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Free Things to Do with Philly Kids in May

Photo courtesy of Center City District Parks
Photo courtesy of Center City District Parks
4/30/19 - By Kristen Sullivan

The month of May provides perfectly mild weather, the kind of weather that puts even the grumpiest toddler or moodiest teen in a pleasant, hopeful mood. Similarly, Philly parents are sure to be delighted with both the weather and the free (or nearly free) events that can keep the entire family entertained. From playground trips to picnics at city and suburban parks, families can make lasting memories while being budget-friendly.

We have rounded up some of our favorite economical options including free admission festivals, nature exploration opportunities, musical experiences, and deeply discounted museum discovery. Of course, we can't forget about Mom so be sure to carve out some time mid-May to celebrate Mother's Day by making an art project together or hiking through scenic Lorimer Park. At the end of the month, it's time for the red, white, and blue! Honor those who have served at local Memorial Day parades in Warminster, Downingtown, or West Grove.

Free fun is always best with family and friends, so gather up the crew and get ready to entertain on a budget!

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Photo of West Grove Memorial Day Parade courtesy of the author
Photo of West Grove Memorial Day Parade courtesy of the author

Free Events

Free Admission to Benjamin Franklin Museum

May 2, 2019
Visit the Benjamin Franklin Museum for free! Visitors can view the exhibits that reflect the contributions of this Founding Father for free on certain dates throughout the year. READ MORE

Music Monkey Jungle at Reading Terminal Market

Tuesdays in May
Sponsored by Reading Terminal Market, this music time with Music Monkey Jungle is free and open to the public. All ages, shapes, sizes, and abilities are welcome to participate and no registration is needed. READ MORE

Story Time at Linvilla Orchards

Tuesdays in May
Children are entertained as Linvilla Orchards staff reads stories to them about animals, the outdoors, and more. This story time is geared towards preschoolers but all ages are welcome to attend. READ MORE

May the 4th Be with You

TBD
Head to the Lego Store at King of Prussia to participate in a Tantive Make and Take. Children can build this exclusive model for free; however, participants must register in advance as space is limited. READ MORE

Earth Day at Croydon Woods Nature Preserve

May 4, 2019
Spend time at Croydon Woods Nature Preserve to celebrate Earth Day. Volunteers can help by removing vines and invasive plants to allow native trees to grow as well as collect trash from the grounds. READ MORE

Home Depot Kids Workshop

May 4, 2019
Children ages 5-12 can build their own binoculars. Participants sand the wood, then glue and paint to customize it. READ MORE

South Street Fest

May 4, 2019
Enjoy a day filled with music, food, crafts, and a kids' zone spanning South Street from 2nd through 8th. READ MORE

POSTPONED: PNC Grow Up Great

May 4, 2019
The Kimmel Center’s Commonwealth Plaza hosts an hour-long interactive event for kids in which children learn the basics of jazz and musical theater. ILL Doots hosts this free event. READ MORE

Children’s Earth Day Forest Festival

May 4, 2019
Celebrate Earth Day at this special event. Children can expect to make natural toys, dig in the 'trash graveyard', and meet the Plastic Bag Monster at Lower Merion Conservancy. READ MORE

Science Carnival

May 4, 2019
Part of the Philadelphia Science Festival, this carnival held on the Ben Franklin Parkway features stage performances, live science shows, and pop up demonstration. The event is rain or shine. READ MORE

Barnes Free First Sunday Family Day

May 5, 2019
On the first Sunday of each month, the Barnes offers free admission and creative programming to its visitors with a full day of family-friendly activities. Themes change monthly, with new art activities, performers, and guest artists each month. READ MORE

Schuylkill Saturdays: Family Friendly Guided Hikes

May 11, 18, and 25, 2019
Start your morning with a guided hike led by an environmental educator and learn about the marvels of our 365 acre forest. Please note that this hike will be about an hour long and the trails are not stroller-friendly. Hikes will start from the Visitor Center. READ MORE

Annual May Fair

May 11, 2019
Spruce Hill’s annual May Fair offers plenty of family fun. Guests can expect a bounce house,obstacle course, live music, games, food, raffles, prizes, and more. READ MORE

PECO Second Saturdays

May 11, 2019
PECO Second Saturdays at Second State Press is a free public program that allows families and students to come together and learn about printmaking every second Saturday of the month from noon to 2 PM. READ MORE

Family 2nd Sundays

May 11, 2019
On the second Sunday of each month, the Delaware Art Museum features a variety of activities designed especially with families in mind.  READ MORE

Parkway Pals Music Program

May 18, 2019
Families are invited to Sister Citiies Park to listen to local singer-songwriters perform. Parents and kids can expect Emily Drinker, an award-winning musician from Philadelphia, who blends folk, soul, and pop with a ukulele. READ MORE

Open Arms- Family Evenings

May 19, 2019
Explore the Garden State Discovery Museum and meet families with children on the autism spectrum at this special program that offers a safe, interactive opportunity for children to socialize and engage with others, as well as enjoy the museum. READ MORE

CANCELED: Community Night

May 20, 2019
Everyone is welcome to join in the fun at the Franklin Institute's Community Night. Kids and parents alike can explore the museum's fun and educational science exhibits for free. The doors open at 5 PM and pre-registration is not necessary. READ MORE

History at Work

May 25, 2019
Learn about a variety of historical trades at Newlin Grist Mill. Visitors can experience how people did ordinary tasks from Colonial times. Themes vary by month. READ MORE

Lansdale's Memorial Day Parade

May 27, 2019
Sponsored by The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 32, The Virgillio Schembri Battavio Post No. 23 and the American Legion William Hare Post No. 206, Lansdale Memorial Day parade and ceremony honors those who have served our country. READ MORE

Radnor Memorial Day Parade

May 27, 2019
Celebrate Memorial Day at this special Memorial Day parade. Onlookers can expect marching bands, fire trucks and more.  READ MORE

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