Pop-up riverfront park makes its debut with parties and events

If you're looking for a new place to relax this summer, we've found your ideal destination. This weekend marks the opening of a new pop-up park in Philly on Columbus Boulevard at Spruce Street. The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation's latest transformation project, Spruce Street Harbor Park brings refreshing outdoor aesthetic design and entertaining programming to its two month season, Friday, June 27 through Sunday, August 31.

The centerpiece of the park, dubbed The Oasis (open 7 days a week from 11 a.m. until 1 a.m.), contains a number of exciting features: three barges that hold The Blue Anchor (a Garces Group dining experience), foliage and boardwalk, lounging nets suspended above the water and colorful tables and chairs.

Other highlights of the park include a hammock hangout surrounded by fountains, mood lighting at night, fire pits, original murals, misting stations and more waterfront seating.

Perhaps one of the most attention-grabbing aspects of the project brings a shore favorite to a city environment. The boardwalk, including tried and true fare like hot dogs, French fries, ice cream, water ice and more will be open every day of the park's duration from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Housed in old shipping containers along the boardwalk are arcade games like skeeball, air hockey, Ms. Pacman and others. The entertainment doesn't end there though. Bocce and shuffleboard courts can be rented, and bean bag toss, ping pong, life sized chess, Connect Four, giant Jenga and tetherball will also be available.

To celebrate the opening of this new hangout space, various opening week parties will be held.

On Wednesday, June 25, a rain or shine party was held in the park before it's official open. From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., 21 and older guests enjoyed food and drink from local restaurants and bars, entertainment and fireworks.

On Thursday, the #whyilovephilly Party will feature a record release show from Philadelphia musician Ron Gallo, giveaways and ice cream from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Exclusively experience the park in all its glory on Thursday, June 26, but keep an eye to the sky since the bash will be rescheduled to Thursday, July 3 in the case of any inclement weather.

The park's official opening day Friday, June 27 brings family friendly fun to the waterfront. From 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. the Philly Pan Stars Steel Orchestra will play while kids (and hey, grownups too) can get their faces painted or move their hips with some hula hoops. From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. gaze at stilt walkers, make some origami crafts and watch a blacklight mask and dance theater show. From 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Philly DJ Marty Geez will transition visitors into the nighttime while you sip on drinks from the beer garden.

On Saturdays throughout the summer starting Saturday, June 28, expect to be wowed by the finest handmade goods at the Art Star Pop-Up Market. Weather permitting, 20 of the city's best vendors will be selling their products from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the open-air bazaar.