From May 9 to September 28, 2025, Longwood Gardens becomes a stage where water, light, and music perform together. The Festival of Fountains turns ordinary evenings into a visual and musical celebration, drawing visitors from across the region. Imagine strolling through the gardens at dusk, hearing the first notes of a familiar melody, and watching fountains rise and fall in perfect time with the music.
This year’s program offers daily water displays, illuminated night shows, themed weekends, and fireworks events that light up the sky.
Philadelphia Injury Lawyers, P.C. reminds visitors to enjoy every moment while keeping safety in mind, knowing help is close if an outing takes an unexpected turn.
Festival Overview: What to Expect
The festival runs every day from May 9 through September 28. The gardens open in the morning, and shows take place at set times. Daytime fountains start as early as 10 am, with evening performances lasting until 10 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the summer. In September, weekend evenings wrap up by 9 pm.
The Main Fountain Garden is the centerpiece, featuring 1,719 water jets creating precise, high-energy displays. In the Open Air Theatre, four mini-shows take place each day at 10:15, 12:15, 2:15, and 4:15 pm. Friday through Sunday nights bring Illuminated Fountain Performances, where music and colored lights add new life to the displays. Fireworks & Fountains nights combine water choreography with brilliant pyrotechnics on select summer and fall dates.
Themed Weekends & Special Experiences
On select weekends from May through October, the gardens host Fountain Fest evenings. These nights pair fountain performances with themed music, tours, and activities. Visitors can hear live carillon music, explore the restored Waterlily Court, and take guided spotlight tours.
Themes this season include Dancing Queen (ABBA) from August 15–17, Beatlemania (The Beatles) from August 22–24, and Remix the Night from September 5–7. While not part of the main festival, October’s Halloween-themed finale is a popular close to the year.
Food and drink offerings change with each theme, so there is as much to enjoy at the table as there is in the gardens.
Fireworks Nights & Energetic Finale
Fireworks & Fountains nights are some of the most anticipated events of the season. Summer shows begin at 9:15 pm, with fall shows starting an hour earlier. The summer schedule features July 3, July 19, and August 9, while fall performances take place on August 31, September 13, and September 27.
These shows require reserved seating tickets, priced between $64 and $84, with member discounts available. Tickets include admission to the gardens for the entire day. Many visitors plan to arrive early to enjoy the grounds, dine at the Beer Garden, or book a spot at the 1906 Prix Fixe restaurant.
Some areas may close in advance for safety and crowd control. Events continue in most weather conditions, with adjustments made when necessary.
Planning Your Visit: Tips & Access Info
Evening events, especially on weekends, require timed tickets. Members also need reservations unless they hold Premium or Innovator status.
Arriving early is the best way to enjoy the full experience. It allows time for a relaxed meal, exploring the gardens, and securing a good spot for the show. Comfortable shoes are a must, as the property is large and walking is part of the experience.
Pack layers for cooler evenings, and remember that umbrellas must stay closed during fireworks for clear sightlines. Families should pick a meeting point in case of separation during busy times.
Enjoy the Magic, Safely
Evening shows attract large crowds, and walkways can be uneven or dimly lit. Staying alert helps prevent falls and accidents.
Parents should keep children close, particularly when moving between performance areas. Keeping pathways clear makes movement easier for everyone.
If something does happen — such as a slip, trip, or other injury caused by unsafe conditions — act quickly. Take photos of the scene, note the time and location, get contact information from witnesses, and alert staff.
Philadelphia Injury Lawyers, P.C. helps when public event safety measures fail, so a night of celebration does not turn into a source of stress.
Conclusion
Longwood Gardens’ Festival of Fountains offers a mix of artistry, nature, and community that is hard to match. From daytime jets soaring in the sun to colorful illuminated displays under the night sky, every visit feels different. Themed weekends add variety, while fireworks nights create unforgettable finales.
If you plan to attend, secure your tickets early and check the event schedule so you do not miss your favorite themes or special dates.
Let the music play, the fountains rise, and your evening be filled with both wonder and peace of mind — the way a summer night should be.
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