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: Philly Home Show
Where: Pennsylvania Convention Center | 1101 Arch St
When: Runs through Sunday, January 19
The 2020 Philly Home Show concludes this weekend. There are several events to keep your eyes on over the next few days. There will be make-and-take workshops, special happy hour activities, the Vault + Vine Plant Bar and Doggy Fashion Show featuring SPCA adoptable dogs. You can get Get 50% off tickets when you use the code SNOW at checkout. SEPTA Key Cardholders and Heroes (active and retired military, first responders, teachers, more) get in free this Friday.
For more information, click here
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2. Closing Soon: Hamlet
Where: Independence Seaport Museum | 211 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
When: Runs through Sunday, January 19
The theatrical run of Hamlet at the Independence Seaport Museum will come to an end this Sunday. The FREE Shakespeare production is an event you don’t want to miss. Come down to the waterfront and take in the picturesque views and be blown away by these talented performers.
For more information, click here
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3. Closing Soon: The Band’s Visit
Where: Academy of Music | 240 S. Broad St
When: Runs through Sunday, January 19
Another musical and theatrical production coming to an end this weekend is The Band’s Visit. The amazing Broadway hit has 10 Tony Awards under its belt. The Academy of Music will be filled with the sounds from this Grammy Award winner for just a few more days.
For more information, click here
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4. Closing Soon: Dinosaurs Around the World
Where: The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University | 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
When: Runs through Monday, January 20
Dinosaurs Around the World will be closing its exhibit doors on Monday. This wonderful and informative dinosaur-centric display has introduced more than a dozen animatronic dinosaurs to the institution’s visitors for months. Come learn about their voyage “from the ferocious plains of Africa and the tropical beaches of Antarctica, to the inland seas of North America and the polar darkness of Australia.”
For more information, click here
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5. Benjamin Franklin’s Birthday
Where: Various locations
When: Various times
Philadelphia is full of rich history and figures. In the City of Brotherly Love, Benjamin Franklin is the most celebrated. This weekend there will be several events celebrating his birthday. Head to Old City for a Franklin birthday and 19th Amendment soiree. The Franklin Institute will be hosting a birthday bash this Saturday and Sunday. There will be special programming and activities.
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6. MLK Weekend Celebrations
Where: Various locations
When: Various times
This Monday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Several institutions in the city will be celebrating this titanic figure in civil rights and American history all weekend. The African American Museum in Philadelphia will have a splendid lineup of events. Head over to the Eastern State Penitentiary for free readings of his 1963 “Letter from Birmingham Jail” and other activities. The Museum of the American Revolution will be hosting special programs and events all weekend as well. The National Constitution Center will hold a special event centering on King’s “I Have A Dream” speech. The National Museum of American Jewish History will screen a documentary, hold a social justice discussion, have crafts, and more at its MLK Day event.
7. Center City Restaurant Week
Where: Various locations
When: Runs through Friday, January 24
This is the last full weekend for Center City Restaurant Week. The culinary craze and wallet-friendly endeavor will end next Friday. Several participating restaurants in the city will be featuring three-course lunches and dinners for $20 and $35. Over 52 restaurants will be firing up their kitchens and refreshing their bars to serve you up something spectacular.
For more information, click here
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8. International Conference and Festival of Blacks in Dance
(Photo by // Scott Robbins)Where: Merriam Theater | 250 S Broad St
When: Runs through Saturday, January 18
PHILADANCO‘s 50th anniversary celebrations continue to jolt the city with great performers, talent, and artistry. The International Conference & Festival of Blacks in Dance will reside at the Merriam Theater this weekend. More than 40 up-and-coming and renowned Black dance companies from around the country will be showcased at Then Now Next. The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, Dance Theatre of Harlem, PHILADANCO! and Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE, A Dance Company, and several other performers will be on display. The “four-day conference and festival celebrates the brilliance of Black Dance companies while enhancing audiences’ understanding of Black Dance history and technique.”
For more information, click here
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9.Friday Night at the Museum
Where: Philadelphia Museum of Art | 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy
When: Friday, January 17 | 5 – 8:45 p.m.
Come to the Philadelphia Museum of Art for an immersive night of music, art, and fun. There will be cocktails and small bites at this week’s installment of the museum’s Friday Nights series. A new ensemble led by Joshua Stamper will be performing at this artistic and cultural event. Enjoy gallery access and more before and after the performances.
