Input Sought For Future Of LOVE Park's Saucer

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia's Parks and Recreation is looking to get some input on the future of LOVE Park's Welcome Center, AKA the Saucer.

Businesses — particularly those in food, beverage, retail or hospitality — that are passionate about the city and grounded in community values are invited to help bring back life to the Saucer in an effort to make it an active and welcoming civic space.

The department released a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) for the Saucer. This is an open call for bold ideas and concepts.

The city is looking to hear from restaurateurs, cultural curators, nonprofit leaders, and entrepreneurs with innovative, locally inspired visions for how the Saucer could serve the public in fresh and meaningful ways.

The City is especially interested in concepts that celebrate Philadelphia pride and showcase local talent; serve both residents and visitors; offer flexible, community centered use; and reflect the spirit of the 2026 semi-quincentennial.

To submit a proposal, email a PDF by 5 p.m. June 6 to katie.burns@phila.gov with the subject line: Saucer RFEI Submission – [Your Business Name].

The Saucer is a mid-century modern icon that has drawn interest from Philadelphians for years.

Now, with the 250th anniversary of the United States on the horizon in 2026, the city is inviting ideas that will transform the space into a destination that reflects the spirit of Philadelphia.

"LOVE Park is one of Philadelphia’s most treasured civic spaces, and the Saucer sits at its center," Susan Slawson, Commissioner of the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department, said. "We are looking for a partner who shares our vision of a welcoming and joyful place that reflects Philadelphia, its neighborhoods, its culture and its people."

The Saucer was renovated in 2021 to improve accessibility and infrastructure, but interior fit out is still needed. Feedback from this REFI will help inform a more detailed Request for Proposals (RFP) later this summer.

"This is a chance to think creatively and collectively about how this space can serve Philadelphia now and in the future," Katie Burns Kays, Business Development Manager of the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department, said. "We want to hear from food vendors, artists, entrepreneurs and anyone with a strong idea for how the Saucer can become a gathering place once again."