Summer Nights: Adult Field Day & Sports Night
Saturday, July 25, 2026
6:00 - 9:00pm EST
Free admission for Eastern State members! Join now.
Baseball, boxing, bocce, and more— get up and moving with us and learn about the power of sports and recreation in fostering a sense of belonging throughout Eastern State Penitentiary's history and in prisons today.
- Mini Tour: Race, Baseball, & The Legend of Charles "Jack" Blackburn
Hear the fascinating story of a renowned boxing champion turned Eastern State Penitentiary baseball player.
- Baseball Pop-Up Talks & Home Run Hits
Step onto the penitentiary's historic baseball field where you'll learn more about the impact of baseball in prisons, past and present, from one of our Educators. Then, step up to the "plate" and see how far you can hit a wiffle ball toward Eastern State's tall perimeter wall.
- Bocce Court
Challenge your friends to a game of bocce on the penitentiary’s original bocce court. Learn how to play the ball-throwing, precision game that was popular with people incarcerated at Eastern State.
- Sports & Recreation Scavenger Hunt
Pick up a packet and complete this sports-themed scavenger hunt to receive an exclusive sticker prize!
About the Panelists:
We strive to make the penitentiary and our site, programs, and exhibits accessible to all visitors. Click here to learn more about accessibility and accommodations at ESPHS.
Saturday Evenings, June 20 – 27 and July 11 — Aug 1, 2026 from 6:00 - 9:00 pm (last entry at 8:00 pm).
This program is part of Summer Nights at Eastern State - With a different theme each week, Summer Nights provides a fun and meaningful night out—combining history, culture, and entertainment in a one-of-a-kind setting. Enjoy immersive experiences, interactive events, and exclusive behind-the-scenes access to one of Philadelphia’s most unique landmarks.
