Festival of Fountains May 8–September 27
Festival of Fountains
On View May 8–September 27
Bursting with thrills, radiant beauty, and fun for all, summer is always a party around here.
But this year, as America celebrates 250 years, we’re turning it up even louder. Make it your most memorable summer yet with all that’s happening in our Gardens … and make your own history along the way. Summer, turned all the way up.
Kick off the season with a special Members Opening Night on May 7, featuring our first-of-the-season Illuminated Fountain Performance, just for you! Find more details on page 17.
Turn Up the New
Drone Shows
August 26 and 27 at 8 pm
Enjoy a luminous new experience with our all-new drone shows. An exquisite interplay of sound and sky, these remarkable evenings offer a graceful fusion of music and innovation you won’t want to miss.
Gather on the Orchard Lawn beneath the open sky with a 45-minute live performance of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons
During the performance, choreographed drones ascend above the landscape, creating patterns of light that echo the beauty and movement of the music below. The result is an imaginative harmony of art, atmosphere, and the shared wonder of the moment.
Bring your own chairs or purchase a reserved seat and settle into the serenity of the Orchard for an evening designed to inspire awe and delight.
Tickets On Sale
Innovators Pre-Sale
May 28–31
Begins May 28 at 10 am
Gardens Preferred and Premium Members Pre-Sale
June 1–2
Begins June 1 at 10 am
Public Sale
June 3 at 10 am
Purchase tickets at longwoodgardens.org/drones
A special ticket is required
$60: General Seating
$51: General Seating for Gardens Preferred, Gardens Premium Members, and Innovators
$85: Reserved Seating
$72: Reserved Seating for Gardens Preferred, Gardens Premium Members, and Innovators
Specific levels of Membership and Innovators received discounted drones show ticket pricing and pre-sale access. If you are eligible to receive this discounted pricing and pre-sale access, your discount code is printed on the back of the brochure.
Our prices reflect the ticket price and associated convenience fee. All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges. Shows will proceed in rain. Tickets are limited and sell out is likely. Gardens close at 6 pm to everyone but drone show ticketholders.
Turn Up the Thrills
The
brightest nights are here with our spectacular Fireworks & Fountains Shows. Join us for these dazzling displays of sheer spectacle.
Great American Composers
July 2 at 9:15 pm
Celebrate America 250 with jawdropping fireworks set to a dynamic soundscape of American music spanning classical favorites, jazz innovation, and contemporary favorites.
Journey to Oz
July 18 at 9:15 pm
Fireworks defy gravity as we journey down the yellow brick road, set to the thrilling vocals of iconic Wicked tracks, classical favorites from The Wizard of Oz, and tunes from The Wiz
Everlasting Love
August 8 at 9:15 pm
Sit back and watch the dazzling combination of soaring fountains and vibrant fireworks during this lovefilled celebration packed with swoonworthy favorites.
Blue Tango — The Magic of Leroy Anderson
August 22 at 8:15 pm
Melodic classics meet thrilling fireworks to create an entrancing combination of color, light, dancing water, and beauty, all celebrating the charm and wit of composer Leroy Anderson.
The Final Frontier
September 6 at 8:15 pm
Get ready for a sky full of starbursts as fireworks zoom into the night, paired with vibrant dancing fountains and an out-of-this-world playlist loaded with space-age hits.
Electric 80s
September 26 at 8:15 pm
Dancing fountains and fireworks light up the night sky during this neon-charged spectacle featuring retro favorites and high-energy, unmistakably 80s, electric flair.
Fireworks & Fountains Show Tickets
A special ticket is required
All seating for Fireworks & Fountains Shows is reserved. Reserved seating allows you to select your seat and then arrive to your seat placed and waiting for you—no need to bring your own chair.
