Philadelphia and the Countryside - Press Room

The Calendar of Events is organized as follows:

May 2013
June 2013
July 2013
August 2013
September 2013
October 2013
November 2013
December 2013
January 2014
February 2014
March 2014
April 2014 

MAY 2013

Through May 5, 2013
PERMENANT COLLECTION. Inspired by events at Philadelphia’s Barnes Foundation, this gripping play at the Interact Theatre Company explores the controversy that arises when a suburban museum’s newly appointed Executive Director puts forward a proposal to change the permanent collection. The show is a part of Interact’s 25^th anniversary season. (215) 568-8079, interacttheatre.org

Through May 12, 2013
STARGIRL. In this world premiere at People’s Light & Theatre, an eccentric homeschooler named Stargirl arrives at Mica Area High School. Based on the critically acclaimed young adult novel by Jerry Spinelli, Stargirl celebrates first love, nonconformity and the similarities that connect us all. (610) 644-3500, peopleslight.org

Through May 12, 2013
UNEARTHING A MASTERPIECE: A ROMAN MOSAIC FROM LOD, ISREAL. The Penn Museum presents the world’s largest and best-preserved mosaic from ancient Rome. More 300 square feet and nearly 2,000 years old, this archeological gem was discovered in 1996 and is making its final U.S. stop in Philadelphia before finding a permanent home in Israel. Visitors delve into the mosaic’s discovery, history and conservation through this fascinating exhibition. (215) 898-4000, penn.museum

Through May 19, 2013
JOURNEYS TO NEW WORLDS: SPANISH AND PORTUGUESE COLONIAL ART FROM THE ROBERTA AND RICHARD HUBER COLLECTION. With a rare group of paintings, decorative arts and sculptures from the collection of Roberta and Richard Huber, this exhibition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art explores the artistic exchanges between Spain and Portugal and their colonies in the Americas and Asia during the 17^th and 18^th centuries. (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.org

Through May 19, 2013
MAME. Legendary Broadway actress Andrea McArdle, the original Annie, leads a stellar cast in a classic tale at the Media Theatre. Set in New York City during the Great Depression, a flamboyant socialite lives as she pleases—until her nephew’s young son arrives to live with her. (610) 891-0100, mediatheatre.org

Through May 19, 2013
SPRING BLOOMS. Longwood Gardens is in full bloom with eye-popping displays of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, flowering trees and more spring beauties. The Flower Garden Walk boasts 100,000 bulbs in a kaleidoscope of colors. Visitors go beyond the garden gates to learn how expert gardeners and craftsmen plan and prepare for spring long before the first buds appear. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org

Through May 27, 2013
ANDREW WYETH’S “IDES OF MARCH”: THE MAKING OF A MASTERPIECE. The Brandywine River Museum presents Andrew Wyeth’s rarely seen tempera painting from 1974, along with more than 30 studies that brought it to full realization. Displayed together for the first time, the drawings and painting provide uncanny insight into Wyeth's creative process and vivid imagery. (610) 388-2700, brandywinemuseum.org

May-September 2013
PECO MULTICULTURAL SERIES. The PECO Multicultural Series on the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing celebrates the diverse cultures that make Philadelphia a distinct city. (215) 922-2FUN, delawareriverevents.com

May 2-4, 2013
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 29^th annual event. (215) 898-3900, annenbergcenter.org

May 2-4, 2013
THE GIRL WHO FORGOT TO SING BADLY. As a part of the 2013 International Children’s Festival, the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts presents this soaring adventure about a young girl struggling to save the day, while finding the courage to let her voice be heard—on or off key. (215) 898-3900, annenbergcenter.org

May 2-4, 2013
A BROWN BEAR, A MOON, AND A CATERPILLAR: TREASURED STORIES BY ERIC CARLE. As a part of the 2013 International Children’s Festival, this whimsical productions dazzles with stunning music, spectacular black-light visual effects and innovative puppetry as it highlights three of Eric Carle's famous stories at the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. (215) 898-3900, annenbergcenter.org

