”Ashes and Iron” — Philadelphia Fringe Festival
A solo aerial show that tells the story of a community that refuses to be erased. Set in Kensington, Philadelphia—one of the most resilient but misrepresented neighborhoods in the city—this powerful piece combines aerial silks, hammock, and Lyra to explore themes of struggle, survival, and collective strength. Through six full-length songs and spoken word interludes, performer and writer Daisie Cardona brings the emotional landscape of Kensington to life. Each piece reflects a different chapter in the community’s journey: the weight of generational scars, the heartbreak of watching loved ones leave or fall, the fierce love that binds neighbors together, and the ongoing fight to reclaim joy and dignity. From the wreckage, something beautiful rises.
When: Monday, Sept. 15 at 6 p.m.
Where: Christ Church Neighborhood House, 20 N. American St.
NFRW/T — Philadelphia Fringe Festival
Part of International Black + Indigenous Circus Week, this ANKOLE, a BIPOC Queer Circus Arts and Wellness Community, debuts their newest work NFRW/T (pronounced “ne-fer-u” or “ne-fer-et”) (adj. Egyptian for good/beautiful/perfect).
When: Monday, Sept. 15 and Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Christ Church Neighborhood House, 20 N. American St.
”new heaven new earth” — Philadelphia Fringe Festival
On the edge of empire, Cleopatra battles a soothsaying Crocodile in this revisionist, Afrocentric adaptation of Shakespeare’s Antony and Cleopatra. Written by Rayne (Angela Bey), directed by Shamus, with live music by Karen Smith, new heaven new earth is an allegory that blends ancient history with poetic futurism. When peace demands war, what will you become, and for whom? Produced by Upstream Performance Collaborative and Shakespeare in Clark Park and developed through Philadelphia Theatre Company’s Text and Dramaturgy Cohort at Cannonball.
When: Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 8 p.m.
Where: The Proscenium at the Drake, 302 S Hicks St.
Black Music as History with Dyana Williams
Join legendary radio host, journalist, and cultural advocate Dyana Williams for a conversation on the power of Black music as a vessel for history, memory, and identity. As a cofounder of Black Music Month and a tireless champion for artists’ rights and cultural preservation, Williams brings a unique perspective to the intersection of music and activism. She will trace the origins of Black Music Month, highlight the role of music in preserving African American stories across generations, and reflect on the responsibility and urgency of archiving these cultural expressions. This program will explore how music not only entertains but also bears witness — amplifying resistance, joy, and community across time.
When: Wednesday, Sept. 18 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Where: Historical Society of Pennsylvania, 1300 Locust St.
”After Worlds” — Philadelphia Fringe Festival
This is a story about you, an immersive excavation of who you’ve always been. After Worlds is an experimental narrative told through second person soundscapes and projected data clouds, bringing audiences into an archival rabbit hole growing ever deeper. Written by Taj Rauch and produced by Wherehouse.
Where: Icebox Project Space Gallery, 1400 N. American St.
”Wheel of Fortune” auditions comes to Philly
The beloved, long-running game show “Wheel of Fortune” is looking for contestants in the City of Brotherly Love! 6abc is excited to announce that a team of Wheel producers will be at The Event Center at Rivers Philadelphia this September for a one-of-a-kind contestant search. It’s been more than a decade since “Wheel of Fortune” last held in-person auditions in Philadelphia. This event is one of only a few live castings nationally that “Wheel” producers will host for the upcoming season. “Wheel” contestant hopefuls will have the opportunity to meet with producers and show them they have what it takes to make it to the “Wheel of Fortune” stage! Attendees also have the chance to win fun prizes, and there is no cost for admission. Contestants may begin lining up at 10 a.m. each morning of the casting call; must be 21 and older.
When: Thursday, Sept. 18 and Friday, Sept. 19 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Rivers Casino Philadelphia, 1001 N. Delaware Ave.
”YO, PUT THE GUN DOWN! (A Hip Hop Symphony)”
Gun violence continues to devastate Philadelphia, but a group of youth and young adults is using art to fight back. The Hip Hop Symphony Ensemble will stage the final Northwest Philadelphia performances of their acclaimed production, “YO! PUT THE GUN DOWN! (A Hip Hop Symphony)” before taking the show on its first-ever Tri-State tour. Created during the pandemic through workshops in conflict resolution, art therapy, and storytelling, the production blends hip hop, theatre, and spoken word to confront the trauma of gun violence while offering messages of hope, unity, and healing. Tickets available at www.chewandcheltencdc.com.
