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Sample Fare From Some Of Philadelphia’s Most-Loved Restaurants At Taste Of The Nation, Sunday, April 28; Get 15% Off Tickets

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The feel-good culinary event, Taste of the Nation brings out some of Philadelphia’s most-loved chefs to serve up samples of their popular dishes in the name of ending childhood hunger.

On Sunday, April 28 from 5 to 8 p.m. indulge in some of the city’s most popular tastes during this festive event at the Hotel Monaco Philadelphia, which overlooks Independence Mall.

Participating restaurants include Alla Spina, South Philadelphia Tap Room, Vernick Food and Drink, Zahav, Sbraga and Brauhaus Schmitz, with more to be confirmed soon. Get ready for some seriously drool-worthy samplings.

Chef Chair David Katz, of now-shuttered Mm, will make a momentary return to the kitchen to prepare a Creekstone Farm beef dish.

Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation is Philadelphia’s largest No Kid Hungry event, raising funds for Philabundance, The Food Trust, The Greater Philadelphia Coalition Against Hunger and The Pennsylvania Hunger Action Center.

In addition to tasty bites, guests will also enjoy a great silent auction and an array of specialty cocktails, wine and beer.

Tickets are $85 for general admission and $135 for VIP. Tickets are available online.

For a sweet 15% discount on all tickets, use code UWISHUNU. (So, you’ll save $12.75 off of general admission and $20.25 off of VIP!)

Share our Strength’s Taste of the Nation
When: Sunday, April 28, 5-8 p.m., VIP 4-8 p.m.
Where: Hotel Monaco, 433 Chestnut Street
Cost: $85 General Admission, $135 VIP, 15% discount with code UWISHUNU
More info: strength.org


The Free Library of Philadelphia’s Raven Society Hosts A Spring Book Swap At Brauhaus Schmitz On April 18, 6-8 P.M.

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The Free Library of Philadelphia's Raven Society young friends group hosts a bookswapping affair April 18. (Image courtesy the Free Library of Philadelphia)

Got books?

Join the Free Library of Philadelphia’s Raven Society Thursday, April 18 for its Spring Swap ‘n’ Sip Bookswap at Brauhaus Schmitz.

From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., bring a book to swap and browse the selection of books brought by the other bookworms while taking advantage of food and drink specials. The Raven Society will donate all leftover books, so feel free to bring more than one.

For those unfamiliar with the Raven Society, they are the young (20s and 30s) supporters of the Free Library of Philadelphia. You can join the Raven Society (and get free entry into the book swap) here.

There is a $10 cover charge for the bookswap for non-members, as well as a $5 dollar raffle for door prizes.

All proceeds of the event go to the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation, and the books left behind will be donated to the Friends of the Free Library of Philadelphia bookstore.

The Raven Society Spring Swap ‘n’ Sip Bookswap
When: April 18, 6-8 p.m.
Where: Brauhaus Schmitz, 718 South Street
Cost: $10 for non-members, free to members
More info: www.freelibrary.org

Brauhaus Schmitz Presents Maifest, A Daylong German Beer And Food Festival, Saturday, May 4

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Brauhaus Schmitz is hosting a spring blowout in conjunction with the South Street Spring Festival on Saturday, May 4 from noon to 8 p.m. (Photo courtesy Brauhaus Schmitz)

South Street is going to be even more abuzz than normal on Saturday, May 4.

As part of South Street’s Spring Festival, Brauhaus Schmitz celebrates spring in the way it knows best with an abundance of German beer and food.

From noon to 8 p.m., the German beer hall and restaurant offers indoor and outdoor fun, food and serious steins to festival-goers.

A limited number of VIP tickets are available for $100 a piece. VIP tickets boast a number of added benefits; complimentary appetizers, a beer stein, private bathrooms (a treat at citywide festivals), access to a VIP room with exclusive beers and eight beer tickets.

Brauhaus Schmitz’s takeover of the 700 block of South Street is set to bring a taste of Germany to the South Street spring festival.

Be sure to head down South Street to explore all of the live music, activities, food and drink that the festival has to offer.

Maifest at Brauhaus Schmitz
When: Saturday, May 4, noon-8 p.m.
Where: Brauhaus Schmitz, 718 South Street
Cost: VIP tickets $100
More info: www.brauhausschmitz.com

Tonight Picks: Opening Night For The Beer Garden At The Porch At 30th Street Station, The Kick-Off Party For The Philadelphia Science Festival, BalletX At The Wilma Theater And More

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Get out of the house tonight and pay a visit to any one of the number of happenings set to occur this evening in Philadelphia. (Photo by Conrad Erb for University City District)

Plenty of great events are on tap tonight in Philadelphia, including the Beer Garden at The Porch at 30th Street station, the first day of the Philadelphia Science Festival and the first performance of Ballet X’s Spring Series 2013.

The weather may not be bright and sunny like last week, but temperatures are sure pleasant, and tonight’s offerings include both indoor and outdoor options.

Philadelphia Science Festival Kick-Off Party: Science Carnival After Dark: Graduate Hospital’s NextFab Studio plays host to the kick-off party for the Philadelphia Science Festival tonight! The epic spring festival is finally here and tonight’s event brings together a number of great and science-filled events and preview some of the fun events set to occur during the festival. Get the first taste of Yards Brewing Company's official Science Festival beer, Pythagorean Beerum which will be available at all beer-friendly science festival events. Check out demonstrations from NextFab studio’s awesome laser cutters and 3-D printers tonight, too.

When: Thursday, April 18, 6:30-9 p.m.
Where: NextFab Studio, 2025 Washington Avenue
Cost: $15, save $2 with code “Uwishunu”

Beer Garden at the Porch at 30th Street Station: Tonight marks the first night of the Porch at 30th Street Station’s beer garden. Bridgewater Pub heads outside to serve up four featured beers and pub fare to attendees. Tonight’s featured beers are Konig Ludwig Hefeweizen, Hofbrau Doppelbock, Great Divide Titan IPA and Warsteiner Dunkel Lager. Live jazz, folk and blues music also fills the warm, outdoor air.

