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%Start Best Free Things to Do in Philadelphia - ThrillistSkip to main content Like Thrillist on Facebook.Follow Thrillist on Instagram.Follow Thrillist on Twitter.Follow Thrillist on Snapchat.Subscribe to Thrillist on YouTube.Follow Thrillist on TikTok.SUBSCRIBEGo to NavigationPhiladelphiaTravelFree Things To Do <h1>16 Completely Free Things to Do in Philadelphia</h1> <h2>Museum visits wine tastings and other fun freebies </h2>By Marielle MondonPublished on 10/25/2022 at 5:11 PM World Cafe LiveBy now we’ve probably all noticed that things are more expensive lately, even in a city long considered one the East Coast’s more affordable options. From large expenses like rent to daily costs like cheesesteaks and cocktails, dollars aren’t quite stretching like they once did.
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%Start Best Free Things to Do in Philadelphia - ThrillistSkip to main content Like Thrillist on Facebook.Follow Thrillist on Instagram.Follow Thrillist on Twitter.Follow Thrillist on Snapchat.Subscribe to Thrillist on YouTube.Follow Thrillist on TikTok.SUBSCRIBEGo to NavigationPhiladelphiaTravelFree Things To Do

16 Completely Free Things to Do in Philadelphia

Museum visits wine tastings and other fun freebies

By Marielle MondonPublished on 10/25/2022 at 5:11 PM World Cafe LiveBy now we’ve probably all noticed that things are more expensive lately, even in a city long considered one the East Coast’s more affordable options. From large expenses like rent to daily costs like cheesesteaks and cocktails, dollars aren’t quite stretching like they once did.
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Ava White 2 minutes ago
Thankfully, there are still many ways to explore the best of Philadelphia without taking out your wa...
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Thankfully, there are still many ways to explore the best of Philadelphia without taking out your wallet, from the city’s finest museums and historic landmarks to local art and public programming. Here are our picks for the best free things to do in Philadelphia.
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Thankfully, there are still many ways to explore the best of Philadelphia without taking out your wallet, from the city’s finest museums and historic landmarks to local art and public programming. Here are our picks for the best free things to do in Philadelphia.
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Sunset Social <h2>Soak in some rays at Sunset Social</h2>Head to the 12th floor of Cira Centre South to hang at a rooftop park that is free and open to the public. While food and beverage is available for purchase, you’re also welcome to just bring a blanket and have your own chill picnic.
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Sunset Social

Soak in some rays at Sunset Social

Head to the 12th floor of Cira Centre South to hang at a rooftop park that is free and open to the public. While food and beverage is available for purchase, you’re also welcome to just bring a blanket and have your own chill picnic.
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Stop by when things are quiet or check out the event calendar for ongoing outdoor movie screenings a...
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Take yourself on a tour with stops at the Independence Visitor Center, President’s House Site, Mer...
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Stop by when things are quiet or check out the event calendar for ongoing outdoor movie screenings and broadcasts of the latest big game. <br>&nbsp; Independence NHP, Edgar Allan Poe NHS &amp; Thaddeus Kosciuszko NM <h2>Soak up all the history of Independence Hall</h2>Go ahead, see the Liberty Bell. While you might have to wait in some lines, taking a look at this historic item is completely free—as are a lot of other mainstays in one of Philly’s most historic neighborhoods.
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Stop by when things are quiet or check out the event calendar for ongoing outdoor movie screenings and broadcasts of the latest big game.
  Independence NHP, Edgar Allan Poe NHS & Thaddeus Kosciuszko NM

