Festivals, Exhibitions And Events In The Greater Philadelphia Region June 2015 Through May 2016rn
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The Calendar of Events is organized as follows:
June 2015
July 2015
August 2015
September 2015
October 2015
November 2015
December 2015
January 2016
February 2016
March 2016
April 2016
May 2016
Through June 6, 2015
FUTURE SENSATIONS. Philadelphia is one of four cities from around the world and the only U.S. city to host Saint-Gobain’s never-before-seen traveling exhibit. The high-concept, immersive experience features five distinct ephemeral pavilions at The Oval along the Ben Franklin Parkway. Science, storytelling and art highlight the innovations and advancements that have changed the world over the past few centuries and show off future innovations. (215) 422-4169, theovalphl.org, futuresensations.com
Through June 7, 2015
ANNUAL STUDENT EXHIBITION. The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, the country’s oldest and largest art museum and school, previews the works of third- and fourth-year art students during this 114th annual exhibition. (215) 972-7600, pafa.org
Through June 7, 2015
PHILLY BEER WEEK. The eighth annual celebration of the city’s vibrant beer culture features events ranging from tastings of locally crafted brews in cozy neighborhood taprooms to educational offerings like guided tastings and lectures or prix-fixe beer-pairing dinners. phillybeerweek.org
Through June 12, 2015
MEMPHIS. From the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, Tennessee is a rock ‘n roll musical at the Walnut Street Theatre that bursts off the stage with explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and love. Inspired by actual events, Memphis is about a radio DJ who wants to change the world and a club singer who is ready for her big break. (215) 574-3550, walnutstreettheatre.org
Through June 14, 2015
THE LION KING. Audiences will discover the amazing circle of life at Academy of Music during this spectacle of animals, pulsating rhythms of the African Pride Lands and an unforgettable score in this Tony Award®-winning Broadway sensation. (215) 893-1999, kimmelcenter.org
Through June 15, 2015
PENNSYLVANIA GERMAN FRAKTUR AND MANUSCRIPTS. The Free Library of Philadelphia hosts a robust collection of Fraktur, folk art produced by Pennsylvania Germans. The collection contains some 1,000 pieces, including music books, house blessings, bookmarks and birth and baptismal certificates, often decorated with tulips, hearts, stars, crowns, angels, unicorns, eagles and other figures. (215) 567-7710, freelibrary.org
Through June 28, 2015
DINOSAURS OF THE DEEP. The earliest and most enormous marine reptiles in history invade Adventure Aquarium with ancient fossils, life-size replicas and skeletons on display. Interactive exhibits such as “Touch a Living Dinosaur” bring the primeval experience to life. Guests can also come face-to-face with a 34-foot full-scale Liopleurodon, one of the ancient oceans’ most dangerous predators. adventureaquarium.com
Through June 30, 2015
MARIAN ON TOUR. This exhibit at The National Historical Marian Anderson Museum invites guests to experience the extensive music tour life of Marian Anderson with letters, sheet music, rare recordings and a photo collection that spans a 60-year period. (215) 732-9505, marianandersonhistoricalsociety.weebly.com
June 1-Septmeber 15, 2015
SPEAKING OUT FOR EQUALITY: THE CONSTITUTION, GAY RIGHTS, AND THE SUPREME COURT. In honor of the 50th anniversary of one of the nation’s first gay rights demonstrations, this exhibit at the National Constitution Center addresses the Reminder Day demonstrations outside of Independence Hall and explores the impact the demonstrations had on the gay rights movement. (215) 409-6700, constitutioncenter.org
June 5-14, 2015
CHARLIE PARKER’S YARDBIRD. Opera Philadelphia presents the world premiere at the Kimmel Center. The dramatic imagining of the tortured jazz soloist’s personal purgatory visits the inspirations, demons and women who fueled his creative genius. (215) 893-1018, operaphila.org
June 6-October 4, 2015
CLEARLY BEAUTIFUL: PHOTOGRAPHS BY ADAM SUMMERS. Photographer and biology teacher Adam Summers depicts the astounding results of clearing and staining—a method of studying animal anatomy—with images on display at The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org
June 14, 2015
ODUNDE FESTIVAL. The largest African-American street festival on the East Coast comes to South Street during this annual event that features cultural, historical and family-friendly events. (215) 732-8510, odundefestival.org
June 14, 2015
