Candis R. McLean
Each weekend, we will post some of the most unique social and culture 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].
Events Running Through the Weekend
1. The Glorious Sounds of Christmas
Where: Kimmel Center, 300 s Broad St.
When: Thursday, December 17th-Saturday, December 18th, 7Pm shows
The Philadelphia Orchestra bring the Christmas spirit to the Verizon hall for the next few days. These world-class and stellar musicians will come together to perform their annual holiday concert. There will be a full orchestra, choir, special guests performers, and more. Conducted by Thomas Wilkins, the principal conductor of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, this display of merriment and holiday joy is something that you shouldn’t miss.
For tickets and information click here.
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2. The Barnes Foundation Pop Up Open House & Holiday Market
Where: The Barnes Foundation, 2025 Foundation Pky.
When: Friday, December 16th, 5PM-8PM
The Barnes Foundation opens its illustrious doors for this holiday soirée. This Friday night, come enjoy this late night art and shopping event at one of the greatest structures in the city. The free open house allows visitors access the exhibit Live and Life Will Give You Pictures: Masterworks of French Photography, 1890-1950. There will be a holiday market with numerous vendors with carefully crafted gifts and a wine tasting. Starr Catering will also have several other culinary surprises and cocktails for purchase. There will be a photo booth where all in attendance can take 19th century selfies.
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3. Art After 5: Joy to the World
Where: Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pky.
When: Friday, December 16th, 5PM-8PM
The Philadelphia Museum of Art hosts “Art After 5” every Friday evening. This is a fantastic mix of art, culture, and entertainment. Come to the Great Stair Hall to see and hear a musical menu of international jazz performers, dancers, and other emerging acts. This eclectic cabaret will have tasty snacks, light fare and supper options, cocktails, wine, and beer. Performances are scheduled for 5:45p.m.-6:45p.m. Guided tours are also free following “Art After 5” and museum admission.
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4. Chris Difestano
Where: Punch Line Philly, 33 E Laurel St.
When: Friday, December 16th 8PM & 10PM and Saturday, December 17th, 7:30PM & 9:45PM
Chris Difestino will be concluding his three-night stay in Philadelphia this weekend. Punch Line Philly hosts the comedic act this Thursday, Friday, and Sunday evening. You can catch Chris on television as one of the ensemble cast members on MTV2’s hit pop culture series Guy Code. After being listed as one of Comedy Central’s Comics to Watch in 2012, Difestano made appearances at several comedic festivals and on Late Night with Seth Meyers. He also stars on IFC’s Benders.
For tickets and info click here.
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5. Comedy Jawn with Langston Kerman
Where: Boot and Saddle, 1131 S Broad St.
When: Friday, December 16th, 9PM
The fun or funny times continue Friday night in Philadelphia. Comedian, actor, and writer Langston Kerman headlines this Boot and Saddle Comedy Jawn event. Emerging from smaller roles in “Clear History” and “10 Crosby”, Kerman became one of the breakout characters on HBO’s New hit series Insecure. Philly’s Phunniest Winner David James, New York Times Humor Contributor Alison Zeidman, and WitOut Awards “Best Stand-up” winner Aaron Hertzog are among the several performers. Tickets are $10.
For tickets and information click here.
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6. Frankford Hall Winter Wonderland
Where: Frankford Hall, 1210 Frankford Ave.
When: Saturday, December 17th and Sunday, December 17th, starting at 10:30AM
Santa’s back in town this weekend at Frankford Hall. Come out to this holiday festivity that will have free DIY photos with Mr. Claus, hot chocolate, and more. There will also be a free stroller valet and live musical performances. The Lara & Joe Show will provide some great entertainment for all the kids in the area. Santa will be there from 10:30a.m.-3p.m. on Saturday and 10:30a.m.-4.p. on Sunday. There will also be a Bell’s Brewery Beer Garden, amazing decorations, several fun activities.
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7. Franklin Flea Holiday Market
Where: 801 Market St.
When: Saturday, December 17th, 10AM-5PM
This is the last weekend for this handcrafts and artisan event. In the old Strawbridge’s Building in downtown Philadelphia, people will come from far and wide to finish off their holiday shopping. There will be several vendors in attendance offering handmade jewelry, collectibles, antiques, and more. Don’t miss your last opportunity to give someone special in your live a one-of-a-kind present. This event is a great way to showcase and support local artist and enjoy an amazing Saturday afternoon.
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8. Ugly Sweater Run
Where: 4231 Avenue of the Republic
When: Saturday, December 17th, 8AM-1PM
Thousands will come together for the “Merriest 5K of the Year!” The National Ugly Sweater Run will deck the halls and streets of Philadelphia this weekend. Presented by Kahlua, this energizing and endurance event series will benefit One Warm Coat. After you drench your sweaters, there will be an after party at Smith’s at 39 S 19th St. There will be a mechanical reindeer, plenty of photos, fake snow, a life-seized snow glob, and a complimentary Kahlua cocktail. There will be best ugly sweater, pet attire, original sweater, group, and more contests.
