2012 Events

May 2012

May 1
Blue Cross Broad Street Run
The Broad Street Run, named the fastest 10-mile course by Runner’s World, is the largest of its kind in the United States. Participants travel down Broad Street through various Philadelphia neighborhoods including Avenue of the Arts.
Info: www.broadstreetrun.com

May 1 - June 24
The Walnut Street Theatre presents A Grand Night for Singing
Broadway's tribute to the genius of Rodgers & Hammerstein is truly A Grand Night for Singing. This Tony-nominated Best Musical shows how wonderfully timeless their music is! You'll love the sultry Andrews Sisters-esque "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Out-a My Hair." Find out "How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?," sung by a lovelorn young lad. Take delight in "Shall We Dance?" when it's a comic pas de deux. There are over 30 songs from Rodgers & Hammerstein shows, including Oklahoma!, The Sound of Music and Cinderella... It doesn't get any grander than this.
Info: www.walnutstreettheatre.org

May 3 - 5
Philadelphia International Children’s Festival
Enjoy family-friendly music, theatre and dance as well as a host of fun and interactive activities in the Annenburg Center’s Outdoor Plaza on the University of Pennsylvania’s campus, including crafts, face painting, jugglers and more. More than 15,000 children and their families come out each year for a fun affordable day of creativity. Special prices are available for groups.
Info: www.pennpresents.org

May 3 - 6
Philadelphia Equality Forum
The Annual Equality Forum is the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender symposium and festival. Programs, parties and special events-including an international focus-take place throughout the city over seven days
Info: www.equalityforum.com

May 3 - 13
The Academy of Music presents the Philadelphia Ballet: Peter Pan
Escape to Neverland with this whimsical ballet starring the boy who never grew up. Based on the classic story by Sir James M. Barrie, Peter Pan takes you on an adventure with all your favorite characters, including the Darling children and Captain Hook himself.
Choreographer Trey McIntyre reinterprets the fairy tale with a twist for the new millennium, complete with spectacular flying sequences, swashbuckling swordfights, and costumes inspired by punk fashion. Peter Pan is the perfect introduction to dance for audiences of all ages. Bring the whole family to this ballet they'll never, never forget.
Info: www.kimmelcenter.org

May 6
First Friday Art Gallery Walk
Want proof of Philadelphia’s happening art scene? Come down to Old City for First Fridays. On the first Friday evening of every month the streets fill with art lovers of all kinds who wander among the neighborhood’s 40-plus galleries, most of them open from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.

May 11 - 13
The Merriam Theater presents Broadway: River dance
Now in its 17th phenomenal year, RIVERDANCE, the internationally-acclaimed celebration of Irish music, song and dance that has touched the hearts of millions around the world, comes to Philadelphia May 11 - 13! Whether it's your first time or your fifth, there is no better time to share the magic of RIVERDANCE with your family.
Info: www.kimmelcenter.org

May 12
Opening of Sister Cities Park
This park on Logan Square at 18th Street and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, features a family friendly café, children's discovery garden and play area, and fountain commemorating Philadelphia's global sister cities.
Info: www.centercityphila.org

May 13 - 14
Aberdeen Dad Vail Regatta
The Dad Vail Regatta, the largest collegiate rowing event in the U.S.A., takes place along the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park. Thousands of students from throughout North America compete, representing more than 100 universities.
Info: www.dadvail.org

May 13 - 14
Annual Italian Festival
Join the merchants of Philadelphia’s South Street Market, the Nation’s oldest outdoor market, for a one-of-a-kind celebration featuring vendors offering every Italian delicacy possible, live entertainment, contests and more!
Info: www.italianmarketfestival.com

May 15 - June 15
The Walnut Street Theatre presents Buddy-The Buddy Holly Story
Buddy Holly was a brilliant musician who changed the face of popular music and paved the way for the next generation of rock'n'rollers. Follow Buddy's meteoric rise to fame, from his humble country music roots to the top of the record charts and his untimely death in 1959. You'll be cheering for more, with such rousing fifties favorites as "Peggy Sue," "Oh Boy," "Maybe Baby," "That'll Be the Day," "Raining In My Heart," Ritchie Valens' "La Bamba" and the Big Bopper's "Chantilly Lace." This joyous celebration of a musical legend has been seen by more than 20 million people across the globe. Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story will have you ending the season by dancing in the aisles! Info:www.walnutstreettheatre.org