PRIDEDAY LGBT PARADE AND FESTIVAL. Celebrate gay pride with live music, food, drinks and the annual parade that marches on from 13th and Locust to Penn’s Landing. (215) 875-9288, phillypride.org
June 16, 2015
BLOOMSDAY. James Joyce fans spend the day outside The Rosenbach of the Free Library of Philadelphia to hear some of Philadelphia’s most interesting personalities read the author’s classic novel Ulysses during this open-air festival. (215) 732-1600, rosenbach.org
June 20-21, 2015
MANAYUNK ARTS FESTIVAL. Featuring nearly 300 artists from around the country, along with crafts, food and music, this two-day festival runs along bustling Main Street in Philadelphia’s Manayunk neighborhood. (215) 482-9565, manayunk.com
June 24-September 13, 2015
DISCOVERING THE IMPRESSIONISTS: PAUL DURAND-RUEL AND THE NEW PAINTING. Durand-Ruel’s role in the impressionism movement gets the spotlight at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The exhibition includes important works, historical photographs and documents by Durand-Ruel, as well as other influential artists such as Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Edgar Degas. (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.org
June 25-28 2015
TALL SHIPS® PHILADELPHIA CAMDEN. Tall ships from around the world come to both the Philadelphia and Camden waterfronts in collaboration with the Adventure Aquarium, Coopers Ferry, Delaware River Waterfront Corporation and Independence Seaport Museum. An exact replica of L’Hermione, the ship that helped win the Revolutionary War, leads the long-awaited weekend festival. (215) 413-8655, phillyseaport.org
June 27-July 4, 2015
WAWA WELCOME AMERICA! Celebrating the nation’s birthday, Wawa Welcome America! is a multi-day party with free events for all ages throughout the city—including concerts, a parade and fireworks. welcomeamerica.com
Through July 19, 2015
HORACE PIPPIN: THE WAY I SEE IT. More than 60 of the artist’s bold, colorful and candid paintings reflecting life in the African-American community are on display at the Brandywine River Museum of Art. (610) 388-2700, brandywine.org
Through July 2015
FRAMING FRAKTUR: A CONTEMPORARY RESPONSE. The Free Library of Philadelphia collaborates with contemporary visual artists to reinterpret and reframe the Fraktur collection through a contemporary lens. The exhibition features a group of artists with thematic ties to Fraktur. (215) 567-7710, freelibrary.org
July 1-October 31, 2015
NIGHTSCAPE: A LIGHT AND SOUND EXPERIENCE. This innovative display at Longwood Gardens takes guests on a colorful journey throughout the grounds as they experience moving imagery and lights timed to music. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
July 7-12, 2015
QFLIX PHILADELPHIA. This annual festival celebrates all genres of film that pertain to or were created by members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities. This year’s venues are clustered along and near the Avenue of the Arts: Kimmel Center, Prince Music Theater and University of the Arts. qflixphilly.com
July 10-12, 2015
BLOBFEST. This three-day extravaganza in Phoenixville is centered around the horror/sci-fi flick The Blob and includes screenings, themed competitions, a street fair and the recreation of the pivotal scene where hundreds of scared townspeople flee the Colonial Theatre. (610) 917-1228, thecolonialtheatre.com
July 11, 2015
BASTILLE DAY. The masses storm the castle on Eastern State Penitentiary as re-enactors and audience members playfully recreate the storming of the Bastille at the nation’s first “modern” prison. Emceed by “Edith Piaf,” Philly’s version of this historic event includes performances by experimental cabaret troupes, dancing baguettes, Napoleon, Joan of Arc and Marie Antoinette throwing more than 3,000 Tastykakes out to the assembled crowd. (215) 236-3300, easternstate.org
July 24-26, 2015
XPONENTIAL MUSIC FESTIVAL. WXPN, the public radio station of the University of Pennsylvania, brings together musical legends and new performers at Wiggins Park and the Susquehanna Bank Center on the Camden waterfront. xpn.org
July 30-August 2, 2015
BLACK STAR FILM FESTIVAL. Hailed by Ebony magazine as "the black Sundance," this festival screens dozens of films about the global black experience and films by people of African descent. (267) 603-2755, blackstarfest.org
Through August 3, 2015
MARK DION, JUDY PFAFF, FRED WILSON: THE ORDER OF THINGS. This show at the Barnes Foundation features three new large-scale installations by internationally renowned artists. Commissioned for the show, each work is a response to the unconventional way that Dr. Albert C. Barnes chose to display his collection. The exhibition also features an installation designed by Barnes—a small room in the Merion gallery building that was replaced by an elevator shaft in the 1990s. (215) 278-7000, barnesfoundation.org
