Charming Disaster: Super Natural History
Science History Institute, 315 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106.
Explore the otherworldly side of science with the goth-folk duo Charming Disaster. It’s a musical epic, touching on witchcraft, monsters, and the underworld, and moving along from there to bats, plants, poisons, and parasites. Go if you dare! Refreshments and a special reception with the artists after the show. 6-8:30 p.m.
https://www.sciencehistory.org/visit/events/charming-disaster-super-natural-history/
215-0925-2222
Philadelphia Celtic Singing Session hosted by The Jameson Sisters
Commodore John Barry Arts and Cultural Center, 6815 Emlen St., Philadelphia, PA 19119.
Come prepared to sing your party piece. (Or more, if you have more than one.) All ages and skill levels. Admission is free. Sing songs from any Celtic nation. Starts at 7:30 p.m.
https://jamesonsisters.com/event/4864809/619876294/philadelphia-celtic-singing-session-hosted-by-the-jameson-sisters
Thursday Painters Group
Center on the Hill, Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Private watercolor painting group. If interested in joining this group of informal painters, please contact the center for more information. 9:30-10:30 a.m. 215-247-4654.
Scrabble—Open Play
Center on the Hill, Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
It’s everybody’s favorite board game, a true challenge for spellers everywhere. Try your skill at Center on the Hill. $2. Registration required. 10 a.m.-noon. Register before you make a payment by contacting Mariangela at 215-247-4654 or msaavedra@chestnuthillpres.org
Blues, Beer & BBQ Shabbat
Beth Sholom Congregation, 8231 Old York Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027
Craft Beer and BBQ from A La Karte Catering. Join Rabbi David Glanzberg-Krainin, Cantor Jacob Agar and the band for a Blues Musical Kabbalat Shabbat with BBQ and Beer following the service. The entire community is welcome to attend. $25 for ages 12 and up, $15 ages 5-11. 6-8 p.m. Call Julie at 215-887-1342 ext. 216 for more info or to register.
Roxborough Pet Night at the Pocket Park
6170 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19128.
Think of it as a promenade with your pet. (And if you don’t have a pet, Wet Nose Rescue will be on hand with adoptable dogs.) Your furry pal can visit Saint Rocco's treats, and try out their agility with Lightpaws Dog Training. Check out the pet-themed vendors. Get an on-the-spot drawing of your pet from Char and Whiskers. Ernesto's Club will be on hand to perform Brazilian tunes. Plus, treats for the humans: a beer garden hosted by New Ridge Brewing Co. Sit! Stay! 5-8 p.m.
https://roxboroughpa.com/events/pet-night-at-the-pocket-park
Beginnings
The Keswick Theatre, 291 North Keswick Avenue, Glenside, PA 19038.
Beginnings—A Celebration of the Music of Chicago brings the magic of a live Chicago performance to life and exceptionally recreates the band’s enormous songbook of contemporary hits. The music of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Chicago spans more than five decades and includes five Number 1 albums and more than 20 top 10 hits. Beginnings has one of the most entertaining live performances you can see today. Doors open at 7 p.m.; show begins at 8.
215-572-7650
Night Adventures
Elmwood Park Zoo, 1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown, PA 19401
Zip the zoo in the dark with Treetop Adventures’ Night Adventures! Experience the thrills of the zip line and ropes courses with the added challenge of darkness. Adventurers will navigate through the trees, equipped with a headlamp. Your Night Adventure ticket includes access to tasty bites and one drink ticket. Toast your successful return with a party that begins shortly after you exit the trees. Non-adventurers can still be a part of the fun with the zoo’s new Fan Pass! Each Fan Pass includes one drink ticket and access to tasty bites. 7:30 to 10 p.m. To reserve your Night Adventure, call 610-277-3827.
The Wissahickon as a Watershed, with Stan Kozakowski, Debbie Hoellein and Jim McClory
Explore the Monoshone Creek, a critical tributary of the Wissahickon Creek. The Monoshone played a vital role in the economic and political history of Philadelphia but also was part of the dangerous pollution of the city’s drinking water. Local historian David Bower will join the group at Historic Rittenhouse Town. This activity, sponsored by Friends of the Wissahickon, is recommended for ages 12 and up. Registration required. Meet at Johnson Street and Lincoln Drive. You are advised to wear sturdy shoes or boots with socks. Walks are canceled in heavy rain. 9 a.m. to 12 noon.
https://fow.org/event/the-wissahickon-as-a-watershed-with-stan-kozakowski-debbie-hoellein-and-jim-mcclory/
Saturday Night Jazz: The Pieces of the Man Called Gil Scott Heron
Woodmere Art Museum, 9201 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Roy Richardson and The Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble perform “Pieces of a Man,” “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised,” “The Bottle,” and more from the rich and provocative body of work by singer-jazz composer-social activist Gil Scott Heron. Part of the museum’s Jazz at Woodmere program. General admission $25; $15 for Woodmere members. Starting at 6 p.m.