May 19, Noon - 5pm
Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival
More than 65,000 people converge on Walnut Street from Broad to 19th streets for food, entertainment, shopping and fun at the Annual Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival.
Info: www.rittenhouserow.orghttp://www.radnorhunt.org/

May 24 - 27
The Perelman Theater presents American Theater Arts for Youth: Cinderella
Join Cinderella and her new friend Mortimer Mouse as they sing and dance their way from the kitchen of her step-mother's house to the brilliance of Prince Charming's Ball. These favorite characters come to life with gusto as families of all ages share in the spirit and joy of this production.
Info: www.kimmelcenter.org

May 24 - June 3
Devon Horse Show and Country Fair
The oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the U.S.A. takes place at the Devon Fairgrounds on Philadelphia’s Main Line. Enjoy the boutique shops, food and competitions from Equestrian Vaulting to Carriage Racing.
Info: www.thedevonhorseshow.org

May 26 – 28
19th Annual Cherokee Indian Festival
The 19th Annual Cherokee Indian Festival will include: Native American dancers in full regalia, Native American drummers, Native American food and crafts for the entire family to enjoy!
Info: www.secherokee-confederacypa.org

May 31 - June3
The Merriam Theater presents Pennsylvania Ballet: N.Y. Export: Opus Jazz
Feel the flavor of the city that never sleeps with Jerome Robbins' N.Y. Export: Opus Jazz. Robbins' "ballet in sneakers," celebrates the youth and vitality of the era in which it emerged: the distinctly cool 1950's. N.Y. Export: Opus Jazz adopts the spirit of Robbins' renowned musical, West Side Story, with Broadway-style theatricality saturating this series of dances.
Also on the bill, Peter Martins' Barber Violin Concerto showcases two couples, bathed in white, performing brilliant pas de deux that exhibit the range between classical ballet and modern dance.
Info: www.kimmelcenter.org

June 2012

June TBD
The Roots Picnic
Philly’s own Grammy®-winning hip-hop band The Roots bring together artists from various genres for a day-long concert at the Festival Pier at Penn’s Landing.
Info: www.okayplayer.com

June - July
2012 Summer Season of the Mann Center for the Performing Arts Throughout the summer season, the outdoor amphitheatre of the Mann Center presents al fresco performances to audiences of up to 14,000. Check their website for a listing of performances.
Info: www.manncenter.org

June 1
First Friday Art Gallery Walk
Want proof of Philadelphia’s happening art scene? Come down to Old City for First Fridays. On the first Friday evening of every month the streets fill with art lovers of all kinds who wander among the neighborhood’s 40-plus galleries, most of them open from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.

June 1 - 3
Philadelphia Comic Con Wizard World Convention
Join thousands of fellow fans as they converge at the Pennsylvania Convention Center for the Philadelphia Comic Con 2012 Wizard World Convention. Celebrate the best in pop culture with movies, comics, toys, video gaming, TV, anime, manga, horror, wrestling, MMA, original art, collectibles and more. Guests will be able to interact with the actors that played iconic roles. Past guest included Patrick Stewart of Star Trek and X-men, Linda Hamilton of The Terminator and Hayden Panettiere of the NBC show “Heroes.”
Info: www.wizardworld.com/home-pa.html

June 1 - 10
Philly Beer Week
Celebrate frothy beer culture with dozens of events like beer and food pairings and demonstrations from local brewers. Participants kick off the festivities by drinking alongside the Hammer and Glory (HOG) as it blazes its way from one bar to the next by being ceremonially passed along by horseback, rollerblades and more. Upon reaching its final destination, the Hammer of Glory taps the official first keg of Philly Beer Week.
Info: www.phillybeerweek.org

June 2
The Walnut Street Theatre presents Skippyjon Jones
Skippyjon Jones is a little kitten with big ears and even bigger dreams! He longs to be someone different, so he transforms himself into Skippito Friskito, the greatest canine sword fighter in old Mexico. But when Skippyjon is challenged by a bullying bee, will he be a 'fraidy-cat or the top dog? Find out in Judy Schachner's charming musical encouraging kids to follow their dreams.
Info: www.walnutstreettheatre.org