Through August 23, 2015
INDIAN NATION: INDIAN MOTORCYCLES AND AMERICA. During this exhibition at the American Swedish Historical Museum, visitors can view vintage Indian motorcycles and engines—icons in the motorcycle world—and learn about the company’s Swedish-American co-founder. (215) 389-1776, americanswedish.org
Through August 30, 2015
ANIMAL GROSSOLOGY. Based on the bestselling children’s book series Grossology by Sylvia Branzei, this exhibition at The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University celebrates the slimiest and yuckiest creatures on earth with hands-on learning games and much more. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org
August 8-9, 2015
BUG FEST. Visitors celebrate insects galore at The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University during this annual weekend event. Guests talk with real scientists, examine hundreds of live bugs up close and even taste a few. Other activities include the Roach Race 500 and face painting. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org
August 14-16, 2015
PHILADELPHIA FOLK FESTIVAL. Philadelphia’s answer to Woodstock, the festival attracts musicians, storytellers and craftspeople for a weekend of song and merriment at Old Pool Farm in Schwenksville. folkfest.org
August 15, 2015
BAYADA REGATTA. The BAYADA Regatta is the nation’s oldest and largest all-adaptive rowing competition for athletes with physical disabilities. Sponsored by BAYADA Home Health Care, the event takes place at the St. Joseph’s University Boathouse on the banks of the Schuylkill River. bayada.com/regatta
Through September 6, 2015
THE ART OF THE BRICK. Art and science come together at The Franklin Institute during this special exhibition that features 70 toy sculptures made of LEGO bricks—including a 20-foot-long T.Rex dinosaur skeleton—created by Nathan Sawaya. (215) 448-1200, fi.edu
Through September 6, 2015
THE ROSE AND NATHAN RUBINSON COLLECTION BY WHARTON ESHERICK. This exhibition and sale at Moderne Gallery features furniture, sculptural objects and woodcuts from a collection named after Wharton Esherick’s close friends, The Rubinsons. Iconic pieces include Esherick’s The Music Stand, made for Rose Rubinson and displayed at the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair. (215) 923-8536, modernegallery.com
Through September 7, 2015
CREATING CAMELOT: THE KENNEDY PHOTOGRAPHY OF JACQUES LOWE. John F. Kennedy’s personal photographer, Jacques Lowe, documented the president’s rise to power and his time in the White House through vivid photography. The National Constitution Center displays these images, as well as scenes of the Kennedy family at home. (215) 409-6700, constitutioncenter.org
Through September 7, 2015 (Through October 12, 2015, weekends only)
GARDEN RAILWAY. The Morris Arboretum presents G-scale model trains running along a quarter-mile track that features seven loops and tunnels with 12 rail lines, two cable cars and nine bridges. (215) 247-5777, morrisarboretum.org
Through September 27, 2015
SHELLEY SPECTOR: KEEP THE HOME FIRES BURNING. The Philadelphia Museum of Art showcases works created from deconstructed and reassembled materials by Philadelphia-based artist Shelley Spector. The exhibit explores ways in which symbols, motifs and patterns are passed from person to person and transmitted universally. (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.org
Through September 2015
PECO MULTICULTURAL SERIES. Penn’s Landing celebrates the diverse cultures that make Philadelphia a distinct city through free events that include the Hispanic Fiesta, Islamic Heritage Festival, Irish Festival and Southeast Asian Dragon Boat Festival, among others. (215) 222-2FUN, delawareriverevents.com
September 9-October 4, 2015
ALL MY SONS. This Tony Award®-winning drama by Arthur Miller comes to the People’s Light & Theatre, telling the story of the Keller family’s loss, betrayal and secret romance. (610) 644-3500, peopleslight.org
September 3-19, 2015
FRINGE FESTIVAL. For two weeks of artistic pleasure, avant-garde performance meets street theater throughout the city. (215) 413-9006, livearts-fringe.org
September 8-October 25, 2015
HIGH SOCIETY. This classic musical—based on the film The Philadelphia Story starring Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly and Frank Sinatra—comes to the Walnut Street Theatre. Socialite Tracy Lord is in the middle of planning her wedding when her ex-husband and a tabloid reporter try to win her heart. Who will she wed? (215) 574-3550, walnutstreettheatre.org