May 2-4, 2013
46 CIRCUS ACTS IN 45 MINUTES. The cheeky Aussies of the C!RCA troupe bring their signature style of high-flying circus fun to the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts for the 2013 International Children’s Festival. With a hefty helping of acrobatics and juggling, endless slapstick antics and classic circus joviality, these adventurous performers take audiences on a whirlwind adventure they won’t soon forget. (215) 898-3900, annenbergcenter.org

May 2-5, 2013
EQUALITY FORUM. The Global LGBT Summit that celebrates the cultural and political legacy of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, includes panels, parties and special events in collaboration with regional, national and international organizations. equalityforum.com

May 4-5, 2013
JAZZ FOR PEACE. Two of the world’s greatest jazz musicians, Gerald Veasley and Bill Jolly, are joined by student musicians from Philadelphia’s renowned Girard Academic Music Program for a jazz festival at Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church. Funds from the event support efforts against gun violence. (610) 525-2821, bmpc.org

May 4-5, 2013
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 4-September 2, 2013
ELLSWORTH KELLY: SCULPTURE ON THE WALL. Coinciding with the first anniversary of the new location’s opening on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Barnes Foundation presents its first contemporary exhibition since 1923. Ellsworth Kelly’s major works will be on display, focusing on Kelly’s Sculpture on the Wall. Composed of 104 panels and spanning 65 feet, this sizeable work hangs at eye level—just as Kelly originally intended. (215) 278-7000, barnesfoundation.org

May 4, 2013-Winter 2015
TIDES OF FREEDOM: AFRICAN PRESENCE ON THE DELAWARE RIVER. In this Independence Seaport Museum exhibition, artifacts and captivating storytelling explore the concept of freedom through the lens of the African experience along the Delaware River, focusing on four chapters in Philadelphia history: enslavement, emancipation, Jim Crow and Civil Rights. (215) 413-8655, phillyseaport.org

May 4-October 6, 2013
SPY: SECRET WORLD OF ESPIONAGE. The Franklin Institute gives people a declassified peek behind the newspaper headlines and Hollywood movies to decode the real history of spies. More than 200 artifacts, including the ice axe that killed Leon Trotsky, a German ENIGMA machine and never-before-seen artifacts from the CIA, make up the exhibit and bring visitors close to the gadgets, techniques and technologies used by spies throughout the ages. (215) 448-1200, fi.edu

May 5, 2013
BROAD STREET RUN. The 34^th annual run, which raises money for the American Cancer Society, spans 10 miles from Olney to South Philadelphia. (215) 683-3594, broadstreetrun.com

May 7-June 2, 2013
LEND ME A TENOR. Act II Playhouse presents this madcap screwball comedy complete with a fiery superstar, an opera performance teetering on the edge of destruction, a hot-blooded wife and one man trying to juggle it all. (215) 654-0200, act2.org

May 10-June 2, 2013
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 112^th annual exhibition. (215) 972-7600, pafa.org

May 11-12, 2013
ABERDEEN DAD VAIL REGATTA. With more than 3,000 competitors from 125 colleges from across the country and Canada, the largest collegiate regatta in the world takes place on the Schuylkill River. (215) 542-1443, dadvail.org

May 12-19, 2013
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 14-July 15, 2013
GREASE. All wannabe T-Birds and Pink Ladies dance and hand jive down the aisles at the Walnut Street Theatre as Danny and Sandy fall in love, dislike and love again. They and their friends at Rendell High belt out unforgettable songs like Summer Nights and Grease Lightning. (215) 574-3550, walnutstreettheatre.org

May 16-19, 2013
DANCE THEATRE OF HARLEM. After an eight-year hiatus, this contemporary, boundary-pushing ballet company reinvents itself at the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. The company’s first tour features new works as well as Balanchine classics. (215) 898-3900, annenbergcenter.org

May 16-June 9, 2013
HEROES. Three war heroes have suffered during imprisonment: dictatorial captors, untrustworthy fellow prisoners and far too many birthday parties. Now they are plotting their escape—from a retirement home. This winner of London's prestigious Olivier Award at the Lantern Theater Company is playful, bawdy and heartbreakingly funny. (215) 829-0395, lanterntheater.org