When: Thursday, Sept. 18-19
Where: Treasures, 5549 Germantown Ave.
3rd Annual Phoenixville Film Festival
The historic Colonial Theatre is proud to welcome back the 3rd Annual Phoenixville Film Festival. Over four exciting days, the dynamic celebration of independent cinema will light up Phoenixville with a vibrant mix of film screenings, filmmaker panels, hands-on workshops, and a can’t-miss awards ceremony. Following numerous film submissions in various categories, including screenplays, documentaries, animation, live-action, and features, this year’s festival selected and will present 56 films, the most extensive lineup in its history. The lineup will feature four world premieres, two U.S. premieres, and 25 Pennsylvania premieres. More than just a showcase of diverse storytelling, the festival is a gathering place where filmmakers and film lovers come together to connect, create, and be inspired.
When: Thursday, Sept. 18-21
Where: The Colonial Theatre, 227 Bridge St., Phoenixville, PA 19460
”El idioma de lo silenciado | The letters that were never sent” — Philadelphia Fringe Festival
An experimental devised piece unfolding through bodies, voices, objects, and poetry. Among unsent letters, unspoken words, and suppressed emotions, performers Lucia Bedoya and Faysal Can Dakni play to remember, and to complete what was left unfinished. The two actors met in 2016 at the Shanghai Theatre Academy Summer School, and they never lost touch. Faysal learned Spanish; Lucia learned Turkish. Faysal taught Lucia how to sing Turkish songs, and Lucia taught him the art of Colombian culture. In 2018, they dreamed of creating a show. The passion was there, but the story was missing. Now, in their 30s, they’ve found each other again. This time with songs, letters, characters, and memories, a story shared from different countries and languages, but with the same universal feelings.
When: Thursday, Sept. 18 and Sunday, Sept. 21
Where: The Proscenium at the Drake, 302 S. Hicks St.
Shepard Fairey mural dedication
Renowned artist Shepard Fairey returns to Philadelphia to paint his largest and most prominent mural in this city. Meant as a call to justice, this mural is intentionally being installed in the heart of Philly as a preview of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. It features the face of a woman of indistinguishable race, gazing upward contemplatively, allowing the viewer to focus on the symbols: the scales of justice, the Liberty Bell, and that distinctly Shepard Fairey design language. It evokes themes of hope, reflection, and shared ideals. There’s a real balance between the narrative he’s trying to tell and the collective people we might imagine when we talk about justice — true justice. One of the background patterns is derived from a textile design in the collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
When: Friday, Sept. 19 from 5-6:30 p.m.
Where: LOVE Park, 1501 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Adam Sandler comes to Philly
Following successful sold-out performances in 2022 and 2023, critically acclaimed comedian Adam Sandler brings his new tour, the You’re My Best Friend Tour, to Philadelphia. Adam Sandler needs no introduction, he has found enormous success as an actor, producer, musician, and writer. His last tours in 2022 and 2023 were sold out. The 2024 Netflix special “Adam Sandler: Love You” was filmed over two days in sold-out concerts in Los Angeles. “100% Fresh,” which was Sandler’s first comedy special in 20 years, was released by Netflix in 2018. Warner Bros Records also released the audio companions for both the “Adam Sandler: I Love You” special and “100% Fresh.” On screen, audiences can see Sandler in the highly anticipated “Happy Gilmore 2” streaming on Netflix and the upcoming Noah Baumbach film, “Jay Kelly” this fall.
When: Friday, Sept. 19 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Xfinity Mobile Arena, 3601 S. Broad St.
End-of-Summer Philadelphia Marketplace
The Philadelphia Marketplace will once again return to Dilworth Park! The organizers of Christmas Village in Philadelphia, in partnership with Center City District, present this annual end-of-summer and early fall outdoor pop-up showcase of local artists, makers, entrepreneurs and small businesses. Look for a rotating list of vendors each weekend with something for everyone — including kids and adults, and men and women. Each weekend offers a unique opportunity to explore a diverse array of distinctive arts and crafts with everything from handmade stuffed pals, modern artwork, candles and soaps, fragrances, clothing, coffee, handmade jewelry, body butters, exfoliants, hand sanitizers, lifestyle essentials, home goods, watches and more. Vendors will rotate throughout the month, with some being there every weekend, and others making a special appearance on select weekends.
When: Friday, Sept. 19 and Saturday, Sept. 20 from 12-6 p.m.
