August 2, 2026 3:00-6:00PM Philly Roda de Samba e Choro at The Black Squirrel Club

 

Experience the pure joy of samba as performed in Rio--people gathered round a table playing tunes. All join in song, dance, drinks and fun!

Philly Roda de Samba e Choro

When: First Sunday of every month

Doors open at 2 PM. Music 3-6 PM

Where: Black Squirrel Club 1049 Sarah Street (Fishtown, Philadelphia)

Tickets: $12

This event is 21+

Samba is a style of music and dance, a community celebration, and a way of life. The “Philly Roda de Samba e Choro” presents samba and choro as they are traditionally performed in Brazil: with friends gathered around a table, playing tunes, singing along, dancing, eating, drinking, and filling the souls of all with joy.

With a core group comprised of Fernanda Bravo (voice/pandeiro), Gregg Mervine (cavaquinho), Rob Curto (piano), Mark Stehle (percussion) and Marcos Oliveira (percussion), the Philly Roda plays every first Sunday at the Black Squirrel Club, and features a guest artist each time.

This has grown into Philly's most amazing Sunday afternoon event! Drink a caipirinha, immerse yourself in beautiful melodies, get swept up in the dance and join the community spirit! Come experience the vibrant culture and pure joy of the Roda!

=========================================================

Black Squirrel Club has a full bar but does not sell food. You are welcome to bring your own food in to the venue or have something delivered and re-entry is permitted if you want to run out and grab food at any time.

Reserve Paid Parking Here (lot 1 block from venue)There is also free parking available at the Rivers Casino parking lot (3 blocks).

This event is 21+

Tickets: $12 (+ $2.64 online)

Black Squirrel Club

1049 Sarah Street

Philadelphia, PA 19125

August 2, 2026 2:00-8:00PM ACANA African Festival at Cherry Street Pier

 

Don’t miss the largest African festival on the East Coast, which celebrates the African diaspora with music, food, and vendors.

ACANA FEST 2026 will feature a diverse lineup of African music performances, globally inspired cuisine, and unique crafts from various African vendors.

Organized by: African Cultural Alliance of North America Inc. (ACANA)  

 

What to Know Before You Go:
Parking on-site will be limited due to construction on the I-95 CAP. However, there are many great ways to access the Waterfront, including walking and biking along the Delaware River Trail, rideshare, and public transit. To ensure a seamless visit, guests can visit the Know Before You Go guide for parking recommendations, directions, FAQs, and more.

Batala Philly to perform 3:00-3:30PM

July 30, 2026 5:00-8:00PM Worldtown Soundsystem at The Lawn at UCity Square

 

Join us on Thursday, July 30 for the second concert in our Summer Series as Worldtown Soundsystem brings their signature blend of electronic dance music, global rhythms, and Philly soul to The Lawn at uCity Square.

For more than a decade, this Philadelphia born, eight piece band has been creating high energy live performances rooted in house music and inspired by sounds from around the world. With a mission to celebrate global culture through music and art, @worldtown Soundsystem delivers an experience that is vibrant, uplifting, and uniquely Philly. Their 2016 debut, a self-titled EP, features amazing artists including our very own Walk of Fame 2026 Inductee, @pablobatistapercussion !

Bring a blanket, grab a drink from the @ucitysquare Square Beer Garden featuring @twolocalsbrewing, and enjoy a free summer evening of live music with friends and neighbors.

📍 The Lawn at uCity Square (37th & Cuthbert)
🗓 Thursday, July 30
⏰ Music begins at 5:00 PM
🎟 Free & open to all

July 27, 2026 6:00-8:55PM Kulu Mele's African Dance Bash at Community Education Center

 

We’re bringing the energy back with another African Dance Bash, and this month’s lineup is one you won’t want to miss!

Join us for three exciting classes in one evening featuring Afro-Beats (Fusion), Soca Fitness, and West African Dance. Whether you’re looking to get a great workout, learn something new, or simply enjoy an evening filled with music, movement, and community, there’s a place for you on the dance floor.

At Kulu Mele, we believe movement is medicine. Through rhythm, culture, and community, we reconnect with joy, relieve stress, and celebrate the rich traditions of the African Diaspora.

Bring a friend and come experience the joy of movement, music, and community together!