When: Thursday, April 18, 3-8 p.m.
Where: The Porch at 30th Street Station, 2955 Market Street
Cost: Pay as you go

The Raven Society Spring Swap n' Sip Bookswap: Bookworms and avid readers, there’s a cool event just for you at Brauhaus Schmitz tonight. The Free Library of Philadelphia’s group of young friends (The Raven Society) hosts a night of books and beer tonight at 6 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring a book and participate in a book swap while enjoying food and drink specials. All leftover books will be donated, so feel free to clean out your bookcase and bring more than one. Entry is free for Raven Society members and $10 for nonmembers.

When: Thursday, April 18, 6-8 p.m.
Where: Brauhaus Schmitz, 718 South Street
Cost: $10 for members, free for nonmembers

BalletX at the Wilma Theater: The Wilma Theater hosts one of the city’s most versatile and talented ballet troupes tonight. BalletX brings their talent to the stage for their spring 2013 showcase. This season brings together innovative choreography and world-premiere performances. Tickets are available online.

When: Thursday, April 18, 8 p.m.
Where: The Wilma Theater, 265 S. Broad Street
Cost: $22-$35

Caribbean Cuisine Week: Enjoy a taste of the islands at a number of restaurants across the city participating in Caribbean Cuisine Week. The dining event raises money for athletes from Trinidad, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Jamaica, the Bahamas and Grenada to attend this month's Olympic-level track race, the Penn Relays. Tonight is your last chance to enjoy a tropical bite for the good cause at restaurants like Mixto, Sabrina’s and Tashan. Click here or the full list of participating restaurants..

When: Thursday, April 18
Where: Participating restaurants
Cost: Varies

FutureFest at the Adrienne Theater: Tonight is the world premiere of the Luna Theater Company’s play festival, FutureFest presented in part with PIFA. The festival debuts five one-act plays that all center around life in the future and how our own visions of the future impact our lives. The show runs until April 27, and tonight’s performance is the show’s preview so tickets are a steal. Grab yours for just $10. Admission for future performances is $25.

When: Thursday, April 18, 7 p.m.
Where: The Adrienne Theater, 2030 Sansom Street
Cost: $10

Hiraki: Tsunami Loss & Hope: PIFA, Settlement Music School, The Friends of the Japanese House and Garden and KyoDaiko Taiko Drummers present a touching performance to honor the victims of the 2011 tsunami in Japan. Tonight’s event is at the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden and begins with a tour of the locale from 5 to 6:45 p.m. followed by the performance at 7 p.m.

When: Thursday, April 18, 5 p.m.
Where: Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, 100 Horticulture Drive
Cost: $20 general admission, $15 for seniors and students

Roundup: Our Updated Guide To The Dozens Of Spring And Early Summer Festivals Hitting Philadelphia In The Coming Weeks

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May is festival month in Philadelphia. There are literally dozens of spring festivals coming to neighborhoods all across the city in the coming weeks and we have an updated roundup of all of them. (Photo credits clockwise from top left: G. Widman, M. Kennedy, J. Fusco, R. Kennedy, all for GPTMC)

The month of May overflows with awesome spring events and outdoor festivals, so to help you navigate through them all and find the ones you definitely do not want to miss, we’ve updated our Spring Festivals roundup with a more comprehensive list of all the festivals we could find this month and next.

From blockbuster annual festivals like the Rittenhouse Row Spring Fest and the Italian Market Fest and newcomers like this weekend’s South Street Spring Fest to festivals taking place in neighborhoods around the city like Plazapalooza, the Chestnut Hill Spring Fest, the Pie in the Sky Food Truck Fest and the Trenton Avenue Arts Fest, every weekend this month has multiple options for cool spring festivals for you to add to your must-do list.

And these festivals cover it all: food, drink, music, art, races, water, shopping and more — Philadelphia has a spring festival for pretty much everything.

Look out for additional coverage on a lot of these events and festivals in the days and weeks to come, but for now, start making your plans. Some weekends are going to require careful planning to maximize the number of festivals you’ll be able to attend. (And if you know of another festival coming to your neighborhood, be sure to let us know!)

As always, you can reference our events calendar to see what’s happening on a specific day or weekend.

Check out our updated guide to more than 45 spring festivals coming up in May and June below.

May


Philadelphia International Children’s Festival: The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts plays host to a fun festival for the kids. The Philadelphia International Children’s Festival, which is now in its 29th year, offers a week of family-friendly performances, crafts and interactive events. The event is set for April 30 to May 4.

Equality Forum: Putting the spotlight on LGBT history and culture, Equality Forum brings together people from around the world for panel discussions, parties, art and theater events and a lively community fair from May 2 to 5.

Plazapalooza: Graduate Hospital hosts yet another awesome festival this Saturday, May 4. From 1 to 7 p.m., the Grays Ferry Triangle at 23rd and South Streets will be abuzz with the festival known as Plazapalooza. It boasts beer from Grace Tavern, food from local eateries and even a visit from the folks from the upcoming Odunde Festival to keep the young entertained.

Radio 104.5 Summer Block Party: The Piazza hosts a score of great events all spring and summer long including the 104.5 Summer Block Party which welcomes popular bands to Philadelphia. The first show is on Saturday, May 4 and boasts Family of the Year, Atlas Genius and Jackson Kingsley as the musical acts. The concerts continue throughout the summer, the next show is on Saturday, June 8. For the full lineup check here.

South Street Headhouse District Spring Festival: As the weather warms, expect serious crowds to gather for the inaugural South Street Spring Festival, an open-air party with local eats, drinks and goods from the street's wide-ranging vendors. This year’s event on May 4 marks the first event.

Maifest: Brauhaus Schmitz presents a beer-filled daylong festival that purposely coincides with South Street Headhouse District Spring Festival on May 4. Maifest brings a taste of Germany to the 700 block of South Street from noon to 8 p.m. Fill up your stein and get ready to chow down on German food and dance around the Maipole.

