Through immersive installations and an interactive city-wide map, the exhibit invites festival goers to experience landscape architecture projects around Philly that highlight the transformative power of inclusive design.
DesignPhiladelphia Awards
For too long, design organizations have felt like elite clubs that only celebrate designers from “high brow” pedigrees. So we created a program to celebrate design excellence that is truly by and for everyone.
Launching this year, the
DesignPhiladelphia Awards will honor great design across a wide breadth of talent, from emerging professionals to well established firms. With awards in eleven categories open to ALL design disciplines, we’re changing the way that Philly talks about impactful work in our city.
On October 3rd, join us for a night of connection and inspiration as we recognize the designers who are shaping the city’s future from the ground up. And if you haven’t
nominated someone (or yourself!) yet, be sure to get that in by July 31.
KidsFest at Sister Cities Park
KidsFest returns on October 4th as a hands-on celebration of creativity for children and families. Through design stations, collaborative art, and playful workshops, KidsFest nurtures curiosity and introduces young minds to the joy and possibility of design.
It’s also a space for families and educators to connect around programming designed to inspire both fun and future career opportunities.
DesignTech Student Summit
The DesignTech Student Summit empowers Philadelphia high school students with creative skills that translate into real-world opportunity. Through hands-on workshops—ranging from digital tools to fashion and architecture—students gain exposure to the design field, build confidence, and connect with mentors who reflect the diversity of our city.
This is where future innovators find their spark.
NEXT NOW DESIGN: A Symposium
Next Now Design is our signature summit for forward-thinking professionals shaping the future of design, business, and the built environment. This half-day symposium gathers cutting-edge voices to discuss the forces—social, economic, and technological—reshaping how we live, work, and create.
Two standout themes anchor this year’s symposium:
- Made in America: The Renaissance of Craft, Design & Manufacturing
- Domestic design is experiencing a bold revival and Philadelphia is at the center. This panel explores how local makers are blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to produce work that’s both globally relevant and deeply rooted in place. From Amuneal’s architectural metalwork to Tyler Hays’ BDDW studios, this conversation illustrates how intentional design and regional manufacturing are revitalizing industry and identity.
- The Great Migration: Can Philly Become the Next Creative Capital?
- As artists and entrepreneurs seek alternatives to overpriced coastal cities, Philadelphia is emerging as a destination for creative talent. But how do we keep them here? This session unpacks the infrastructure—affordable space, inclusive policies, and cultural momentum—needed to transform Philly into a long-term hub for design, innovation, and creative entrepreneurship.
Together, these conversations challenge attendees to think bigger—and more locally—about how design can spark equitable, sustainable growth.
DesignPhiladelphia Festival 2025 is more than your average community fest. It’s a call to action and a celebration of the people and ideas shaping the future of our city. Whether you're a student, a sponsor, or a seasoned designer, there's a place for you here. We can’t wait to see you soon.