 Monday, July 27, 2026
 Community Education Center
3500 Lancaster Avenue, Philadelphia

Class Schedule
 6:00–6:55 PM — Afro-Beats (Fusion) with Yusuf Young
 7:00–7:55 PM — Soca Fitness with Monisha
 8:00–8:55 PM — West African Dance with Mahiri

Pricing
Adults: $15 per class or $40 for all three
Children (under 16): $10 per class or $25 for all three

Pay at the door — Cash, Cash App, or Zelle.
 

Love the Experience? Join the Ensemble!

Have you ever thought about dancing or drumming with Kulu Mele?

We’re also holding Open Auditions on August 1 & 2 for dancers and drummers. We’re looking for passionate individuals who want to learn, grow, and become part of one of Philadelphia’s premier African dance and drum ensembles.

Whether you’re an experienced performer or just beginning your journey, all skill levels are welcome.

click here to register:
https://docs.google.com/forms/u/0/d/1xkTL3zCGnWmKgVuenVYo4e6YUUq9Co8JDJcC-pm_SWg/viewform?usp=drivesdk&edit_requested=true

We hope to see you on the dance floor Monday—and perhaps welcome you into the Kulu Mele family soon!

July 25, 2026 7:00-10:00PM Blocofunk + Mariposas Galacticas at Spruce St. Harbor Park

 

Mariposas Galácticas is an 8-piece Cumbia Klezmer Punk band based in Philly. Combining band members’ South American and Jewish ancestries, the band creates a unique diasporic sound that gets audiences everywhere dancing with rebellious joy. By honoring their Indigenous Andean musical heritage, blended together with punkified ancient Jewish melodies, the band plays a mixture of original and classic tunes that span different languages, cultures, and genres. Mariposas have collaborated with international acts like Os Mutantes, Son Rompe Pera and Kumbia Queers, and they continue to accompany their communities’ struggle for liberation everywhere from prominent stages to cultural, activist and community spaces.

 

The new project from PhillyBloco's Mike Stevens, BlocoFunk plays Funk/Soul/Samba, all set to the infectious grooves of Brazilian Carnaval.  The band is 12 members strong, featuring Samba percussion, bass/guitar, brass section and vocals.

What to Expect:

• Live Waterfront concert with skyline views
• Food, drinks, and hammock vibes
• A high-energy, feel-good night of music
• Plan Your Visit:

  While at Spruce Street Harbor Park, enjoy free live music, food and drink, comfortable seating, and stunning waterfront views.

  What to Know Before You Go:
  Parking on-site will be limited due to construction on the I-95 CAP. However, many great ways to access the Waterfront include walking and biking along the Delaware River Trail, rideshare, and public transit. To ensure a seamless visit, guests can visit the Know Before You Go guide for parking recommendations, directions, FAQs, and more.

• Spruce St. Harbor Park

• 213 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd

• Philadelphia PA  19106-3101

• Free event

July 25, 2026 12:00-6:00PM Jazzin' on Ridge

 

Our 6th Annual Jazzin' On Ridge has been partnered with Philadelphia 250.

SCHEDULED LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
African Drum & Dance Ensemble led by Darien Ebo, The Epiphanies, Junee & Patrick, Kimpedro's NU GRuV Network, Kindred The Family Soul and Jeff Bradshaw

Ridge Ave between 22nd and 23rd

July 25, 2026 6:00-9:00PM Arte en las Calles featuring La GuaGua 47 Orchestra at Esperanza

 

Celebrate Summer with Arte en las Calles featuring LaGuaGua 47 Orchestra

Join the Esperanza Arts Center on Saturday, July 25, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. for Arte en las Calles: LaGuaGua 47, a FREE outdoor celebration of Latino culture, music, and community. Hosted by Rumba 106.1's Johanny Rodriguez, the evening will feature live performances by the LaGuaGua 47 Orchestra and Blaze Born (AMLA Rock Band), along with Latin food, dancing, a local merchant fair, family activities, and fun for all ages. Inspired by the powerful bilingual musical La Guagua 47 by Alba Martínez, the event celebrates stories of migration, belonging, and community while bringing the vibrant spirit of summer to Esperanza. Registration is encouraged but not required.