$64–84: Reserved Seating
$55–72: Gardens Preferred, Gardens Premium Members, and Innovators
Specific levels of Membership and Innovators receive discounted Fireworks & Fountains Shows ticket pricing and pre-sale access. If you are eligible to receive this discounted pricing and pre-sale access, your discount code is printed on the back of the brochure.
All guests 2 years of age and older must have a paid, ticketed Fireworks & Fountains Show seat.
Tickets On Sale Innovators Pre-Sale
May 28–31 Begins May 28 at 10 am
Gardens Preferred and Premium Members Pre-Sale June 1–2 Begins June 1 at 10 am
Public Sale
June 3 at 10 am
Purchase tickets at longwoodgardens.org/fireworks
Our prices reflect the ticket price and associated convenience fee. All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges. Shows will proceed in rain. Tickets are limited and sell out is likely. Gardens close at 6 pm to everyone but Fireworks & Fountains Show ticketholders.
Turn Up the Volume
Our summer performance series hits a high note, all season long. Captivating experiences await with these performances, among many more. Don’t miss the excitement!
The Savoy Company presents The Gondoliers
May 29 and 30 at 7:30 pm
Experience The Gondoliers, a story that blends romance, mistaken identify, and ever-sharp satire, as The Savoy Company celebrates their 125th anniversary year.
Musiq Soulchild
Longwood Debut
June 3 at 7:30 pm
Pioneer of the neo-soul movement of the early millennium, multiple Grammy Award-nominee Musiq Soulchild is one of the most influential R&B singers of his generation.
The Music of The Beach Boys Featuring Pet Sounds LIVE!
Longwood Debut
June 12, 13, and 14 at 7 pm
Just in time for our Beach Bash Fountain Fest Weekend, experience the energy of the album Pet Sounds live with the premier Beach Boys experience celebrating this iconic masterpiece.
Matthew Morrison
Longwood Debut
July 8 at 7:30 pm
Known for his celebrated Broadway career and his standout role on Glee, multi-talented artist Matthew Morrison has earned nominations for Tony, Emmy, and Golden Globe Awards.
Silvana Estrada
Longwood Debut
August 13 at 7:30 pm
Winner of the Latin Grammy for Best New Artist, Silvana Estrada is one of the most compelling voices in contemporary Latin music, blending indie-folk, jazz, and traditional Mexican influences into a deeply intimate and poetic sound.
The String Queens
September 3 at 7:30 pm
Dynamic trio The String Queens takes listeners on an exhilarating journey through time and genres, their versatile repertoire spanning the Baroque era to Jazz Age to today’s Billboard Hot 100.
DJ Jazzy Jeff: Fountain Party
Longwood Debut
September 9 at 8 pm
Join us in the Main Fountain Garden as Philadelphia legend DJ Jazzy Jeff delivers a dynamic Illuminated Fountain Performance, showcasing the Grammy-winning artistry that has defined his influential career.
Turn Up the Artistry
Summer is a time of absolute brilliance in our Gardens. It’s when our horticultural expertise shines … and we can’t wait to dazzle you.
Native Species Day
May 16: 10 am–4 pm
We proudly join others in recognizing the fifth annual Pennsylvania Native Species Day with a day of walks, talks, opportunities to meet those from native species-focused organizations, and more.
Plus, join us for our How to Protect Your Native Plants talk; find more information about registering for this talk on the Science Series section of this page.
Satsuki Azalea Bonsai Display
May 27–June 15
Enjoy a rotating display of dozens of vibrant Satsuki azalea bonsai in our Exhibition Hall. Featuring more than 20 distinct cultivars, the display highlights the remarkable diversity of these celebrated bonsai, renowned for their dramatic, multi-colored blooms.
Free with Gardens Admission
Science Series
Longwood Gardens Bonsai Festival
Featuring Regional Clubs from the Tri-State Area
June 24, 25, and 29: 10 am–6 pm
June 26, 27, and 28: 10 am–10 pm
Join us for the inaugural Longwood Gardens Bonsai Festival, a six-day celebration welcoming bonsai artists, enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the beauty of this remarkable artform.
