Candis R. McLean
Each weekend, we will post some of the most unique social and cultural places to visit in addition to exciting events in and around the Philly area. We call it Philly Influencer’s Weekend Picks. If you attend any of these places or events, let us know how it went! Tweet us or email us at [email protected].
1. Closing Soon: 30 Americans
(Nick Cave, “Soundsuit” // Photo by Candis R. McLean)Where: Barnes Foundation | 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy
When: Runs through Sunday, January 12
This is the last weekend to see the truly remarkable 30 Americans exhibit at the Barnes Foundation. The stellar cultural and artistic showcase displays the work of “30 important and influential contemporary African American artists.” Don’t miss your chance to see these tremendous pieces illustrating the complexities of identity, race, sexuality, class, and more.
For more information, click here
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2. Closing Soon: Notorious RBG
Where: National Museum of American Jewish History | 101 S Independence Mall E
When: Runs through Sunday, January 12
The National Museum of American Jewish History significant exhibit, Notorious RBG, closes this Sunday. It’s the first-ever museum retrospective navigating the life of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The visually-immersive exhibit traces her career-defining moments and more.
For more information, click here
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3. Closing Soon: Philly Loves Bowie Week
(Morgan Peterson // “Ziggy Stardust Modern Day Fabergé” // Photo By Candis R. McLean)Where: Various locations
When: Runs through Sunday, January 12
Philly Loves Bowie Week continues to ignite the city. The National Liberty Museum‘s We Can Be Heroes exhibit is one of the must-see attractions in Philadelphia. The artistic showcase explores the influence that David Bowie and his music had – and continues to have – on contemporary art. There will be a Bowie masquerade ball at Ruba Club this Friday. Last year during #PhillyLovesBowie, the Philly debut of Me & Mr. Jones: My Intimate Relationship with David Bowie sold out to amazing reviews! This year, Me & Mr. Jones: My Intimate Relationship With David Bowie will be featured for two amazing shows. The 90-minute cabaret exploring Raquel Cion’
For more information, click here
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4. Philly Home Show
Where: Pennsylvania Convention Center | 1101 Arch St
When: Friday, January 10- Sunday, January 12 and Friday, January 17- Sunday, January 19
This is the 39th year, the Philly Home Show is taking things to a new level. The massive event features more than 300 service professionals and exhibitors. Don’t miss your chance to obtain advice from favorite TV home show experts and learn new project skills in hands-on workshops. Jeff Devlin of Stone House Revival and other DIY shows will be in attendance on Saturday. Enjoy the make-and-take workshops and other new highlights his year.
For more information, click here
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5. Greater Philadelphia Pet Expo
Where: Greater Philadelphia Expo Center | 100 Station Ave | Oaks, PA
When: Runs through Sunday, January 12
The 2020 Greater Philadelphia Pet Expo is gonna be in the area all weekend long. There will be pet-centric vendors, suppliers, demonstrators, workshops, and more. This pet-lovers dream offers up a great day for your entire family, including your most beloved treasure. Bring your pet out for some fun and games.
For more information, click here
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6. Ambler Restaurant Week
Where: Various locations
When: Runs through Monday, January 13
Ambler Restaurant Week will be running through this Monday, January 13. Over a dozen restaurants will be serving up lunch and dinner deals on Main Street. There are several BYOB, cafes, fine dining, international cuisine, and other options participating.
For more information, click here
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7. Warriors vs. Wings
Where: Wells Fargo Center | 3601 S. Broad St
When: Friday, January 10 | 7 p.m.
The Philadelphia Wings will be taking on the Vancouver Warriors this Saturday afternoon at the Wells Fargo Center. This is the first home game for the 2-1 franchise. Come out to and see this early season tilt and take in all of the NLL action.
For more information, click here
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8. Hamlet at the Independence Seaport Museum
Where: Independence Seaport Museum | 211 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
When: Runs through Sunday, January 19
The Independence Seaport Museum will be putting on a production of Hamlet through Sunday, January 19. Hamlet will be FREE and with the elaborate views that the museum provides, you’ll feel the essence of the play in a whole new way.
For more information, click here
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9. Thurgood
Where: Walnut Street Theatre | 825 Walnut St
When: Runs through Sunday, February 9
The Walnut Street Theatre brings the life of Thurgood Marshall to centerstage. Thurgood tells the story of the civil rights activist, lawyer, and first African American Supreme Court Justice. The New York Daily News called production, “Rich in history, humanity and humor.”
For more information, click here
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10. DRUMline Live
Where: Merriam Theater | 250 S. Broad St
When: Runs through Saturday, January 11
One band! One sound! DRUMline Live is coming to the city of Philadelphia this weekend. This one-of-a-kind marching band experience will be taking over the Merriam Theater with thunderous vibrations and precision. Bring your whole family out to this immersion into the sights and sounds of halftime shows at HBCUs in this country.
For more information, click here
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11. The Band’s Visit
Where: Academy of Music | 240 S. Broad St
When: Runs through Sunday, January 19
Another musical and theatrical production taking over the city this weekend is The Band’s Visit. The smash Broadway hit has been the recipient of ten Tony Awards. It’s also a Grammy Award winner for Best Musical Theater Album. Come to the Academy of Music to be wowed by the story of offbeat musicians in a small town.
