12:00am until 7:00pm
2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
( Philadelphia | Philadelphia )
PHLRY8@gmail.com
Several parking options are available for festival visitors. Shuttle service will be provided from the Parade Start Location (16th & Ben Franklin Pkwy) and Callowhill parking lots. Specific parking locations include: 19th & Callowhill Streets ($15/Day at 1901 Callowhill Street Philadelphia, PA 19130), Museum Parking Garage (behind and on the Upper Terrace of the Art Museum), metered parking on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Fairmont Avenue Garage (2201 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, PA), and street parking on Pennsylvania Ave, Sedgely Drive & Poplar Drive. There is also parking at 640 Water Works Drive Philadelphia, PA 19130. Free shuttle service is available from assigned locations including 41 W Allens Lane Philadelphia PA 19119 (Temple), Eakins Oval, and the Callowhill Parking lot.
The Details:
The Philly Ratha Yatra is the biggest festival of the year, taking place on the Ben Franklin Parkway and Eakin’s Oval, in front of the Art Museum. The event features a parade starting at noon at 16th and Ben Franklin Parkway, cruising west with a flower-decorated chariot pulled by participants. The parade and festival will be enlivened by kirtan singers from around the globe. Upon arriving at Eakins Oval, attendees can enjoy a bazaar offering a free vegan/vegetarian feast, cultural programs by international presenters, yoga sessions, and seminars on bhakti philosophy. There will also be a dedicated kid’s area to engage young minds and various highlights like hand & face painting, spiritual exhibits, and dance & singing performances. Vendors will offer food, jewelry, and clothing throughout the day.