Pie in the Sky Kite and Food Truck Festival: Fishtown’s waterfront spot, Penn Treaty Park, hosts the outdoor festival Pie in the Sky Kite and Food Truck Festival on Saturday, May 4 from noon to 5 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring their own kite to fly through the sky, or for those who do not own a kite, kite-making will be available at the day’s event. Prizes will be awarded to kites in numerous different categories. Also enjoy fare from favorite food trucks like Vernilicious, Sweet Box Cupcakes and FooTruck.

Strawberry Festival: Peddler’s Village hosts its annual Strawberry Festival on May 4 and 5 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Strawberries take the spotlight at this weekend-long event; enjoy chocolate dipped strawberries, strawberry fritters, strawberry shortcake, strawberry butter and even get a peek at a strawberry pie eating contest. Live music also abounds on both days of the festival. Arts and crafts will be available for children.

Broad Street Run: The annual Broad Street run runs through town on Sunday, May 5 at 8:30 a.m. The 10-mile race spans from Northeast Philly at Broad Street and Somerville Avenue all the way down Broad Street where it finishes at the Navy Yard. Non-participants are encouraged to cheer on the runners all along Broad Street. The race passes by major Philadelphia landmarks like Temple University, the Pennsylvania Convention Center and City Hall.

Chestnut Hill Home and Garden Festival: Head out to Chestnut Hill on Sunday, May 5 for a day of spring blooms, handmade home accessories, live music and lots of festival fare at the annual Home and Garden Festival. Get your home and garden ready for the summer months by shopping the special collection of items presented by a number of vendors along Germantown Avenue.

Burger Brawl: The third annual Burger Brawl swoops in to Fleisher Art Memorial in Bella Vista on Sunday, May 5. More than 20 popular restaurants battle it out to create the best burger in Philadelphia. Participating restaurants include Alla Spina, Shake Shack, Barbuzzo and The Dandelion. In addition to burgers, beer from Dogfish Head will be plentiful.

Aberdeen Dad Vail Regatta: The Schuylkill River is home to a number of world-renowned races including the Aberdeen Dad Vail Regatta which is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. On May 10 and 11, the river welcomes more than 100 schools to the annual (and free) regatta. Shuttle buses leave the art museum frequently for free trips to and from the race course. Hint: The Grand Stand, located two miles north of Boathouse Row, is the best place to catch the action.

Fitler Square Spring Fair: On Friday, May 10 and Saturday, May 11, Fitler Square hosts its annual Spring Fair. A silent auction is set to occur and contains items from local restaurants and shops. Booths featuring flowers, baked goods, Fitler Square memorabilia, children’s clothing and games and more also surround the area. Surrounding the square, vendors create an outdoor market full of a variety of items.

Pennsylvania Guild Fine Craft Fair at Rittenhouse Square: Browse some of the finest pieces of handmade jewelry, furniture, photography, sculptures, clothing and more at Rittenhouse Square’s Pennsylvania Guild Fine Craft Fair. On May 10 and 11, visit the Center City park for unique and handcrafted items. Bonus, this festival falls right before Mother’s Day, browse gifts of all sort at the festival. Live music will fill the air on both days, and even a moon bounce makes an appearance on May 11.

Sister Cities Park International Festival: Sister Cities Park International Festival celebrates Philadelphia and its 10 sister cities on Saturday, May 11. Learn to speak different tongues at mini-language lessons and get insider tips at how to create delicious food from each of our Sister Cities. Also on schedule, a Cameroonian fashion show, Taiko Drummers from Japan and music from the Italian Consul. The festival runs from noon to 5 p.m.

Spring Arts Star Craft Bazaar: Lovers of one-of-a-kind finds descend on the annual Spring Art Star Craft Bazaar, where the handmade goods include housewares, ceramics, clothing, art, paper goods and much more. The weekend-long sale on May 11 and 12 at the Great Plaza at Penn's Landing is punctuated with live music, food and art demonstrations.

Clark Park May Fair: Head out to Clark Park for its annual May Fair festival. The festival falls on Saturday, May 11 and offers arts and crafts tables for Mother's Day gift creation (which is the day following the festival), a used book sale, live music, family-friendly games and much more.

LOVE Your Park Week: From May 11 through May 18, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation and the Fairmount Park Conservancy are encouraging citizens to show their love for all of Philadelphia's great parks at this weeklong festival featuring volunteer opportunities, clean up days and other events.

Fairmount Night Market: The Food Trust’s first Night Market of 2013 is coming up and is taking over Fairmount on Thursday, May 16 from 6 to 10 p.m. Some of Philly’s most loved food trucks will be in attendance, and Fairmount restaurants like Alla Spina, Lemon Hill and Urban Saloon will set up shop. Fairmount’s Eastern State Penitentiary will offer discounted admission and free brews to after-hours guests.

Phillies Phestival: Citizens Bank Park invites children and adults alike down to the stadium for the Phillies Phestival. The annual ALS benefit at the ballpark invites fans to mingle with Phillies players, coaches and broadcasters at the May 16 event. Some lucky fans will even have the opportunity to receive one-of-a-kind autographs from their favorite Phillie. Attendees are also invited to take part in the festival’s silent auction featuring great items for the great cause.

Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival: Along with the blooming rhododendrons of spring comes the Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival on Saturday, May 18. The event is Walnut Street's annual fete with food, fashion, music and art, plus a slew of activities for kids.

Italian Market Festival: On May 18 and 19, the nation's oldest outdoor market and the already-bustling heart of South Philadelphia welcomes the city for the Italian Market Festival, a foodie's dream with flavors from its restaurants and shops, along with the Annual Procession of Saints and plenty of activities for kids.

For lots more spring festivals in May and June, see below.