For more information, click here
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10. Philadelphia Chamber Music Society
Where: Kimmel Center | 300 S. Broad St
When: Friday, January 17 and Sunday, January 19
Those looking for refined tunes and classical music, come out to the Kimmel Center this Friday and Sunday. The Philadelphia Chamber Music Society presents Lost Voices: The War to End All Wars and Found Voices: The New European Map. This will be a night of exquisite music in the Perelman Theater.
For more information, click here
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11. The Philly POPS Present Hamlisch: With Love
Where: Kimmel Center | 300 S. Broad St
When: Runs through Sunday, January 19
Marvin Hamlisch is one of history’s two PEGOT winners (Pulitzer, Emmy, GRAMMY, Oscar and Tony winner). The phenomenal entertainer and artist will be celebrated by the Philly POPS this weekend. Conductor Todd Ellison will lead these talented musicians on a musical exploration of Hamlisch’s work.
For more information, click here
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12. Philadelphia Tattoo Arts Convention
Where: Pennsylvania Convention Center | 1101 Arch St
When: Runs through Sunday, January 19
If you’re looking for inspiration for your next tattoo or piercing, you’ll find it at the Pennsylvania Convention Center this weekend. Several outstanding tattoo artists and vendors will be on full display. There will be exhibitions, demonstrations, food, drinks, and more at this creative annual event.
For more information, click here
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13. Prohibition: 100 Years at the National Liberty Museum
Where: National Liberty Museum | 321 Chestnut St
When: Friday, January 17 | 7 – 10 p.m.
The National Liberty Museum will be celebrating 100 years of Prohibition this Friday, January 17 from 7-10 pm. This lively and entertaining event will feature libations, a mixology instructional, interactive activities, and will give you the opportunity to learn about life in Prohibition-era Philly. Enjoy beer from Flying Fish Brewery and spirits from Boardroom Distillery. There will be prohibtion trivia, a prohibition-era murder mystery performed by Riddlesbrood Theatre Company, and many more engaging activities.
For more information, click here
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14. Elle Verner at City Winery
Where: City Winery | 990 Filbert St
When: Friday, January 17 | 7 p.m.
Grammy-award-winning artist and talented singer-songwriter Elle Verner will be performing at City Winery Friday. The spacious lounge, restaurant and concert venue will have this amazing vocalist front and center. Verner released her second studio album Ellevation last year. This tou, with the same name, celebrates that tremendous work.
For more information, click here
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15. Bulls vs. 76ers
Where: Wells Fargo Center | 3601 S. Broad St
When: Friday, January 17 | 7 p.m.
The 76ers got back in the win column Wednesday night against the Brooklyn Nets. They’ll be back on their home court again this Friday night when they take on the Chicago Bulls. Ben Simmons, Tobias Harris, Josh Richardson, Al Horford, and company will seek to take down this Eastern Conference foe.
For more information, click here
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16. Worst-Case Scenario Survival Experience
Where: The Franklin Institute | 222 N. 20th St
When: Runs through Sunday, April 19
The Franklin Institute is offering up and amazing deal for The Worst-Case Scenario: Survival Experience exhibit for Philly Influencer readers. You can use promo code WCMOMMY to receive $3 off daytime, adult admission for up to 4 people. You can also visit the website or call 215-448-1200 to order your tickets today. Based on Joshua Piven’s best-selling book, this immersive exhibit teaches you how to outlast some of the most severe occurrences the wilderness and life can throw at you.
For more information, click here
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17. We Can Be Heroes at the National Liberty Museum
(Morgan Peterson “Ziggy Stardust Modern Day Fabergé” // Photo by Candis R. McLean)Where: National Liberty Museum | 321 Chestnut St
When: Runs through Monday, February 3
TheNational Liberty Museum‘s “We Can Be Heroes” exhibit explores the influence that David Bowie and his music had – and continues to have – on contemporary art. A mixture of sculpture, paintings and digital artwork from both local and international artists are featured in the exciting and enthralling exhibit.
