Spruce Street Harbor Park is opening three weeks earlier than last year. Instead of waiting until Memorial Day Weekend to open, SSHP recently announced that it would open Friday, May 6, just in time for Mother’s Day! The park will again feature colorful hammocks, floating gardens, twinkling lights, and delicious food and beverage options.

In addition to the fun and games Spruce Street Harbor Park offers, Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest will be back again for the 2016 season offering Philly’s first and only outdoor roller skating rink. Strap on a pair of classic roller skates and take a spin around the one of a kind waterfront roller rink. Then, cool off at the Lodge under the fans and misters with a cold drink in hand.

 

To kick things off this year, SSHP and the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing is hosting the 13th Annual Spring Art Star Craft Bazaar. While the park opens on Friday, the ASCB runs from 11 AM–6 PM on Saturday, May 7, and Sunday, May 8. Shop from over 150 art and craft vendors selling quality handmade goods. Artisans will be selling everything from pottery and jewelry to home goods and fine art.

 

If you’re feeling crafty yourself, there will be a number of local artists offering interactive arts and crafts activities at certain booths. Create your own terrarium with The Art Dept, make your own stamp with West Oak Design, cast detailed molds of your fingers in plaster with The Philadelphia Sculpture Gym, and more.

 

And, of course, the opening weekend will feature live music and tasty food trucks. Music starts each day at noon with a new band taking the stage every hour. Saturday will see Poi Dog Snack Shop and Oink and Moo BBQ serving up delicious eats, while Sum Pig Food Truck and Kung Fu Hoagies will be dishing out the goods on Sunday. Soy Cafe will be on hand both days.