Brewerytown Spring Festival: Away from the hustle and bustle, Brewerytown hosts a Spring Festival 27th and Girard to 28th and Girard on Saturday, May 18. From noon to 5 p.m., visit the festival for live music, family-friendly activities, art vendors and 15 to 20 tasty food trucks.

Radnor Hunt Races: On Saturday, May 18, a tradition returns to the Main Line’s Radnor Hunt. Gather with friends at the annual Radnor Hunt Races and watch dozens of horses and horse racers compete to win their race. Spectators pack food and drinks to eat before and during the races. Food vendors are also in attendance.

Trenton Avenue Arts Festival and Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby: Lining the cobblestone street with artists of all stripes and genres, the Trenton Avenue Arts Festival includes the storied Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby, a quirky competition for the most creative human-powered vehicles along with food and art galore. This year’s festival is on Saturday, May 18.

Clemente Fest: It's all about family fun at Clemente Fest, a fundraiser for the Spring Garden park named for the famed Puerto Rican baseball player. Attractions include local art, music and performance, plus a moon bounce and games for kids. The event is set for Saturday, May 18.

South Philadelphia Taproom’s Wheat Beer Fest: Indulge in all of the wheat-based beers that your heart desires at the South Philadelphia Taproom Wheat Beer Fest. More than 30 wheat beers will be available for only $3 a brew on Saturday, May 18 from noon to 8 p.m. Pair your beer with smokin’ barbecue at the annual block party and enjoy live music from a number of local bands.

40th Street Summer Series: All spring and summer long, University City District, The Rotunda and Penn join forces to present a series of outdoor concerts in the warm weather. The 40th Street Summer Series welcomes acclaimed performers of all types; from jazz to a ukulele orchestra. The first concert is on Saturday, May 25 and features the Brooklyn Qawwali Party, a jazz fusion group that incorporates the sounds of Pakistani folk music. The next concert is on Saturday, June 29 and features the Philadelphia Ukulele Orchestra.

Devon Horse Show: The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair is a multiday horse-centric event. The Devon Horse show is the largest and oldest multi-breed outdoor horse festival in the country and runs from May 23 to June 2. The Country Fair section of the event incorporates food vendors, super candy offerings, shops, an art gallery and more. A number of events in addition to horse shows occur over the multiday festival. The full schedule of events is available here.

Hidden City Festival: The Hidden City Festival shines the light on Philadelphia landmarks that are often looked over. The festival, which lasts from May 23 through June 30, welcomes local and national artists who are slated to create visual and performing arts installations at each site. Landmarks range from The Athenaeum of Philadelphia to Congregation Shivtei Yeshurun-Ezras Israel, a South Philadelphia storefront synagogue.

Memorial Day Weekend at Chaddsford Winery: All weekend long, Chaddsford Winery hosts live music and of course lots of wine in celebration of the holiday weekend. From May 24 to 27, head out to the winery for a number of events.

Fireworks and Fountains at Longwood Gardens: Just in time for Memorial Day, Longwood Gardens hosts its first Fireworks and Fountains event of the summer. On May 25, watch the attraction’s fountains light up and fireworks erupt to the music of Elton John. The event runs through the summer.

NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship at Lincoln Financial Field: Philadelphia plays host to some of the best college lacrosse players in the country. The NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship is coming to town and bringing with it a number of festive events for visitors and locals alike. Lincoln Financial Field will be abuzz with talented athletes and their friends and family to cheer them on from May 25 to 27. Attendees can check out the LaXperience Fan Fest just outside of the field. The area has a place for guests to show off their lacrosse skills, food and drink vendors, live entertainment and a chance to meet some of the championship’s biggest stars.

PECO Multicultural Series at Penn’s Landing: Penn’s Landing hosts a score of summer events that center around Philadelphia’s diverse cultural scene. The exact dates of the PECO Multicultural Series are still to be announced, so stay tuned. The frequent summer events bring a taste of numerous cultures to Philadelphia through music, food and outdoor celebrations.

June

The Roots Picnic: The start-of-the-summer event, The Roots Picnic, is set for Saturday, June 1 and boasts an impressive lineup. The Roots, Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, Solange, Trinidad James, Naughty By Nature and many more artists are set to grace Festival Pier stage at Penn’s Landing.

Philly Beer Week: The local obsession with all-things fizzy and fermented comes to new heights during Philly Beer Week, a regional bacchanal with special dinners, tastings, pub crawls and brewery tours from May 31 to June 9. Venues across the city open their doors for tons of events during this festive week.

Craft Beer Day: During Philly Beer Week, East Passyunk plays up its roots with a daylong Italian Festival and Craft Beer Day. The event encompasses a pub crawl with a distinctly red sauce flavor, offering samples, brewer meet-and-greets and plenty of special deals on Sunday, June 2.

Manayunk Bike Race: Bikers flock to Manayunk on Sunday, June 2 for the annual Manayunk Bike Race, this year called the Philly Cycling Classic. This year’s course is shorter than previous year’s, but still brings bikers through Manayunk, East Falls, Kelly Drive and Fairmount Park. The women’s race begins at 8:30 a.m., and the men’s race follows shortly after in the early afternoon.

Rittenhouse Square Fine Arts Show: Rittenhouse Square’s 82nd-annual Fine Arts Show is slated for June 7 to 9. The art-packed festival boats tents all along Rittenhouse Square that showcase unique pieces of art for sale. More than 100 artists come together to present their finest work for this annual festival.

Vendy Awards: Philadelphia’s food trucks offer some fine food, and on Saturday, June 8, indulge in all the tasty food and beer you want as the food vendors come together for a giant festival known as the Vendy Awards. Now in its third year in Philadelphia, the Penn Treaty Park festival invites some of the most loved food trucks out for a day to determine which food truck is crowned best in Philly. The annual event is also a benefit for the Food Trust. Tickets are expected to sell out, so reserve your spot soon.

Odunde Festival: Based on Yoruba traditions, the Odunde Festival on June 9 celebrates the coming of another year for African-Americans and African people around the world with a procession, ceremonial offering and African marketplace, along with live music and dance.