July 25, 2026 12:00-5:00PM Block Party with 3 Live Latin Bands at 5th & Lehigh

 

Join us on July 25th for an afternoon of music and fun for the whole family at HACE's 2026 BLOCK PARTY in Philly! There will be lots of fun activities, so don't miss it! The party starts at 12pm and ends at 5pm. 3 Live Salsa bands, dance performances , & DJ. @combo_melaza_ @tino.serrano.1485 @jimmyjorge1 & the Latin Express

July 25, 2026 12:00-4:00PM Fiesta de Los Jardines Fundraiser at Las Parcelas Garden

 

Fiesta de los Jardines is a vibrant, community-rooted fundraising celebration in collaboration with Norris Square Neighborhood Project, Sacred Vice Brewing, Monarch Yoga, and Los Bomberos De La Calle. Set across three of NSNP’s beloved garden spaces: Las Parcelas, Raíces, and La Paz. This event invites you to experience the beauty, culture, and spirit of NSNP's gardens.

Enjoy a lively performance by Los Bomberos De La Calle, explore an abundance of local makers and artists, join a salsa class, and flow through yoga classes led by Monarch Yoga. Sip on beers from Sacred Vice Brewing while soaking in music, art, and the energy of community connection.

Every ticket purchased supports Norris Square Neighborhood Project, helping sustain its vital mission, gardens, and youth programming. Come celebrate, connect, and contribute!

Every ticket includes:
- Access to all vendors
- Two beers (21+)
- Option to join one yoga session
- Option to join a salsa class

Las Parcelas Garden

2248 N. Palethorp St.

Philadelphia, PA  19133

July 25, 2026 5:00-8:00PM Brazilian Arraia at Kouklet Bakehouse

 

Come celebrate arraia at Kouklet - a Brazilian festa junina with corn season food, Brazilian bbq, music, and community on E Passyunk Ave!

Arraia At Kouklet 🌽🎉

Corn season kicks off in the US this July, and we're celebrating the Brazilian way - with a real arraia.

For those who didn't grow up with it: arraia (aka festa junina) is one of the biggest celebrations in Brazil, born out of the June/July harvest. Think string lights, quadrilha dancing, bonfires, and every corn dish you can imagine - pamonha, canjica, milho cozido, bolo de fubá. It's community, food, and a whole lot of nostalgia packed into one night.

We're bringing that same energy to Passyunk. expect:

• Brazilian barbecue (skewer style)
• our full corn-season menu (some dishes you won't see again till next year)
• traditional Brazilian bites alongside the specials
• music + a party vibe built for kids and adults alike
• a little taste of Brazil for those who know, and a fun new tradition for those who don't
• Reserve your free space

July 24, 2026 8:00-11:00PM Afro-Cuban Rumba at iMPeRFeCT Gallery

 

• Friday, July 24, 2026
• 8:00 PM  11:00 PM
• iMPeRFeCT Gallery (map)

• FRIDAY NIGHT RUMBA!

  Rumbas are NOT ongoing throughout Summer, we just couldn’t wait til Fall to have another one, we want to celebrate Renny Molenaar’s exhibition, which closes the day after. Have you been to one yet? They’re fun!  $10 Suggested donation.

• iMPeRFeCT Gallery
  5539 Germantown Ave. (Germantown) Philadelphia, PA 19144

July 22, 2026 7:30-10:00PM Philly Latin Descarga with Andrés Cisneros and Simon Martinez at The Black Squirrel Club

 

A new happening at Black Squirrel Club! A Latin music jam session! 

Join Philadelphia-based Latin percussionists and bandleaders Andrés Cisneros and Simon Martinez (De Tierra Caliente), along with a rotating lineup of musicians, for an evening of authentic Latin jam sessions.

The descarga is where musicians gather to improvise, connect, and create. These sessions became the laboratory of modern Afro-Caribbean music.

Open to musicians and Latin music lovers who want to experience the foundational rhythms, sounds, and spirit of Latin music.

============================

Black Squirrel Club offers a full bar with an excellent draft selection and delicious signature cocktails. We do not serve food, but you are welcome to bring your own or have it delivered once you arrive.

