Chester County, PA
Kid-friendly events
in Chester County, PA
Every family event worth knowing about — story times, farm days, festivals, and free stuff — refreshed twice a week. For the five things actually worth doing this weekend, get the newsletter.
Coming up
Updated Aug 19
Today — Thursday, August 20
A Chester County town tour in Historic Yellow Springs. This is more of a family stroll than a kid event, but it can work well for school-age kids who like local history.
1709 Art School RdChester Springs, PA 19425, Chester Springs
05:30 PM - 07:00 PM
A straightforward chess club for children ages 6 to 12. Great for kids who already like chess or want a low-key after-school style activity.
Chester County Library
ages 5-12
Kennett Square’s family-friendly downtown night with outdoor dining and a lively street setup. Good for a casual dinner out with kids, though it’s more of a community hangout than a planned children’s event.
State Street, Kennett Square
17:30
A really fun family show at Longwood with singing, dancing, and storytelling. Great pick for kids who like music and big, lively performances.
Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square
August 20, 2026 at 6:00 pm · Admission required
Free summer concert in downtown West Chester. Easy family outing if your kids can handle live music and an evening crowd, and it’s the kind of local event parents can pair with dinner nearby.
200 E Marshall St, West Chester, PA 19380, United States
Thursday, August 20, 2026 at 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT
A local history walking tour through downtown West Chester. Best for kids who can handle a longer walk and enjoy stories about the Revolutionary era.
225 N High St, West Chester, PA, United States, Pennsylvania 19380
Thursday, August 20, 2026 at 6:00 PM – 7:45 PM EDT · Ages 8-plus · Ticketed
Friday, August 21
Sing-along screening of The Greatest Showman at The Colonial Theatre. Solid family movie-night option for kids who enjoy musicals and audience participation.
The Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge Street, Phoenixville
Showtime not shown on source page; date confirmed · Rated PG; families · Ticketed; see event page
Free outdoor gathering with live music and lawn games at Uptown. More of a parent hangout than a kid event, but families can still make it work for an early evening outing.
Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center, 226 N. High Street, West Chester
5:00 PM · All ages / families
This Weekend — Saturday, August 22
- Guided Bird WalkFree
A slow, flat bird walk with lots of stops, and binoculars are available to borrow. Good for families with kids who can handle an early morning nature walk.
White Clay Creek Preserve
A small local food market with baked goods, coffee, toffee popcorn, and other vendor finds. Easy, low-key outing for a Saturday morning with kids.
Artisan Exchange
Saturday, August 22, 2026 at 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM EDT
Outdoor movie night in Oxford with popcorn provided, which makes it a very easy family plan. The only catch is the late start, so this works best for older kids or families fine with a bedtime shift.
Oxford Memorial Park, Oxford, PA, United States
Friday, August 21, 2026 at 8:30 PM EDT · all-ages
Weekly farmers market with local food, live music, and a children's area. Easy win for families with younger kids, especially if you want a short outing with snacks built in.
200 Mill Street, under the Gay Street Bridge and along the French Creek Trail, Phoenixville
9:00 AM–12:00 PM · All ages / families
Family Favorites screening of Shrek at The Colonial Theatre. Good pick for a kid-friendly movie outing, especially for elementary-age kids who know the characters.
The Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge Street, Phoenixville
Showtime not shown on source page; date confirmed · Rated PG; families · Ticketed; see event page
Easy outdoor bird walk that should work well for school-age kids who can stay quiet and look closely. A nice low-key nature activity without needing special gear.
Pennypacker Trailhead, Exton
9:00 AM–10:00 AM · Families; best for school-age kids and up · Not listed
This Weekend — Sunday, August 23
A DCNR park naturalist program about wild canines like foxes, coyotes, and wolves. The hands-on display with skulls, tracks, and taxidermy should be a hit with curious kids.
Ridley Creek State Park
- Junior Ranger Angler EventFree
A very kid-friendly Junior Ranger program at White Clay Creek with stream exploration, casting practice, and a badge to earn. Note that the event itself does not include fishing in the stream, but families can bring gear to try on their own.
White Clay Creek Preserve
A volunteer nature day at ChesLen Preserve. The event is already full, but it’s still a family-friendly outdoor stewardship program worth knowing about for future signups.
ChesLen Preserve, Coatesville
08:00
Family-friendly outdoor yoga for parents and little ones, then time to hang out and play with other families. Straightforward and very kid-friendly.
Wonderhouse, West Chester, PA, United States
Sunday 23 August 2026 from 10:00-13:00 EDT · Toddler-friendly · $10/child; parents free
Casual downtown music series where families can stroll, listen, and grab dinner outside. Best for kids who can handle a little walking and crowd time.
Downtown Phoenixville, Phoenixville
4:00 PM–6:00 PM · All ages / families
Free outdoor summer concert at Miller Park with food trucks. Straightforward family evening option if your kids like music and being outside.
Albert C. Miller Park, Exton
6:00 PM · All ages / families
Tuesday, August 25
Free Tuesday night concert in Eagleview. Bring chairs or a blanket and treat it like a simple summer picnic with music.