Where: Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th St.
Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show
This year, as visitors stroll beneath the leafy canopy of Rittenhouse Square during the Fine Art Show, they’ll discover something extraordinary at the heart of the park—a powerful expression of resilience, recovery, and the human spirit. The Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show began in 1928 with a handful of local art students exhibiting art on clotheslines. The Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show is the oldest outdoor art show in the country. Steeped in rich history and tradition, there is absolutely no other show like it. The show continues its 98-year history with a platform for student artists to learn from professional artists and gain exposure to patrons. One hundred forty-five professional artists from around the country and Canada will exhibit their originals-only fine artwork in Rittenhouse Square.
When: Friday, Sept. 19-21
Where: Rittenhouse Square, 1800 Walnut St.
”Primary Trust” by Eboni Booth
Philadelphia Theatre Company’s 2025/26 season kicks off with the Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Primary Trust” by Eboni Booth. When Kenneth, a soft-spoken loner with a love of Mai Tais, loses his longtime job, he’s forced to step out of his comfort zone for the first time in years. As he navigates new friendships and unexpected challenges, “Primary Trust” becomes a moving, gently funny portrait of change, connection, and the quiet courage it takes to begin again.
When: Friday, Sept. 19-Oct. 5
Where: Philadelphia Theatre Company, 480 S. Broad St.
Women’s Fest Conference 2025
The highly anticipated 2025 Women’s Fest Conference will bring together women from diverse backgrounds for a day of inspiration, learning, and connection. This year’s theme, The Strategy Garden, underscores the conference’s commitment to empowering women to rise, lead, and thrive in every area of life. Now in its third year, Women’s Fest has become a premier event for women leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and change-makers. Attendees can expect a full day of dynamic keynote presentations from renowned speakers who are breaking barriers and making history; interactive workshops and panels designed to equip women with practical tools for career advancement, leadership, personal development, and wellness; networking opportunities with like-minded women and industry leaders from across the region; and the inaugural Trailblazer Awards, honoring outstanding women who have made significant contributions to their communities and fields. Tickets include access to all sessions, a catered lunch, and exclusive conference materials. Register at www.thewomensfestconference.org.
Where: Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue, 4200 City Ave.
Yoga at Independence
Find your flow with Yoga at Independence, a free outdoor yoga series for all ages and experience levels. Sessions are led by instructors from Monarch Yoga and offer a peaceful morning practice in a beautiful, historic setting. Walk-ups welcome; registration encouraged. Bring your own mat or towel (limited mats available).
When: Saturday, Sept. 20 at 9 a.m.
Where: Independence Historical National Park, 143 S. 3rd St.
CollegeFest 2025
Campus Philly will host its annual CollegeFest on this weekend. Stop by to see the “Campus Philly Block Party” presented by the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University and Moore College of Art and Design, and registered CollegeFest attendees will enjoy free admission to the museum.
When: Saturday, Sept. 20 from 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Where: The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
Family Fest with Kid Friendly Philly
Kid Friendly Philly and Brittany Delgado, the local authority on all kid and family events and local FIshtown neighbor, is partnering with Evil Genius for Family Fest. Come out with the entire family (fido too) on Saturday for a no charge, all day, all ages block party outside the brewery under the El. Look for kid-friendly vendors and activities, including kid-friendly music, DJ, games and more. Lulu’s Casita will be on hand with a mobile set-up, Madison K Cookies and Lil Pop Shop will have sweets and treats, Unless Kids will have a special digital toy chest activity, Fishtown Stitch will have embroidered goods for kids and adults, Little Wares will have kids clothing and toys Rutabaga Toy Library will have a special play area and other surprise activities/vendors. No charge to attend, with food, drink and shopping pay as you go! Free to attend, food drink pay-as-you-go.
When: Saturday, Sept. 20 from 12-5 p.m.
Where: Evil Genius Beer Company, 1727 N. Front St.
Frankford Hall Oktoberfest
Get ready to don your Dirndls and Lederhosen — Frankford Hall’s Oktoberfest is back! Enjoy family-friendly activities, live music by the Polka Brothers, and plenty of great German Beer, pretzels, sausages, dancing in the streets and more. Fishtown District will present an array of family and kid-friendly fun. Free to attend, food and drink pay-as-you-go.
When: Saturday, Sept. 20 from 12-8 p.m.