June 2 - 3
Peddler’s Village Fine Art and Contemporary Craft Show
This outdoor exhibition features original artworks in watercolors, acrylic, pen, ink, photography and sculpture. Cash prizes will be awarded in three categories; Fine Art, Contemporary Craft and Photography. Families can listen to live music and partake in art activities as well.
Info: www.peddlersvillage.com

June 5 - 10
The Philadelphia Academy of Music presents Broadway: Beauty and the Beast
Disney's Beauty and the Beast, the smash hit Broadway musical, is coming to Philadelphia! Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, this eye-popping spectacle has won the hearts of over 35 million people worldwide. This classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers including 'Be Our Guest' and the beloved title song. Experience the romance and enchantment of Disney's Beauty and the Beast at the Academy of Music.
Info: kimmelcenter.org

June 10
Philly Pride Parade & Festival
The Philadelphia Gay Pride Parade is a wonderfully diverse and eclectic collection of all elements of the “gayborhood.” The parade will begin at 13th and Locust in the heart of Center City and zigzag through the streets towards Penn’s Landing where it will feed into the Philly Prdie Festival. Entertainment, vendors and performers will fill the streets to celebrate freedom, pride and fellowship.
Info: www.phillypride.org

June 10
Odunde African-American Festival
To celebrate the Yoruba New Year, this festival begins with a spiritual procession to the Schuylkill River and ends with a lively street fair on South Street.
Info: www.odundefestival.org

June 11
Islamic Heritage Festival
Celebrate Islamic culture with music, foods, crafts and educational programs at Penn’s Landing. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing.
Info: www.delawareriverevents.com

June 16 - 17
West Oak Lane Jazz & Arts Festival
This ninth annual festival includes two days of free, non-stop jazz music with live bands and popular artists on outdoor stages, along with handcrafted arts and crafts, food and fun activities for the entire family.
Info: www.westoaklanefestival.com

June 17
Annual Father Day’s Picnic
Join fathers and their families from throughout Philadelphia for a day filled with food, games and fun! The Father's Day Rally Committee will host this picnic at Belmont Grove, in Fairmont Park.
Info: www.fdrc.net

June 19
Portuguese Heritage Festival
Visitors can enjoy an afternoon of Portuguese music, activities and ethnic food, all free and outdoors at the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing.
Info: www.delawareriverevents.com

June 25 - July 4
Wawa Welcome America
Celebrate America’s independence in the most historic city in the country! Wawa Welcome America will be hosting a plethora of exciting historical, cultural, and family events. Enjoy this multi-day extravaganza complete with food, outdoor concerts, an ice-cream festival, face-painting, a Fourth of July parade, and much more! To conclude the festivities, our city hosts the largest free concert in America with premiere musical headliners (details to come), followed by a dazzling display of fireworks over the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary annual event in America’s birthplace!
Info: http://www.welcomeamerica.com/

July 2012

July TBD
The Black Women Arts Festival
This 4-day festival hosts over 50 artists from around the globe showcasing their talents in: performance, visual arts, literary arts and film. BWAF looks to empower the community and be positive role models for the youth.
Info: www.bwafphilly.org

July 4
Wawa 4th of July on the Parkway
To celebrate the fourth of July, Philadelphia historically outdoes itself-and 2011 will be no different with multiple fireworks spectaculars and countless fun-filled activities throughout the week. The Wawa Welcome America! Festival celebrates July 4th with a huge parade, a concert, with Grammy-Award winning artists on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and, of course, fireworks. This only-in-Philadelphia bash is one you won’t want to miss.
Info: www.welcomeamerica.com

July 6
First Friday Art Gallery Walk
Want proof of Philadelphia’s happening art scene? Come down to Old City for First Fridays. On the first Friday evening of every month the streets fill with art lovers of all kinds who wander among the neighborhood’s 40-plus galleries, most of them open from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.