Experience an exceptional bonsai display, engaging demonstrations and lectures from leading artists, a curated selection of vendors, an auction, and awards.
Free with Gardens Admission. Learn more at longwoodgardens.org/bonsai-festival
During our monthly Science Series talks, learn about our science and meet the talented staff behind the work.
How to Protect Your Native Plants
May 16 at 1 pm
Not every beautiful plant belongs everywhere. Take an inside look at how Longwood identifies, manages, and prevents the spread of invasive plants, and gain practical tips for safeguarding your own garden.
Wildlife in a World-Class Garden
June 7 at 1 pm
Explore the surprising diversity of animals that call Longwood home and how thoughtful land stewardship helps support them within an actively managed landscape. Plus, learn how you can make your own landscape harmonize with local mammals, amphibians, and other wildlife.
Training Flowers to be Trees
July 26 at 1 pm
From poinsettia to Clerodendrum and more, learn how Longwood’s experts transform flowers and vines into stunning tree form standards—through years of meticulous care, scientific precision, and horticultural skill.
How Beauty Shapes Scientific Discovery
August 16 at 1 pm
At Longwood, beauty is more than an outcome—it’s a catalyst for curiosity, creativity, and scientific discovery. Consider how beauty helps us see more clearly, think more imaginatively, and pursue solutions that connect people, plants, and place.
Digging into Compost Science
September 19 at 1 pm
Compost is more than garden gold—it’s a driver of innovation and sustainability. Explore how we transform waste into a resource through thoughtful compost formulations that support a circular approach to soil health.
Science Series talks are free with Gardens Admission. Advance registration required at longwoodgardens.org/science-series
Turn Up the Creativity
This summer, expand your horizons, sharpen your skills, and— above all—have fun with our exceptional learning experiences. With hundreds of classes and hands-on workshops to choose from, there’s something for every curiosity. Explore new passions or deepen the ones you already love across creative arts, culinary arts, floral design, gardening and horticulture, landscape design, wellbeing, and so much more.
It’s the perfect time to learn from expert instructors, meet fellow creators, and bring fresh creativity to life.
Get started at longwoodgardens.org/enroll
Floral Design Intensive
July 13–24
Jump-start your floral design journey with our brand-new Floral Design Intensive, a comprehensive, immersive experience designed for those eager to fast-track their skills. In just 11 inspiring days, complete five core courses required for our Floral Design Certificate, all within an encouraging, hands-on environment.
Enjoy small class sizes, personalized guidance from our expert instructors, and plenty of opportunities to develop your technique while discovering your unique floral style. Your intensive experience also includes thoughtful perks: all-day Gardens
Admission throughout the program, complimentary lunch each class day, one ticket to our dazzling Journey to Oz Fireworks & Fountains Show, and up to four elective enrichment hours that let you explore even more creative avenues.
Think of it as a floral design retreat, complete with world-class instruction, abundant hands-on practice, and the unmatched beauty of one of the world’s great gardens.
Learn more at longwoodgardens.org/ floral-design-intensive
Learning for All
We also offer learning experiences specially designed for families and teachers. Learn more at longwoodgardens.org/education
Summer Calendar
Looking for everything happening during Festival of Fountains?
From classes and live music in the Beer Garden to Member Appreciation Days and Fountain Fest Weekends, there’s so much going on in our Gardens this season that it simply couldn’t fit in a printed calendar.
Explore the full, print- ready Festival of Fountains calendar—and click on individual listings to learn more about each offering— by scanning the QR code or visiting longwoodgardens.org/summer-calendar
Evening Spotlight Tours
Select Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 4 pm, 5 pm, and 7 pm
May 8–June 21
(except May 9 and 10)
Explore our new Bonsai Courtyard, a contemplative space where meticulous artistry and the beauty of nature converge.
