We’ve all been there: that one song that’s cute at first but then your child insists on it being played over and over again. Ready to introduce them to something new — and expose them to the joy of a live band? There are plenty of places around Philadelphia where you can hear kids’ music live, from classical concerts to rock’n’roll.

World Cafe Live

This University City venue offers up Peanut Butter and Jams shows pretty often — be sure to check their schedule! Upcoming events include Ants on a Log on April 8 and a special Easter celebration with the Rainbow Rock Band April 15. 

Ardmore Music Hall

The Ardmore Music Hall is home to performers for adults and children. Their Family Jams are a family favorite for the area! 

The Keswick Theatre

For a children’s show you won’t soon forget, get tickets to see Raffi with 40 years of memorable songs, performing two shows in the afternoon May 6. The theater hosts concerts and plays aimed at kids frequently, so keep an eye on the schedule.

The Philadelphia Orchestra Family Concerts

Introduce your children to the orchestra with hourlong afternoon concerts at the Kimmel Center’s Verizon Hall. Enhance your child’s experience with pre-concert adventures starting at 10 am before each show. Your next opportunity is April 22, with a performance of Saint-Saens’ Carnival of the Animals.

The Kidchella Music Festival at Smith Playground

This annual event takes place three times over the summer (June 16, July 21, and August 18) with family-friendly concerts in the playground featuring nationally acclaimed children’s performers. Bring a picnic or purchase food from the trucks on hand. These events require tickets, which are half-priced for playground members.

The Mann Center’s Young People’s Concert Series

The venue’s annual free concert series picks up this year in July with Rock-ology from the Rock School for Dance Education. On August 1, the Step Afrika dance company will perform.

Philadelphia Children’s Festival

From May 18 to 20, see featured music, dance, theatre and circus performances. Visit the Annenberg Center’s website for tickets, shows and performance locations. The festival’s PlazaMania includes free outdoor performances during the morning and afternoon of each day of the festival.

Naturepalooza at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education

On April 22 (Earth Day!), this annual family festival takes place with activities, food trucks, hikes, crafts, music and more.

Photograph of World Cafe Live by Gwyneth K. Shaw.