Where: 1200 Block of Frankford Avenue in Fishtown
”The Beginning of the End” — Philadelphia Fringe Festival
Gentrification. Police Brutality. Climate Change. Colonialism. Bad Salmon’s debut rock opera, The Beginning of the End, will solve none of these problems, because come on, it’s just show business. But if you care about these things, and you want to feel your feelings—laugh, cry, dance it out, and learn a thing or two in the process—then this is the show for you. And if you don’t care about these things, come anyway,… you might surprise yourself! Bad Salmon is a Philadelphia-based supergroup of diverse musicians performing original social justice songs that span the musical gamut from jazz and funk to klezmer and musical theater.
When: Saturday, Sept. 20 and Sunday, Sept. 21
Where: The Proscenium at The Drake, 302 S. Hicks St.
End of Summer White Party
Experience the Vibrant Flavors of Latin Fusion Cuisine at Mamajuana Café Philly! Mamajuana Café Philly invites you to the End of Summer White Party, with all-white attire, tropical cocktails, live entertainment, big summer send-off, conga line and other surprises. Enjoy Mamajuana Café Philly’s new fall brunch menu, plus signature cocktails. Reservations suggested on Resy.
When: Sunday, Sept. 21 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Mamajuana Café Philly, 1000 Frankford Ave.
Bridgerton Brunch in the Garden
Prepare for a most delightful affair as The Wine Garden transforms into a scene straight from the Ton. Join us for a Bridgerton-inspired garden brunch, where elegance, romance, and indulgence reign supreme. Delight in an endless mimosa and sangria bar, feast upon a decadent brunch spread fit for nobility, and promenade through a floral dreamscape made for the most enchanting of photo moments. Attire: Regal garden glamour encouraged. Think corsets, lace, gloves, florals, and fascinators. After all, one never knows who might be watching — or writing. Let the season’s most anticipated social affair begin.
When: Sunday, Sept. 20 from 12-3 p.m.
Where: Wine Garden at The Navy Yard, 1413 Langley Ave.
”sis.tem | gateways to safehouses” — Philadelphia Fringe Festival
A duet of dance from Philadelphia-based dancer, choreographer, and DJ Cierra Woods, confronting the public scrutiny that black femmes face now and in our not-so-distant past. Dancers expose the weight of societal objectification on the spiritual body and carefully landscape the uneasy terrain. The lifting and enlivening of movement and melodic rituals call into question, how can we ignite century-long spells cast upon us as protection in eras of refinement and reformation? What systems can invigorate strength in these times of peril and guide us back to the safehouses our ancestors inhabited?
Where: Icebox Project Space Gallery, 1400 N. American St.
”Voices of the Community: Local Black Preservation” at HSP
The Historical Society of Pennsylvania (HSP) proudly announces the opening of its summer exhibit, “Voices of the Community: Local Black Preservation.” Support for this exhibit comes from The Haverford Trust Company and the Pennsylvania Abolition Society Endowment Fund of the Philadelphia Foundation. The exhibit explores the history, migration, and preservation of African American communities in Philadelphia, and Lawnside, New Jersey. Through personal archives, flyers, photographs, and ephemera, the exhibit highlights how Black individuals and communities have preserved their own stories across generations through the built environment, music, memory, and collective action.
When: through Friday, Sept. 26
Where: Historical Society of Pennsylvania, 1300 Locust St.
Water Orchestra at Dilworth Park
Center City District and The Philadelphia Orchestra have partnered to bring you Water Orchestra, which reimagines Dilworth Park’s fountain as a playful, responsive musical instrument, activated in real-time by the gestures of anyone who steps onto the conductor’s podium. To celebrate its upcoming 125th anniversary, The Philadelphia Orchestra recorded a specially curated soundtrack for the installation.
When: through Friday, Oct. 3. from 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Where: Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th St.
Open Streets: West Walnut
Center City District (CCD) is pleased to announce the return of Open Streets: West Walnut for its fall 2025 season, marking the program’s one-year anniversary. Following a successful inaugural year that transformed sections of Rittenhouse Row into a lively pedestrianized corridor, the series has returned. The pedestrian-only thoroughfares act as an extension of public space for guests to stroll, shop and socialize. This fall, CCD is planning ambient entertainment along the route, including strolling bubble magic, busker-style musicians and pop-up performances. A designated family-friendly zone will feature games and toys for families. Seating pods will be set up along the route. On select Sundays, guests can cheer on the Philadelphia Eagles as games are broadcast live for passersby. Food and beverages will be sold exclusively at restaurants along the route, with many offering expanded outdoor dining. Open containers of alcohol will not be permitted, and takeout food will be at the discretion of the restaurants. The full schedule of entertainment can be found at centercityphila.org/openstreets.