https://woodmereartmuseum.org/calendar/saturday-night-jazz-the-pieces-of-the-man-called-gil-scott-heron
215-247-0476
Barn Sale at St. Thomas’s
St. Thomas Whitemarsh, 7020 Camp Hill Road, Fort Washington, PA 19034
One of the area's best thrift stores, offering clothing for all—home goods and decor, books, toys, jewelry, art, sporting goods, and furniture. And to make it even better, Mac's Cafe offers a variety of food and beverages. All the proceeds support local, national and international charities. Free parking onsite. 8 a.m.-12 noon.
st.thomasbarninfo@gmail.com or 215-233-3970
Hot Spots & Storied Plots
Laurel Hill Cemetery East, 3822 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19132
In life and death, we all have stories to tell, and what better place to hear tales of wonder than Philadelphia’s most famous home of the dead? This introductory tour provides an informative overview of Laurel Hill East’s long history, which includes many marble masterpieces, stunning views, and legendary stories that afford the cemetery its WOW factor. An experienced graveyard guide will offer you their unique perspective on beautiful art, scenic nature, and fascinating history. 10 a.m. to 12 noon.
bsavastana@laurelhillphl.com
215-228-8200
Pizza Making Class for Kids
Chestnut Hill Brewing Company, 8221 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Does your kid like pizza? OK, stupid question. The experts at Chestnut Hill Brewing will teach your child how to stretch the dough and top it. Each child will get to eat the fruits of their labor—a 12-inch personal-size pizza with one topping. 9:30-11 a.m.
Details: https://www.chestnuthillbrewingcompany.com/events/kids-pizza-making-class/
Awbury Farm Market
Awbury Arboretum, 6336 Ardleigh Street, Philadelphia, PA 19138.
Visit the Farm at Awbury to peruse the stands and purchase fresh local foods, fresh produce, and shop for finely crafted artisan goods. Also, family-friendly activities, workshops, and demonstrations. Park on Ardleigh Street and enter the farm via the pedestrian entrance.
1 to 5 p.m.
https://awbury.org/farm-market/
Concert in the Park
James A. Cisco Park, 200 Montgomery Ave, Erdenheim, PA 19038
Resurgence Church is hosting a concert in the park. The church will be collecting school supply donations for students. There will also be food trucks and Resurgence t-shirts for sale. Get together with friends and family, enjoy some tunes, and support a good cause. 5-7 p.m. Contact Tara Aldrich at 267-433-8272, or email t.aldrich@resurgence-church.org for any details or questions.
Richard Marx in Concert
The Keswick Theatre, 291 North Keswick Avenue, Glenside, PA 19038.
The Chicago native has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, starting with his self-titled debut, which went to number 8 and spawned four Top 5 singles, including the chart-topping "Hold on to the Nights," with "Don't Mean Nothing" earning him a Grammy nomination for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance. The follow-up, 1989's Repeat Offender, was even more successful, hitting number 1 and going quadruple platinum with two number 1 singles in "Satisfied" and "Right Here Waiting." Doors open at 6 p.m.; show at 7.
215-572-7650
Cavalleria Rusticana by Pietro Mascagni and I Pagliacci by Ruggero
Venice Island Performing Arts & Recreation Center, 7 Lock Street, Philadelphia, PA 19127.
Visit Manayunk’s distinctive state-of-the-art theater for a presentation of opera favorites, performed by Delaware Valley Opera Company. Also featuring “The Stronger,” a 15-minute work by composer-in-residence Misha Dutka. 2:30 p.m.
http://www.dvopera.org/cavalleriapagliaccistronger---casts--tickets.html
A Child of Many Summers
Morris Arboretum, 100 East Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Storytime and a silent, sensory brunch. (It’s vegan, BTW.) 10 a.m. to 12 noon. $60. Tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-child-of-many-summers-a-story-time-and-a-silent-sensory-brunch-for-kids-tickets-669007779277
Sketching and Watercolor
Center on the Hill, Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Enjoy sketching and watercolor painting in a relaxed class. A variety of media will be demonstrated and still lifes and photographs will be used. This drawing and watercolor painting class is for people of all abilities. Instructor Alex Forbes has been teaching classes in the Chestnut Hill area for the past 26 years. He has also taught illustration at The Hussian School of Art in Philadelphia. Mondays, join at any time. $32 per month. Registration required. Please bring check payment to first class. Space is limited. Eight participants MAX. 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Contact Mariangela at 215-247-4654 or msaavedra@chestnuthillpres.org.