September 12-13, 2015
MUSHROOM FESTIVAL. Kennett Square, the "Mushroom Capital of the World," puts the fun in fungi during a weekend of food, music, parades, contests and other activities that are all part of this 30th annual festival. (610) 925-3300, mushroomfestival.org
September 12-November 22, 2015
AUTUMN'S COLORS. This seasonal festival at Longwood Gardens features unusual gourds, a garden railway, dazzling chrysanthemums and live entertainment that converts the floral sanctuary into an autumnal wonderland. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
September 14-October 25, 2015
SCARECROW COMPETITION AND DISPLAY. Throughout Peddler's Village, 150 larger-than-life scarecrow creations are on display during this 36th annual event. (215) 794-4057, peddlersvillage.com
September 19-December 20, 2015
MULTITUDE, SOLITUDE: THE PHOTOGRAPHS OF DAVE HEATH. The Philadelphia Museum of Art features photographs by innovator Dave Heath, who sought new approaches, in this exhibition of black-and-white photography from the 1950s and 1960s. (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.com
September 19-20, 2015
SCARECROW FESTIVAL. Peddler's Village hosts a weekend complete with scarecrow-making workshops, pumpkin painting, live entertainment and pumpkin pie-eating contests. (215) 794-4057, peddlersvillage.com
September 22-27, 2015
WORLD MEETING OF FAMILIES. Approximately 100 speakers lead panel discussions and workshops at the Pennsylvania Convention Center for the Catholic Church’s World Meeting of Families, focused on the theme “Love Is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive.” Pope Francis will make his first visit to the United States to say a public mass during the event. worldmeeting2105.org
September 27, 2015
DOWNINGTOWN FALL FEST. Neighbors and visitors enjoy live music, a variety of food, craft vendors and the Victory Beer Garden with a festival presented by Victory Brewing Company that blocks off East Lancaster Avenue. (610) 269-1523, downingtownfallfest.com
September 28, 2015-January 10, 2016
REPTILES: THE BEAUTIFUL AND THE DEADLY. Deadly snakes, colorful lizards and bizarre turtles from around the world make appearances at The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org
September-November, 2015
TERROR BEHIND THE WALLS. Eastern State Penitentiary invites thrill-seekers to celebrate Halloween by visiting a spooky haunted house inside an abandoned prison. (215) 236-3300, easternstate.org
Through October 4, 2015
NORTHERN LIGHTS: SCANDINAVIAN DESIGN. This exhibit at the Philadelphia Museum of Art explores the mid-20th century, when an appreciation for Scandinavian design reached new heights. The show features works from designers such as Hans Wegner and Axel Salto, with 100 objects ranging from furniture to ceramics on display. (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.org
Through October 31, 2015
SECOND NATURE. This exhibit at the Philadelphia Zoo features larger-than-life animal sculptures made by world-renowned artists using recycled, reused and repurposed materials. Through stories of endangered animals, the magnificent works aim to remind visitors of the importance of preserving habitat. philadelphiazoo.org
October 3, 2015
PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL. More than 140 teams race fiberglass dragon boats, complete with heads and tails, on a 500-meter course on the Schuylkill River. The annual fall event draws thousands of participants and spectators. (610) 642-2333, philadragonboatfestival.com
October 3, 2015
MIDTOWN VILLAGE FALL FESTIVAL. The neighborhood block party to an ultra-fun level with music, food, sidewalk sales and other festivities. (215) 733-0191, midtownvillage.org
October 3-4 (east of Broad Street) and October 17-18 (west of Broad Street), 2015
16th ANNUAL PHILADELPHIA OPEN STUDIO TOURS. Art connoisseurs and novices visit local artists of all mediums in their studios, found in neighborhoods throughout the city. (215) 546-7775, philaopenstudios.org
October 7-16, 2015
DESIGNPHILADELPHIA. The largest and oldest festival of its kind in the nation with 120 events representing 400 nationally recognized designers is celebrated each fall, when venues all over town host exhibits, lectures, workshops and demonstrations that highlight architecture, fashion, furniture, multimedia and urban-planning design, designphiladelphia.org
October 9-November 8, 2015