When: Saturdays through Oct. 12 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: along Walnut Street from 15th to 19th and along 18th Street from Locust to Chestnut
”A Plank in a Shipwreck” at Museum for Art in Wood
Museum for Art in Wood presents the opening of “A Plank in a Shipwreck,” the exhibition created by the fellows of the 2025 Windgate Arts Residency Program in Wood (WARP Wood). The exhibition represents the culmination of the highly renowned international residency, which supports artistic exploration, collaboration, and collegial exchange among artists and thinkers in wood. A Plank in a Shipwreck brings sculpture, marquetry, woodworking, and research created during the WARP Wood program to the Museum’s main gallery. “A Plank in a Shipwreck” is a direct translation of the Latin phrase “tabula in naufragio,” which has been used in legal contexts to describe a final hope, a last lifeline. The phrase offers an apt visceral metaphor for the bold leap each of the 2025 WARP Wood Fellows has made, crossing oceans and borders, letting go of safety, and trusting in a collaborative, uncertain process. Each WARP Wood exhibition reflects the fellows’ creative journey, featuring individual and collaborative works, including pieces made before and during their residency.
When: through Sunday, Oct. 19
Where: Museum for Art in Wood, 141 N. 3rd St.
Storytime in the Square
Join Ms. Chen from Independence Branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia every other Wednesday for free storytime and crafts in the Pavilion or on the Great Lawn. Stories, rhymes, and dancing explore different themes throughout the season ending with bubbles and fun crafts. All kids and their caregivers are welcome.
When: through Wednesday, Oct. 22 from 10-11 a.m.
Where: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th St.
”You Are Welcome Here; I Saved a Chair for You” at William Way LGBT Center
Running through October, the exhibition will feature an inspiring collection of weavings and drawings by fiber artist Kathryn Pannepacker, whose practice centers on themes of community, connection, and inclusivity. In this new body of work, Pannepacker explores the recurring motif of chairs, symbols of gathering, connection, and community. What begins as intimate drawings evolves into expansive woven works, created on a loom through a meticulous, time-intensive process. Pannepacker’s practice also extends to the traditional craft of chair caning and the intricate weaving of rattan cane across chair seats and backs. The exhibition seeks to foster a spirit of radical inclusivity, offering a welcoming space where community can be built and sustained through free resources, art workshops, and community gatherings.
When: through Thursday, Oct. 23
Where: William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St.
”Receipts: We Have Them” at the Painted Bride
Curated by Andrea Walls of the Museum of Black Joy, a group photography exhibition and visual archive offering a powerful meditation on the creative labor, joy, and resistance that shape Black cultural life in Philadelphia. “Receipts” features work by Ursula McCarthy, Ken McFarlane, Terrell Halsey, Tash Billington, Jorden Di’lean, and Koren Martin. Framing the generational wisdom of Black Philadelphia, the exhibition reveals culture not as ornament, but as architecture, foundational, instructive, and enduring. Mirroring the Bride’s “Proof of Life” season theme, the show presents textured images as testimony, evidence of brilliance embedded in everyday Black life. Rather than documenting crisis, “Receipts” honors the beauty, memory, and meaning alive in daily rituals of care, creativity, and survival. The show reaffirms the Painted Bride’s commitment to grounded, expansive, and people-powered visual storytelling.
When: through Sunday, Oct. 25
Where: Painted Bride Art Center, 4029 Cambridge St.
Lansdowne Farmers Market
The 18th season of the Lansdowne Farmers Market features the borough’s first-ever fully themed summer lineup. The new program is designed not only to nourish our bodies but also to strengthen community connections and promote mental well-being. Following a successful winter pilot and the buzz-worthy Egg-nostic Egg Hunt, the market will now feature a unique theme every Saturday including Pride, Juneteenth, Classic Cars, Food Truck Day, International Blues Day, and more. Each week, visitors will find live music, fresh local food, artisan vendors, and interactive nonprofit and community partners offering a welcoming space to connect, decompress, and celebrate together. Themed programming is part of a broader effort by the Lansdowne Economic Development Corporation to create consistent, joyful experiences that support emotional wellness and reduce social isolation—an urgent public health need.
When: Saturdays through Oct. 25 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Veterans Landing, 30 N. Lansdowne Ave.
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