Photo by Intrigue Photography

For 22 years, the Philadelphia International Children's Festival has brought together young people and their families to take part in the magic and majesty of some of the best children's educational entertainment in the world. Held in four theatres in the Annenberg Center, on an outdoor stage and on the Annenberg Center Plaza, the Children's Festival is the oldest festival of its kind in the United States, and is regarded as one of the top ten in the world. It is renowned for its superior level of artistic excellence and for its presentation of dynamic artists and international art forms. Since 1985, the Festival has presented 180 international theatre companies, drum theatres, puppet theatres, magic theatres, circuses, movement theatres, acrobats, clowns, mime artists, dance companies, singers, instrumentalists, and storytellers in 8,235 performances to more than 420,000 children and their families.

"Overall, the Festival provides affordable, very high quality entertainment for kids that adults can really enjoy as well. The shows enchant us, amaze us, make us think, and make us laugh. Keep it up!" -- Miriam Harlan

"I watched my daughter get up and perform as one of the outdoor groups got the kids involved. She's ready to be a performer at 5 years old!" -- Sherie Humphrey

"Every show we have gone to over the last two years has been outstanding. My son who is not 6 ½ took it all in and months after the shows reminds us of events we saw." -- Joy Boonin

"The [Philadelphia] International Children's Festival...[has] always gone the extra mile in making possible exciting, important cultural experiences for needy youth who would otherwise not have received this exposure. The performances were excellent, of the highest quality, and opened new worlds to inner city students. I cannot express my appreciation enough." -- Dr. Karl P. Janowitz, University City High School (Philadelphia)

"The quality of the performances is always extraordinary and the content challenging and engaging. The kids love to do the crafts outside, watch the jugglers, and listen to the storytellers between shows. It is the highlight of the school year. Teachers and parents always laud the educational and entertainment value of the Festival. Thank you again for enriching our children's lives." -- Lorri Zeiders, Merchantville Elementary School (New Jersey)

Photo by Intrigue Photography