Philadelphia Labor Day Weekend is packed with activities that range from lounging at the parks on the Delaware River Waterfront to parades, fireworks, and concerts. The fun-filled schedule ensures that you'll have a ball before the summer season is officially over. At last, if you were planning on a getaway, this three-day holiday is a perfect time.
Revel at Made In America Festival (September 2–3, 2023)
The top event over Philly's Labor Day Weekend draws tens of thousands to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Concerts run on Saturday and Sunday. The last editions featured such celebs as Cardi B, Lizzo, Travis Scott, and other big names in hip-hop and R&B. Sadly, Made In America Festival was canceled for 2020 and rescheduled for Labor Day Weekend 2021. The tickets bought this year will remain valid.
Make it to the Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest (open summer-long through Labor Day)
Another popular thing to do during Philadelphia Labor Day is to visit Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest at 101 S. Columbus Blvd (Columbus Blvd and Market St). The event runs May through Labor Day. So use this last chance to enjoy the city's only outdoor roller skating rink, the Midway with a 60-ft (18-m) Ferris Wheel, boardwalk-style games, a 9-hole mini-golf course, local beers, cocktails, and tons of fun.
Lounge at Spruce Street Harbor Park (open spring through late September)
Another seasonal location closing short after Labor Day is likewise situated on Penn's Landing, a stone's throw from Blue Cross RiverRink (8-minute walk to the south). Locals love the venue for having one of the best urban beaches in the US, and proudly call it the Delaware River Waterfront oasis. The area is equipped with colorful hammocks, floating barges, a beer garden, and LED lights for the most charming evenings. The admission is free to the public.
Watch Labor Day Fireworks at Sesame Place (September 2–3, 2023)
Will it be a holiday without fireworks? The pyrotechnic show kicks off at Sesame Place in Langhorne on Sunday at 8 pm. However, time is subject to change. The firework display is the culmination of the day-long family-friendly celebration. The program also involves fun encounters with Elmo, Big Bird, and Cookie Monster, as well as the Neighborhood Street Night Parade, preceding the firework show.
Hit the Road to the Jersey Shore, NJ
If you feel like having a getaway, long Labor Day Weekend is an ideal excuse to make your wish come true. Heading to the ocean is always a great idea, and picturesque beaches along the Jersey Shore are delightful regardless of the weather. Anyways, early September is typically warm and sunny. The beach season in New Jersey continues well into September, so chances are high that you'll take a swim and bathe in the mild fall sun. Consider top beach destinations in NJ for your holiday weekend—Atlantic City, Ocean City, Cape May, Wildwood, and Asbury Park. The cities are located within 62–93 miles (100–150 km) from Philly. In terms of driving time, it's about a 1 to 1.5 hour drive.
Find all locations on the map below. For the tickets and latest updates, please check with the official websites (see External Resources below.)