Philadelphia LGBT Pride Parade and Festival: On Sunday, June 9, the 25th-annual Philadelphia’s LGBT Pride Parade and Festival marches around the city and keeps prideful spirits on high. The parade begins at noon in the heart of the gayborhood and makes it way down to Penn’s Landing. Penn’s Landing comes alive at noon with festival events for all.

Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll: The super popular Baltime Avenue Dollar Stroll returns for 2013 on June 13 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. From 42nd Street to 50th Street on Baltimore Avenue, area vendors will provide discounted items from their shops for just one dollar. Can you say Little Baby’s scoops for $1? We can.

Awesome Fest: Awesome Fest, the 80s themed film and music festival brings Philadelphia great outdoor and indoor programming all summer long. The festival runs from June 14 to August 19, kicking off with a performance by The Psychedelic Furs at the Trocadero Theatre on June 14 at 8 p.m.

Bloomsday: James Joyce's masterwork Ulysses serves as the focal point of Bloomsday, and the Rosenbach Museum and Library hosts the Philadelphia outpost of a worldwide all-day festival for literary enthusiasts on June 16.

Drexel Park Film Series: As part of the Awesome Fest festival, Drexel Park hosts outdoor movies every Thursday night for the duration of the festival. The first film is the 1980s classic, Revenge Of The Nerds on Thursday, June 20 at 9 p.m. Future (and free) programming includes Adventures in Babysitting and Die Hard.

Manayunk Arts Festival: Billed as the largest outdoor juried art show in the region, the Manayunk Arts Festival welcomes nearly 200,000 collectors, buyers and designers to peruse fine art and handmade goods along charming Main Street on June 22 and 23.

Philadelphia Neighborhoods: Our Guide To The Restaurants, Bars, Markets And Cafes In The Bella Vista Neighborhood Of Philadelphia

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Come for the Italian Market Festival, stay for the neighborhood. Bella Vista is filled with great restaurants, bars, markets, cafes and more, so be sure to plan a return trip not long after this weekend's event. (Photos by R. Kennedy for GPTMC)

[This spring, Visit Philly launched a new effort to promote 14 different neighborhoods surrounding Center City Philadelphia. With our new complementary "Philadelphia Neighborhoods" post series, Uwishunu is teaming up with Visit Philly to promote all the awesome dining, shopping, arts, nightlife, events and more within Philly's many exciting neighborhoods.]

This weekend, the 9th Street Italian Market Festival is set to bring thousands of festival goers from all corners of the city to experience the vibrant dining and eclectic culture of the Bella Vista neighborhood.

A traditionally Italian area that's now ethnically mixed, Bella Vista spans 6th to 11th streets, and stretches from Lombard Street to Washington Avenue, but its best-known feature is the 9th Street Italian Market, the oldest operational open-air market of its kind in America.

The cultural harmony of the area has created a hugely diverse dining scene — brimming with traditional “red gravy” Italian restaurants alongside hip new American joints and casual Mexican eateries.

Head out to the festival this weekend, then stick around or make a return visit to experience the eclectic dining offered up in our Bella Vista neighborhood guide, below.

To explore more in Bella Vista, and to view these places on a interactive map of Bella Vista, check out the full Bella Vista guide in the new Philadelphia Neighborhoods section on visitphilly.com.
 

Restaurants and Bars

 
Bainbridge Street Barrel House: This handsome seven-days-a-week newcomer credits craft beer with its existence (with 25 brews on tap,180-plus bottled options, plus wine and classic cocktails) and lists smothered fries, pickled veggies, stuffed sandwiches and hearty mains as its staples. The owners of the Barrel House are the guys behind Bella Vista Beer Distributors on South 11th Street.

Brauhaus Schmitz: Details: The premier German beer bar in Philly, the Brauhaus packs in European soccer fans on the regular, but it’s also a top-notch restaurant, with modern German cooking from chef Jeremy Nolen.

Cucina Forte: This homey Italian BYOB is best known for chef-owner Maria Forte's amazing ricotta gnocchi, pillow pasta that Philadelphia Inquirer restaurant critic Craig LaBan referred to as "weightless wonders of the dumpling world." After those doughy delights, regulars to Cucia Forte recommend any of the day's specials.

Dante & Luigi's: One of the city's oldest trattorias, Dante & Luigi's celebrates Italian-American cuisine with homemade lasagna, hearty veal chops and other traditional treats slathered in famous "red gravy" (South Philly-speak for marinara). Also famous here: On Halloween night of 1989, it D&L's was the site of an attempted hit on local mob figure Nicky Scarfo, Jr things have quieted down a bit since.

The Dive: This casual over-21 hangout has a vast beer selection from cans of Schlitz to local microbrews rock-filled jukebox, inexpensive pool tables and friendly barkeeps. But it's The Dive's exemption from the citywide smoking ban that makes it earn its name.

Fitzwater Caf: Transformed from a vintage gas station, Fitzwater Caf is a quaint satellite to the Saloon (see below) and a Bella Vista go-to for breakfast and lunch, and, on Friday and Saturdays, casual Italian dinners. Patrons fill caf tables and a bar for airy French toast, crunchy-topped banana muffins, roast pork sandwiches and, at night, homemade pasta.

Growlers: A spacious "living room for the neighborhood," Growler’s has tons of great beer on tap and a cracklin' fireplace to warm up your bones, but not your pint. A pub menu flecked with thoughtful touches keeps many appetites satisfied.

Hawthorne's Biercafe: On a wide stretch of 11th Street, Hawthorne’s is half beer boutique, half sandwich shop and has become a popular breakfast-through-dinner spot. A chalkboard menu offers panini, salads, burgers, cheese and meat boards, pierogies and growlers (of beer) to go.

Monsu: Another Italian Market BYOB, this corner spot prides itself its Sicilian roots. Monsu’s brunch and dinner menus offer the mild airy eggplant parmigiana, ricotta-and-zucchini ravioli, osso buco to the slightly wild sweet-and-sour tripe.