For more information, click here
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18. CultureFest! Lunar New Year at the Penn Museum
Where: Penn Museum | 3260 South St
When: Saturday, January 19 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Penn Museum’s 39th Annual Chinese New Year Celebration is this Saturday. The prestigious institution will have many family-friendly activities at this culturally centered event. There will be Chinese dances, food, music, calligraphy, martial arts demonstrations, storytelling, arts and crafts, Year of the Dog Photo Contests, and much more.
For more information, click here
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19. Happy Place
Where: King of Prussia Mall | 160 N. Gulph Rd | King of Prussia, PA
When: Runs through Saturday, February 29
Happy Place has already enjoyed a residency at Mandalay Bay Las Vegas. The fun-filled extravaganza will remain at the King of Prussia Mall through February. Whether you’re dancing in the middle of the world’s largest indoor confetti dome, jumping off of a larger than life rainbow into a pot of happiness, or posing inside a rubber ducky bathtub, this place is bursting with joy.
For more information, click here
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20. Mural Arts Philadelphia’s Love Letter Tours
(Mural Arts’ Love Letter Train Tour // Photo by Candis R. McLean)Where: Various locations
When: Saturday, January 18 | 10:30 a.m. and Sunday, January 19 | 1 p.m.
Philadelphia has been called the “mural capital of the world.” With stunning pieces unfolding in almost every corner, you may want the opportunity to hear the story behind the concepts and artists themselves. Mural Arts Philadelphia provides fun Love Letter Train Tours to help you gain in-depth knowledge about these phenomenal murals enriching the cityscapes of West Philly.
For more information, click here
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21. Reading Terminal Market
Where: Reading Terminal Market | 51 N. 12th St
When: Saturday, January 18
Each Saturday, the Reading Terminal Market hosts Taste of Philadelphia Tours. This Saturday morning, there will be a Decadent Gourmet food tour throughout the historic and culinary hotspot. There will also be a Luna New Year celebration. The Chinatown Development Corporation will also be hosting a free cooking demonstration.
For more information, click here
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22. Orchid Extravaganza at Longwood Gardens
Where: Longwood Gardens | 1001 Longwood Rd | Kennett Square, PA
When: Runs through Sunday, March 22
Longwood Gardens is always blossoming with the best florals and natural ambiance each day. This week kicks off their Orchid Extravaganza series. The wonderful grounds will be “filled with thousands of vibrant, artfully presented orchids.” Come to this premier oasis in the region to get swept away by its cascade garden and more.
For more information, click here
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23. The Escape Game
(The Escape Game)Where: King of Prussia Mall | 160 N. Gulph Rd | King of Prussia, PA
When: Runs through April 2020
The Escape Game has been open in the King of Prussia Mall since early December. The 60-minute adventure offers a one-of-a-kind and tactile experience like nothing you’ve ever seen. Teams work together to find clues, solve puzzles, and ultimately complete a mission to escape the room. Each game immerses teams in scenic design that rivals Hollywood movie sets and incorporates twists, turns, and jaw-dropping surprises around every corner.
For more information, click here
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24. Farmers’ Markets
Where: Various locations
When: Saturday, January 18
Each weekend in the city, several areas in the city are filled with produce and handmade crafts. Head over to Clark Park Farmers’ Market, Headhouse District Farmers’ Market, Rittenhouse Square Farmers’ Market, Market at the Fareway in Chestnut Hill, or Fairmount Farmers Market for all your needs. For those in collegiate domains, there’s a weekly University City Farmers’ Market and Cecil B. Moore Farmers’ Market.
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25. Storytime at The Lodge
Where: Blue Cross RiverRink | 121 N. Columbus Blvd
When: Saturday, January 18 | 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest is always one of the true gems of the holiday season. The rink hosts several thematic events, parties, and gatherings at its adjacent lodge. This Saturday bring your kids out for storytime. Books are chosen by the Free Library of Philadelphia and snacks and hot chocolate will be provided for the kids.
For more information, click here
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26. Winterfest Brewfest
Where: Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest | 101 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd
When: Saturday, January 18 | 1 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Rescheduled for Sunday, Janaury 19
There will be two sessions on Saturday at the 7th Annual Winterfest Brewfest. Come to the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest lodge to sample several seasonal and craft beers. You can grab a pint and enjoy the majestic winter wonderland that the RiverRink has to offer.