Soak up all the history of Independence Hall

Go ahead, see the Liberty Bell. While you might have to wait in some lines, taking a look at this historic item is completely free—as are a lot of other mainstays in one of Philly’s most historic neighborhoods.
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Isaac Schmidt 4 minutes ago
Take yourself on a tour with stops at the Independence Visitor Center, President’s House Site, Mer...
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The trail’s grand plan is to stretch a total of 140 miles, but for now you can still treat yoursel...
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Take yourself on a tour with stops at the Independence Visitor Center, President’s House Site, Merchants’ Exchange Building, 18th and 19th Century gardens, and many other standing artifacts to discover. Top it all off with a stroll to the ever-charming Elfreth’s Alley in Old City, a landmark street with buildings dating back to 1703.Thrillist TVHistory ofThe History of Tailgating Schuylkill River Greenways NHA <h2>Get your steps in on the Schuylkill River Trail</h2>This biking- and running-friendly trail is an ever-growing marvel that stretches from the center of the city to far into the suburbs. From Center City, you can jump around the busier Schuylkill Banks area, but trailheads reach all the way to Valley Forge and Pottsville.
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Take yourself on a tour with stops at the Independence Visitor Center, President’s House Site, Merchants’ Exchange Building, 18th and 19th Century gardens, and many other standing artifacts to discover. Top it all off with a stroll to the ever-charming Elfreth’s Alley in Old City, a landmark street with buildings dating back to 1703.Thrillist TVHistory ofThe History of Tailgating Schuylkill River Greenways NHA

Get your steps in on the Schuylkill River Trail

This biking- and running-friendly trail is an ever-growing marvel that stretches from the center of the city to far into the suburbs. From Center City, you can jump around the busier Schuylkill Banks area, but trailheads reach all the way to Valley Forge and Pottsville.
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Henry Schmidt 2 minutes ago
The trail’s grand plan is to stretch a total of 140 miles, but for now you can still treat yoursel...
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The trail’s grand plan is to stretch a total of 140 miles, but for now you can still treat yourself to waterfront views and urban architecture while exploring the route. <h2>Catch a free show at World Cafe Live</h2> Trade your Friday lunch break for a live music performance at World Cafe Live, home of Philly’s WXPN radio station and two performance stages.
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The trail’s grand plan is to stretch a total of 140 miles, but for now you can still treat yourself to waterfront views and urban architecture while exploring the route.

Catch a free show at World Cafe Live

Trade your Friday lunch break for a live music performance at World Cafe Live, home of Philly’s WXPN radio station and two performance stages.
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Every week you can score tickets online to a completely free concert for Friday at noon. Usually it’s an artist on tour who is planning to perform for a pricier audience later over the weekend, so RSVP online to secure your spot and check back weekly for the latest artist.
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Every week you can score tickets online to a completely free concert for Friday at noon. Usually it’s an artist on tour who is planning to perform for a pricier audience later over the weekend, so RSVP online to secure your spot and check back weekly for the latest artist.
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Association for Public Art

See some iconic sculptures

It’s no secret that Philly is a pub...
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Aria Nguyen 3 minutes ago
Then walk over to the Museum of Art and peer at the Rocky statue (and those iconic steps). For even ...
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Association for Public Art <h2>See some iconic sculptures</h2>It’s no secret that Philly is a public art playground, and there are a couple sculptures that are just as free to see as they are iconic. First pay a visit to LOVE Park, where you can find the iconic red statue front and center.
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Association for Public Art

See some iconic sculptures

It’s no secret that Philly is a public art playground, and there are a couple sculptures that are just as free to see as they are iconic. First pay a visit to LOVE Park, where you can find the iconic red statue front and center.
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Aria Nguyen 13 minutes ago
Then walk over to the Museum of Art and peer at the Rocky statue (and those iconic steps). For even ...
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Then walk over to the Museum of Art and peer at the Rocky statue (and those iconic steps). For even more sculptures, go down the Schuylkill to the Ellen Phillips Samuel Memorial, home to 17 different sculptures across three waterfront terraces. <h2>Meet and mingle during First Friday</h2> Every first Friday of the month, galleries in Old City, Fishtown, and elsewhere stay open late to welcome art lovers to explore new exhibits and artworks.
Harper Kim Member
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Then walk over to the Museum of Art and peer at the Rocky statue (and those iconic steps). For even more sculptures, go down the Schuylkill to the Ellen Phillips Samuel Memorial, home to 17 different sculptures across three waterfront terraces.