July 9 - 10
Annual Hispanic Fiesta at Penn’s Landing
Two fun-filled days featuring music, dance, entertainment, ethnic food and artisans from Puerto Rico and other parts of Latin America take place at Columbus Blvd & Chestnut Streets. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing.
Info: www.delawareriverevents.com

July 14
Bastille Day Festival
Celebrate the French Revolution with Eastern State Penitentiary and the Fairmount Neighborhood district at this annual event, featuring neighborhood bar crawls and dining specials;screenings of French movies; French champagne brunches and even a re-created “storming of the Bastille!”
Info: www.easternstate.org

July 16 - 21
Global Fusion Festival at Penn’s Landing
Presented by the PCVB’s Philadelphia Multicultural Affairs Congress, the festival draws diverse communities together for an electrifying week of nonstop entertainment celebrating the world’s cultures. Fusion-inspired parties, programs and food and drink specials will take place across the city all week, wrapping up Saturday with the free signature festival at Penn’s Landing. Featuring ethnic dance performances, cultural vendors, kids’ activities and a concert with big-name and up-and-coming performers, this can’t miss event is perfect for all generations. 
Info: www.globalfusionfestival.com

August 2012

August 3
First Friday Art Gallery Walk
Want proof of Philadelphia’s happening art scene? Come down to Old City for First Fridays. On the first Friday evening of every month the streets fill with art lovers of all kinds who wander among the neighborhood’s 40-plus galleries, most of them open from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.

August 6
Acana African Festival
Festival highlighting African American history and culture with live performances and a marketplace on Penn’s Landing. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing.
Info: www.delawareriverevents.com

August 14
Festival of India
A celebration of East Asian culture with live stage entertainment and traditional foods and crafts at Penn’s Landing. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing.
Info: www.delawareriverevents.com

August 21
Caribbean Festival
A celebration of Caribbean culture with live stage entertainment and traditional foods and crafts at Penn’s Landing. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing.
Info: www.delawareriverevents.com

August 31 – September 15
Philadelphia Live Arts Festival and Philly Fringe
Illuminates Philadelphia with two weeks of artistic pleasure and avant-garde performances. With a full roster of original dance, theater, and music works The Philadelphia Live Arts Festival and Philly Fringe is one event you do not want to miss!
Info: www.livearts-fringe.org

September 2012

September TBD
Goya Latino Latin Night at The Phillies
Goya Foods, the largest Hispanic-owned food company in the United States, will once again team up with the Phillies to host the Goya Latino Family Celebration & Food Drive. The celebration pays tribute to Hispanic Heritage Month and includes on-field performances from national and local artists, as well as a food drive to help needy families in the Latino community. Tickets are required.
Info: www.phillies.com

September TBD
Feria Del Barrio
Families and friends enjoy their favorite Latino foods, artists, singers, dancers and performances while walking among the metal palm trees and golden sidewalks of El Centro de Oro, the heart of Philadelphia’s Latino community.
Info: www.tallerpr.org

September TBD
Puerto Rican Day Parade
Holds the designation of the oldest and largest outdoor event celebrating Puerto Rican and Latino heritage in the city. Begins at 12:00 noon at 16th Street and John F. Kennedy Boulevard, marches north along 16th Street to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and winds up at Eakins Oval near the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Info: www.elconcilio.net

September - January
Philadelphia Eagles Football
The Eagles take on the competition of the National Football League at the Lincoln Financial Field.
Info: www.philadelphiaeagles.com

September 7
First Friday Art Gallery walk
Want proof of Philadelphia’s happening art scene? Come down to Old City for First Fridays. On the first Friday evening of every month the streets fill with art lovers of all kinds who wander among the neighborhood’s 40-plus galleries, most of them open from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.

September 10
Southeast Asian Dragon Boat Festival
This annual festival is based on the celebration of Southeastern Asian culture featuring food and entertainment. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing.
Info: www.delawareriverevents.com

September 11
Mexican Independence Day
A celebration of Mexican independence with music, foods, crafts and educational programs at Penn’s Landing. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing.
Info: www.delawareriverevents.com

September - November
Terror behind the Walls at Eastern State Penitentiary
Eastern State Penitentiary is transformed into one of the “Top Ten Haunted Houses” in the country voted by AOL and the Travel Channel. “Terror Behind the Walls” takes visitors inside the eerie building filled with paranormal activity for a haunted house adventure. All are welcomed to creep about the dark prison cells, morgue, kitchen and more with fright lurking around every corner.
Info: www.easternstate.org/halloween