May 18, 2013
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 18, 2013
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 18-19, 2013
SOUTH 9^TH 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) 278-2903, italianmarketfestival.com

May 23-June 30, 2013
A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC. In one of Sondheim’s most remarkable works at the Arden Theatre Company, a cast of 16 leads the audience to a romantic weekend in the country filled with music and whimsy. (215) 922-1122, ardentheatre.org

May 23-June 2, 2013
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 24-June 23, 2013
VENUS IN FUR. Comedian David Ives returns to Philadelphia Theatre Company at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre to tell the story of a supremely talented young actress determined to land the lead in a new play based on the classic erotic novel Venus in Fur. Her emotionally charged audition becomes a dizzying journey that blurs the lines between fantasy and reality, seduction and power, love and sex. (215) 985-0420, philadelphiatheatrecompany.org

May 25-27, 2013
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 25-September 2, 2013
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 29-June 23, 2013
BARCELONA. One late night in Barcelona, a drunken American woman leaves her own party with a dark stranger—will it be a careless fling or a dangerous walk on the wild side? This world premiere at People’s Light & Theatre takes a daring look at who we are versus who we seem to be and the secrets that are hidden beneath it all. (610) 644-3500, peopleslight.org

May 31-June 9, 2013
PHILLY BEER WEEK. The sixth 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 31-June 23, 2013
SOME OTHER KIND OF PERSON. This scathing satire at the Interact Theatre Company follows Bill, a hapless, middle-management man on business in Cambodia, where he finds himself at a brothel teeming with underage sex workers. Summoning what little moral outrage he has, he attempts to liberate one of the girls—by buying her. Raucous and raunchy, all bets are off during this surprisingly humorous tale of misguided American goodwill abroad. (215) 568-8079, interacttheatre.org

JUNE 2013

Through June 2, 2013
BEYOND SWASTIKA AND JIM CROW: JEWISH REFUGEE SCHOLARS AT BLACK COLLEGES. The National Museum of American Jewish History presents a fascinating new look into the ways Jewish refugees and African-American students supported each other in the segregated South of the 1930s; these efforts eventually informed and inspired the early years of the Civil Rights movement. More than 70 evocative artifacts, documents, photographs and two new films tell the story of two cultures searching for the same freedoms and opportunities. (215) 923-3811, nmajh.org

Through June 9, 2013
“GREAT AND MIGHTY THINGS”: OUTSIDER ART FROM THE JILL AND SHELDON BONOVITZ COLLECTION. Featuring more than 200 works by 27 self-taught American artists, this exhibit at the Philadelphia Museum of Art examines the intersection of outsider art with mainstream modern art. Untrained artists, called “outsiders,” often use everyday materials, including advertisements, comics, magazine illustrations and tree roots, and garner critical acclaim for their inventive styles. (215) 235-7469, philamuseum.org

Through June 9, 2013
DRAWN TO DINOSAURS: HADROSAURUS FOULKII. The Academy of Natural Sciences was the first institution in the world to create a mounted dinosaur skeleton for display, and to this day, the academy is known as “the dinosaur museum.” This intimate exhibit reveals the science and art of visualizing a living animal based on fragmentary fossils. The centerpiece is a full cast of the plant-eating duckbill dinosaur Hadrosaurus foulkii, discovered in 1858 in Haddonfield, New Jersey. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org

Through June 23, 2013
DINO! AN EVENING WITH DEAN MARTIN IN THE LATIN CASINO. The Walnut Street Theatre audience travels back to 1978, when Dean Martin is scheduled to perform live on stage at Latin Casino. When his band gets stuck in a blizzard, Martin treats his fans to an intimate evening filled with personal stories and classic songs including Everybody Loves Somebody and That’s Amore. (215) 574-3550, walnutstreettheatre.org

Through June 23, 2013
PINOCCHIO. The Arden Theatre Company presents the story of the wicked wooden boy who trades his schoolbooks for candy and plays hooky at the amusement park. When his father, Geppetto, is swallowed by a giant whale, Pinocchio has the chance to truly be brave for the first time. (215) 922-1122, ardentheatre.org