Eagleview Town Center, 565 Wellington Square, Exton
7:00 PM–9:00 PM · All ages / families
Thursday, August 27
A good pick for kids who like building, tinkering, or trying out hands-on tools. Best for school-age kids with an adult nearby; younger kids may not get much out of it.
Chester County Library, Exton
Open hours on Thursday, August 27, 2026 · Best for ages 5+ with adult help
Dog-friendly community event with market specials and adoptable dogs. It’s more of a family stroll than a kids program, but still a good low-pressure outing.
Eagleview Town Center, Exton
4:00 PM–6:00 PM · All ages / families; dog-friendly
Saturday, August 29
An evening barn concert with a potluck at Crow’s Nest Preserve. It sounds relaxed and family-friendly, though it’s better for kids who can handle a later night and a sit-down setting.
Crow’s Nest Preserve, Elverson
18:00
A straightforward family movie night under the stars with a kid-friendly title and a flat family price. The location details are messy, but the format is exactly the kind of easy summer outing parents tend to like.
Bozrah Rec Field
Friday 28 August 2026 at 20:00 EDT · all-ages · $25 per family
Weekly farmers market with a children's area, local food, and live music. One of the easiest family outings on this list for kids 0-12.
200 Mill Street, under the Gay Street Bridge and along the French Creek Trail, Phoenixville
9:00 AM–12:00 PM · All ages / families
Outdoor festival at Anson B. Nixon Park. The setting makes it a reasonable family pick, especially if there are food and music activities on site.
Anson B. Nixon Park, Kennett Square
Schedule not listed on source summary; date confirmed · All ages / families · Not listed
Sunday, August 30
Another easy downtown music afternoon for families. Best suited to kids who can enjoy strolling and listening rather than sitting for a formal concert.
Downtown Phoenixville, Phoenixville
4:00 PM–6:00 PM · All ages / families
Tuesday, September 1
- Baby StorytimeFree
Baby Storytime for ages 0-24 months with talking, singing, reading, and movement. Very age-appropriate and parent-friendly, but this is in Ohio rather than Chester County, PA.
MidPointe Library West Chester, West Chester Township, OH, United States
Tuesday 1 September 2026 from 10:15-11:00 EDT · toddler-friendly
Wednesday, September 2
A gentle movement session that can work well for parents with kids who need something calm and low-key. Not a big play event, but it’s family-friendly if your child is okay sitting and stretching.
Struble Room, Chester County Library, Exton
On Tuesday, September 2, 2026 · All ages, but best for kids 6+ who can follow along
A relaxed garden walk at Jenkins. Easy family outing territory, especially if your kids like being outdoors and spotting what’s changing in the garden.
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, 631 Berwyn Baptist Road, Devon, PA 19333, United States
Wednesday walkabout; exact time not listed
A hands-on volunteer morning at Crow’s Nest Preserve. Good for families with older kids who like getting dirty and learning by doing, but it’s more service project than kid program.
Crow’s Nest Preserve, Elverson
09:00 · Best for ages 8+ with an adult
Thursday, September 3
Another solid hands-on library option for kids who like making things and experimenting. Good for elementary-age kids; younger children will need close supervision.
Chester County Library, Exton
Open hours on Thursday, September 3, 2026 · Best for ages 5+ with adult help
A classic toddler storytime for ages 2-3 with songs, movement, and books. It’s clearly kid-focused, but the town is in Ohio, not Chester County, so only worth noting if your audience is nearby for some reason.
MidPointe Library West Chester, West Chester Township, OH, United States
Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 10:15 AM – 10:45 AM EDT · toddler-friendly
Friday, September 4
A guided nature walk at ChesLen Preserve to learn native trees and plants and what they’re used for. This is a strong family pick if your kids like exploring outside and spotting plants up close.
ChesLen Preserve, Coatesville
17:30 · Best for ages 8+
A parent night out event with pizza, snacks, and kid-friendly activities while you’re out in Phoenixville. Best for school-age kids who can handle a group evening program.
145 S Main St, Phoenixville, PA 19460
Friday, September 4, 2026 at 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT · Kids · Ticketed
Free First Friday concert in downtown West Chester with evening street activity and extended shop hours. Good pick for families who want a low-key summer night out with music and a walk around town.
Downtown West Chester, PA
Friday, September 4, 2026 at 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM EDT
Phoenixville’s monthly First Friday brings music, performances, artists, and a walkable downtown scene. Good for families who want an easy evening out with lots to see.
Downtown Phoenixville
Friday 4 September 2026 from 17:30-20:30 EDT
Big downtown street event with a Kids Zone, vendors, music, and restaurants outside. Strong family pick if you want something lively that still works with younger kids.
Downtown Phoenixville, Bridge Street and Main Street area, Phoenixville
5:30 PM–8:30 PM · All ages / families
A classic dinosaur movie on the big screen in Phoenixville. Best for older kids and teens rather than little ones, but it’s a solid family option if your crew can handle PG-13.
The Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge Street, Phoenixville
Runs September 4–6; showtimes not shown on source page · Rated PG-13; older kids, teens, and families · Ticketed; see event page
Saturday, September 5
Volunteer work at Stroud Preserve, usually involving invasive removal or habitat care. Fine for families with older kids who can pitch in for a couple hours.
