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As we dive fully into spring, Philadelphia comes alive with so many events and fun things to do in April. One of the city’s best food markets, the Southeast Asian Market, is back at FDR Park, and Bok Bar reopens with its stellar rooftop views. Penn Relays draw 100,000 spectators to Franklin Field for the 130th year. Plus, Open Streets returns to Rittenhouse with all of its outdoor fun.
Here’s a look at some of our favorite events and activities in Philadelphia in April 2026.
Visit the Southeast Asian Market
One of the city’s most delicious markets returns to FDR Park beginning April 4, 2026. The Southeast Asian Market is a wonderland of food and products from Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, and other countries. Last year, 70+ vendors set up shop there on weekends through late October.
We always try to arrive early to avoid some of the lines and bring a picnic blanket or folding chair so we can eat. Staples include egg rolls and Thai noodle dishes plus super popular beef skewers and Cambodian stuffed chicken wings. We always make visiting Sahbyy Food’s stand a priority for their lemongrass chicken cheesesteak. Pro tip: some vendors are cash only.
Attend a Saturday Firstival
All year long, 52 Weeks of Firsts showcase all the fascinating things that started in Philadelphia. These Saturday Firstivals happen every Saturday from 11 am to 1 pm through the end of the year and include stories, family activities, and entertainment.
- First Stadium in America: Head to Franklin Field to appreciate Philly’s contribution to American sports history (April 4).
- First Circus Performance in America: Be dazzled by the acrobatics at Philadelphia School of Circus Arts in honor of America’s first circus performance (April 11).
- First Botanical Garden: Visit Bartram’s Garden for the natural beauty and a little bit of a history lesson—descriptions around the grounds explain how the plants were used as medicine or for other essential uses in the colonies (April 18).
- First Postmaster: Sometimes it seems like there’s nothing Ben Franklin couldn’t do. Stop by Franklin Court to learn about his time as America’s first postmaster (April 25).
Try somewhere new for Dine Latino Restaurant Week
The Spring edition of Dine Latino Restaurant Week returns to promote Latino restaurants in greater Philadelphia. More than 25 restaurants specializing in Mexican, Peruvian, Puerto Rican, and other cuisines are offering special deals April 5-11, 2026.
Restaurants are running two promotions this month—get either a free appetizer or dessert with the purchase of two dinner entrees or order from a restaurant week-only menu. Find the list of participating restaurants here.
Get outside for Open Streets
Open Streets has been such a hit that it’s returning on Sundays from April 5 through May 17, 2026. Seven blocks—18th Street from Locust to Chestnut and Walnut Street from Broad to 19th—close to cars and welcome shoppers and diners to enjoy the pedestrianized space. We’re partial to the strolling musicians and ping pong tables in the streets, and there are also yoga classes, games, and pop-up performances. See the full schedule for more details.
See the cherry blossoms in bloom
In my opinion, the city’s cherry blossoms are absolutely one of the best parts of spring. There are lots of pretty places to see the pink and white blossoms, which are predicted to be at peak bloom in the first week of April in 2026.
The grounds of Fairmount Park Horticulture Center have two parallel rows of trees that we love seeing (fair warning: it can get crowded on the weekends). Kelly Drive about one-half mile north of Boathouse Row is another great spot as is the middle of Columbus Boulevard close to Cherry Street Pier.
Hang out at Bok Bar
Philly’s best rooftop reopens April 9, 2026. Bok Bar has our favorite skyline view alongside excellent food and drinks. The food menu changes monthly as different chefs and restaurants pop up here, often featuring some of the best in the city like Kalaya, Fiore, and Tabachoy. Several cocktails and a larger selection of beer, seltzer, and wine round out the offerings. Bok is always our choice for where to spent a beautiful afternoon.
Get involved at the Philadelphia Activities Fair
Looking to get involved in something new? The Philadelphia Activities Fair brings together over 40 local clubs and organizations so you can find a group that matches your interests. From singing circles to art clubs and photography groups, lots of different hobbies are represented. The event takes place April 12, 2026, from 11am-3pm at the Philadelphia Ethical Society.
Sample the wares at Manayunk StrEAT Food Festival
Head to Main Street on April 19, 2026, for the foodie paradise that is Manayunk StrEAT Food Festival. With more than 70 food trucks and vendors, everything from sushi to funnel cakes has a spot. Plus, there’s live music on two stages. Don’t miss the new family-friendly area on Lock Street.
Watch a race at the Penn Relays
Historic Franklin Field hosts the Penn Relays, America’s oldest and largest track and field meet, April 23-25, 2026. With over 300 competitions scheduled during the event, it draws athletes of all levels, whether they’re middle schoolers or aspiring Olympians.
Eat your way through Flavors on the Avenue
Enjoy the food of East Passyunk as five blocks of the avenue becomes a festival of good eats, music, crafts, and lots of local vendors. On April 26, 2026, the free event, Flavors on the Avenue, spans from Broad Street to Dickinson Street. Sample everything from burgers to Vietnamese street food from noon to 5pm.