Through June 30, 2013
52ND GLOBAL GALA: TREASURES OF ARMENIA. International House Philadelphia presents this open-call, juried exhibit featuring works in a variety of media from artists of Armenian descent to highlight the culture’s contemporary art. Visitors may purchase exhibited artwork, with proceeds benefitting Armenian students and scholars of International House; a housing project in Vanadzor, Armenia; and the Armenian Sisters Academy. (215) 387-5125, ihousephilly.org

June 1, 2013
THE 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

June 1-September 29, 2013
GLOW: LIVING LIGHTS. The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University takes visitors on a journey through land and sea in pursuit of creatures with the incredible ability to produce their own light, including fireflies, glowworms and rarely seen creatures from the deep ocean. Children and adults alike are enlightened by dramatic videos, live organisms, rare preserved specimens, models and engaging hands-on activities. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org

June 2, 2013
PHILLY CYCLING CLASSIC. Philadelphia’s love of cycling is in the fast lane as cyclists compete against each other and climb the steep Manayunk “wall” during this inaugural event.

June 2, 2013-March 2, 2014
BLACK BODIES IN PROPAGANDA. The Penn Museum presents a new exhibit featuring original editions of 30 rare wartime posters used as propaganda targeting Africans and African-Americans. During historic events, from the American Civil War to African Independence movements, carefully designed works of art were aimed at mobilizing people of color for war efforts, even as they were facing oppression and injustice in their homelands. (215) 898-4000, penn.museum

June 9, 2013
ODUNDE AFRICAN-AMERICAN FESTIVAL. To ring in the Yoruba New Year, this festival begins with a spiritual procession to the Schuylkill River, followed by the largest African-American street festival on the East Coast. (215) 732-8510, odundefestival.org

June 9, 2013
PRIDEDAY LGBT PARADE AND FESTIVAL. This year’s 24^th annual event celebrating gay pride takes place during International Gay and Lesbian Pride Month and features live music, DJs, food, drinks and a festive parade that runs from the Gayborhood to Penn’s Landing. (215) 875-9288, phillypride.org

July 13-14, 2013
BLUEBERRIES & BLUEGRASS. Visitors enjoy a swinging and sweet good time during this annual summer festival at Peddler’s Village in Bucks County. Games and activities for the whole family accompany fresh blueberry treats and live bluegrass and country music. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com

June 14-September 2, 2013
THE 1968 EXHIBIT. In this exhibit at the National Constitution Center, visitors experience a state-of-the-art examination of the turbulent 1960s and the year when it all culminated—1968. During this unprecedented historical moment, a generation came to age and pushed the boundaries of constitutional freedom and civic activism in a time of war. (215) 409-6600, constitutioncenter.org

June 15-September 15, 2013
MARK LAITA: SERPENTINE. Fine art photographer Mark Laita has traveled the world to photograph the beauty and danger of the world’s most deadly snakes, from the Honduran milk snake to the black Pakistan cobra. This exhibit at The Academy of Natural Sciences features a dozen of Laita’s colorful and alluring photographs from his latest book, Serpentine, depicting what he calls “the sensual attractiveness” of serpents and the mystery that has fascinated humanity for thousands of years. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org

June 16, 2013
BLOOMSDAY. On the 21^st anniversary of the holiday, the Rosenbach Museum & Library commemorates the day on which novel hero Leopold Bloom made his “odyssey” through Dublin in Ulysses with a week-long festival of programs. (215) 732-1600, rosenbach.org

June 21-23, 2013
PHILADELPHIA INSURACE TRIATHALON. Participants swim, bike and run through the slow-moving waters of the Schuylkill River and the trails of Fairmount Park. (610) 687-3955, phillytri.com

June 22-23, 2013
MANAYUNK ARTS FESTIVAL. Musicians, entertainers, restaurants and more than 300 artists from around the nation set up shop for the two-day outdoor, juried arts festival—the largest in the region. (215) 482-9565, manayunk.com