Nina's Trattoria: A long vacant Italian Market storefront gained new life as this under-the-radar, authentically Italian BYOB. Lunch, brunch and dinner menus at Nina’s feature farm-to-table fare, including homemade meatballs, grilled radicchio and asparagus patties.

Nomad Pizza: Born of a food truck (which was born of an at-home $10,000 wood oven) this simple, upscale pizzeria has a pies-first focus. Aficionados have fallen for Nomad's airy Neapolitan-style 'za, as preceded by a crisp salad, washed down by a hoppy ale.

John's Water Ice is a summertime staple in Bella Vista. (Photo by R. Kennedy)

Paesano's II: The second location of Northern Liberties' gourmet Italian sandwich shop resides where else? in heart of the Italian Market. Bread-swaddled choices at Paesano’s include roasted suckling pig adorned with long hots, sharp provolone and broccoli rabe, or fried lasagna topped with a fried egg (that's some sandwich). Tip: gluten-free rolls are available, too.

Paloma: Haute Mexican mushroom flan, huitlacoche mousse-stuffed duck, poblano-touched corn chowder is the draw at this refined BYOB. Dinner at Paloma ends with no-kidding desserts mojito layer cake with a scoop of mango habanero sorbet, anyone?

Percy Street Barbecue: James Beard-winning chef Michael Solomonov parked his penchant for all-American barbecue at this laid-back South Street joint. Meaty, smoky platters at Percy Street include pork belly, brisket and barbecue chicken, with to-share sides of pimento cheese, skillet cornbread and turkey tails.

Ralph's: America's oldest Italian restaurant and immensely proud of it Ralph’s is a two-floor tribute to old-school Italian-American fare and still packs in the crowds, more than a century after opening its doors. Loyal patrons go for the basics sausage and peppers, mussels red or white and usually go home with doggie bags.

Royal Tavern: The neighborhood's steadfast gastropub serves up truffled popcorn and piled-high nachos, vegan sloppy Joes and meatloaf sandwiches to go with its major beer list. Loud and always busy, the Royal's a no-brainer for an easy night out.

Sabrina's Caf: The Sunday morning line of people waiting for tables and massive, massive plates of food at this Italian Market attest to its brunch-time popularity. A fancier-than-a-diner spot, Sabrina’s is known for its breakfast-all-day menu of mega omelets, huge pancakes and very big salads.

Saloon: This polished, splurge-worthy Italian-American stalwart knows its way around a filet mignon, veal chop and lobster. Unlike many of Saloon’s BYOB neighbors, this gentlemanly venue boasts a major wine list and a beautiful bar for sitting and sipping.

Sam's Morning Glory: Bella Vista's original brunch spot calls itself a "finer diner." And, it's true: the daytime-only MoGlo turns your average omelet into a delish skillet frittata, bakes some serious biscuits, and flips a heavenly flapjack, known there as a "glory cake."

Santucci's Pizza: Square, upside-down pizza (where the cheese hides under the sauce) is the signature of this casual eatery. Also on the menu at Santucci’s: Stromboli, hot wings, and garlic bread-cheesesteaks.

Sarcone's Deli: Details: Ninth Street’s legendary Italian bakery, Sarcone’s, produces some of the best bread and rolls in the region, and serves its own line of sandwiches and snacks, too.

Supper: At their handsome two-tiered eatery, chef-owners Mitch and Jennifer Prensky take farm-to-table to the next level. The refined menu at Supper from "mostly meatless" Monday night harvest dinners to Thursday night's blue plate specials gets many of its components from the couple's very own local farm.

12 Steps Down: A dozen stair treads belowground, this drinkers' pub inhabits the northern tip of the Italian Market. Three beers on tap one microbrew, one big-name, one low-priced and a rock-stocked jukebox aim to please patrons on all types of budgets at 12 Steps Down.

Villa Di Roma: With red brick tiles outside and murals of old Italy in, this reliable Italian Market old-timer is a charming tribute to the Philadelphians who call their tomato sauce "gravy." The lengthy menu at Villa Di Roma serves up the full roster of classics, from spaghetti and meatballs to clams casino to veal Marsala to baked ziti to Chianti by the glass.

Wishing Well: A dozen microbrews on tap and a menu featuring scrapple-topped burgers and prosciutto-dressed Caesar salads are the draws at this straightforward bar and grill. Weekend brunch at the Well includes a gravy slathered "hangover bowl" and a make-your-own bloody Mary bar.
 

Cafes and Markets

 
Anthony's Italian Coffee & Chocolate House: For those who prefer their cafes with a strong Italian accent, report directly to Anthony’s, which offers panini, sweets and from-scratch gelato in addition to killer espresso drinks.

Bean Exchange: Sure, this part of the city has its fair share of Starbucks, but it's places like this friendly, day-through-night corner spot that make it feel like Philly. The Bean Exchange has dubbed its mild, signature, addictive small-batch roast "Morning Bell Blend."

Chapterhouse Caf & Gallery: A historic townhouse transformed into a cleanly modern venue for cutting-edge art shows, and great fair trade coffees and teas. Though Chapterhouse is big four white rooms in all its many tables are typically crowded with students and lingerers.

Claudio's Specialty Foods: A salad bar's worth of olives, a half dozen cases of cheese and salumeria, and more than a few shelves of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dry pasta, canned tomatoes and other specialties that Italians do better are for sale at this friendly, well-priced Italian Market store. Next door, Claudio's vends its homemade mozzarella.

DiBruno Brothers: Narrow and jam-packed, this circa 1939 gourmet shop also known as "the House of Cheese" draws lines out the door and down the street for its unparalleled selection of international formaggio, plus cured meats and myriad other gourmet groceries. The DiBrunos have a second, newer and more expansive location near Rittenhouse Square.