Stroud Preserve, West Chester
09:00 · Best for ages 8+ with an adult
Hands-on workshop at the American Helicopter Museum with a science-and-history angle. Good fit for curious kids who like digging, building, and figuring out how things work.
American Helicopter Museum, 1220 American Boulevard, West Chester
Time not listed on source page; date confirmed · Kids / families interested in science and history · Ticketed; workshop price not listed on source page; regular museum admission listed as adults $15, children 2–12 $14
A weekly Saturday farmers market with local food, live music, and a children’s area. Easy family stop if you want breakfast, a walk, and a low-key outing.
200 Mill Street, under the Gay Street Bridge and along the French Creek Trail, Phoenixville
9:00 AM–12:00 PM · All ages / families
A Chester County Labor Day weekend tradition with pony rides, a pet parade, midway rides, live music, and plenty for kids to do. This is one of the bigger family events of the fall.
Ludwig's Corner Horse Show Grounds, Glenmoore
September 5–7; horse show begins 8:00 AM daily · All ages / families · See event website for admission and activity pricing
Sunday, September 6
An outdoor acoustic jam is an easy low-key outing for families, especially if you just want to let kids listen, wander, and enjoy a park setting. The post is vague and points to West Chester, OH, but the park/amphitheatre setup is the kind of event families can usually drop into for a little while.
Chester County
Sunday, September 6, 2026 at 3:00 PM EDT · all-ages
Outdoor live music spread through downtown Phoenixville. Best for families who want an easy walk-around evening with dinner, shopping, and music in the mix.
Downtown Phoenixville, Phoenixville
4:00 PM–6:00 PM · All ages / families
A Chester County Labor Day weekend tradition with pony rides, a pet parade, midway rides, live music, and plenty for kids to do. This is one of the bigger family events of the fall.
Ludwig's Corner Horse Show Grounds, Glenmoore
September 5–7; horse show begins 8:00 AM daily · All ages / families · See event website for admission and activity pricing
Monday, September 7
A Chester County Labor Day weekend tradition with pony rides, a pet parade, midway rides, live music, and plenty for kids to do. This is one of the bigger family events of the fall.
Ludwig's Corner Horse Show Grounds, Glenmoore
September 5–7; horse show begins 8:00 AM daily · All ages / families · See event website for admission and activity pricing
Tuesday, September 8
A story time-plus program to help kids get ready for kindergarten. Good pick for preschoolers and early elementary kids, especially if you want something fun that also builds school skills.
Chester County Library, West Chester
Tuesday, September 8 · 4-6 with caregiver
Weekly preschool story time with songs, stories, and movement. Solid low-key choice for younger kids and siblings.
Chester County Library, West Chester
Tuesday, September 8
A 4-week outdoor program for ages 2-5 with a story, a scenic stroll, and a craft each week. This is exactly the kind of hands-on nature class that works well for little kids.
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, 631 Berwyn Baptist Road, Devon, PA 19333, United States
4-week series; 10 AM · Ages 2-5 · Paid
A 4-week outdoor program for ages 2-5 with a story, a scenic stroll, and a craft each week. Great for preschoolers who can walk and like a little structure outdoors.
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, 631 Berwyn Baptist Road, Devon, PA 19333, United States
4-week series; 11 AM · Ages 2-5 · Paid
Wednesday, September 9
Story time designed for one-year-olds, so it should be short, gentle, and age-appropriate. A good fit for parents with tiny kids who need a predictable routine.
Chester County Library, West Chester
Wednesday, September 9 · 1 year olds with caregiver
An all-ages library story time that works well for mixed-age siblings. Easy, free, and reliable for families with young kids.
Chester County Library, West Chester
Wednesday, September 9
Another easy garden walk at Jenkins. Good for families who want a simple outdoor stop without a big commitment.
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, 631 Berwyn Baptist Road, Devon, PA 19333, United States
Wednesday walkabout; exact time not listed
Thursday, September 10
- Raise a ReaderFree
An early literacy program for babies and their caregivers. Best for families looking for a gentle, educational activity for the littlest kids.
Struble Room, Chester County Library, West Chester
Thursday, September 10 · Infants and caregivers
Story time for 3-year-olds with a clear age target, which usually means a better match for shorter attention spans. Nice pick for preschool families.
Chester County Library, West Chester
Thursday, September 10 · 3 years old with caregiver
Story time for 4- and 5-year-olds, so this is a good pre-K and kindergarten warm-up. A straightforward free library program for young families.
Chester County Library, West Chester
Thursday, September 10 · 4-5 years old with caregiver
Hands-on homeschool program for early elementary kids and a caregiver. Good option if you want a structured learning activity that still feels playful.
Struble Room, Chester County Library, West Chester
Thursday, September 10 · Ages 5-8 with caregiver
A kids-only chess club for ages 6-12 at Chester County Library. Good indoor option for school-age kids who like games and a quieter activity.