Meet and mingle during First Friday

Every first Friday of the month, galleries in Old City, Fishtown, and elsewhere stay open late to welcome art lovers to explore new exhibits and artworks.
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Victoria Lopez 1 minutes ago
For most of these after-hour galleries, that means free admission too. First Friday has been fosteri...
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This gorge stretches for 1,800 acres and features dozens of trails, whether you’re looking for an ...
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For most of these after-hour galleries, that means free admission too. First Friday has been fostering a casual, lively atmosphere of discussion and discovery for more than 30 years in Philly, making the tradition something of a rite of passage. Friends of the Wissahickon <h2>Find your hike on the Wissahickon Trail</h2>Step onto the lush oasis of the Wissahickon and you’ll quickly forget you’re still in Philadelphia.
Sophia Chen Member
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For most of these after-hour galleries, that means free admission too. First Friday has been fostering a casual, lively atmosphere of discussion and discovery for more than 30 years in Philly, making the tradition something of a rite of passage. Friends of the Wissahickon

Find your hike on the Wissahickon Trail

Step onto the lush oasis of the Wissahickon and you’ll quickly forget you’re still in Philadelphia.
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This gorge stretches for 1,800 acres and features dozens of trails, whether you’re looking for an easy stroll, a full hike, a bike ride, or a swim—there are even a few trails where horseback riding is on the menu. Forbidden Drive, situated by the historic Valley Green Inn, is the perfect starting point for adventure.
Evelyn Zhang Member
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This gorge stretches for 1,800 acres and features dozens of trails, whether you’re looking for an easy stroll, a full hike, a bike ride, or a swim—there are even a few trails where horseback riding is on the menu. Forbidden Drive, situated by the historic Valley Green Inn, is the perfect starting point for adventure.
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Isabella Johnson 4 minutes ago
Delaware River Waterfront

Visit the parks and sights of Penn s Landing

The Delaware River W...
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Delaware River Waterfront <h2>Visit the parks and sights of Penn s Landing</h2>The Delaware River Waterfront is rich with free public amenities. Explore the 3.3-mile stretch that starts in South Philly’s Pier 70 and goes north toward Fishtown’s Penn Treaty to see it all, including the hammocks and spectacle at Spruce Street Harbor Park, the family-friendly programming at BlueCross RiverRink and Festival Pier, the mixed-use Cherry Street Pier space, and much more.
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Delaware River Waterfront

Visit the parks and sights of Penn s Landing

The Delaware River Waterfront is rich with free public amenities. Explore the 3.3-mile stretch that starts in South Philly’s Pier 70 and goes north toward Fishtown’s Penn Treaty to see it all, including the hammocks and spectacle at Spruce Street Harbor Park, the family-friendly programming at BlueCross RiverRink and Festival Pier, the mixed-use Cherry Street Pier space, and much more.
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Check the calendar regularly for ongoing free performances, weekday events, and seasonal programming. Philadelphia Museum of Art <h2>Visit a trifecta of museum heavyweights</h2>If you know just when to go, you can visit some of Philadelphia’s most famous museums for free.
Evelyn Zhang Member
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Check the calendar regularly for ongoing free performances, weekday events, and seasonal programming. Philadelphia Museum of Art