DISGRACED. The Philadelphia Theatre Company brings this Pulitzer Prize-winning play to the Suzanne Roberts Theatre. The story: A successful couple lives in New York’s Upper East Side. When another couple of a very different background attends dinner in their home, racial and ethnic prejudices come to the forefront, creating explosive dinner conversation. (215) 985-0420, philadelphiatheatrecompany.org
October 11, 2015
OUTFEST. Part of the National Coming Out Day Festival, this event is the largest of its kind in the world. (215) 875-9288, phillypride.org
October 13, 2015
LIBERTY MEDAL. The National Constitution Center presents awards to individuals who strive to secure liberty for people all over the world, with recipients including men, women and organizations. (215) 409-6700, constitutioncenter.org/libertymedal
October 14-November 8, 2015
AUCTIONING THE AINSLEYS. This regional premiere at the People’s Light & Theatre follows the Ainsley family. When it comes to auctioning, they sell with ease—until it’s time to sell the auction house they call home. (610) 644-3500, peopleslight.org
October 14, 2015-March 27, 2016
THE DREAM OF WONDERLAND: ALICE TURNS 150. When Alice fell down the rabbit hole 150 years ago, the world rushed to follow her adventures in wonderland. The Rosenbach of the Free Library of Philadelphia celebrates the sesquicentennial of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland with a host of exhibitions and programs that explore the literary classic. (215) 732-1600, rosenbach.org
October 15-25, 2015
PHILADELPHIA FILM FESTIVAL. The 24th annual festival showcases the best in independent and foreign cinema in theaters and venues throughout Philadelphia. (267) 239-2941, filmadelphia.org
October 17-18, 2015
HARRY POTTER FESTIVAL FESTIVAL. The wizards of Hogwarts take over as Chestnut Hill transforms into a min-Hogsmeade with a costume parade, Horcruz hunt, Dumbledore’s Powers Maze, Potter Pub Crawl and more. (267) 239-2941, chestnuthillpa.com
October 24-25, 2015
HEAD OF THE SCHUYLKILL REGATTA. Rowers as well as landlubbers look forward to one of the nation’s largest and most festive rowing events featuring athletes of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to Olympic-level racers. (215) 280-0483, hosr.org
October 27, 2015-January 10, 2016
AUDUBON TO WARHOL: THE ART OF AMERICAN STILL LIFE. Featuring oil paintings and watercolors from the early 19th to the mid-20th centuries, this exhibit at the Philadelphia Museum of Art displays masterpieces drawn from private and public collections across the country. (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.com
October 27-November 1, 2015
BULLETS OVER BROADWAY. The Academy of Music brings to life the story of a young playwright who accepts an offer he can’t refuse from a mobster. It’s based on the film by Woody Allen. (215) 893-1999, academyofmusic.org
November 4-21, 2015
FIRST PERSON ARTS FESTIVAL. Taking place at various venues throughout the city, this annual event is the only one in the world dedicated exclusively to art based on personal experiences. The multidisciplinary festival features storytelling shows, memoir readings, film screenings, new works in performance, experiential tours, workshops and more. (267) 402-2055, firstpersonarts.org
November 7-8, 2015
APPLE FESTIVAL. The 41st annual Apple Festival at Peddler’s Village honors the classic fruit with old-fashioned country apple butter, apple cider, apple dumplings, apple fritters, caramel-dipped apples and pie-eating contests. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
November 10, 2015-January 10, 2016
A CHRISTMAS STORY, THE MUSICAL. After two sold-out seasons on Broadway, this classic holiday movie from 1983 comes to the Walnut Street Theatre stage. The show incorporates heartfelt songs and plenty of humor as audiences follow Ralphie through all of the obstacles that stand between him and his Christmas dream. (215) 574-3550, walnutstreettheatre.com
November 12-15, 2015
PHILADELPHIA MUSEUM OF ART CRAFT SHOW. Handmade textiles, jewelry and housewares from nearly 200 of the best craft artists in the U.S. are on view and for sale at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. (215) 684-7930, pmacraftshow.org
November 17-29, 2015
MATILDA THE MUSICAL. Based on the novel by Roald Dahl, this Tony Award®-winning musical comes to the Academy of Music. A little girl has an extraordinary mind and imagination and uses these traits to overcome obstacles with her family and school. (215) 893-1999, academyofmusic.org
November 18, 2015-January 10, 2016
THE THREE MUSKETEERS (THE LATER YEARS). This musical adventure comes to the People’s Light & Theatre. It stars Athos, Porthos, Artemis and a chicken hunt for justice against the evil Lord Mazorotti. (610) 644-3500, peopleslight.org