June 27-October 13, 2013
JENNIFER BARTLETT. Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts presents an exhibition featuring the work of Jennifer Bartlett, a prominent painter whose intellectual modernism emerged on the art scene in the 1970s. The exhibition is comprised of 30 works, including both highly controlled abstract works and those reflecting a more painterly realism. (215) 972-7600, pafa.org

June 28-September 2, 2013
ART SPLASH. The Philadelphia Museum of Art transforms its entire Perelman Building into a summertime family destination including five kid-friendly exhibitions. Activities bring the art work of the exhibitions to life through engaging activities and workshops: Families pose for their own pictures in a photo booth inspired by the exhibition Family Portraits, curl up with a picture book by Jerry Pinkney or play with a giant magnetic version of Candy DePew’s wonderland. (215) 235-7469, philamuseum.org

JULY 2013

Through July 7, 2013
THE ART OF GOLF. The Philadelphia Museum of Art tees off this revealing study of golf: its history, enduring popularity and representation in art. Some 20 works—portraits, oil sketches, photographs, trophies, golf balls, clubs and clothing—demonstrate the relationship between art and sport in Victorian Britain. (215) 235-7469, philamuseum.org

Through July 7, 2013
INFINITE MIRROR: IMAGES OF AMERICAN IDENTITY. The James A. Michener Art Museum displays 60 multimedia works including paintings, works on paper, photographs, and video by culturally diverse artists from across the United States to examine multiculturalism in politics, family and religion. (215) 340-9800, michenerartmuseum.org

July 1-7, 2013
WAWA WELCOME AMERICA! This multi-day party celebrates the nation’s birthday with free events for all ages throughout the city—including concerts, a parade and fireworks. welcomeamerica.com

July 11-22, 2013
PHILADELPHIA QFEST. This annual festival celebrates all genres of film that pertain to or were created by members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities. (267) 765-9800, qfest.com

July 13, 2013
BASTILLE DAY. The masses storm Eastern State Penitentiary when re-enactors and audience members playfully recreate the storming of the Bastille. Philly’s version of this historic event includes Marie Antoinette throwing more than 2,000 Tastykakes out to the assembled crowd. Revelers fortify themselves for the attack during a French-themed street party beforehand. (215) 236-3300, easternstate.org

July 26-28, 2013
XPONENTIAL MUSIC FESTIVAL. WXPN, the public radio station of the University of Pennsylvania, brings together musical legends and new performers at Wiggins Park on the Camden Waterfront for the XPoNential Music Festival. (215) 898-6677, xpn.org

AUGUST 2013

Through August 18, 2013
COME SEE ABOUT ME: THE MARY WILSON SUPREMES COLLECTION. Nearly 50 years after the Supremes first topped the charts, The African American Museum in Philadelphia celebrates their distinctive imprint on international fashion and women’s history with a dazzling exhibit of more than 70 of the group’s most glamorous gowns. (215) 574-0380, aampmuseum.org

Through August 31, 2013
BIG BUGS. Immense and whimsical bug sculptures scattered throughout the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania delight and educate visitors both young and old. Artist David Rogers used found materials to create the gigantic creatures, including ants, a praying mantis and ladybugs. (215) 247-5777, morrisarboretum.org

August 10-11, 2013
BUG FEST. Kids of all ages enjoy the creepy crawlies during this annual and wildly popular Academy of Natural Sciences event, featuring a cooking demonstration and sampling of buggy foods, a real roach race, bug handlings, an entomologist talk and more. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org

August 16-18, 2013
PHILADELPHIA FOLK FESTIVAL. Philadelphia’s answer to Woodstock, this 52nd annual event attracts musicians, storytellers and craftspeople for a weekend of song and merriment at Old Pool Farm in Schwenksville. (215) 242-0150, folkfest.org

August 31-September 1, 2013
MADE IN AMERICA FESTIVAL. The Benjamin Franklin Parkway comes alive with music during this second annual festival in support of the United Way. Musician and festival co-presenter Jay-Z enlists help from big-name acts, including Beyonce and Nine Inch Nails, to bring two days of celebration and musical surprises to the City of Brotherly Love. madeinamericafest.com

