Free American History All Summer Long
Looking for free things to do in Philadelphia? Once Upon A Nation brings America’s founding story to life through free storytelling, experiences with real people from Colonial Philadelphia’s past, and interactive programs throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District. From Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day, visitors of all ages can enjoy engaging experiences that connect them with the people, places, and events that shaped the nation.
These Once Upon A Nation free programs are included at no cost and take place at historic sites across America’s most historic square mile.
Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches
Tuesdays – Saturdays, 11am – 4pm through Labor Day
One-of-a-kind Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially trained storytellers share free, 3-to-5-minute stories that reveal the people, secrets, and moments behind America’s founding. Learn More
Don’t miss: Pick up a Storytelling Flag at any Storytelling Bench, collect a star at each bench you visit, then redeem your completed flag at Franklin Square for a prize and certificate.
Visit the Storytelling Bench page for bench locations!
Colonial Kids’ Quest
Fridays and Saturdays, 11:30am & 12:30pm, through Labor Day Weekend
18th Century Garden, 339 Walnut Street
Bring the whole family to a fun, interactive puppet adventure where kids help animal characters search for a missing copy of the Declaration of Independence.
Colonial Muster
Tuesdays – Saturdays, 2 & 3pm through Labor Day
Signer’s Garden, 5th & Chestnut Streets
Join the action as kids experience a Colonial soldier’s life through marching drills, parades, and stories from camp.
Declaration Reading
Tuesdays – Saturdays, 3:45pm through Labor Day
Behind Independence Hall at the John Barry Statue
Hear the Declaration of Independence read daily at the place it was signed, then meet the History Makers who bring it to life.
Meet the History Makers
Tuesdays – Saturdays , 11am – 4pm through Labor Day
Throughout the Historic District
Don’t be surprised if you happen to meet William Penn roaming Philadelphia’s Historic District. Or the sailmaker James Forten. Or Susanna Cooke, a Colonial-era laundress. They are just a few of Historic Philadelphia Inc.’s History Makers, a sampling of the 18th century residents who have reappeared in 21st century Philadelphia. Chat with these costumed, trained historic interpreters, learn about their stories and snap some memory-making pictures.
History Makers will make special 15-minute presentations throughout the day. Visit the History Makers page for locations and times!
Free Quaker Meeting House
Tuesdays – Saturdays, 11am – 4pm through Labor Day
5th & Arch Streets
Centuries after Betsy Ross and others met and worshiped at the Free Quaker Meeting House, Quaker philosophies still influence Philadelphia culture. Here you can learn about the Quaker religion, the Meeting House and meet some of Historic Philadelphia Inc.’s History Makers with Quaker ties. Spoiler Alert: There’s a connection between the Quakers and the creation of the U.S. Marine Corps. Stop by this Independence National Historical Park landmark and find out more!
Please note: The Free Quaker Meeting House is undergoing renovations, and hours are subject to renovation scheduling.
Ben Franklin Under the Mulberry Tree
Fridays and Saturdays, 1 & 2:30pm through Labor Day
Franklin Court, 314 Market Street
Meet Dr. Franklin in the courtyard where he once lived, and hear him share stories of his life as a printer, inventor, and statesman.