November 20-22, 2015
GORE-TEX PHILADELPHIA MARATHON. With a fast course that winds through the city’s historic downtown, past the stunning Philadelphia Museum of Art and along scenic Boathouse Row, this marathon has been one of the country’s premier running events since 1994. The weekend also includes an 8K race, half-marathon, a Kids Fun Run and the Health & Fitness Expo. (215) 683-2122, philadelphiamarathon.com
November 26, 2015
THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE. Channel 6abc and IKEA sponsor Philadelphia’s annual Thanksgiving Day Parade down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. (215) 581-4507, wpvi.com
November 2015 (TBD)
A LONGWOOD GARDENS CHRISTMAS. Thousands of poinsettias, towering Christmas trees and fragrant flowers transform Longwood Gardens’ indoor gardens, where concerts take place daily. Outside, 500,000 lights glitter in the trees, and fountains dance to seasonal music. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org
November 27-December 27, 2015
KEN LUDWIG’S BASKERVILLE: A SHERLOCK HOLMES MYSTERY. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson must discover the mystery of “The Hound of the Baskervilles” at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre before the newest heir is doomed. (215) 985-0420, philadelphiatheatrecompany.org
December 12, 2015
ARMY-NAVY GAME. America’s favorite college football rivalry returns to Philadelphia, marking the city’s 86th year as host. The Army-Navy Game goes down at Lincoln Financial Field. Will the Navy Midshipmen continue their 13-year winning streak, or will the Black Knights emerge victorious? armynavygame.com
December 2015 (TBD)
THE NUTCRACKER. Pennsylvania Ballet’s 52nd anniversary season features its annual performance of George Balanchine’s holiday classic at the Academy of Music. (215) 893-1999, paballet.org
January 1, 2016
MUMMERS PARADE. Thousands of decorative strutters kick off the New Year by marching along Broad Street in this festive day-long event. One of the five Mummers divisions, the Fancy Brigades, put on two elaborate Broadway-style performances for ticket holders at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. phillymummers.com
January 19-March 6, 2016
HARVEY. This Pulitzer Prize-winning Broadway and Hollywood comedy comes to the Walnut Street Theatre. It’s a laugh-out-loud comedy about Elwood P. Dowd and his invisible rabbit, Harvey. When Elwood’s sister takes him to a sanatorium, the doctor mistakenly commits Elwood’s sister as a patient. Elwood and Harvey slip out of the hospital and go into town, creating chaos and confusion for everyone. (215) 574-3550, walnutstreettheatre.com
January 29-February 28, 2016
EXIT STRATEGY. At the Suzanne Roberts Theatre, the Philadelphia Theatre Company presents a thrilling play about a public school in Chicago targeted for closure as faculty and students fight to keep it open. (215) 985-0420, philadelphiatheatrecompany.org
January 2016 (TBD)
PHILADELPHIA AUTO SHOW. The Pennsylvania Convention Center transforms into a car lover’s dream, with 700 pre-production, hot-production, classic and green vehicles from a range of manufacturers. phillyautoshow.com
February 10-March 20, 2016
SENSE AND SENSIBILITY. The regional premiere of this timeless tale by Jane Austen comes to People’s Light & Theatre. After the death of their father, the Dashwood sisters become penniless. Even though they have very different perspectives on life and love, they keep each other in line and support each other through everything. (610) 644-3500, peopleslight.org
February 13-November 27, 2016
THE GOLDEN AGE OF KING MIDAS. This exclusive world premiere exhibition at The Penn Museum features rare art and artifacts excavated from King Midas’ ancient city of Gordion, including items found in his father’s tomb. (215) 898-4000, pennmuseum.org
February 23-28, 2016
PIPPIN. From the composer of Wicked comes this Tony Award®-winning musical at the Academy of Music. It features acrobatics, magical feats and unforgettable songs. (215) 893-1999, academyofmusic.org
February 24-May 15, 2016
INTERNATIONAL POP. This exhibit at the Philadelphia Museum of Art chronicles a global phenomenon that generated distinct artistic forms due to the growing cultural, political and social landscapes of the 1950s and up to the early 1970s. This exhibit features 122 works from 20 artists that include paintings, sculptures and films. (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.com
March 5-13, 2016
PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW. The Pennsylvania Convention Center is the site of the oldest and largest indoor show of its kind. The annual gardening celebration features top-of-the-line horticulture and landscape design, entertainment and more than 150 vendors. (215) 988-8800, theflowershow.com
March 15, 2016-May 1, 2016
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER. Based on a 2006 novel that serves as a prequel to Peter Pan, this Tony Award®-winning play comes to the Walnut Street Theatre. Audiences go on an adventure through Neverland as Molly and an orphan seek to find out how a boy named Peter became the boy who never grew up. (215) 574-3550, walnutstreettheatre.org
March 15-20, 2016
THE SOUND OF MUSIC. Rodger & Hammerstein’s beloved spirited and romantic musical comes to the Academy of Music. The award-winning story of Maria and the von Trapp family leaves audiences singing and toe-tapping. (215) 893-1999, academyofmusic.org
March 16-April 24, 2016
RICHARD III. Based on the historical play by William Shakespeare, the People’s Light & Theatre chronicles England’s Richard III’s rise to power and his subsequent reign. (610) 644-3500, peopleslight.org
March 22-April 3, 2016
BEAUTIFUL—THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL. This lively musical at the Academy of Music chronicles Carole King’s break in to the record business as a teenager, as well as her tumultuous personal life that led to finding her true voice. (215) 893-1999, academyofmusic.org
April 8-May 8, 2016
SEX WITH STRANGERS. This smart and funny play at the Philadelphia Theatre Company is about two people meeting by chance when they are trapped overnight in a remote bed and breakfast during a snowstorm. (215) 985-0420, philadelphiatheatrecompany.org
April 28-30, 2016
THE PENN RELAYS. For the 121st year, high school, college and even professional track stars compete at Franklin Field during the oldest collegiate meet in the nation. With an average of one race every five minutes over 33 hours of competition, it’s the most action-packed too. (215) 898-6145, thepennrelays.com
April 2016 (TBD)
THE PHILADELPHIA INVITATIONAL FURNITURE SHOW. Held at the 23rd Street Armory, this nationally acclaimed show is the finest exhibition of one-of-a-kind home furnishings that run the gamut from innovative contemporary designs to adaptations of classical stylings. (215) 387-8590, philaifs.com
April 2016 (TBD)
FAIRMOUNT ARTS CRAWL. The bars, restaurants and shops in the Fairmount neighborhood turn into galleries. More than 30 businesses host more than 70 exhibits, in addition to live music, dancing, kids’ activities and live demonstrations. fairmountcdc.org
April 2016 (TBD)
PHILADELPHIA SCIENCE FESTIVAL. With hands-on events for kids, sophisticated activities for adults and a carnival that takes place along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Philadelphia Science Festival takes science out of the lab and demonstrates the role it plays in everyday life. (215) 448-1200, philasciencefestival.org
April 2016 (TBD)
PHILADELPHIA ANTIQUES SHOW. Held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, this show features more than 50 exhibitors showcasing decorative art from Colonial through mid-century times with a variety of styles, antique silver, jewelry, books and prints. thephiladelphiaantiquesshow.org
May 2016
May 2016 (TBD)
RITTENHOUSE ROW SPRING FESTIVAL. Shopping and dining venues in the Rittenhouse neighborhood come together for a public street fest for a day of music, outdoor shopping, fashion events, international entertainment and food from some of the city’s most renowned restaurants. rittenhouserow.org
May 2016 (TBD)
CELEBRATION OF BLACK WRITING. One of the oldest African-American literary events in the nation comes to Philadelphia each year and includes conferences and performing and literary arts with acclaimed journalists, writers, singers and performing artists from across the United States. (215) 232-4485, artsanctuary.org
May 2016 (TBD)
STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL. Strawberries of all sorts, live entertainment and pie-eating contests are just a couple of the festivities at this free annual event at Peddler’s Village. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com
May 2016 (TBD)
BROAD STREET RUN. The 36th annual run, which raises money for the American Cancer Society, spans 10 miles from Olney to South Philadelphia. (215) 683-3594, broadstreetrun.com
May 2016 (TBD)
PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL. Musicians, dancers, actors, jugglers, puppeteers and acrobats delight young audiences at the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts during this 32nd annual event (see link here: http://www.upenn.edu/pennnews/current/2013-05-02/latest-news/fun-all-international-children%E2%80%99s-festival). (215) 898-3900, annenbergcenter.org