Qigong (Healing Movements)
Center on the Hill, Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Registration required. Experience the gentle, healing movements of the ancient Chinese art of Qigong (chee - gong), the practice of moving Chi, life energy, through the body for good health and well-being. These easy movements can be done in a standing or seated position. Enjoy the peaceful, calming feelings brought about by this wonderful art. Michael McCormack has taught the healing arts for more than 20 years. $40 per four classes; $12 walk-ins per class. 2-3 p.m.
Contact Mariangela at 215-247-4654 or msaavedra@chestnuthillpres.org.
Movie Mondays at Roxborough Library
6245 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19128.
Stop in and see what they’ll be showing that evening. From 6 to 7:30 p.m.
215-685-2550
Read With a Dog!
Falls of Schuylkill Branch Library, 3501 Midvale Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19129.
Young readers can meet Daisy, a certified therapy dog, and share a story with her. Children can practice reading out loud, in a safe, judgment-free space. Daisy loves to hear stories! Space might be limited. 4 p.m.
215-685-2093
Bloomin’ Bubbles
Morris Arboretum, 100 East Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Join the arboretum’s magical bubble party in the Whimsical Woods—a perfect location for a bubble party—right next door to the Fairy Garden. Starts at 11 a.m.
https://www.morrisarboretum.org/see-do/events-calendar
215-247-5777
Storytime with Ms. Dana
Lovett Memorial Library, 6945 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19119.
Join Ms. Dana for stories, songs and silliness. Recommended for ages 2 and up, and their parents and caregivers. This program will take place outside in Lovett Park, weather permitting. Otherwise, they will meet in the library’s Storytime Room. 10:30 a.m.
Chess for All Ages
Lovett Memorial Library, 6945 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19119.
The Lovett Chess Club welcomes all comers, based on ability, not age. Beginners welcome. Your move. 5 to 8 p.m.
https://libwww.freelibrary.org/calendar/event/123985
Rummy Tiles Open Play
Center on the Hill, Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Also known as Rummikub, it’s a fast but not too challenging game combining elements of rummy and mahjong. Space is limited, so RSVP. 10:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. $2 fee. Register before you make a payment by contacting Mariangela at 215-247-4654 or msaavedra@chestnuthillpres.org.
Zumba Gold
Center on the Hill, Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Wednesdays, ongoing, start any time. Single class - $12; 4 classes - $45; 8 classes - $80. Registration required. Zumba Gold combines the enticing world rhythms of Zumba with the strength-training techniques of the Zumba Toning Program, creating an easy-to-follow, health-boosting dance fitness program for active, older adults, as well as beginners. You are welcome to bring your own 1- to 2-pound weights to build strength and tone all target zones. 11 a.m. to 12 noon.
Contact Mariangela at 215-247-4654 or msaavedra@chestnuthillpres.org.
Bridge Open Play
Center on the Hill, Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Play the game of Party Bridge and enjoy the company of others. Note: Not for beginners. $2 fee. 11:30 a.m.– 3:00 p.m. Register before you make a payment by contacting Mariangela at 215-247-4654 or msaavedra@chestnuthillpres.org.
PCCH Bible Study Group
Center on the Hill, Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
PCCH Bible Study Group open to all. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Call 215-247-8855 to register to attend.
Afternoon Plant Cutting Swaps
Chestnut Hill Branch Library, 8711 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Do you have some plant cuttings to share? Bring them to the library to swap with your neighbors and browse the Horticulture Collection, unique to the Chestnut Hill Library. Check website for updates to schedule. 2-4 p.m.
https://libwww.freelibrary.org/calendar/?location_code=CHH
Wednesday Night Trivia
Chestnut Hill Brewing Company, 8221 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Waddya know? Put your knowledge to the test! It’s your regular Wednesday trivia night with Steve. Toss back a beer or two, accompanied by pizza or chow from one of the vendors at the Market at the Fareway. 7-9 p.m.
Details: https://www.chestnuthillbrewingcompany.com/events/wednesday-night-trivia-8-2023-08-16/
Sutton Foster in Concert at Longwood
Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348.
Most recently seen on Broadway stage starring in The Music Man alongside Hugh Jackman. Two-time Tony Award-winning actress, singer, and dancer. Open Air Theatre, 7:30 p.m.
https://longwoodgardens.org/events-performances/events/sutton-foster
"This is What We Do" Listening Party with Bethlehem and Sad Patrick
Commodore John Barry Arts and Cultural Center, 6815 Emlen St., Philadelphia, PA 19119.
