May kicks off with the Broad Street Run and culminates with Memorial Day weekend. With plenty of other events in between and summer on the way, it's a great month to be out and about in Philadelphia.
Blue Cross Broad Street Run 10-Miler
When: May 2, 2011
Where: Broad Street
This wildly popular 10-mile race runs from the northern to the southern end of the city along Philadelphia's historic Broad Street. Runners pass through residential neighborhoods, past City Hall and along the Avenue of the Arts, along one of the cities busiest thoroughfares.
First Friday
When: May 6, 2011
Where: Old City (centered between Front and 3rd and Market and Vine Streets)
During the first Friday evening of each month, the city's art galleries open to the public, free of charge, usually from 5 until 9 p.m. People come in droves for the festive atmosphere as much as the art. Old City is the center of the action, but additional galleries and events can be found in other neighborhoods as well.
Philadelphia Wine Festival
When: May 7, 2011
Where: The Philadelphia Marriott Downtown
Sponsored by Philadelphia magazine, the event features 200+ wines from around the world, food from local restaurants, and a silent auction to benefit Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
Dad Vail Regatta
When: May 7 & 8, 2011
Where: Schuylkill River near Boathouse Row
The largest collegiate regatta in the United States is a two-day event that always brings a crowd.
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure
When: May 8, 2011
Where: Eakins Oval (across from Philadelphia Museum of Art)
The 20th annual 5K run/walk to fight breast cancer takes place on Mother's Day.
Art Star Craft Bazaar
When: May 14 & 15, 2011
Where: The Great Plaza at Penn's Landing
Organized by the owners of Art Star, the popular Northern Liberties shop and gallery, this is the place to find unique handmade goods from mostly local artists and craftspeople.
Friends of Seger Park Playground Spring Festival
When: May 15, 2011
Where: Seger Park Playground, Lombard Street between 10th and 11th Streets
This festival is a favorite for children, with a Moon Bounce, petting zoo, food, crafts, and more. Celebrate spring at this pleasant neighborhood park, and feel free to bring your dog to play in the attached enclosed dog park.
9th Street Italian Market Festival
When: May 14 & 15, 2011
Where: The Italian Market (9th St., primarily between Christian Street and Washington Avenue)
The oldest continuously operating open-air market in the nation is South Philadelphia's Italian Market. It's abuzz every weekend, but never more so than during this two-day festival of food, culture, and music. Come hungry.
Rittenhouse Row Festival
When: May 21, 2011
Where: Rittenhouse Square
Celebrate spring during the annual Rittenhouse Row Festival. The action is centered on Rittenhouse Square and continues along nearby Walnut Street. Food, music, and vendors selling their wares make for a festive atmosphere.
Memorial Day Commemoration at Valley Forge
When: May 31, 2011
Where: Valley Forge National Historic Park, Valley Forge, PA
Park Staff and Friends of Valley Forge Park lead a Walk of Remembrance. They tell stories of the soldiers' encampment at Valley Forge during the Revolutionary War and place flags at monuments along the way to honor them.
