The city's 'It’s A Summer Thing' initiative is back for another season of fun, offering free and low-cost programs to keep local students engaged, safe and active during the summer months.
Mayor Cherelle Parker said the seasonal initiative is designed to expand access to recreation, education and employment opportunities while schools are out. Programs include recreation, learning, jobs, and access to safe spaces.
“Summer should be a time when Philadelphia’s young people can learn, explore, and have fun in safe, supportive spaces,” said Parker. “We’re making sure families across our city have access to programs and activities that keep children and teens engaged and connected all summer long.”
Programs span a range of offerings, from academic programs and summer camps to job training, public pools and neighborhood play spaces.
Families can find information on registration, locations and eligibility requirements online.
Vanessa Garrett Harley, the city’s chief deputy mayor for social impact and strategic initiatives, said the goal is to ensure equitable access to summer opportunities across neighborhoods.
“Our goal is to make sure every young person in Philadelphia has access to safe, enriching opportunities all summer long,” she said. “These investments help children and teens build skills, stay engaged, and connect to opportunities that support long-term success.”
Among the returning programs is the Summer Achievers initiative, which offers free academic and enrichment programming for students entering first through eighth grades. The program includes reading and math instruction, meals and camp-style activities, and will operate at dozens of school sites across the city beginning in late June.
“We are reinforcing essential math and reading skills while creating enriching experiences that support the whole child, helping students build confidence and start the next school year strong," Superintendent Tony Watlington said.
The city is also expanding its Career Connected Learning program, which offers paid work-based experiences for youth ages 12 to 24. Participants can complete up to 120 hours over six weeks and earn a $1,320 stipend.
Other offerings include more than 100 summer camps at recreation centers and parks, access to dozens of public pools and spray grounds (including free swim lessons), and literacy and STEM programming at neighborhood libraries.
“Summer Quest invites the community to discover new programs, read, explore, and join the adventure this summer,” said Kelly Richards, president and director of the Free Library of Philadelphia. “There’s something for everyone at your neighborhood library."
Playstreets will once again close select blocks to traffic, providing safe spaces for children to play while offering free meals and snacks. The city will also distribute meals at camps and other program sites throughout the summer.
Susan Slawson, commissioner of Philadelphia Parks and Recreation, said Playstreets remains a cornerstone of the city’s summer programming.
“Playstreets brings neighbors together to create safe, welcoming spaces where children can play, build friendships, and enjoy free, nutritious meals right in their own communities,” said Slawson. “For many families, Playstreets is a longtime summer tradition that helps keep young people active, supported, and connected close to home.”
Additional programming includes Out-of-School Time enrichment programs, youth development initiatives focused on gaming, leadership and financial literacy, extended hours at Police Athletic League centers (June through September for ages 6–18) and law enforcement-led mentorship programs.
School district officials said more than 130 sites will host summer programming for students entering kindergarten through 12th grade, serving an anticipated 21,000 children and teens.
