Nothing says Independence Day like a great fireworks display. Philadelphia knows how to celebrate the birth of America. Start with what's being billed as the largest free concert in the United States with Party on the Parkway, where part of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway will be shut down and a lineup of great bands will play before a spectacular fireworks display above the Philadelphia Museum of Art. If being one of the thousands celebrating in the streets isn't your idea of a perfect 4th of July, there's a spectrum of events in many of the suburban towns around Philly like the Narberth Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks. Whether enjoying a local band and fireworks in your nearby park or joining the throngs on the Museum Mile, don't forget to bring your chairs, blankets, coolers with snacks, and a few activities to keep the kids entertained until the sky turns dark.  

From saucer swings to cool climbing ropes to great picnicking spots, there are so many fun and innovative things to do at area parks and playgrounds this summer. But if you’re looking for something new—and happen to be a Croton-on-Hudson resident—head to the recently renovated Sunset Park, located between Lexington Drive and Sunset Drive.

Not a Croton resident and want to check out what other Westchester and Hudson Valley playgrounds have to offer? We’ve got you covered. For even more family fun, see what’s happening in our Event Calendar.

This summer when the sun goes down, chances are a free, family-friendly movie will be playing outdoors somewhere on Long Island. It’s an ideal way to spend family time under the stars. So spread a blanket, bring a few lawn chairs, pack some snacks or perhaps a picnic dinner, and enjoy the show.

Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, so it is best to arrive early. And be sure to check each venue’s website for up-to-date information on weather-related cancelations.

For more outdoor family activities, check out our roundups of the best places for a family picnic and the best beaches for families on Long Island. Plus, our Event Calendar and Summer Fun Guide are loaded with ideas for more seasonal fun for your family. Happy summer.

There's something so cool about seeing how things are made. Whether it's going behind the scenes at Crayola, watching yummy chocolate being poured into molds, or seeing coins minted, it's really intriguing to see everyday items take shape. There are plenty of great places in the area where you can do just that. Read on to see our favorite factory tours and find out how things are made!

If you've got an 8-12 year-old interested in STEM or movie-making, hurry up and run to the nearest computer; Apple just opened registration for its FREE summer mini camps in coding and more STEM subjects.

The mini sessions, which run over three consequetive days, are offered at a dozen Apple store locations throughout New Jersey and are 100% free, so slots are going fast.

For more summer camp ideas, check out our New Jersey Summer Camp Guide and Directory.

If you've got an 8-12-year-old interested in STEM or movie-making, hurry up and run to the nearest computer; Apple has just opened registration for its free three-day camps. Located at different Apple store locations in the Houston area, these camps won't last long and are 100 percent free, so we wanted you to be the first to know!

For more camp information and ideas, check out our Camp Guide and Directory.

If you've got an 8-12 year-old interested in STEM or movie-making, hurry up and run to the nearest computer; Apple has just opened registration for its free three-day camps. Located at different Apple store locations in the Delaware Valley, these camps won't last long and are 100% free, so we wanted you to be the first to know!

For more camp information and ideas, check out our Camp Guide and Directory.

Kids love boat rides! And what better than a free ride (plus day trip) across Long Island Sound to the adorable village of Port Jefferson? Here’s what you need to know when taking the 17 nautical mile hop to Port Jefferson for a day trip, via the ferry.

Once you’ve gotten your feet wet with a trip on the Bridgeport & Port Jefferson Ferry, maybe you can try out other day trips across the Sound to Long Island with the kids!