October 2012

October TBD
27th Annual Philadelphia International Art Expo
This is an Expo of popular world art and the art of living well, combining unique visual art with an opportunity to meet and network with a diverse group of visual and craft artists in a setting that is exciting and multifaceted. This three day weekend of art, music & great food will be taking place in downtown Mt Airy, Philadelphia. 
Info: www.octobergallery.com

October - April
Philadelphia Flyers Hockey
The Flyers take on the competition of the National Hockey League at the Wells Fargo Complex.
Info: http://flyers.nhl.com

October 5
First Friday Art Gallery Walk
Want proof of Philadelphia’s happening art scene? Come down to Old City for First Fridays. On the first Friday evening of every month the streets fill with art lovers of all kinds who wander among the neighborhood’s 40-plus galleries, most of them open from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.

October 6
Philadelphia International Dragon Boat Festival
Stroll along the Schuylkill River to watch this ancient Chinese tradition of brilliantly festooned dragon-headed boats racing against one another.
Info: www.philadragonboatfestival.com

October 11
Outfest
Don’t miss Philadelphia’s National Coming Out Day Festival, which attracts more than 20,000 supporters of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered (GLBT) lifestyle and freedom. Celebrate with vendors, games and live entertainment.
Info: www.phillypride.org

November 2012

November - January
Yuletide at Winterthur
View the elegant interiors of the DuPont mansion bedecked in holiday finery and Winterthur’s magnificent dried flower tree. Be inspired by dazzling holiday dining, entertaining displays, daily concerts and how-to-demonstrations. 
Info: www.winterthur.org

November - January
Christmas at Longwood Gardens
During the holiday season at Longwood Gardens, thousands of poinsettias, Christmas trees and fragrant flowers transform the indoor gardens into a concert space and holiday celebration. Outside, 500,000 lights shine after dark against Longwood’s many shimmering fountains. 
Info: www.longwoodgardens.org 

November - April
Philadelphia 76ers Basketball
The 76ers take on the competition of the National Basketball Association at the Wells Fargo Center.
Info: www.sixers.com

November 2
First Friday Art Gallery Walk
Want proof of Philadelphia’s happening art scene? Come down to Old City for First Fridays. On the first Friday evening of every month the streets fill with art lovers of all kinds who wander among the neighborhood’s 40-plus galleries, most of them open from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.

November 18
Philadelphia Marathon
Twenty-thousand runners will travel 26.2 miles through Philadelphia’s hip and historic neighborhoods.
Info: www.philadelphiamarathon.com

November 22
Thanksgiving Day Parade
The oldest parade of its kind celebrates the beginning of the holiday season with elaborate floats, toe-tapping music and the arrival of Santa Claus. The parade, which takes place on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, features the largest number of helium balloons in the country.
Info: dig.abclocal.go.com/wpvi/html/wpviThanksGivingParade

December 2012

December TBD
Pennsylvania Ballet “The Nutcracker”
The holiday favorite is performed by the Pennsylvania Ballet at the historic Academy of Music. Take the lavish costumes and sets, world-class dance performances and the classic music of Tchaikovsky.
Info: www.paballet.org/nutcracker

December 7
First Friday Art Gallery Walk
Want proof of Philadelphia’s happening art scene? Come down to Old City for First Fridays. On the first Friday evening of every month the streets fill with art lovers of all kinds who wander among the neighborhood’s 40-plus galleries, most of them open from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.

December 25
Being Jewish at Christmas
The National Museum of American Jewish History celebrates Judaism on Christmas Day with a day of entertainment, music, storytelling, refreshments and museum tours.
Info: www.nmajh.org

December 26 - January 1, 2013
Kwanzaa Celebration
Celebrations will take place at locations throughout Philadelphia with traditional performances, storytelling and other activities.
Info: www.soulofamerica.com

December 28 - 31
Mummerfest and the Fancy Brigade Finale
Get a behind-the-scenes look at Philadelphia’s century-old New Year’s tradition and experience Mummers in the making at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The Fancy Brigade Finale takes place on the New Year’s and features a parade with 20,000 spectacularly costumed string bands, fancy brigades and comics performing their traditional “strut” on Broad Street. Additionally, Fancy Brigade clubs will have two performances filed with festive costumes, colorful floats and quality choreography.
Info: www.mummersfancybrigade.com