SEPTEMBER 2013

September 3-October 20, 2013
IN THE HEIGHTS. The Walnut Street Theatre kicks off its 205th season with the Tony Award-winning musical about a New York City community on the brink of change, full of the hopes and dreams and torn between exciting innovation and beloved tradition. (215) 574-3550, walnutstreettheatre.org

September 6-21, 2013
PHILADELPHIA LIVE ARTS FESTIVAL AND PHILLY FRINGE. For two weeks of artistic pleasure, avant-garde performance meets street theater throughout the city. (215) 413-9006, livearts-fringe.org

September 7-8, 2013
MUSHROOM FESTIVAL. Kennett Square’s annual festival puts the fun in fungi during a weekend of music, food, parades, farm tours and other activities in the Mushroom Capital of the World. mushroomfestival.org

September 7-November 24, 2013
AUTUMN’S COLORS. Throughout this Longwood Gardens festival, unusual gourds, a garden railway, dazzling chrysanthemums and live entertainment convert the floral sanctuary into an autumnal wonderland. (610) 388-1000, longwoodgardens.org

September 9-October 27, 2013
SCARECROW COMPETITION AND DISPLAY. This annual event at Peddler’s Village features more than 150 larger-than-life scarecrow creations in six categories displayed throughout the village. Each year, Peddler’s also hosts a Scarecrow Festival weekend, September 21-22, complete with scarecrow-making workshops, pumpkin painting, live entertainment and pumpkin pie-eating contests. (215) 794-4000, peddlersvillage.com

September 15-October 31, 2013
GLOBAL PHILLY EXPO. Philadelphia goes global during this first-ever exposition of international and multicultural events at sports, business, culinary and other venues throughout the city. Hosted by the Global Philadelphia Association, 65 happenings, including an International Day of Peace, showcase Philadelphia’s diversity and international appeal. globalphiladelphia.org

September 21, 2013-January 12, 2014
LORI NIX: UNNATURAL HISTORY. This exhibition at The Academy of Natural Sciences is a playful poke at what goes on behind the dioramas at a natural history museum with imaginative images, science, facts and animals that are a bit askew and often hilarious. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org

Select Dates, September-November 2013
TERROR BEHIND THE WALLS. Thrill-seekers celebrate the Halloween season at Eastern State Penitentiary by visiting this spooky haunted house inside an abandoned prison. (215) 236-3300, easternstate.org

September 2013 (TBD)
LIBERTY MEDAL. This award, presented by the National Constitution Center, is given to people who strive to secure liberty for people all over the world. Recipients include men, women and organizations responsible for shaping and guiding the world. (215) 409-6700, constitutioncenter.org/libertymedal

OCTOBER 2013

October 5, 2013
PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL. More than 150 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 5, 2013
MIDTOWN VILLAGE FALL FESTIVAL. With music, food, sidewalk sales and other festivities, the Midtown Village Fall Festival takes the neighborhood block party to an ultra-fun level. (215) 625-7983, midtownvillage.org

October 5-6, 19-20, 2013
PHILADELPHIA OPEN STUDIO TOURS. During this 14^th annual event, visitors can see local artists of all mediums in their studios, found in neighborhoods throughout the city. (215) 546-7775, philaopenstudios.com

October 10-18, 2013
DESIGNPHILADELPHIA. For this eighth annual festival, DesignPhiladelphia presents more than 100 events from 400 participating designers. A dynamic mix of open studios, exhibitions, lectures, runway shows, tours and workshops take place in boutiques, galleries, museums, universities, warehouses and city streets to offer a close look into Philadelphia’s creative community. (215) 717-6515, designphiladelphia.org

October 12, 2013-April 6, 2014
DINOSAURS UNEARTHED. Roaring, moving life-size dinosaurs invade The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University for a multisensory experience for the whole family. Engaging and scientifically accurate, the exhibit features more than a dozen realistic full-bodied dinosaurs, as well as skeletons, fossil casts of skulls, claws and horns and real specimens. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org

October 13, 2013
OUTFEST. Part of the National Coming Out Day Festival, this is the largest event of its kind in the world. (215) 875-9288, phillypride.org