Fante's Kitchen Shop: Before Walnut Street had Williams-Sonoma, the Italian Market had this multi-room storehouse of everything and anything for the home cook. And, more than just vending freshly-ground coffee beans (and every possible maker to brew them), essential to esoteric cake-making tools, top-of-the-line Le Creuset and Henckels, and gadgets galore, Fante's often discounts them, too.

Gleaner's Caf: A Hershey's Kiss comes with every cappuccino, latte or plain ole Joe at this petite beatnik Italian Market hangout. Bagel sandwiches and vegan baked goods provide ample sustenance to balance out customers' caffeine buzz at Gleaner’s, too.

Isgro Pastries: More than a century ago, baker Gus Isgro established this Italian Market-area shop, a take-a-number spot whose unmistakably buttery aroma wafts down Christian Street. Customers swear by the pound, Italian cream and strawberry shortcakes and kids love the cookies, but filled-to-order cannoli are Isgro's top sellers.

John's Water Ice: Since 1945, this warm-weather takeout-ery has been transforming fruit, sugar and frozen water in to water ice known elsewhere as "Italian ice." Loyal patrons choose from lemon, chocolate, cherry or pineapple water ice; vanilla, chocolate, strawberry or butter pecan ice cream; or a combination thereof that John's dubs "gelati."

Shot Tower Coffee: Named for the still extant old structure a few blocks away, Shot Tower is a "third wave" coffee-centric cafe and gets its Strada espresso machine from La Marzocco, its beans from Counter Culture and its artisanal sandwiches from East Passyunk's Plenty market.

Tortilleria y San Roman: Details: It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but San Roman is known far and wide for its calentitas (hot and fresh tortillas), delicious tortilla chips and spicy scratch-made salsa.

Calling All Photogenic Philadelphians! Come Out To GPTMC’s Open Casting Calls For Upcoming Summer Photo Shoots

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UPDATE: The June 13 casting call at Eastern State Penitentiary has been postponed due to inclement weather.

Do you have what it takes to be Philadelphia’s next top model?

The Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation is looking for real-life Philadelphians to try their hand at modeling in a series of photo shoots throughout the neighborhoods of Philadelphia this summer.

Come out to one of two casting call opportunities this month to meet representatives from the organization, have your picture taken and enjoy a snack.

No modeling experience is required!

Families, couples, singles, kids (ages five and above) and grandparents are encouraged to come out and bring their best smiles. No one is excluded! Visit Philly is looking for Philadelphians of all sexes, races and orientations.

If you're selected to participate in a photo shoot, you'll get to spend a couple hours at a regional attraction, restaurant or shop, and you'll make a few extra dollars while you're at it.

Plus, your face could appear on ads, in newspapers, on websites maybe even on a billboard.

Just pick the date and location that works best for you (see below), RSVP to photos@gptmc.com.

Then, all you need to do is show up and smile for the camera!

Casting Call #1: Fishtown
When: June 18, 6-8 p.m.
Where: Frankford Hall, 1210 Frankford Avenue
Cost: Free

Casting Call #2: Bella Vista
When: June 25, 5-7 p.m.
Where: Brauhaus Schmitz, 718 South Street
Cost: Free

Reminder: Come Out To GPTMC’s Open Casting Call Tonight To Take Part In Upcoming Summer Photo Shoots

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Want to be Philadelphia’s next top model? Come out to Frankford Hall tonight.

The Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation is looking for real-life Philadelphians to try their hand at modeling in a series of photo shoots throughout the neighborhoods of Philadelphia this summer.

Come out to one of two casting call opportunities this month to meet representatives from the organization, have your picture taken and enjoy a snack.

No modeling experience is required!

Families, couples, singles, kids (ages five and above) and grandparents are encouraged to come out and bring their best smiles. No one is excluded! Visit Philly is looking for Philadelphians of all sexes, races and orientations.

If you're selected to participate in a photo shoot, you'll get to spend a couple hours at a regional attraction, restaurant or shop, and you'll make a few extra dollars while you're at it.

Plus, your face could appear on ads, in newspapers, on websites maybe even on a billboard.

Just pick the date and location that works best for you (see below), RSVP to photos@gptmc.com.

Then, all you need to do is show up and smile for the camera!

Casting Call #1: Fishtown
When: June 18, 6-8 p.m.
Where: Frankford Hall, 1210 Frankford Avenue
Cost: Free

Casting Call #2: Bella Vista
When: June 25, 5-7 p.m.
Where: Brauhaus Schmitz, 718 South Street
Cost: Free


Tonight Picks: Brauhaus Schmitz’s Birthday, Outdoor Movie At ICA, Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesday At Two Museums, Opening Night Of Wicked At The Academy Of Music And More

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Tonight, explore one of the city's many establishments hosting after-dark events, including a series of short films at the Institute of Contemporary Art. (Photo courtesy Institute of Contemporary Art)

As the weather remains a little iffy for this evening, it’s best to explore options both indoors and out in the City of Brotherly Love tonight.

Fortunately, in typical Wednesday night fashion, Center City Sips, Pay-What-You Wish Wednesdays, P.M. at the Penn Museum and Drink ‘n’ Draw at 3rd Ward Philadelphia fill the calendar.

In addition to the weekly events, numerous one-night-only happenings are in town.

Fingers crossed that the weather will hold out, but in the case of rain, head indoors to one of the slew of events on deck for tonight.

Our top picks for this evening, below.

Brauhaus Schmitz’s Fourth Birthday: Celebrate Brauhaus Schmitz as it turns four years old this evening with a budget-friendly party. The South Street beer hall begins the festivities with happy hour at 5 p.m. with $4 drafts of refreshing German brews. At 7 p.m., the party really starts. The $4 libations continue to flow into the evening, and chef Jeremy Nolen will be serving up free (!!!) appetizers to guests.