Chester County Library
Date listed on event page · 6-12
A supportive back-to-school gathering for kids and teens who stutter, with games, pizza, and a chance to meet peers. A thoughtful option for families looking for a welcoming group setting.
Chester County Library – Burke Meeting Room
Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT · Kids and teens who stutter
Free car seat safety check for families in Chester County. A practical stop if you want to make sure your seats are installed correctly or fit your child the right way.
1025 Paoli Pike, West Chester
9:00 AM–12:00 PM · Families with children ages 0–14
Friday, September 11
- Inside OutFree
Phoenixville’s open-air market closes Bridge Street to cars and turns downtown into a pedestrian-friendly place to shop and eat. Great for an easy family stroll, especially with younger kids.
Downtown Phoenixville
Sep 11 at 4:00 PM – Sep 13 at 11:00 PM EDT
A high-energy Broadway musical with big songs, comedy, and teen-focused storylines. Better for school-age kids and up than toddlers, but still a good family night out.
Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center, 226 N. High Street, West Chester
7:30 PM; opening night party starts 6:00 PM for VIP ticket holders · Standard non-member tickets $51 adult / $46 student; premium non-member tickets $61 adult / $56 student; VIP opening night $106
Saturday, September 12
Preschool story time at Chester County Library. This is a solid weekly pick for younger kids and caregivers, especially if you want something easy and low-key.
Chester County Library
Date listed on event page · preschool
A guided mindful walk through the gardens. This leans calm and quiet, so it is better for older or especially mellow kids than for toddlers.
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, 631 Berwyn Baptist Road, Devon, PA 19333, United States
One-day walk; exact time not listed · Best for older kids with an interest in quiet nature walks
Kennett Square’s signature family festival, with mushroom food, farm tie-ins, craft vendors, and plenty to explore. This is one of the best local fall events for kids and a very easy Chester County recommendation.
State Street, Kennett Square
10:00 · $5
A guided wildflower walk through Crow’s Nest Preserve while late-summer blooms are still going strong. Great low-key outing for kids who can handle a nature walk and want to look for flowers and pollinators.
Crow’s Nest Preserve, Elverson
10:00
A brewery-on-the-preserve event at ChesLen with picnic space and trail access. The beer is obviously the draw, but the setting makes it workable for families if you’re treating it like a picnic/hike stop.
ChesLen Preserve, Coatesville
15:00 · Adults, but families may come for the preserve setting · Paid
A calm sunset yoga session at ChesLen Preserve. Better for older kids and tweens who can follow along and stay quiet, but the setting is beautiful.
ChesLen Preserve, Coatesville
19:00 · Best for ages 10+ · Paid
Free community repair event in Phoenixville where volunteers fix household items. Not a kid attraction by itself, but it can be a good teachable stop for older kids who like seeing how things work.
1580 Charlestown Rd, Phoenixville, PA 19460-2371, United States
Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM EDT
- Build Day 1Free
First official build day for the Phoenixville Firebird Festival. Best for families with kids who like big community projects, watching the build, and being part of a local tradition.
601 Franklin Ave, Phoenixville, PA, United States, Pennsylvania 19460
Saturday 12 September 2026 from 09:00-15:00 EDT
A kid-run marketplace where young entrepreneurs sell their own products and services. Fun to browse, and great for showing kids what they can build and run on their own.
44 W. Gay Street / Jack's Corner, West Chester
9:00 AM–12:00 PM; rain date September 13 · Kids ages 5–14 as vendors; all ages welcome to shop
A weekly Saturday farmers market with local food, live music, and a children’s area. Easy family stop if you want breakfast, a walk, and a low-key outing.
200 Mill Street, under the Gay Street Bridge and along the French Creek Trail, Phoenixville
9:00 AM–12:00 PM · All ages / families
A Disney sing-along screening that should be an easy win for younger kids. Good pick if your family wants something familiar, upbeat, and low-stress.
The Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge Street, Phoenixville
Showtime not shown on source page; date confirmed · Rated PG; families · Ticketed; see event page
A high-energy Broadway musical with big songs, comedy, and teen-focused storylines. Better for school-age kids and up than toddlers, but still a good family night out.
Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center, 226 N. High Street, West Chester
7:30 PM · Standard non-member tickets $51 adult / $46 student; premium non-member tickets $61 adult / $56 student
Sunday, September 13
A library card event with family-friendly appeal at Chester County Library. Worth considering if you want to make a library outing feel a little more special for kids.
Chester County Library
Date listed on event page · all-ages
Kennett Square’s signature family festival, with mushroom food, farm tie-ins, craft vendors, and plenty to explore. This is one of the best local fall events for kids and a very easy Chester County recommendation.
State Street, Kennett Square
09:00 · $5
Another hands-on volunteer morning at ChesLen Preserve. Good if you want a meaningful outdoor activity with older kids who don’t mind getting dirty.
ChesLen Preserve, Coatesville
09:00 · Best for ages 8+ with an adult
Outdoor live music spread through downtown Phoenixville. Best for families who want an easy walk-around evening with dinner, shopping, and music in the mix.
Downtown Phoenixville, Phoenixville
4:00 PM–6:00 PM · All ages / families
Matinee performance of a family-friendly Broadway musical comedy with lots of energy and classic stage humor. A better bet than the late-night shows for families with younger kids.
Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center, 226 N. High Street, West Chester
3:30 PM · Standard non-member tickets $51 adult / $46 student; premium non-member tickets $61 adult / $56 student
Monday, September 14
Story time for two-year-olds at Chester County Library. A strong choice for toddlers who are ready for songs, stories, and simple group time.
Chester County Library
Date listed on event page · 2-year-olds
Story time for three-year-olds at Chester County Library. Nice fit for preschoolers who can sit for a short program and enjoy a little routine.
Chester County Library
Date listed on event page · 3-year-olds
A volunteer gardening session at ChesLen Preserve. Best for families with older kids who like hands-on outdoor work rather than a drop-in kids activity.
ChesLen Preserve, Coatesville
09:00 · Best for ages 8+ with an adult
- Family StorytimeFree
A simple family storytime with books, songs, and movement for kids and grown-ups together. Good for younger children, though again this one is in Ohio, not Chester County, PA.
MidPointe Library West Chester, West Chester Township, OH, United States
Monday, September 14, 2026 at 10:15 AM – 10:45 AM EDT · all-ages
Family-centered wellness event with an outdoor workout for kids in grades 3–6 while parents join an indoor support group. Nice fit for older elementary kids who like movement and games.
Penn Township Park, West Grove, PA, United States
Monday, September 14, 2026 at 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM EDT · Grades 3-6
Tuesday, September 15
A story time plus program aimed at getting kids ready for kindergarten at Chester County Library. Good for families with preschoolers and early elementary kids.
Chester County Library
Date listed on event page · kindergarten readiness
Weekly preschool story time at Chester County Library. A dependable pick for younger kids, especially if you want something simple and familiar.
Chester County Library
Date listed on event page · preschool
After-school kids club at East Goshen Park for ages 5-8 and 9-12. Sounds like a good structured activity with games, discussion, and hands-on fun for school-age kids.
East Goshen Park, West Chester, PA, United States
Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at 4:00 PM EDT · Ages 5-12
Wednesday, September 16
Story time for one-year-olds at Chester County Library. This is a great baby-and-toddler pick if you want something age-appropriate and easy to attend.
Chester County Library
Date listed on event page · 1-year-olds
Family Story Time with all ages welcome at Chester County Library. Good backup option for siblings of different ages since it works for a wide range of kids.
Chester County Library
Date listed on event page · all-ages
A simple weekday nature walk at Jenkins. Worth considering if you want an easy outdoor family stop in Chester County.
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, 631 Berwyn Baptist Road, Devon, PA 19333, United States
Wednesday walkabout; exact time not listed
A concert at Longwood Gardens can be a nice outing for older kids and teens, especially if your family likes live music and is comfortable with an evening event. Not really a little-kid pick, but it is a strong Chester County option for families with school-age children.
Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA, United States
Wednesday 16 September 2026 at 19:30 EDT · all-ages · Tickets
Free car seat safety check for families in Chester County. A practical stop if you want to make sure your seats are installed correctly or fit your child the right way.
227 Crest Avenue, Exton
2:00 PM–6:00 PM · Families with children ages 0–14
Thursday, September 17
- Raise a ReaderFree
A parent-focused early literacy program about helping babies and young kids build language skills from the start. Good pick if you want practical ideas for reading with little ones.
Struble Room, Chester County Library
Date not fully specified in source; listed for Sep 17 · Adults with infants and toddlers
Story time for 3-year-olds with songs, books, and early learning activities. A solid library outing for preschoolers.
Chester County Library
Date not fully specified in source; listed for Sep 17 · Age 3
Story time for 4- and 5-year-olds with age-appropriate books and activities. Great for preschoolers getting ready for kindergarten.
Chester County Library
Date not fully specified in source; listed for Sep 17 · Ages 4-5
A drop-off homeschool program for ages 8-11 with hands-on learning activities. Best for elementary kids who like structured enrichment.
Struble Room, Chester County Library
Date not fully specified in source; listed for Sep 17 · Ages 8-11
Kids ages 6-12 can practice chess and learn from other players. Nice low-key option for school-age kids who enjoy strategy games.
Chester County Library
Date not fully specified in source; listed for Sep 17 · Ages 6-12
Kennett Square’s family-friendly downtown night with outdoor dining and a lively street setup. Good for a casual dinner out with kids, though it’s more of a community hangout than a planned children’s event.
State Street, Kennett Square
17:30
Friday, September 18
An evening performance of the feel-good Broadway musical comedy. Works best for kids who can sit through a full show and enjoy live theater.
Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center, 226 N. High Street, West Chester
7:30 PM · Standard non-member tickets $51 adult / $46 student; premium non-member tickets $61 adult / $56 student
Saturday, September 19
Weekly preschool story time with books and activities for little kids. Easy win for a Saturday morning outing.
Chester County Library
Every Saturday; listed for Sep 19 · Preschool kids
A small-group photography walk through the gardens. Better for older kids who can follow directions and enjoy taking pictures while walking.