May 2016 (TBD)
ABERDEEN DAD VAIL REGATTA. The largest collegiate regatta in the world takes place on the Schuylkill River and attracts more than 3,000 competitors from 125 colleges across the country and Canada. (215) 542 -1443, dadvail.org
May 2016 (TBD)
NEW HOPE CELEBRATES PRIDE. This annual New Hope, Bucks County event includes the Pride Parade, athletic events, performances, a dance and more. (215) 431-6674, newhopecelebrates.com
May 2016 (TBD)
ANNUAL STUDENT EXHIBITION. The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, the country’s oldest and largest art museum and school, previews the works of third- and fourth-year art students during this 115th annual exhibition. (215) 972-7600, pafa.org
May 2016 (TBD)
SOUTH 9TH STREET ITALIAN MARKET FESTIVAL. This annual festival features live entertainment, games and food, plus the Italian Market’s dazzling array of homemade sausages, delicious cannolis, imported meats and cheeses, luscious cappuccino, butcher-cut beef and poultry, specialty cookware and fresh pastas. (215) 545-4543, italianmarketfestival.com
May 2016 (TBD)
TRENTON AVENUE ARTS FESTIVAL. During the annual festival, people who stroll along the Kensington/Fishtown neighborhood street find an incredible mix of local artists, musicians and food. The same day, the Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby celebrates human-powered transit by pitting mobile sculptures against one another along a three-mile urban obstacle course. trentonaveartsfest.org
May 2016 (TBD)
DEVON HORSE SHOW AND COUNTRY FAIR. The country’s oldest and largest event of its kind features hunters, jumpers, Saddlebreds, four-in-hand coaching, exhibitions and an old-fashioned fair at the Devon Show Grounds. (610) 964-0550, devonhorseshow.net
May 2016 (TBD)
BRANDYWINE RIVER MUSEUM ANTIQUES SHOW. Outstanding furniture, glass, metalware, ceramics, folk art, quilts and other fine antiques from across the nation are featured at the Brandywine River Museum. (610) 388-2700, brandywinemuseum.org
May 2016 (TBD)
GARDEN RAILWAY. The Morris Arboretum presents G-scale model trains running along a quarter-mile track that features seven loops and tunnels with 12 rail lines, two cable cars and nine bridges. (215) 247-5777, morrisarboretum.org
May 2016 (TBD)
ROOTS PICNIC. Philly’s own Grammy®-winning hip-hop band The Roots bring together artists from various genres for a daylong concert at the Festival Pier at Penn’s Landing. (215) 928-8801, delawareriverevents.com
May 2016 (TBD)
PHILLY BEER WEEK. The eighth annual celebration of the city’s vibrant beer culture features events ranging from tastings of locally crafted brews in cozy neighborhood taprooms to educational offerings like guided tastings and lectures or prix-fixe beer-pairing dinners. phillybeerweek.org
May 2016 (TBD)
PECO MULTICULTURAL SERIES. Penn’s Landing celebrates the diverse cultures that make Philadelphia a distinct city through free events that include the Hispanic Fiesta, Islamic Heritage Festival, Irish Festival and Southeast Asian Dragon Boat Festival, among others. (215) 222-2FUN, delawareriverevents.com
May 17, 2016-July 17, 2016
SISTER ACT. The 1990s hit movie starring Whoopi Goldberg comes to the stage at the Walnut Street Theatre with original music by eight-time Oscar® winner Alan Menken (Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Newsies). Lounge singer Deloris winds up spending time in a convent, finding lifelong friends and helping them find their voices. (215) 574-3550, walnutstreettheatre.org
May 27-June 26, 2016
HILARY AND CLINTON. The Philadelphia Theatre Company presents a provocative story about gender, power and possibilities in an alternate universe where a woman named Hilary tries to become president. (215) 985-0420, philadelphiatheatrecompany.org
VISIT PHILADELPHIA® makes Philadelphia and The Countryside® a premier destination through marketing and image building that increases the number of visitors, the number of nights they stay and the number of things they do in the five-county area.
On Greater Philadelphia’s official visitor website and blog, visitphilly.com and uwishunu.com, visitors can explore things to do, upcoming events, themed itineraries and hotel packages. Compelling photography and videos, interactive maps and detailed visitor information make the sites effective trip-planning tools. Along with Visit Philly social media channels, the online platforms communicate directly with consumers. Travelers can also call and stop into the Independence Visitor Center for additional information and tickets.