Philly Parks News Today

The heat forecasted for Labor Day and the first week of September couldn’t come at a worse time, as it’s typically when Philadelphia closes city pools for the season.

Aug. 17 - 20: Philly Taco Fest, Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes in N.J., and the Beer Bourbon & BBQ Fest in Delaware are among the weekend’s highlights.

Wilt Chamberlains 1972 NBA Finals Game 5 championship-clinching Lakers jersey is up for auction at Sothebys.

Saturday, July 8, Now + Then Marketplace is hosting an open market with vendors, a beer garden, and games at the Oval on the Benjamin Frankin Parkway. The event is in tandem with Philadelphia Parks and Recreation from noon to 6 p.m.

Air quality in Philadelphia has greatly improved since the hazardous levels observed mid-week, returning to a range considered safe for most people. Pennsylvania declared a Code Orange under the EPA's air quality index Friday. Trash collection and outdoor Parks & Rec programming will resume.

The new program announced its 10 finalists, selected from over 600 applicants. The entrepreneurs are seeking recreation spaces to house their businesses.

The $1,000 bonus is available for any lifeguard who submits their completed application by Apr. 15 and works throughout the summer season.

Philadelphia kids and teens will soon have access to free meals through the summer, as the city's Office of Children and Families is set to open hundreds of youth meal sites this summer, beginning on June 21.

South Philly Review Neighbors, Parks & Rec celebrate renovations to Gold Star Park The renovations to the park include new play equipment, safety surfacing and decorative borders. A basketball court that had previously been at the park was removed in favor of a larger grassy area. Parks & Rec First Deputy Commissioner Patrick Morgan speaks at the ribbon cutting for the renovations to Gold Star Park on Tuesday afternoon. | Photo by Tom Beck. Officials from Friends of Gold Star Park and Phila...