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, 631 Berwyn Baptist Road, Devon, PA 19333, United States
One-day photo walk; exact time not listed · Best for school-age kids and teens · Paid
Volunteer habitat work at Hildacy Preserve in Media. Worth considering for families with older kids who enjoy being outdoors and helping out.
Hildacy Preserve, Media
09:00 · Best for ages 8+ with an adult
A big local art walk with 150+ artists, music, and food trucks in East Goshen Park. Good for a family stroll, especially if your kids like looking at art and live music.
East Goshen Park, West Chester, PA
Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM EDT
A free family movie night in the park featuring Minecraft, with a food donation request for PACS. Simple and very family-friendly for a Saturday evening.
Kimberton Park, Phoenixville, PA, United States
Saturday 19 September 2026 at 18:30 EDT
A respectful community event in West Chester recognizing veterans and the Honor Flight mission. Families with kids can attend as a meaningful local outing and use it as a conversation starter about service and history.
Saints Simon and Jude Parish, West Chester, PA, United States
Saturday 19 September 2026 at 17:00 EDT · all-ages
A Phoenixville street event with vendors and gathering space, and the organizers note it includes options for people who want to skip the bar-crawl part. Worth a look for families if you keep it to the daytime crowd.
Main St, Phoenixville, PA 19460, United States, PA
Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 12:00 PM EDT
Sunday, September 20
A horse event in Cochranville benefiting a therapy program, which makes it a decent family outing if your kids like animals and outdoor activity. It’s a little niche, but still a good Chester County pick.
Cochranville, Pennsylvania, PA, United States
Sunday 20 September 2026 at 10:00 EDT · all-ages · $40 cash or check day of event
Free live songs in Heartwood Park in Phoenixville. Easy, low-key outing for families, and a nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon outdoors.
Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, PA, United States
Sunday 20 September 2026 from 16:00-18:00 EDT
Simple family-friendly community walk/run at West Goshen Community Park. Good pick if your kids like being active and you want something easy to do together outside.
West Goshen Community Park, West Chester, PA, United States
Sunday, September 20, 2026 at 8:00 AM EDT · All ages / families · Not listed
Monday, September 21
Story time designed for 2-year-olds with developmentally appropriate books and movement. Great for toddlers who need something short and gentle.
Chester County Library
Date not fully specified in source; listed for Sep 21 · Age 2
Story time for 3-year-olds with books, songs, and simple early literacy fun. A good repeat option for preschool families.
Chester County Library
Date not fully specified in source; listed for Sep 21 · Age 3
Tuesday, September 22
A story time plus program focused on kindergarten readiness and early learning skills. Best for families with preschoolers heading into K.
Chester County Library
Date not fully specified in source; listed for Sep 22 · Kindergarten prep
Weekly preschool story time with books and activities for little kids. Good simple library pick if you want something reliable and free.
Chester County Library
Every week; listed for Sep 22 · Preschool kids
Wednesday, September 23
Story time for one-year-olds with developmentally appropriate books, songs, and rhymes. Easy win for little kids and caregivers.
Chester County Library, Exton
Date listed only; check the library calendar for start time. · 1-year-olds
Weekly family story time with stories and activities for kids. Good drop-in option if you want something simple and low-stress.
Chester County Library, Exton
Date listed only; check the library calendar for start time.
Family-friendly book bingo with a back-to-school theme. Nice pick for kids who like games and a small prize-style activity.
Struble Room, Chester County Library, Exton
Date listed only; check the library calendar for start time.
Another easy stroll at Jenkins. These are low-pressure, family-friendly nature outings and a nice bet for young kids.
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, 631 Berwyn Baptist Road, Devon, PA 19333, United States
Wednesday walkabout; exact time not listed
A six-week art class with fall crafts, story time, snacks, and make-and-take projects. Best for little kids who like hands-on creative activities.
PA-29, Phoenixville, PA 19460, United States
Wednesday 23 September 2026 from 15:30-16:30 EDT · Ages 3-7 · $100 for 6 weeks
Thursday, September 24
- Raise a ReaderFree
Early literacy program for babies and young children. Best for families with infants and toddlers who want a gentle library program.
Struble Room, Chester County Library, Exton
Date listed only; check the library calendar for start time. · Infants and caregivers
Story time designed for three-year-olds with age-appropriate books and movement. Solid choice for preschool families.
Chester County Library, Exton
Date listed only; check the library calendar for start time. · 3-year-olds
Story time for four- and five-year-olds with books and activities suited to preschoolers. Good choice if you need an easy weekday outing.
Chester County Library, Exton
Date listed only; check the library calendar for start time. · 4-5 year-olds
Chess club for kids ages 6 to 12. Good for elementary and tween kids who like strategy games or want to learn more.
Chester County Library, Exton
Date listed only; check the library calendar for start time. · 6-12
Virtual family program with music, art, and a kid-friendly storytime vibe. Handy if you want something fun at home without the drive.
Chester County Library, Exton
Online event; check listing for start time. · Kids and families
Friday, September 25
Spanish-language virtual version of the Lucky Diaz family program. A nice at-home option for kids who enjoy music and stories.