For tickets and info click here.
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9. Jack Daniel’s Hot Toddy 5K
Where: Xfinity Live! 1100 Pattison Ave.
When: Saturday, December 17th, 10:30AM-2PM
This is the “hottest” race in town. The Jack Daniel’s Hot Toddy returns to the great city of Philadelphia. Hosted by Xfinity Live!, this event will give each participant a 5K long-sleeved race shirt, mug, a free hot toddy made with your choice of Jack Daniel’s spirit, and more. The post race party will include several festive activities and live entertainment. This is one of the many perspire and party events that’s happening throughout the city this weekend.
For information click here.
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10. Ugly Sweater Party
Where: Field House, 1150 Filbert St.
When: Saturday, December 17th, 9PM-2PM
Field House also gets into the ugly sweater act this weekend. In true holiday fashion, this timely holiday tradition will have something for all the partygoers in the city. Come enjoy $5 Sam Adams Drafts, specialty cocktails, and more at this Center City location. DJ Ace and Radio Neon will be playing music all night until the early morning. There will be prizes for the most creative and ugliest sweater. This is the last stop on the SantaCon Philly.
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11. SantaCon Philadelphia 2016 Bar Crawl
Where: Center City, Various locations
When: Saturday, December 17th, 2PM-8PM
Philadelphia SantaCon! Crawl will bring the masses together to navigate the best that Center City bars have to offer. This Christmas themed event will begin at Tavern on Broad at 2p.m. There will be drink specials and specialty discounts on the crawl. This year the event is partnering with the Ronald McDonald House to raise money for families with children with sever illness. Participants are asked to donate $5 to the charity. Come out in your best festive attire for a good cause.
For information click here.
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12. Snow Day Bar Crawl
Where: Various bars in Center City
When: Saturday, December 17th, 2PM-10PM
The second bar crawl of Saturday is a snow day themed wonder. Hundreds will join to hop from several of the most beloved bars in the area. The lineup includes Cavanaugh’s Rittenhouse, Gaslight, The Victoria Freehouse, Front Street Drive, Drinker’s Pub, and more. Attendees get a souvenir mug and get several food and drink specials at each location. Come relive the favorite winter date of your childhood with your friends and good drinks. Tickets are $40
For tickets click here.
13. Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Where: Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S Broad St.
When: Saturday, December 17th, 3:30PM-11PM
The American symphonic metal band Trans Siberian Orchestra (TSO) will have two shows at the Wells Fargo Center this Saturday. The first show will kick off a 3:30 p.m. and the second at 8p.m. Founded in 1996, this band has released eight studio albums. Known for there Christmas themed tunes and unique musical sound, TSO brings an arena electricity to the holidays. Their elaborate concerts include a string section, lasers, moving trusses, pyrotechnics, massive video screens, and more. This will be a musical display of what happens when progressive metal, Christmas, and visual effects are synchronized.
For tickets and info click here.
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14. Kids Star Wars Day at PFS
Where: Prince Theater, 1412 Chestnut St.
When: Sunday, December 18th, 2PM
Celebrate Sunday and the release of Rouge One: A Star Wars Story with your family this weekend. The Philadelphia Film Society and Prince Theater present this special Kids Day event. Geekadelphia’s Dan Tabor will conduct the kid’s costume parade. Winners will be given a special prize by Five Below. There will be a Star Wars red carpet and a Robot Revolution party presented by The Franklin Institute. Prince Theater will host many Star Wars themed events this weekend. Click here for more information on the lineup.
For Kids Day tickets click here.
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15. Go West Holiday Craft Fest
Where: The Rotunda, 4014 Walnut St.
When: Sunday, December 18th, 10AM-4PM
Go West! Craft Fest will display all of the best unique crafts and handmade goods that the city has to offer. This rotating event will have 100 local vendors. Here you’ll find jewelry, hand kits, ceramics for home decor, stationary, prints, and more. This event is just in time for the holiday season. Here attendees can collect gifts and holiday ornaments for all of their needs. There will also be a sanctuary space, children’s gifts, and many other trinkets.
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16. Eagles and Ravens at Xfinity Live
Where: Xfinity Live! 1100 Pattison Ave.
When: Sunday, December 18th, 1PM
With each passing week, the Eagles continue to check off “L” after each matchup. The best place to forget about the city’s football woes is at place with drink specials. Xfinity Live! continues to host their away game events. The first 500 guest who attend will receive a free Miller Lite courtesy of the venue. There will be $3 Miller Lite Drafts and a $5 specialty game menu for all your food needs. Come and maze between five of the various venues all under one roof and enjoy the game being displayed on a 32ft screen.
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