Join the minimalist jazz duo for tunes to celebrate the release of their new album, "This is What We Do.” Includes CD. 7-10 p.m. Doors open at 6.
https://allevents.in/philadelphia/10000674636153897
Art
The Living World: Center for Creative Works
Woodmere Art Museum, 9201 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
A compelling display of paintings, drawings, sculpture and music at Woodmere, featuring the work of 15 artists based at The Center for Creative Works. CCW develops creative workplace potential and cultural identity for people with intellectual disabilities. Through August 27.
https://woodmereartmuseum.org/experience/exhibitions/the-living-world-center-for-creative-works
Shane Fero—“Spirit Vessels”
Gravers Lane Gallery, 8405 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Shane Fero has been a flame worker for 50 years and maintains a studio next to Penland School in North Carolina. He participates in international symposia and conferences by lecturing and demonstrating. Fero is also an educator and has taught at a wide variety of institutions, from The Studio of the Corning Museum of Glass to Niijima Glass Art Center in Japan. His work can be found in collections both private and public institutions worldwide. Through August 27.
https://www.graverslanegallery.com/spirit-vessels-news
The Woodmere Annual: 81st Juried Exhibition
Woodmere Art Museum, 9201 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
Fifty-four contemporary Philadelphia artists showcase their works in sculpture, painting, photography, jewelry, and printmaking, addressing a wide variety of subjects, such as climate change, materialism, ancestry, and biology. The artists incorporate innovative uses of electroforming, computer-aided design, and 3-D printing.
Through August 27.
https://woodmereartmuseum.org/experience/exhibitions/the-woodmere-annual-81st-juried-exhibition
For the Kids
Big League Fun
Please Touch Museum, Memorial Hall, 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131.
It ain’t all balls and strikes. There’s math and science involved in the national pastime. Explore the exciting world of Major League Baseball in this new traveling exhibit. Pitch, swing, catch. Channel Phillies announcer Tom McCarthy and simulate your own play-by-play. Customize your own baseball card. Registration required. Through September 3. Batter up!
https://www.pleasetouchmuseum.org/learn/exhibits/all/big-league-fun/
215-581-3181
Disney100: The Exhibition
The Franklin Institute, 222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
Well, if we’re honest, you don’t have to be a kid—just a kid at heart, as so many of us who grew up in the shadow of the Disney empire are. This exhibition is a whole lot more than mouse ears. It comprises 10 “imaginatively themed galleries featuring moving stories, a rich musical score, and unique behind-the-scenes glimpses into the creation of the company’s most popular characters, films, shows, and attractions.” Better hurry up, though. Closes August 27.
https://www.fi.edu/en/exhibits-and-experiences/disney100-exhibition
215-448-1200
History
Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia
Museum of the American Revolution, 101 South Third Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106.
James Forten was a free man of African descent who fought in the Revolutionary War, then returned to Philadelphia to a successful life in business and philanthropy. He was also a staunch abolitionist. Forten’s own story is fascinating, but his family’s 100-year odyssey—from the Revolution through the lead-up to the Civil War and the women’s suffrage movement—is equally enthralling. Through November 26.
https://www.amrevmuseum.org/exhibits/black-founders-the-forten-family-of-philadelphia
Outdoors
Garden Highlights Tour
Morris Arboretum, 100 East Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
What piques your interest at Morris Arboretum? Take a tour, guided by your interests and those of the other folks who show up. (Which means every tour is different.) Through Sunday, October 1. Weekdays at 10:30 a.m.; weekends at 1 p.m. Meet at the arboretum’s Widener Visitor Center.
https://www.morrisarboretum.org/see-do/events-calendar
215-247-5777
Garden Railway
Morris Arboretum, 100 East Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118.
If you’ve never visited the arboretum’s railway, do. And even if you have, come again. All the trains are G scale, 1/28 the size of actual locomotives and cars, and they wind around and over garden pathways, surrounded by picturesque miniature buildings. A treat for kids and kids at heart. Through Tuesday, October 10.
https://www.morrisarboretum.org/see-do/events-calendar
215-247-5777
Festival of Fountains
Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348.
Visitors to Longwood treasure the experience for many reasons, but among the most attractive features? The fabulous fountains! Fountains during the day, fountains at night, fountains set to music, fountains alight. This festival is a must-see as summer winds down. Through September 24.
https://longwoodgardens.org/gardens/our-seasons/festival-fountains
Shopping
Stroll the Street in Manayunk
Walk, shop, and dine your way down Main Street as Manayunk celebrates its summer series, Enjoy local vendors, live music, and fun activities. (August is Pet Month.) Select Manayunk restaurants feature happy hour specials, while retail shops offer discounts and other promotions. Every Thursday evening during the summer.
https://manayunk.com/events/stroll-the-street.html
Theater
Boca
Act II Playhouse, 56 E. Butler Ave., Ambler, PA 19002.
The story of a group of retirees who, in a series of short interweaving comic scenes, learn that the key to happiness might lie within their own community. Price $37-$40.
Thursday, August 10-Sunday, August 27.
https://act2.org
(215) 654-0200