Chester County Library, Exton
Online event; check listing for start time. · Kids and families
- Child Adult YogaFree
Preschool child-and-adult yoga class with movement and play. Good fit for younger kids who need to wiggle a bit.
Struble Room, Chester County Library, Exton
Date listed only; check the library calendar for start time. · Preschoolers with caregiver
- Inside OutFree
Another weekend of Phoenixville’s car-free open-air market. Easy to pair with dinner, shopping, and a stroller-friendly walk through town.
Downtown Phoenixville
Sep 25 at 4:00 PM – Sep 27 at 11:00 PM EDT
Saturday, September 26
Saturday preschool story time with stories and activities for young kids. Simple, reliable, and perfect for a library morning.
Chester County Library, Exton
Date listed only; check the library calendar for start time. · Preschoolers and families
A fitness competition, so it is more for active older kids, teens, or parents than for little ones. Still, it’s a real West Chester event and could appeal to families with school-age kids who like sports challenges.
iCORE Fitness, West Chester, PA, United States
Saturday 26 September 2026 at 11:00 EDT · ages-5-plus · Tickets
A homecoming tailgate with food, drinks, and football energy before the game. Fine for families if your kids like being around a lively campus event.
Sturzebecker Health Science Center - West Chester University, West Chester, PA, United States
Saturday 26 September 2026 from 11:00-14:00 EDT · Ticketed
Sunday, September 27
Free opening reception at Jenkins with photography focused on plants, gardens, and nature. It’s a calm, easy stop for families who like art and flowers, though it’s more of a browse-and-look event than a hands-on kids program.
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, Devon
All day / reception time not listed
Monday, September 28
Story time for two-year-olds with books, songs, and early learning activities. Good toddler option if you want something structured but short.
Chester County Library, Exton
Date listed only; check the library calendar for start time. · 2-year-olds
A simple story time made for three-year-olds, so it’s a nice low-key option for little ones. Good pick if you want something short, indoors, and age-appropriate.
Chester County Library, Exton
Story time for three-year-olds · 3-year-olds
Tuesday, September 29
This is a story time plus event aimed at helping kids get ready for kindergarten. That makes it especially useful for preschoolers and rising kindergartners.
Chester County Library, Exton
Story time plus kindergarten readiness activities · Preschool and kindergarten-bound kids
A dependable library story time for preschoolers and young siblings, with all ages welcome. Good no-stress option when you need something easy and indoors.
Chester County Library, Exton
Weekly preschool story time · All ages welcome
Wednesday, September 30
Built for one-year-olds, so this is a good fit for babies and early walkers. Short, simple, and right in the sweet spot for the youngest kids.
Chester County Library, Exton
Story time for one-year-olds · 1-year-olds
Another solid library story time for families with young kids. Easy, free, and a good fit for mixed-age siblings.
Chester County Library, Exton
Weekly family story time · All ages welcome
A simple fall walk at Jenkins is an easy family outing, especially if you just want fresh air and a chance to let kids explore the gardens. Details are sparse, but this kind of nature walk is a solid pick for Chester County families.
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, Devon
All day / time not listed
Thursday, October 1
- Raise a ReaderFree
This one is aimed at the earliest readers, with a focus on language learning from infancy on up. Good choice for parents with babies and toddlers.
Chester County Library, Exton
Early literacy program for babies and young children · Infants and toddlers
A story time specifically for three-year-olds, which makes it easy to know it’s a good fit. Nice pick for a quick weekday outing.
Chester County Library, Exton
Story time for three-year-olds · 3-year-olds
Tailored to four- and five-year-olds, so this is right in the preschool/kindergarten range. A solid library stop for kids who like stories and routines.
Chester County Library, Exton
Story time for four- and five-year-olds · 4-5 years
A seasonal pumpkin craft at the library that could work well for older elementary kids with help from an adult. More of a hands-on craft than a drop-in play event.
Burke Meeting Room, Chester County Library, Exton
Craft workshop · Older kids with adult help · Likely free
Chess club for kids ages 6-12 at Chester County Library. A solid indoor option for school-age kids who like strategy games.
Chester County Library, Exton
Date listed only; check website for time · 6-12
Friday, October 2
- Inside OutFree
Phoenixville’s final listed fall weekend for Inside Out. A good family pick if you want a safe, walkable downtown outing before the season ends.
Downtown Phoenixville
Oct 2 at 4:00 PM – Oct 4 at 11:00 PM EDT
Phoenixville’s First Friday means music, performances, and a busy downtown to explore. A solid low-planning option for families with kids of different ages.
Downtown Phoenixville
Friday 2 October 2026 from 17:30-20:30 EDT
Saturday, October 3
Preschool story time at Chester County Library. Good low-key pick for younger kids, and it’s an easy indoor backup if the weather turns.
Chester County Library, Exton
Date listed only; check website for time · Preschool
A great all-ages nature event with live animal ambassadors like snakes, lizards, and insects. This is exactly the kind of hands-on, slightly spooky science program that tends to land well with kids.
Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens, Devon
Time not listed
A community walk at Boot Road Park that’s open to families. It’s more of a cause walk than a kid event, but kids can absolutely join in.