Reserve Paid Parking Here (lot 1 block from venue) 

There is also free parking available at the Rivers Casino parking lot (3 blocks)

Tickets: $10 + $1.20 fee

1049 Sarah Street

Philadelphia, Pa

July 19, 2026 6:00PM Live at Roots Garden: Alex Shaw & Friends

 

Sunday in the park - acoustic music in the vibrant lush community garden setting

Olney Culture Lab is proud to bring announce the line-up for the 2026 performance series at Roots Garden in Fisher Park. This series of outdoor performances held in the lush green space of the Roots Community Garden in the Olney neighborhood of Philadelphia was a breath of fresh air for attendees and performers alike.

July 19 - Alex Shaw & Friends (Afro-Brazilian Percussion)

August 16 - TBD

The event will also feature catering by local chefs who will offer light snacks and refreshments.

Attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs or blankets. There will be some folding seats available. Parking is on the street at West Spencer.

In the event of inclement weather, the event will be held at a location to-be determind.

This series is produced in partnership with the Fisher Park Community Alliance and the Roots Community Garden. It is supported by William Penn Foundation, Olney Community Collaborative, Councilman Anthony Phillip's Office and Pennsylvania Council on the Arts.

Visit olneyculturelab.org to learn about all our programs, events and activities.

Roots Garden

6101 North Marshall Street

Philadelphia, PA 19120

July 19, 2026 5:00-7:00PM Taiko Taster Workshop for Taiko Drumming Fundamentals

 

There's a lot going on in Philly this summer, but there's always time for learning some Taiko fundamentals!
Come join us on July 19th from 5-7pm for a "Taiko Taster" workshop at our dojo in the Wynnefield section of Philadelphia. Basic info is on the flyer and reach out with questions and/or to receive registration info! We hope to see you there!

July 18, 2026 12:00-5:00PM Philly Bomba Plena Cultural Fest 2026

 

Oyeee!!! 🇵🇷🔥 The day is only getting closer next weekend July 18 we will be having our first cultural fest PhillyBombaPlena Cultual Center x Uno Mas Homecare. We are brining out 3 other groups @cultura_plenera coming from Maryland, @kinto_zono_official coming from New York and @bompleneras coming from Chicago and @losbomberoscalle from Philly you guys don’t want to miss this event it is going to be a unforgettable day. There will be food by @amys_pastelillos and @chef_anas_kitchen. There will be piraguas, face painting and much more!!! July 17 the day before the main event there will be a workshop by @ivelisse_diaz_ and @bompleneras and you can sign up for this event on our website WWW.PhillyBombaPlena.com and all the information about the workshop and the main event the next day will be there. But if you guys aren’t doing anything for those days you will definitely want to come stop by and enjoy the time bring friends and family. Thank you to @uno_mas_homecare_llc for being our main sponsor for this event, and thank you to everyone who has been there supporting us getting everything ready for this day. Thank you so much and looking forward to seeing you guys there and having an amazing time. Check out our website for more info at WWW.PhillyBombaPlena.com,

July 19, 2026 12:00-6:00PM Lancaster Avenue Jazz & Arts Festival at Saunders Park Greene

 

7/17: Rescheduled for 7/19 from 7/18 due to poor air quality and violent rainstorm forecast.

July 17, 2026 7:00-9:00PM Bomba Music and Dance Workshop with Ivelisse Bombera de Corazon Diaz Y Las Bompleneras

 

July 15, 2026 6:00-9:00PM Live Music and Potluck by Forro Azul at the Open Kitchen Sculpture Garden

 

July14, 2026 7:00PM Urban Guerilla Orchestra in Free Concert at Morris Estate Recreation Center

 

Philly, get ready to groove! UGO is taking the stage for the Summer with Cindy Free Concert Series, hosted by Councilmember Cindy Bass! We’re kicking off a night of incredible Jazz, Funk, & Soul that you won’t want to miss. 
•
Here is everything you need to know:
 When: Tuesday, July 14th
 Time: 7:00 PM
 Where: Morris Estate Recreation Center (1610 W. Chelten Ave.)
 Admission: FREE!
•
Come out, laugh, dance, and create amazing summer memories with us in the park.
•
 Quick Tip: Don’t forget to bring your lawn chair or a blanket so you can sit back and enjoy the vibes comfortably! See you there!