October 16, 2013-January 5, 2014
FERNAND LÉGER AND THE MODERN CITY. The Philadelphia Museum of Art examines the masterpiece The City, created by French painter Fernand Léger in 1919. The exhibition explores the centrality of The City in Léger’s career and the European avant-garde in the years immediately after World War I. Comprised of 100 works, the exhibition includes examples of film, theater design, graphic design, architecture and decorative arts by the artist and his colleagues, including Amédée Ozenfant, Le Corbusier, Francis Picabia, Man Ray, Gerald Murphy and others. (215) 235-7469, philamuseum.org

October 16-November 24, 2013
THE DEVIL’S MUSIC: THE LIFE AND BLUES OF BESSIE SMITH. Bessie Smith, the legendary “Empress of the Blues,” blazed the trail for a century of performers—from Aretha Franklin to Adele. Mixing classics like Need a Little Sugar in My Bowl and Nobody Knows You When You’re Down and Out, People’s Light & Theatre tells stories from her rebellious, astonishing and painful life in this striking musical. (610) 644-3500, peopleslight.org

October 17-27, 2013
PHILADELPHIA FILM FESTIVAL. This 22^nd annual event showcases the best in independent and foreign cinema in theaters and venues throughout Philadelphia. (267) 239-2941, filmadelphia.org

October 19, 2013
HARRY POTTER WEEKEND. The Chestnut Hill neighborhood hosts a weekend full of wizardry and wonder with two days of spellbinding events for the whole family. Shops and restaurants transform into places right off J.K. Rowling’s pages. The complimentary Knight Bus Trolley in Chestnut Hill makes it easy to catch every magic show, costume contest, movie screening, shopping and more. (215) 247-6696, chestnuthillpa.com

October 20-21, 2013
PHILADELPHIA SHELL SHOW AND FESTIVAL. This 31^st annual event at The Academy of Natural Sciences is the largest of its kind in the Northeast and features a behind-the-scenes tour, conversations with real scientists and a market and craft fair. (215) 299-1000, ansp.org

October 26-27, 2013
HEAD OF THE SCHUYLKILL REGATTA. Landlubbers as well as rowers look forward to this regatta, 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. hosr.org

October 28, 2013-January 26, 2014
FROM PHILADELPHIA TO MONACO: GRACE KELLY, AN AMERICAN ICON. From hometown beauty to silver-screen siren to beloved princess, Grace Kelly remains a dynamic icon. The James A. Michener Art Museum presents an interactive exhibit on her life, featuring personal objects, letters, photographs and more. (215) 340-9800, michenerartmuseum.org

October 2013 (TBD)
DOWNINGTOWN FALLFEST. The proud-to-be-Chester County Victory Brewing Company presents this regional fall festival. Neighbors and visitors enjoy live music, a variety of artisan crafts, a BMX aerial show, a Victory Beer Garden and, of course, plenty of food. Local restaurants and businesses line the blocked-off East Lancaster Avenue. (610) 269-1523, downingtownfallfest.com

Through Fall 2013
SCULPTURE PLINTH EXHIBITION PROGRAM: KAWS. Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) presents a rotating series of site-specific sculptures commissioned from emerging and mid-career artists. The Sculpture Plinth Exhibition Program works to revitalize the façade of PAFA’s historic building, to provide a link between historical and contemporary art at PAFA and to strengthen connections between public and private art. (215) 972-7600, pafa.org

NOVEMBER 2013

November 2, 2013
MUTTMINSTER. Rescue dogs from around the country compete for prizes and bragging rights in this first-time dog show at the Liacouras Center. The show is executed as a traditional dog show but with categories tailor-made for lovable, adorable mutts. Proceeds benefit PAWS animal shelters.

