Your Guide to Philly in May 2024

Ah, springtime! During May, we’re in the thick of the warm-but-not-too-warm season, and in Philly, there’s so much you can do at this time of year. To help you fill in your calendar, here’s our monthly guide to the best activities and events in the city.

😋 Eat Your Heart Out at a Festival

Whether you’re seeking new foods to try, the chance to shop at local vendors, or a feeling of togetherness with the community, street festivals are the place to be. A few we’re looking forward to include the Kensington Derby and Arts Festival (May 11), Italian Market Festival (May 18–19), and Northern Liberties Night Market (May 22).

🍽️ Or, Dine at a Restaurant

We’ve got our eye on the new Mamajuana Cafe location in Fishtown … and the all-month Mi Madre menu (h/t to Philly Mag) at El Chingon in South Philly. Mother’s Day doesn’t have to just be one day!

🚶 Join a Walking Group

May is the perfect time to take advantage of all the free and low-cost fun Philly parks have to offer, and the We Walk PHL program is just one of them. Starting May 1, walking groups meet weekly (or more often) in green spaces across the city for free, one-hour walks. You can find out which walking group is closest to you on the Fairmount Park Conservancy’s website.

👟 Go to the Broad Street Run — Even if You’re Not Running

Even if you didn’t manage (or didn’t try) to score a bib, you can soak in the fun, celebratory vibes and support the runners as a spectator at this classic Philly race on May 5. The catch: It starts at 7:30 a.m., so you’ll have to drag yourself out of bed on a Sunday morning. 🥱

🚣 Go Boating and Fishing … for Free!

Feeling drawn to water as the warm weather sets in? Bartram’s Garden is hosting free boating days every Saturday starting May 11, no registration required. It’s open to all skill levels and ages, and both equipment and instruction are provided. In FDR Park, you can learn to fish for free on Wednesday evenings or enjoy some time on the water at a free community boating day (May 4 and 11).

🎧 Listen to the City Cast Philly podcast for more tips on how to make the most of these activities, from the best places to watch the Broad Street Run to what you need to do to get anytime access to the kayaks at Bartram’s Garden.