Boot Road Park, West Chester, PA
Saturday 3 October 2026 at 14:00 EDT
A farmers market is usually an easy family stop: snacks, produce, and a little browsing time for kids. The event itself sounds solid, but the town is in Ohio, so it does not fit a Chester County newsletter.
MidPointe Library West Chester, West Chester Township, OH, United States
Saturday 3 October 2026 from 10:00-13:00 EDT · all-ages
Sunday, October 4
Big trading card and TCG show in West Chester with lots of tables. Good for kids who collect cards or like browsing with a parent, though it’s more of a shopper event than a kid activity.
Sturzebecker Health Science Center - West Chester University, West Chester, PA, United States
Sunday, October 4, 2026 at 9:00 AM EDT · Ticketed
Always on
Year-round and seasonal standbys worth knowing about.
Every branch runs weekly story time sessions for different age groups. Exton's branch has one of the best children's sections in the county. Register online — sessions fill up fast, especially the toddler sessions.
Chester County Library System
Weekly — various branches, various days · Babies–Kids
- Open Play at Lionville Community Park Splash PadFree
The splash pad runs daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Fills up fast on hot mornings — go at opening or after 4pm. Free, well-maintained, with clean bathrooms on site.
Lionville Community Park, 100 Quarry Rd, Exton
June–August, daily · Toddlers–Kids
The best public pool for families in Chester County. Dedicated splash/wading area for young kids. Snack bar, lifeguards, and pavilion rentals. Season passes available.
675 Park Rd, Downingtown
Memorial Day–Labor Day · $14/person
Free county-run farm with goats, cows, chickens, and wide open fields. Toddlers are completely in their element. Weekday mornings are nearly empty and the animals are more active.
860 Springton Rd, Glenmoore
Daily 8a–dusk (spring through fall) · Babies–Kids
The choreographed fountain shows are genuinely spectacular and kids love them. Buy tickets well in advance — these sell out. The children's garden is excellent in the daytime; fountain nights are the evening event.
1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square
Select evenings May–September · $30–$45/adult, $8–$18/child
Peach season at Linvilla is the quieter sibling to the famous fall apple season — same great farm, a fraction of the crowd. Worth doing with young kids specifically because of the more relaxed pace.
137 W Knowlton Rd, Media, Media (Delaware County)
Late July–August · Pay by weight
- Township Summer Concerts & Movie NightsFree
Nearly every township in Chester County runs a free summer concert or outdoor movie series. West Chester, Downingtown, Phoenixville, and Exton-area townships all have their own schedules. Check your township's parks department website in May for the full calendar.
Parks county-wide
June–August, various
Pool at Hopewell Lake with a shallow area for young swimmers, plus 35 miles of trails and disc golf if you want to make it a full day. Less crowded than Marsh Creek.
843 Park Rd, Elverson
Memorial Day–Labor Day · $13/person
The definitive fall family event in the region. Hayrides, corn maze, pony rides, apple cannons, 100+ tons of pumpkins. Buy hayride tickets online — they sell out on fall weekends. Cider donuts are mandatory.
137 W Knowlton Rd, Media, Media (Delaware County)
September 6 – November 2
Highland Orchards is Linvilla's quieter neighbor — same pick-your-own concept, noticeably less crowded on peak weekends. The farm market and cider donuts are excellent. Free playground on site.
1000 Thornton Rd, West Chester
September–October · Pay by weight
Tens of thousands of chrysanthemums on display inside the conservatory. Spectacular and genuinely different from anything else in the region. Buy tickets in advance.
1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square
Late September–October · $30–$45/adult, under 6 free
West Chester goes hard for Halloween — the borough hosts trunk-or-treats, storefront trick-or-treating, and a parade. The downtown environment is genuinely festive and walkable with kids.
Downtown West Chester, West Chester
Last week of October
Half a million lights, a decorated conservatory, and fountain shows. One of the best holiday light experiences in the Philadelphia region. Sells out on peak evenings — book in November for December visits.
1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square
Late November–early January · $30–$50/adult, under 6 free
- Indoor Play Season
When outdoor options close down, BounceU's Preschool Playdate sessions, Grand Slam USA in Malvern, Round1 at Exton Square Mall, and the American Helicopter Museum become the go-to rotation. The Chester County Library system also runs additional programming through the winter months.
Various
November–March
Strawberry season is the best-kept secret in the county — less crowded than fall, equally great with kids. Call ahead to confirm the crop is ready before making the drive.
1000 Thornton Rd, West Chester
Late May–mid June · Pay by weight
Kennett Square is the mushroom capital of the world and they lean into it hard. Street festival with food, vendors, and enough mushroom-themed everything that kids find it genuinely funny. Downtown is walkable and charming.
Downtown Kennett Square, Kennett Square
First full weekend of June
The NPS runs seasonal programming and living history demonstrations at Hopewell Furnace. Kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge. Free admission and parking.
2 Mark Bird Lane, Elverson
Weekends May–June · Kids 6–12
Every Friday · Free
Don't miss this weekend
The weekly email tells you exactly what's worth doing in Chester County with kids that weekend. Five picks, what to skip, one local tip. Free.