July 3–12
Enjoy the cool shade of Peirce’s Park. We will celebrate the heritage of Longwood Gardens’ beginnings and the continued stewardship of our tree collection.
July 19–August 9
(except July 31 and August 8)
Delight in the diversity of our aquatic plant collection, including our iconic Victoria water-platters, in the Waterlily Court.
August 15–30
(except August 22 and 28)
You are cordially invited to learn about the gracious hospitality of Pierre and Alice du Pont’s grand garden parties as we stroll the historic east gardens.
September 4–27
(except September 6, 11, and 26)
Delight in the diversity of our aquatic plant collection, including our iconic Victoria water-platters, in the Waterlily Court.
Our 30-minute Spotlight Tours are free with Gardens Admission. Inquire at the Visitor Center for the sign-up location on the day of your visit. Capacity is limited.
Wonders of the Waterlilies Talks
Explore our Waterlily Court and take a close look at its aquatic treasures.
Daytime talks at 10:30 am
June 10, 17, 24
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
August 5, 12, 19, 26
September 2, 9, 16
Evening talks
July 17 and 31: 7 pm
August 14: 7 pm
August 28: 6:30 pm
September 11: 6:30 pm
Free with Gardens Admission. Capacity is limited. Weather permitting.
Family Nature Strolls
10:30 and 11:30 am
Discover the sights, sounds, and scents of the season with a fun, 30-minute nature walk designed for the whole family.
May 9, 16, 23, 30
June 6, 13, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29
July 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29, 31
August 3, 5, 7, 10, 12, 14, 22, 29
September 5, 12, 19, 26
Free with Gardens Admission. Capacity is limited. Weather permitting.
Innovator Spring Garden Party
June 16, 5–7 pm
Exclusively for Longwood Innovators; RSVP required
As dusk settles over the Italian Water Garden, one of Longwood's most distinctive settings, enjoy a special evening of cocktails and canapés among the fountains with fellow Innovators.
For more information or to become an Innovator, visit longwoodgardens.org/innovators or call 610.388.5216.
Turn Up the Just-for-You
We also celebrate you this summer. Join us for Member Appreciation Days and exclusive Members-only Hours throughout the season.
Member Appreciation Days
Enjoy one-day-only 20% discounts in The Garden Shop and on dining, and round out the day with an Illuminated Fountain Performance.
May 22: 5–10 pm
Illuminated Fountain Performance (9:15 pm): The Piano Men
June 19: 5–10 pm
Illuminated Fountain Performance (9:15 pm): Freedom
July 17: 5–10 pm
Illuminated Fountain Performance (9:15 pm): Leading Ladies: Madonna and Lady Gaga
August 7: 5–10 pm
Illuminated Fountain Performance (9:15 pm): Starman: David Bowie
September 25: 5–9 pm
Illuminated Fountain Performance (8:15 pm): Boogie Wonderland: Earth, Wind & Fire
Timed Member reservations required after 3 pm, except for Gardens Premium Members and Innovators.
Members-Only Hours
During our Members-only Hours, dine under the stars in our Beer Garden, enjoy a free concert in the Orchard (near the Meadow Garden), and kick back with an Illuminated Fountain Performance.
May 21: 6–10 pm
7 pm: Kala’e + Kalena
Rooted in the vibrant landscapes of Hawai‘i Island, dynamic husband-andwife team Kala‘e + Kalena is Hawai’I’s premier country duo, delivering an eclectic mix of high-energy country classics, soul-stirring originals, and powerful ballads. Then experience our Where the Heart Is Illuminated Fountain Performance (9 pm).
June 11: 6–10 pm
7 pm: Reverie Road
Genre-defying Celtic powerhouse ensemble Reverie Road takes the rich tapestry of Irish music and weaves it into a cinematic experience, full of expressivity and sophistication. Then experience our Songs You Know by Heart Illuminated Fountain Performance (9 pm).
