From City of Reading
On Friday, June 5, the day will begin with the Annual World War II Mid-Day Parade, presented by downtown Reading and the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum, and continue into the evening with the return of the First Friday Block Parties on the 600 block of Penn Street.
Annual World War II Mid-Day Parade
Downtown Reading, in partnership with the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum, proudly presents the Annual World War II Mid-Day Parade on Friday, June 5, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., on the 500 block of Penn St., Reading.
This beloved tradition serves as the official kick-off to the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum’s 35th annual World War II Weekend, taking place June 5-7 at Reading Regional Airport.
The parade will transform Penn Street into a living history experience featuring historic military vehicles, World War II reenactors, and live music by the Snack Club Quartet.
Highlights:
- Reenactors in authentic period uniforms and Historic World War II military vehicles.
- Live performance by the Snack Club Quartet.
- Remarks from local officials and Mid-Atlantic Air Museum leadership.
- Food available for sale from local businesses and the Agave Food Truck.
- Free attendee parking at 4th & Cherry Garage (29 S. 4th St.).
Bring the whole family to downtown Reading and experience the sights and sounds of a defining era in world history.
Following the parade, attendees can continue the excitement with a special showing of Blue Angels in the newly renovated IMAX auditorium at Reading Movies 11 & IMAX. Tickets are $1.00 and are available online (service fee applies) and at the theatre box office (no service fee).
First Friday Block Party
First Friday Block Parties are back and kick off on Friday, June 5, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., on the 600 block of Penn Street in downtown Reading. The event will feature live music, local businesses and community vendors, and activities for all ages.
Free parking will be available at the 4th & Cherry Garage (29 S. 4th St.).
Entertainment: Live performance by Orquesta Tropikal starting at 6:30 p.m., with music by DJ Henry Houdini throughout the evening.
Participating local businesses and community vendors: AT&T, LRC Crochet, Dee’s Fashions, Que Rico Dance Company, Little Dreamer’s Shop & More, Nemesis Fitness, Golden Home Healthcare, Reading Area Water Authority, and Goggleworks Center for the Arts.
Food and drinks: Agave Mexican Food Truck, Xoloitzcuintle Mexican Restaurant, Pulse Café, Sugary Jayy, and Yireh’s Cakes.
We are getting into the World Cup spirit with street soccer led by Reading High School Soccer Coach Gina Cardenas. Street soccer is fast-paced soccer played in tight spaces like streets, courts, or pop-up fields. With fewer players and limited space, it puts a spotlight on quick thinking, close control, and creativity. This type of play builds confidence, sharpens technique, and encourages an instinctive style of play that has shaped many of the world’s best players.
For those who don’t want to break a sweat, we will also have foosball tables as a low-impact option.
In addition, Christina and the Que Rico Latin Dance team will be on hand with Latin dance lessons, and the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts will host an art activity. Games such as cornhole, jumbo Jenga, and Connect Four will also be available, as well as chalk and coloring stations for all to enjoy.
Come and hang out with us for a relaxing evening of fun, food, art, and community for all ages in downtown Reading.





