadelphia Renaissance Faire, aka Philly Faire, is returning to the historic grounds of Fort Mifflin for three days of fun, fantasy and family entertainment. Huzzah!

Memorial Day Taco Fest | 👪🎫🍴🥂
May 25 through May 27

This event will give you something to TACO about! Chaddsford Winery is hosting its Memorial Day Taco Fest all weekend long with taco trucks, live music and so much more.

Devon Horse Show and County Fair | 👪🎫🍴🥂
Now through early June

The Devon Horse Show and County Fair returns! The event is celebrating its 128th anniversary as the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in North America. The 12-day event includes food, specialty boutiques and amusement rides.

6th Annual Festival of the Peony | 👪🎫
Now through May 27

Stop and smell the peonies! The Festival of the Peony is now underway at Styers Poeny Farm in Chadds Ford, Chester County. And guess what? You can buy some beautiful peonies to take home.

A lot of families were able to find the sunshine and had a fun-filled Sunday. People told NBC10 that they're thankful they have the right to enjoy life freely - a right they know would not exist if not for the lives lost serving our country. NBC10's Leah Uko reports.

Museums

Pay Tribute at the Museum of the American Revolution | 👪
May 25 through May 27

Pay tribute to the fallen soldiers and celebrate freedoms. Throughout Memorial Day weekend, veterans, military, and Blue Star Families can receive free admission to the Museum of the American Revolution.

Free admission at the National Constitution Center | 👪🆓
May 25 through May 27

The National Constitution Center will honor the nation’s fallen service members and highlight the history of Memorial Day. In partnership with Citizen Travelers, there will be free admission all weekend.

Learn about history at the Eastern State Penitentiary | 👪🎫
May 24 through May 27

Historic landmark Eastern State Penitentiary is taking this Memorial Day weekend to reflect on the importance of military service during its operational years.

Check out a new exhibit at the Philadelphia Museum of Art | 👪🎫
Opens May 25

The Art Museum has a new exhibit - "Take a Seat: Understanding the Modern Chair" - showcasing works by designers such as Jomo Tariku, Cheick Diallo, Mac Collins, and Stefan Sagmeister.

Memorial Day ceremony at the Independence Seaport Museum | 🆓
May 27

The Independence Seaport Museum, along with The Chaplain of Four Chaplains, will gather aboard Olympia for the annual Memorial Day ceremony. Guests can expect to hear from several key speakers.

At the Shore

Many are taking advantage of the long holiday weekend by hitting the beach and the boardwalks at the Jersey Shore. NBC10's Brian Sheehan has more.

Wildwoods International Kite Festival | 👪🆓
May 24 through May 27

Kite flyers from around the world will be in Wildwood this weekend for the International Kite Festival. This family-friendly event features workshops and activities.

Memories in Margate is reopening with an ode to legendary DJ and former owner, the late Jerry Blavat.