August 20: 6–8:30 pm
6 pm: Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band
Blending bilingual indie pop with heart, humor, and high-energy fun, Grammy, Latin Grammy, and Emmy Award-winning Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band are the ultimate crossover between music, storytelling, and cultural magic, geared for young audience members. Enjoy an early-evening (7:15 pm) Illuminated Fountain Performance that still allows for early bedtimes.
September 17: 6–9 pm
Sensory-Friendly Members-only Hours
6:30 pm: Dan + Claudia Zanes and Tyree Austin
Delivering a fun, highly interactive experience for all, Grammy Awardwinner Dan Zanes and HaitianAmerican jazz vocalist and music therapist Claudia Zanes team up with singer Tyree Austin to create a sensory-friendly inclusive experience. Then experience our Journey to Oz Illuminated Fountain Performance (8:15 pm).
This sensory-friendly Members-only Hours and performance designed for all ages will feature a limited capacity. Member reservations are required. Quiet areas will be available throughout the evening in the Peirce-du Pont House Library and The Fountain Room. This evening’s Illuminated Fountain Performance will feature lower audio volume and smooth lighting transitions to minimize strobing effects; it will not feature fire effects.
Innovators included in Member events.
No reservations required for our May, June, and August Members-only Hours; reservations are required for our September sensory-friendly Members-only Hours.
Join us for a special Members Opening Night on May 7 with our very first Illuminated Fountain Performance of the season. Enjoy extended hours until 10 pm, along with live music in the Beer Garden with The Barker Brothers Band (6–8:45 pm) and our Everybody Dance Now Illuminated Fountain Performance (9:15 pm). It's our way of kicking off the season, just with you!
Member reservations not required this evening.
Turn Up the Weekends
Weekends are for wonder, and with more Fountain Fest Weekends than ever before, the celebration continues all season long. Enjoy themed Illuminated Fountain Performances, music, and fun for all ages.
British Invasion Weekend
May 15, 16, and 17: 5–10 pm
It’s a British Invasion set to fountain soundtracks of The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, and David Bowie, as well as themed concessions, open Chimes Tower hours, and more.
Beach Bash Weekend
June 12, 13, and 14: 5–10 pm
Hang ten with this feel-good weekend of summer hits, including three nights of our all-new Surf’s Up Illuminated Fountain Performance.
For even more fun, purchase tickets for The Music of The Beach Boys featuring Pet Sounds Live, an exciting tribute performance held each evening. For more information, turn to page 8.
America’s 250th Weekend
July 3, 4, 5: 5–10 pm
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a weekend of thrills and fun for all, with Spotlight Tours, to themed music on the carillon, to much more.
Animated Adventures Weekend
August 14, 15, 16: 5–10 pm
Enjoy a weekend designed for the entire family, including a themed activity near the Topiary Garden and three nights of our all-new Magic in Motion Illuminated Fountain Performance.
Dance Party Weekend
August 28, 29, 30: 5–9 pm
Experience a high-energy weekend with live music in the Beer Garden, to themed concessions, to Illuminated Fountain Performances set to dance track picks, Taylor Swift hits, and ABBA favorites.
Love is in the Air Weekend
September 18, 19, 20: 5–9 pm
Cozy up to a charming weekend of all things l-o-v-e, as you kick back with live music in the Beer Garden, enjoy themed concessions, climb to the top of the Chimes Tower for a stunning view, and experience our new Everlasting Love Illuminated Fountain Performance.
Find more details at longwoodgardens. org/fountain-fest-weekends
the WOW
From daily fountain shows to our iconic Illuminated Fountain Performances, to an all-new Main Fountain Garden experience, there are plenty of wow moments in store this summer. Turn Up
Free, timed Member reservations required Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays if arriving after 3 pm. Reservations not required for Gardens Premium Members and Innovators.
Fountain performances free with Gardens Admission. Chairs and blankets are permitted in the Gardens beginning at 12 pm on Illuminated Fountain Performances dates.