Visit a trifecta of museum heavyweights

If you know just when to go, you can visit some of Philadelphia’s most famous museums for free.
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Thomas Anderson 13 minutes ago
At the Philadelphia Museum of Art, admission is pay-what-you-wish on the first Sunday of every month...
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Ethan Thomas 9 minutes ago
There are a few different shows offered regularly, including Family Fundays in the morning, Lunchtim...
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At the Philadelphia Museum of Art, admission is pay-what-you-wish on the first Sunday of every month, as well as on Friday nights from 5 to 8:45 pm. Not far from there, the Barnes Foundation offers free family-friendly programming on first Sundays, and admission to the Rodin Museum is pay-what-you-wish every single day—and access to the garden is always free. The Kimmel Cultural Campus <h2>Catch a free performance at the Kimmel Cultural Campus</h2>The airy 150-foot plaza at the Kimmel Cultural Campus plays host to many local artists and performers, putting a spotlight on Philadelphia’s musicians—and giving everyone else a chance to enjoy them for free.
Natalie Lopez Member
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At the Philadelphia Museum of Art, admission is pay-what-you-wish on the first Sunday of every month, as well as on Friday nights from 5 to 8:45 pm. Not far from there, the Barnes Foundation offers free family-friendly programming on first Sundays, and admission to the Rodin Museum is pay-what-you-wish every single day—and access to the garden is always free. The Kimmel Cultural Campus

Catch a free performance at the Kimmel Cultural Campus

The airy 150-foot plaza at the Kimmel Cultural Campus plays host to many local artists and performers, putting a spotlight on Philadelphia’s musicians—and giving everyone else a chance to enjoy them for free.
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Daniel Kumar 53 minutes ago
There are a few different shows offered regularly, including Family Fundays in the morning, Lunchtim...
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Dylan Patel 32 minutes ago
The community-driven organization often hosts free workshops at the Navy Yard, as well as other even...
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There are a few different shows offered regularly, including Family Fundays in the morning, Lunchtime Unplugged (where you’re encouraged to bring your own lunch), Happy Hour Sessions with DJs and artists from 4 to 7 pm, and an eclectic evening lineup during Nightlife at the Kimmel, which starts at 8 pm. Each event typically occurs once or twice a month, so check out the full calendar and roster of artists. Black Girls With Green Thumbs <h2>Cultivate your city garden with Black Girls with Green Thumbs</h2>Start learning the tricks and tips to cultivating your own urban garden, from composting and creating raised beds to making DIY hot sauce with your bounty of produce.
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There are a few different shows offered regularly, including Family Fundays in the morning, Lunchtime Unplugged (where you’re encouraged to bring your own lunch), Happy Hour Sessions with DJs and artists from 4 to 7 pm, and an eclectic evening lineup during Nightlife at the Kimmel, which starts at 8 pm. Each event typically occurs once or twice a month, so check out the full calendar and roster of artists. Black Girls With Green Thumbs

Cultivate your city garden with Black Girls with Green Thumbs

Start learning the tricks and tips to cultivating your own urban garden, from composting and creating raised beds to making DIY hot sauce with your bounty of produce.
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James Smith 21 minutes ago
The community-driven organization often hosts free workshops at the Navy Yard, as well as other even...
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Try a free outdoor fitness class

With so many urban trails at our disposal, there are plent...
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The community-driven organization often hosts free workshops at the Navy Yard, as well as other events and retreats throughout the city. All levels are welcome, even if you’re still struggling to keep that mini succulent alive.
Audrey Mueller Member
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The community-driven organization often hosts free workshops at the Navy Yard, as well as other events and retreats throughout the city. All levels are welcome, even if you’re still struggling to keep that mini succulent alive.
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Zoe Mueller 50 minutes ago

Try a free outdoor fitness class

With so many urban trails at our disposal, there are plent...
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For a donation-based option, try Yoga on the Banks, held four times a week for all yogi levels.