For more information, click here
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12. Four Rhapsodies – Gershwin & Enescu
Where: Kimmel Center | 300 S. Broad St
When: Friday, January 10 | 8 p.m.
Lovers of classical music, head over to the Perelman Theater inside the Kimmel Center to hear the works of George Gershwin and George Enescu. Internationally renowned pianist Peter Donohoe will be showing off his exemplary musicianship during this performance.
For more information, click here
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13. Young Professionals Night: Power Patterns
Where: Barnes Foundation | 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy
When: Friday, January 10 | 7 – 10 p.m.
Head over to the Barnes Foundation this Friday night for a Young Professionals Night soiree. Come dressed to impress at this fabulous party event that features plenty of networking, live music, and entertainment for all young art lovers in the city. The theme for the night is inspired by the museum’s special exhibit, 30 Americans.
For more information, click here
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14. Friday Night at the Museum
Where: Philadelphia Museum of Art | 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy
When: Friday, January 10 | 7 – 10 p.m.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art holds a special happy hour series each Friday. The gathering uniquely blends arts and music in this special clash of culture. Each week there’s small bites, beverages, cocktails, special gallery access, and live music. This week features Boston folk act Honeysuckle.
For more information, click here
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15. Punch Line Philly
Where: Punch Line Philly | 33 E. Laurel St
When: Runs through Sunday, January 12
Each week Punch Line Philly delivers great stand-up shows and crowd-pleasing events. This week actor and entertainer Patrick Warburton will be doing a three-show stint at the venue. The uber-popular Drag Diva Brunch: Queen of Thrones is back on Saturday. Sunday features a Just Mike The Poet Word Play event.
For more information, click here
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16. Good Good Comedy Theatre Weekend
Where: Good Good Comedy Theatre | 215 N. 11th St
When: Runs through Sunday, January 12
The Good Good Comedy Theatre will be filled with laughter as well this weekend with several hilarious shows. Friday night includes stand-up comedian and two-time Emmy-nominated SNL writer, Sam Jay. Come back Saturday night for NYC-based comedian, artist, and writer, Lorelei Ramirez. Ramirez is featured on HBO’s Los Espookys and her TV credits include Broad City, HBO’s Random Acts of Flyness, and more.
For more information, click here
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17. Daybreaker at One Liberty Observation Deck
(DayBreaker PHL // Photo by Max Grudzinski)Where: One Liberty Observation Deck | 1650 Market Street | 57th floor
When: Saturday, January 11 | 6-9 a.m.
The 57th floor of One Liberty Observation Deck will be buzzing this weekend for DayBreaker PHL, a morning of yoga and dancing, special live performances and a time to celebrate fresh starts. Soak in glittering views of the sparkling Philly skyline and refresh with a collective yoga flow led by Mariel Freeman, a recognized leader in the Philadelphia yoga scene. From 7 to 9 a.m. welcome the sunrise by grooving to the tunes of a member of the world-renowned DJ group FDVM, as he takes over the Observation Deck for a family-friendly dance party. So come as a clean slate (wear all white everything), bring your most spectacular glasses, and get ready to pop the kombucha. It’s our future—let’s soar to beautiful new heights. Free Kombucha, Daytrip CBD sparkling water, Brooklyn Brewery’s new non-alcoholic beers, and tasty treats. Remember to bring your own yoga mat and use the promotional code “FROMTHETOP” for 10% off your ticket purchase!
For more information, click here
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18. 2nd Saturdays at Penn Museum
Where: Penn Museum | 3260 South St
When: Saturday, January 11 | 11 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
This fun and captivating museum event bring out tons of families every time. This weekend, Penn Museum will be hosting second Saturday celebrations. There will be hands-on games, crafts, and several family-friendly activities.
For more information, click here
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19. Free Vegan Cooking Demonstration at Reading Terminal Market
Where: Reading Terminal Market | 51 N. 12th St
When: Saturday, January 11 | 11:30 a.m – 12:30 p.m.
Each Saturday, the Reading Terminal Market Taste of Philadelphia Tours and cooking demonstrations. This Saturday morning, there will be an hour-long vegan cooking demonstration at the historic and culinary hotspot. Come get an in-depth look and taste some fantastic dishes.
For more information, click here
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20. Collective Voices at The Clay Studio
(The Clay Studio)Where: The Clay Studio | 139 N. 2nd St
When: Saturday, January 11 – Sunday, March 1
Collective Voices celebrates the creativity of the Associate Artists at The Clay Studio. These artists approach ceramic art from a wide range of experiences and perspectives. The variety within the program brings unique richness and inspiration to the artists and their work. The Clay Studio’s Associate Artist Program is a communal studio shared by 33 individuals on a non-juried basis. The program supports the artistic, technical, and skill development of these individuals. Our Community is a biannual show that brings together the entire Clay Studio Community, representing the creative expression of individuals involved with the organization as employees, faculty, Resident Artists, Associate Artists, Work Exchange Artists, Students, and all Members.
