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As summer begins to wrap up, there are even more special events and fun things to do in Philadelphia and suburbs. As a special bonus this year, the September weather is particularly nice (I apologize if saying this jinxes everything!), which makes being outside a dream. Take a visit to a local orchard for apple picking, make plans to see the Phillies on their hot streak, and go see the scarecrows at Peddlers Village. For something a little more low-key, check out Manayunk Restaurant Week or shop at one of the many farmers markets still packed with summer produce and baked goods.
Go apple picking at a local orchard
September is the ideal time for apple picking. From Golden Delicious to Pink Ladies, local orchards are full of them all. In addition to pick-your-own, many places offer hayrides and other seasonal activities.
Solebury Orchards in New Hope is always the place we recommend most. It has more than 20 apple varieties and some of the best apple cider donuts around. Highland Orchards in Chester County is another great option now, and their fall festival starts soon. Linvilla Orchards also has at least 20 types of apples and lots of activities, if you’re willing to brave the crowds, which can be overwhelming. See our detailed article for more recommendations.
See shows at the Philly Fringe Festival
The month-long Philadelphia Fringe Festival is in its 28th year of bringing all things creative to the area. From September 4-28, there will be over 300 shows and 8 productions, including film, circus performances, dance, and more to experience.
Get creative for First Friday at East Falls Glassworks
East Falls Glassworks is one of our favorite places for something completely different. On September 5, 2025 (and other First Fridays), they offer complimentary drinks and snacks while you watch talented glass blowers do their thing in fun demonstrations. You can also submit a design for a glass piece that may come to life in front of your eyes.
If you can’t make First Friday, they also offer workshops for ornaments, stemless wine glasses, and paperweights. We absolutely love the glasses we made here.
Indulge in Manayunk Restaurant Week
If it’s been a while since you had a Bar Jawn cheesesteak or carnitas tacos from Taqueria Amor, head down to Main Street for restaurant week in Manayunk which takes place September 8-14. Over 20 spots are offering prix-fixe meals ranging from $15 to $45. You can’t beat a good deal on great food.
See the scarecrows at Peddlers Village
Peddler’s Village is always a priority for us to visit in the fall. Not only does Bucks County have beautiful leaves, but the 150+ scarecrows at Peddler’s Village are impressive. They’re on display around the Village from September 8 through October 26, and you can even vote on your favorites. The superheroes, historical characters, scary scarecrows, and funny ones change yearly and are all worth seeing.
If you want to participate in the fun, there are scarecrow-making workshops on September 13, 14, 20, and 27. Bring your creativity and they’ll provide the instructions and everything you need to go home with your own life-sized creation.
Attend the Philly AIDS Thrift block party
In addition to being a community hub, Philly AIDS Thrift knows how to throw a party. The store celebrates its 20th anniversary on September 13, 2025, from 12 to 6 pm. The epic celebration that includes music, food, vendors, and fantastic performances, takes place on the 700 block of South 5th Street.
Cheer on the Phillies and the Union
As I’m writing this, the Phillies are at the top of the National League East and the Union are at the top of Major League Soccer and have clinched a playoff spot. There’s not really a more exciting time to go to a game for either team.
Phillies have home games September 8-14 and again September 23-28. The Union play the New England Revolution on September 20.
Enjoy a late-season farmers market
We have a bit of an obsession with farmers markets, and late summer is outstanding for checking out the vine-ripened tomatoes, wildflowers, and general bounty of the season. Our top choices are Headhouse market for its setting and variety of vendors and food trucks—especially cheese from Birchrun Hills Farm and homemade pierogies from Mom-Mom’s Polish Food Cart. Others worth visiting across the city include Chestnut Hill Farmers’ Market for mushrooms from Primordia Farm and Tex-Mex BBQ from North By Texas and Clark Park Farmers’ Market for focaccia from Lost Bread. If you’re in Center City, never miss the chance to check out Second Daughter Baking Co. and Hands on the Earth at Rittenhouse Farmers’ Market.
Join the crowd at the Puerto Rican Day Parade
On September 28, join thousands of spectators and marchers for the Puerto Rican Day Parade on Ben Franklin Parkway. This celebration of Latino culture includes floats, music, dance, and lots of fun.