DJ Jazzy Jeff: Fountain Party
September 9, 8 pm
Experience our Illuminated Fountain Performances in an entirely new way as Philadelphia legend DJ Jazzy Jeff takes to the turntable. Turn to page 9 for more information.
Daily Fountain Shows
May 8–August 20
Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: 11:15 am, 1:15 pm, 3:15 pm, 5:15 pm
Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays: 11:15 am, 1:15 pm, 3:15 pm, 5:15 pm, 8:15 pm
August 21–October 25
Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: 11:15 am, 1:15 pm, 3:15 pm, 5:15 pm
Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays: 11:15 am, 1:15 pm, 3:15 pm, 5:15 pm, 7:15 pm
Illuminated Fountain Performances
Water of all shapes, sizes, and heights combine with music and infinite colors during these 30-minute performances. Enjoy new-this-year performances that provide a beachy escape, bring beloved animated hits to life, celebrate love, and much more.
May 8–August 16
Most Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays: 9:15 pm
August 21–October 25
Most Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays: 8:15 pm
Turn Up the Taste
Throughout Festival of Fountains, savor a bold yet refined American menu rooted in seasonality, sustainability, and locality—including produce grown mere steps away in our Ornamental Kitchen Garden.
Our acclaimed wine list honored with Wine Spectator’s 2025 Best of Award of Excellence, along with house-crafted cocktails and garden-inspired tonics, completes a dining experience in perfect harmony with the season.
Celebrate excellence at 1906, all summer long.
Make your reservations at longwoodgardens.org/dine
1906 Gardener and Chef Experience
Thursdays, May 21–September 24
Beginning at 11 am
Step into the garden—with a chef and gardener as your guides—and savor the story, and bounty, of the season.
This immersive, intimate garden and culinary experience begins with a guided walk—along with a garden cocktail or mocktail—through Longwood’s vibrant Ornamental Kitchen Garden, where you’ll explore seasonal selections and how they inspire the day's menu. Then, gather for a communal-style dining experience at our 1906 Seasonal Table and enjoy a thoughtfully curated, fivecourse chef’s tasting menu featuring ingredients harvested just steps away— and a few surprises.
Autumn’s Colors
On View
October 2–November 15, 2026
Fall brings a bold new energy to the Gardens. Colors intensify. Textures pop. Every viewpoint becomes a celebration of the season’s best as autumn shows off in striking style. It’s the kind of beauty you don’t just observe. You step into it. You feel it. You take in each moment.
Then comes the season’s marquee moment: Chrysanthemum Festival, returning October 16. Crafted with exceptional artistry by our horticultural experts, this spectacular display showcases chrysanthemums in ways you’ve never seen them: sculptural, expressive, and grown to absolute perfection. It’s the grand flourish of fall, all here for you. Fall is calling.
Dates to Know
Festival of Fountains
May 8–September 27, 2026
Timed reservations required for Members Fridays through Sundays from 3 pm to close. Reservations not required for Gardens Premium Members and Innovators.
Gardens and The Garden Shop Hours
May 8–August 20
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 10 am–6 pm
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 10 am–10 pm
Tuesday: Closed August 21–September 27
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 10 am–6 pm
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 10 am–9 pm
Tuesday: Closed
Please note: Gardens hours differ the dates of Fireworks & Fountains Shows.
Dining Hours
Find day-by-day details at longwoodgardens.org/dine
Follow Us @LongwoodGardens #LongwoodGardens
Phone: 610.388.1000 Website: longwoodgardens.org
Free WiFi available: Connect to FreeGardenWIFI
Our Gardens are smoke-free.
Photography credits: Holden Barnes, Laurie Carrozzino, Hank Davis, Adelyn Duchala, William Hill, Becca Mathias, Cathy Matos, and Daniel Traub
© 2026 Longwood Gardens
