Barnes on the Block 2025 is set to light up the Parkway with a vibrant celebration of Philadelphia’s creative spirit on Sunday, July 13, from 11 AM to 5 PM. Hosted by the Barnes Foundation in partnership with Mural Arts Philadelphia and presented by PNC Arts Alive, this beloved free summer tradition transforms the museum grounds and surrounding streets into a colorful, immersive art block party. Now in its eighth year, Barnes on the Block 2025 blends public art, live performances, hands-on creativity, and world-class exhibitions to offer something for everyone—from longtime museum patrons to curious first-timers.
The streets between 20th and 21st along the Parkway, and 20th Street up to Callowhill, will be closed to traffic, welcoming Philadelphians and visitors alike to explore a thoughtfully curated lineup of experiences, performances, food, drink, and family-friendly activities.
Barnes on the Block 2025: Art in Motion, Music in the Air
Barnes on the Block 2025 is committed to celebrating art in all its forms—and in all its communities. Throughout the day, visitors will be treated to an eclectic lineup of performances featuring DJ Nash, Canpatlaneci, Batala Philly, Mutya Philippine Dance Company, The Philadelphia Suns, and breakdancing sets led by TAMEARTZ, with a special performance at 3 PM featuring Project Positive.
From noon to 5 PM, the music never stops. The Parkway pulses with energy, hosting an open-air soundscape that shifts from DJ sets to dance groups, drawing in passersby and engaging all generations.
Barnes on the Block 2025: Hands-On Creativity and Artistic Expression
Art lovers of all ages can join in a range of workshops and collaborative projects designed to inspire and engage. From noon to 4 PM, guests can paint, print, sculpt, and even write. Highlights include a community mural led by Mural Arts Philadelphia, a collaborative sculpture with The Clay Studio’s Claymobile, personalized poetry from Marshall James Kavanaugh, printmaking with Second State Press, and “Postcards from Provence,” a collage project by Collage Philadelphia.
Families will enjoy interactive stations from Smith Memorial Playground and a cochineal paint demonstration with artists LEMUS and Ivonne Pinto García—a nod to natural pigment techniques with deep cultural roots. It’s an afternoon that blurs the line between artist and observer, encouraging everyone to leave their mark.
Barnes on the Block 2025: Explore the Barnes for Free
In addition to the outdoor festivities, Barnes on the Block 2025 grants free access to the Barnes Foundation’s Main Gallery and second-floor collection spaces. Visitors can explore the new exhibition From Paris to Provence: French Painting at the Barnes, a curated presentation of French masterworks drawn from the Barnes collection’s first floor. Also on view is Where I’m From, an emotionally resonant exhibit featuring artwork by participants in Mural Arts Philadelphia’s Rec Crew and artists incarcerated at SCI Phoenix, a maximum-security facility in southeastern Pennsylvania.
Timed admission tickets will be available online beginning Thursday, July 10 at 10 AM, with capacity limitations in place. Early registration is recommended for those who want to explore the galleries in between dance sets and artmaking.
Barnes on the Block 2025: Local Flavor and Summer Sips
Food and drink will be front and center at Barnes on the Block 2025, with a curated selection of local vendors. Guests can snack on sweet treats from Darnel’s Cakes, cool off with Kona Ice, and perk up with Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck.
Thirsty for something stronger? Head to the Barnes on the Block Beer Garden, hosted by Constellation Culinary Group. Located along the Parkway, the garden will pour Victory Brewing Company’s seasonal selections—Brotherly Love IPA, Summer Love, and Peach Pier—alongside Surfside Vodka Iced Teas, French wines, and handcrafted mocktails. It’s a sophisticated oasis for the city’s cocktail-savvy crowd looking to sip in the sun.
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