November 2-3, 2013
APPLE FESTIVAL. The 40^th 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 5, 2013-January 5, 2014
ELF. The Walnut Street Theatre brings in hilarious holiday cheer with this musical adapted from the hit film. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. He grows up unaware that he is actually a human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth—all while saving Christmas. (215) 574-3550, walnutstreettheatre.org

November 7-10, 2013
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, 2013
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, the Philadelphia Marathon has been one of the country’s premier running events since 1994. The weekend also includes an 8K race, a Kids Fun Run and the Health & Fitness Expo. (215) 683-2122, philadelphiamarathon.com

November 20, 2013-January 12, 2014
CINDERELLA: A MUSICAL PANTO. People’s Light & Theatre lights the holiday season with magic for the whole family—including a glass slipper, a fairy godmother and much more. With a taste of vaudeville, this classic fairytale is hilariously reinvented to surprise and delight. (610) 644-3500, peopleslight.org

November 28, 2013
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 28, 2013-January 12, 2014
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 2013 (TBD)
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 

DECEMBER 2013

December 7-29, 2013
THE NUTCRACKER. Pennsylvania Ballet’s 50^th anniversary season features its annual performance of George Balanchine’s holiday classic at the Academy of Music. (215) 893-1999, paballet.org

JANUARY 2014

January 1, 2014
MUMMERS PARADE. Thousands of decorative strutters kick off the New Year by marching up Broad Street in this festive daylong event that ends with the Fancy Brigade Finale at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. phillymummers.com

January 8-16, 2014
PHILADELPHIA AUTO SHOW. The region gets revved up at the Pennsylvania Convention Center during this car lover’s dream, with 700 pre-production, hot-production, classic and green vehicles from a range of manufacturers. phillyautoshow.com

January 14-March 2, 2014
OTHER DESERT CITIES. A holiday reunion transforms into turmoil when a family struggles to come to terms with their past and many long-held secrets. Mystery and suspense take hold during this drama at the Walnut Street Theatre. (215) 574-3550, walnutstreettheatre.org

January 15-February 9, 2014
GHOSTS. The author of A Doll’s House, Henrik Ibsen, penned this scathing commentary on 19^th-century morality and sparked a fury when it was first presented on stage. In this production at People’s Light & Theatre, Ibsen’s tale of mothers and sons and the dangers of family secrets haunts as it did more than a century ago. (610) 644-3500, peopleslight.org

FEBRUARY 2014

February 26-March 30, 2014
PRIDE & PREJUDICE. One of literature’s greatest love stories sweeps onto the stage of People’s Light & Theatre. Jane Austen’s masterpiece is passionate and funny in this fresh, dance-filled adaptation. (610) 644-3500, peopleslight.org
 

MARCH 2014

March 2014 (TBD)
PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL 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

APRIL 2014

April 2-27, 2014
DEAR ELIZABETH. This lyrical, intimate and moving portrait of two acclaimed American poets examines the relationship of Elizabeth Bishop and Robert Lowell with delicate intimacy and exquisite prose at People’s Light & Theatre. (610) 644-3500, peopleslight.org

April 24-26, 2014
THE PENN RELAYS. For the 120^th 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 2014 (TBD)
THE PHILADELPHIA INVITATIONAL FURNITURE SHOW. Held at the 23^rd 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 2014 (TBD)
THE PHILADELPHIA ANTIQUES SHOW. During this annual event, dealers from across the U.S. offer the finest examples of period furniture, folk and fine art, ceramics, porcelain, silver, jewelry and textiles at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. (610) 902-2109, philaantiques.com 

April 2014 (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 2014 (TBD)
FAIRMOUNT ARTS CRAWL. The bars, restaurants and shops in the Fairmount neighborhood turn into galleries. This year, 37 businesses host more than 70 exhibits, in addition to live music, dancing, kids’ activities and live demonstrations. fairmountcdc.org
 

The Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation (GPTMC) makes Philadelphia and The Countryside^® a premier destination through marketing and image building that increases business and promotes the region’s vitality.

For more information about travel to Philadelphia, visit visitphilly.com or uwishunu.com, where you can build itineraries; search event calendars; see photos and videos; view interactive maps; sign up for newsletters; listen to Hear Philly, an online radio station about what to see and do in the region; book hotel reservations and more. Or, call the Independence Visitor Center, located in Historic Philadelphia, at (800) 537-7676.

Contact(s):

• Jenea Robinson, (215) 599-2291
• Donna Schorr, (215) 599-0782