For more information, click here
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27. Winter Wine-derland at Chaddsford Winery
Where: Chaddsford Winery |632 Baltimore Pike | Chadds Ford, PA
When: Saturday, January 18 and Sunday, January 19 | 11 a.m – 6 p.m.
Chaddsford Winery is hosting Winter Wine-derland event this and next weekend. The winter festival this weekend will have wine tastings, live entertainment, fire pits, ice carvings, live music, food trucks, cocktails, and more.
For more information, click here
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28. UConn vs Villanova
Where: Wells Fargo Center | 3601 S. Broad St
When: Saturday, January 18 | 12 p.m.
The Villanova Wildcats will be taking on the UConn Huskies this Saturday afternoon. The former Big East rival is tenth in the AAC and would love nothing more than to knock off the fourteenth ranked Wildcats. Come to the Wells Fargo Center for a great showing of athleticism and skill from the local team.
For more information, click here
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29. Kings vs. Flyers
Where: Wells Fargo Center | 3601 S. Broad St
When: Saturday, January 18 | 7 p.m.
This Saturday the Philadelphia Flyers will be taking on the Los Angeles Kings. The Flyers are in the middle of a three-game homestand and would like nothing more than to crawl up from the median of the Metropolitan Division rankings. Bring your spirit and hype to the Wells Fargo Center this weekend.
For more information, click here
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30. Premier Boxing Champions
Where: The Liacouras Center | 1776 N. Broad St.
When: Saturday, January 18 | 4 p.m.
Premier Boxing Champions presents Williams v. Rosario this Saturday night at the Liacouras Center. Live boxing and hard-hitting blows are on the menu for this Super Welterweight Championship bout. This will a great nut of thunderous punches and entertainment.
For more information, click here
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31. Greensky Bluegrass
Where: The Met Philadelphia | 858 N. Broad St
When: Saturday, January 18 | 7 p.m.
American bluegrass and rock band Greensky Bluegrass will be centerstage at The Met Philadelphia this Saturday night. The Kalamazoo, Michigan band has shelled out ten studio albums through the years. Come hear songs from All For Money and other productions.
For more information, click here
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32. Snoop Dogg
Where: The Fillmore Philadelphia | 29 E. Allen St
When: Saturday, January 18 | 8 p.m.
Hip-hop and rap legend Snoop Dogg will be bringing his I Wanna Thank Me Tour to The Fillmore Philadelphia this Saturday night. The songwriter, producer, media personality, entrepreneur, and actor, released his seventeenth studio album last year.
For more information, click here
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33. The 26th Annual Hair O’The Dog
Where: NOTO Philadelphia | 1209 Vine St
When: Saturday, January 18 | 9 p.m.
The 26th Annual Hair O’ The Dog is this Saturday, January 18th. Voted the “Best Event in Philly”, one of Philadelphia’s most popular, upscale, and glamorous events is back with a bang this year. Get ready to party like Gatsby at this blowout event. Q102’s very own DJ N9NE, of Saturday nights DJ N9NE at nine, is set to open this lavish shindig. The Dog hosts of the evening are Q102 Philly’s Rach on the Radio, plus Ja-Mel of Wooder Ice.
For more information, click here
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34. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Events
Where: Various locations
When: Monday, January 20
The Greater Philadelphia MLK Day of Service offers you and your entire family several ways to get involved. Several Philadelphia museums and institutions will be commemorating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with special events and programming. There will also be tremendous service projects volunteer to join during the day.
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Map of Events
Upcoming Featured Event
Saint Motel at the TLA
(Saint Motel // Photo by Catie Laffoon)Where: Theatre of The Living Arts | 334 South St
When: Monday, February 10
LA-based indie rock quartet Saint Motel will be taking over the TLA next month! The celebrated indie-pop band’s world headline tour will be making its Philadelphia stop on Monday, February 10th. Saint Motel’s kaleidoscopic sound and inventive live performances has earned them a massive fan following. Check out their latest release, “THE ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK: PART 1,” the first of a three-part album to be released over the coming months. Co-produced by singer A/J Jackson and GRAMMY-winner Mark Needham, the five-song collection is highlighted by lead single “Van Horn.” Don’t miss your chance to see them live.
For more information, click here
You can follow Candis McLean on Twitter (@CandisRMcLean) and e-mail her at [email protected].
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