The Bryn Mawr Business Association’s annual Bryn Mawr Day returns for another spectacular year of free family fun on the first Saturday after Labor Day weekend. This year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, with enhanced marketing efforts and the same community spirit that makes this Main Line tradition so special.

“It’s a day of free family fun with food, entertainment, shopping, and kind of the best of what Bryn Mawr has to offer all in one parking lot,” says Emma Allinson, Executive Director of the Bryn Mawr Business Association. “And it’s a great excuse to see neighbors. Like you never know who you’re going to run into. It’s a really wonderful excuse to get out and enjoy Bryn Mawr.”

Bryn Mawr Day’s Kid-Friendly Activities Spark Joy and Wonder

Young visitors will discover endless excitement tailored just for them. Children can climb aboard fire engines for thrilling rides, explore ambulances and police cars up close, and meet furry friends at The Ludington Library’s beloved petting zoo. The festival’s signature circus performances continue to be a major draw.

“The The Baldwin School Circus Stage is always a great time,” Allinson notes. “The circus performers take the stage and suddenly they’re surrounded by kids and families and smiling faces. So it attracts people immediately as soon as they start to perform. So that’s always a blast.”

Interactive fun awaits at vendor tables featuring Lego building stations, while roaming circus acts and stilt walkers create magical moments throughout the day. Families can capture memories with free caricature portraits, courtesy of the Bryn Mawr Business Association—a hit from last year that had “adults having as much fun as the kids,” according to Allinson.

Live Entertainment and Local Flavors at Bryn Mawr Day

The WSFS Bank Main Stage will showcase continuous live music featuring performances from prestigious local schools including The Baldwin School and Friends’ Central School. Eight performing acts will keep the energy high throughout the event.

Food lovers can indulge in offerings from popular vendors like La Cabra Brewing and My Pita Pies, plus sweet treats from Kona Ice. The Farm to City Bryn Mawr Farmers’ Market offers an extensive selection of grab-and-go options and take-home treats, making it perfect for families with dietary restrictions or picky eaters.

“There are a whole two rows of various farmers market vendors,” Allinson explains. “If you can’t find something there then it would be tough.” Traditional festival fare will also be available from Boy Scout Troop 19, who provide essential support for setup and breakdown.

A Showcase of Bryn Mawr’s Educational Excellence and Community Spirit

This year’s festival will feature representation from Bryn Mawr’s highly-ranked schools, including The Baldwin School, Friends’ Central School, The Agnes Irwin School, Delaware County Christian School, Haverford School, Shipley School, AIM Academy, Villanova University, and Waldron Mercy Academy. Each institution will offer hands-on activities and program information.

Local businesses and organizations will be well-represented, including Bryn Mawr Medical Specialists Association, Beaumont at Bryn Mawr, Blank Aschkenasy Properties, Bryn Mawr Film Institute, Main Line Health, Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry of the Main Line, Acorn Child Development and Evaluation, CertaPro Painters of the Main Line, Foote Orthodontics, Heiler Painting, and Something Different by Eric.

When asked what sets this festival apart from other family events in the area, Allinson emphasizes the variety: “I would say the breadth of entertainment we have is cool. From the fire truck rides to the ambulance tours, petting zoo, interactive tables with vendors like there’s a Lego building station, delicious food, the farmers market is a highlight, and obviously the circus, the caricaturist, the stilt walker, roaming entertainers, the stage performances. Everywhere you look there’s something fun to do.”

Special mascot appearances, including the Villanova Wildcat, add extra excitement. “Watching the Villanova Wildcat interact with all the fans was fun,” Allinson recalls from last year’s event.

Instagram-Worthy Moments and Family Memories

Looking for the perfect photo opportunity? The petting zoo tops the list of Instagram-worthy spots, along with mascot meet-and-greets and interactions with roaming entertainers. Allinson suggests holding up your fresh caricature portrait next to your face for a particularly memorable shot.

Practical Information for Families

When: Saturday, September 6, 2025, 9 AM to 2 PM
Where: SEPTA Parking Lot, Lancaster Ave & Morris Avenue, Bryn Mawr, PA
Cost: Completely FREE
Parking: Free parking available at Aqua Pennsylvania and Bryn Mawr Hospital at 135 S. Bryn Mawr Avenue
Accessibility: Stroller-friendly event with portable restrooms on-site

The event welcomes families at any time during the five-hour celebration, with activities and entertainment staggered throughout the day to ensure fun whenever you arrive.

Save the Date for Community Connection

Don’t miss the Main Line’s premier free family festival—mark September 6th on your calendar for a day of community celebration that truly has something for everyone.

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Photos courtesy of Bryn Mawr Day.
Bryn Mawr Day supports the Main Line Parent Community. Collaborate with us.