This weekend it’s all Dads! Celebrate your special guy with free just-for-him admission to area museums like the Academy of Natural Sciences and Garden State or have a sit down lunch and unlimited carousel rides all for one price at Franklin Square. But before we get to Dad, how about welcoming Summer Break with a hot air balloon festival that’s sure to send the little ones and the kid in you soaring with delight. Happy Father’s Day Philly Dads! 

 

Weekend Spotlight:

With over 20 hot air balloons and 80 craft and food vendors, the Chester County Hot Air Balloon Festival is a spectacular family event. Drive through the balloons, enjoy live entertainment, and more. Father’s Day is sure to be a hit at Franklin Square. For one price, enjoy unlimited carousel rides, a round of mini golf and lunch. Plus, don’t forget to make a keepsake picture. E-Mail reservations are required. This event will sell out. 

 

Saturday, June 16th:

Flag Fest throws a party at the Betsy Ross House complete with live entertainment, puppet shows, an aerial circus, jugglers and more. Even runs 11 am – 4 pm and is free.

Day Out with Thomas arrives at the Strasburg Railroad. This family event features the beloved Thomas the Tank Engine and Sir Topham Hat. Tickets range in price from $19 - $27, Day Out runs through June 24^th.

Clark Park hosts a flea market featuring antiques, arts and crafts, jewelry house wares, clothes and even a farmer’s market. Market runs 9 am – 5 pm and benefits African economic self-reliance, development and social justice.

Make a trophy for Dad at the Clay Studio in Philadelphia to let him know he’s the best. Make sure to wear clothes that you are not afraid to get dirty! Event runs 10 am – 12 pm, cost is $17.50. Pre-registration is required.

It’s Fire Safety Day at the Please Touch Museum. Climb on board a Real Fire Truck and meet Real Philadelphia Fire Fighters! Kids will get a lesson on fire safety while meeting some of the city's bravest heroes. Cost for non-members is $15, event runs 11 am – 1 pm.

Toys R Us hosts a free LEGO Superheroes workshop. Children are invited to make a Batman or Superman shield made out of LEGO bricks. Supplies are included. Check with your local store before arriving. Event runs 2 – 4 pm.

Sunday, June 17th:

Celebrate Dad with the Founding Father’s Fitness Stroll across the Ben Franklin Bridge. Meet Thomas Jefferson and have your picture taken. Shorter routes are available. After the walk, meet at the National Constitution Center you, your family and friends will have the opportunity to have your picture taken on the mall with Independence Hall behind you, which will be available for free download on the Friends of Independence’s website after the event. Children under 5 are free, cost is $10 - $15 and benefits Friends of Independence. Registration begins at 8 am.

Dads receive free admission to the Academy of Natural Sciences. Plus, the first 200 dads to arrive receive a free cookie for being awesome!

Father Fest comes to the American Helicopter Museum in West Chester. Dads will enjoy antique cars, a motorcycle show, helicopter rides, food, tours and music. Event runs 10 am – 2 pm. Helicopter rides are $40.

Dads splash for free at Sahara Sam’s just across the Betsy Ross bridge in New Jersey. Cost range is $15 - $32, buy one, get one free admission is available by signing up for their e-newsletter here.

It’s a Sunday Funday with Dad at the Garden State Discovery Museum. Paint, race, dance, sing, and dig with the special man in your life. Dads receive free admission all day long. Event runs 11 am – 3 pm. 

 

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