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<h2>Try a free outdoor fitness class</h2> With so many urban trails at our disposal, there are plenty of places for a picture-perfect (and free) fitness backdrop. Programs like the November Project can get you running and seeing the city with others for free, while options like Wellness on the Waterfront offers free yoga sessions on Race Street Pier in the warmer months.
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Try a free outdoor fitness class

With so many urban trails at our disposal, there are plenty of places for a picture-perfect (and free) fitness backdrop. Programs like the November Project can get you running and seeing the city with others for free, while options like Wellness on the Waterfront offers free yoga sessions on Race Street Pier in the warmer months.
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For a donation-based option, try Yoga on the Banks, held four times a week for all yogi levels. <h2>Meet local authors at free events around the city</h2> The Free Library of Philadelphia has a full calendar of author events, discussions, and workshops, many of which are completely free to the public.
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For a donation-based option, try Yoga on the Banks, held four times a week for all yogi levels.

Meet local authors at free events around the city

The Free Library of Philadelphia has a full calendar of author events, discussions, and workshops, many of which are completely free to the public.
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Aria Nguyen 4 minutes ago
For more free author events, check other local booksellers like Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books ...
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For more free author events, check other local booksellers like Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee &amp; Books and literary organization Blue Stoop. <h2>Check out the best local filmmakers at the Philly Film Showcase</h2> Every month, the Philadelphia Film Society turns the spotlight to local filmmakers during the Philly Film Showcase.
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For more free author events, check other local booksellers like Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books and literary organization Blue Stoop.

Check out the best local filmmakers at the Philly Film Showcase

Every month, the Philadelphia Film Society turns the spotlight to local filmmakers during the Philly Film Showcase.
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Audrey Mueller 34 minutes ago
Each showcase is free to attend, as is submitting to the program, and features filmmakers of all age...
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The campus, which features a historic mansion, has a full calendar of public events, but is also a n...
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Each showcase is free to attend, as is submitting to the program, and features filmmakers of all ages and levels. Each monthly exhibition is followed by a Q&amp;A with the filmmakers in the Philadelphia Film Greenfield Screening Room in Center City. The Woodlands <h2>Picnic in an iconic 19th-century graveyard</h2>For a more unexpected historic destination, look no further than The Woodlands, a 54-acre landscape fixed between University City and West Philly that plays host to an expansive English-style garden—and an extra green canopy to an expansive graveyard.
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Each showcase is free to attend, as is submitting to the program, and features filmmakers of all ages and levels. Each monthly exhibition is followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers in the Philadelphia Film Greenfield Screening Room in Center City. The Woodlands

Picnic in an iconic 19th-century graveyard

For a more unexpected historic destination, look no further than The Woodlands, a 54-acre landscape fixed between University City and West Philly that plays host to an expansive English-style garden—and an extra green canopy to an expansive graveyard.
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The campus, which features a historic mansion, has a full calendar of public events, but is also a nice spot to wander around at any time. <h2>Expand your palate with free wine tastings</h2> Sip your way to being a wine connoisseur (or just pretend) at some of Philly’s best wine shops. The Tiny Bottle Shop (behind the Lunar Cafe) offers free tastings every Tuesday, each with a lovingly curated collection.
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The campus, which features a historic mansion, has a full calendar of public events, but is also a nice spot to wander around at any time.

Expand your palate with free wine tastings

Sip your way to being a wine connoisseur (or just pretend) at some of Philly’s best wine shops. The Tiny Bottle Shop (behind the Lunar Cafe) offers free tastings every Tuesday, each with a lovingly curated collection.
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Evelyn Zhang 5 minutes ago
For more vino goodness, visit Bloomsday in Headhouse Square for various winemaker events and the occ...
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For more vino goodness, visit Bloomsday in Headhouse Square for various winemaker events and the occasional free sampling. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, TikTok, and Snapchat.Marielle Mondon&nbsp;is a writer from Philadelphia.
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For more vino goodness, visit Bloomsday in Headhouse Square for various winemaker events and the occasional free sampling. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, TikTok, and Snapchat.Marielle Mondon is a writer from Philadelphia.
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Follow her @MarielleMondon onTwitter&nbsp;and&nbsp;Instagram.By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.
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