For more information, click here
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21. Ardmore Winter Beer Festival
Where: The Ardmore Music Hall | 23 E. Lancaster Avenue | Ardmore, PA
When: Saturday, January 11 | 12:30 p.m.
This Saturday is the 2020 Ardmore Winter Beer Festival. There will be over 50 craft samples from Yards, Goose Island, Terrapin, and more. There will also be plenty of food vendors, live music, and more. If you’re looking for a great time in orbit of the city, this event is for you.
For more information, click here
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22. AAMP Weekend
Where: Various locations
When: Saturday, January 11
The African American Museum will be featuring two amazing events this Saturday. Beginning in the early hours, stop by for AAMP Family Fun Day. The New Year, New Visions event will include college vision boards, crafts, dance workshops, and more. Later in the day, head over to Art Sanctuary for a talk with artist Dressler Smith. The expert colorist and landscape artist’s new exhibit Dressler Smith: Influences will be on full display. The event is Free with RSVP.
For more information, click here
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23. Georgetown vs. Villanova
Where: Wells Fargo Center | 3601 S. Broad St
When: Saturday, January 11 | 12 p.m.
If you’re looking for some thunderous college basketball action, come to the Wells Fargo Center to see the Villanova Wildcats take on the Georgetown Hoyas. The midday tip-off will put the sixteenth ranked team in the nation up against a familiar Big East rival. Come out and bring your boos, cheers, and passion.
For more information, click here
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24. Lightning vs Flyers
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Where: Wells Fargo Center | 3601 S. Broad St
When: Saturday, January 11 | 7 p.m.
It’s a Wells Fargo Center and sports back-to-back! This Saturday the Philadelphia Flyers will be taking on the Tampa Bay Lightning. After an electrifying 3-2 victory at home on Wednesday and Carter Hart improving, the team will look continue their winning ways in front of the home crowd. Bring your spirit and hype to the Wells Fargo Center this weekend.
For more information, click here
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25. Thomas Middleditch and Ben Schwartz
Where: The Met Philadelphia | 858 N. Broad St
When: Saturday, January 11 | 8 p.m.
Actors, comedians, and entertainers Thomas Middleditch and Ben Schwartz will be live at The Met Philadelphia this Saturday night. Bringing their signature brand of improvisational comedy to the City of Brotherly Love, this duo will have you laughing all night long.
For more information, click here
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26. Motion City Soundtrack
Where: The Fillmore Philadelphia | 29 E. Allen St
When: Saturday, January 11 | 7 p.m.
Minneapolis alternative rock band Motion City Soundtrack will be performing at The Fillmore Philadelphia this Saturday night. The “Everything Is Alright” hitmakers released six studio albums before their 2016 split. The band is back and better than ever. Come hear your favorite tracks at this popular venue
For more information, click here
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27. Yola
Where: World Cafe Live | 3025 Walnut St
When: Saturday, January 11 | 8 p.m.
Four-time nominee Yola will be performing at World Cafe Live this Saturday night. She released her debut album, Walk Through Fire in 2019. The roots singer-songwriter will blow you away with her unique sound and one-of-a-kind vocals.
For more information, click here
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28. Method Man and Redman
Where: The Ave Live | 520 N. Christopher Columbus Blvd
When: Saturday, January 11 | 9 p.m.
Hip-Hop stars and titans Method Man and Redman will be performing at The Ave Live this Saturday night. True rap fans will be flooding the new music venue to hear the songs that laid the soundtrack for their lives.
For more information, click here
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29. Center City Restaurant Week
Where: Various locations
When: Runs through Friday, January 24
This Sunday marks the beginning of 2020’s Center City Restaurant Week. The culinary dynamo is a phenomenal aspect of the city’s exquisite dining experience each year. The wallet-friendly series will run from January 12-24. Several restaurants across Center City offer three-course dinners for only $35 per person. In addition, many will also offer three-course lunches for $20.
For more information, click here
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30. PECO Family Jams: Packing-Material Portraits
Where: Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens | 1020 South St
When: Sunday, January 12 | 12 – 4 p.m.
Every second Sunday of the month, the Philadelphia Magic Gardens host PECO Family Jams. There are tons of hands-on workshops and free kid-friendly tours throughout the art venue. Bring your entire family out for a day of crafts and wonderment.
For more information, click here
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31. A Snowy Bowie Skate
Where: Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest | 101 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd
When: Sunday, January 12 | 12 – 6 p.m.
The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest will be getting into the Starman mood with an all-Bowie skate night this Sunday. There will be a movie screening, David Bowie music blasting in the speakers, face painting, and more.
For more information, click here
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32. The Almost
Where: The Foundry | 29 E. Allen St
When: Sunday, January 12 | 6:30 4 p.m.
Clearwater, Florida band The Almost will be playing at Fishtown hotspot The Foundry this Sunday night. The alternative act released Fear Caller, the band’s Fearless Records debut album, in 2019. If you’re looking for a night of electrifying sound, look no further.
For more information, click here
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Map of Events
You can follow Candis McLean on Twitter (@CandisRMcLean) and e-mail her at [email protected].
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