When: Wednesday, June 26, 5 p.m.
Where: Brauhaus Schmitz, 718 South Street
Cost: Pay as you go

Films by James Scott at the Institute of Contemporary Art: The terrace at the Institute of Contemporary Art welcomes filmmaker James Scott for an outdoor movie event beginning at 8 p.m. The evening is made up of a series of short films about artists and their works. In the early ’60s, Scott began creating the short film series of portraits of contemporary artists. The series used the power of film to display artwork in a new way. Tonight’s event comes perfectly paired with treats from Lil’ Pop Shop, popcorn and more. In the case of rain, the series will be shown in ICA’s Tuttleman Auditorium. ICA’s galleries will remain open until 8 p.m., so be sure to arrive early to take advantage of both the art and the film.

When: Wednesday, June 26, 8 p.m.
Where: Institute of Contemporary Art, 118 S. 36th Street
Cost: Free

P.M. @ Penn Museum Summer Nights Concert Series: Head out to the Penn Museum for its weekly P.M. at the Penn Museum's Summer Night Concert Series. This evening, listen to the tunes of Barakka, a local band that calls the beats of Turkish folk music home. Tickets are $5 per person and also include access to the Penn Museum's collection.

When: Wednesday, June 26, 5-8 p.m.
Where: Penn Museum, 3620 South Street
Cost: $5

Center City Sips: Wednesday evenings in the summer are full of all the discounted drinks and appetizers you can imagine thanks to Center City Sips. Indulge in $5 cocktails, $4 wine, $3 beer and half-priced appetizers at 89 participating Center City bars and restaurants. Use this opportunity to try out one of Center City's newest hot spots like Bru Craft & Wurst or Pennsylvania 6 or visit an old standby like Sampan, Milkboy or Jones. Many participating restaurants even offer a dinner discount of 15 percent to Center City Sips-ers. The full list of participating bars and restaurants is available here.

When: Wednesday, June 26, 5-7 p.m.
Where: Participating restaurants
Cost: $5 cocktails, $4 wine, $3 beer and half-priced appetizers

Wicked at the Academy of Music: The popular musical Wicked flys into the Academy of Music for more than a month of spellbinding shows. The first performance is tonight at 7:30 p.m. Be sure to buy your tickets as soon as you can, shows always sell out. It’s Wicked’s fourth time in Philadelphia, and the crowds never tire of the high-flying musical. The plot centers around life before The Wizard of Oz in a musical featuring a young Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch of the North.

When: Wednesday, June 26, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad Street
Cost: $40-$175

Closing Reception of John Y. Wind’s The Making of A Modern Man: Bid farewell to John Y Wind’s The Making of A Modern Man exhibit tonight at the James Oliver Gallery from 6 to 9 p.m. The Making of A Modern Man is John Y. Wind’s first solo show and features works from the artist and jewelry designer. His jewelry is sold by retailers like Joan Shepp and Anthropologie. The exhibition is presented in part with InLiquid, a non-profit arts organization. It showcases Wind's modren sculptures draped and eclectic collages.

When: Wednesday June 26th, 6-9 p.m.
Where: James Oliver Gallery, 723 Chestnut Street
Cost: Free

Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesday at the Philadelphia Museum of Art: Discover the Philadelphia Museum of Art's extensive collection at whatever price you choose to pay at its Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesday event. From 5 to 8:45 p.m., explore the collection housed in the main building which includes art ranging from works by modern artists to art from thousands and thousands of years ago. An assortment of activities abound; the Great Stair Hall balcony hosts a yoga lesson (bring your own mat!) and numerous tours on a variety of subjects. Also visit the PMA's Terrace Bar, alfresco tables overlooking the Benjamin Franklin Parkway with food and drinks from Stephen Starr Events. For those looking to save a buck or two, happy hour runs from 5 to 7 p.m. Enjoy $4 domestic beers and $1 off glasses of wine.

When: Wednesday, June 26, 5-8:45 p.m.
Where: Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Cost: Pay-What-You-Wish

Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesday at the National Museum of American Jewish History: All summer long, the National Museum of American Jewish History welcomes guests at whatever price they'd like to pay. Visit NMAJH for a look at its extensive collection and exhibits with complimentary wine and hors d'oeuvres from the museum's Pomegranates Cafe.

When: Wednesday, June 26, 5-8 p.m.
Where: National Museum of American Jewish History, 101 S. Independence Mall E.
Cost: Pay-What-You-Wish

Drink ‘n’ Draw at 3rd Ward: Head to the new 3rd Ward Philadelphia this evening with your drawing tools in tow for its weekly Drink N' Draw event. For $15 per person for non-members, $10 per person if you bring a friend and free for members, 3rd Ward provides guests with beer to sip and a model to sketch. The event runs from 8 to 10:30 p.m.

When: Wednesday, June 26, 8-10:30 p.m.
Where: 3rd Ward Philadelphia, 1227 N. 4th Street
Cost: $15 for non-members, $10 if you bring a friend, Free for members

South Street Headhouse District’s Annual Hot Dog Cook-Off Returns With Inventive Dogs And Plenty Of Craft Beer, Saturday, July 20

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Hot dogs are always a solid summer meal, indulge in the most fanciful hot dogs this Saturday, July 20 at the Dog Days of Summer Hot Dog Cook Off. (Image courtesy South Street Headhouse District)

Celebrate the dog days of summer and national hot dog month with the ultimate hot dog event. The 2nd annual Dog Days of Summer Hot Dog Cook-off is slated to satisfy appetites all around on Saturday, July 20.

Visit the Headhouse Shambles this Saturday for a full day of hot dogs from 11 Philadelphia eateries that serve up hot dogs — think Hot Diggity (naturally), Brauhaus Schmitz, Alla Spina and La Calaca Feliz.

With all participating restaurants vying to win the People’s Choice awards, attendees are encouraged to try as many hot dogs as they want, and vote for their favorite inventive dog.

A panel of celebrity judges will also award one lucky restaurant with the title of Dog Days Cook-off Champion.

Food and drink tickets, available at the event, will grant guests full access to hot dogs, drinks and brews provided by Philadelphia Brewing Company and 5 O’Clock Brew Company.

Swift Technique, a local seven-piece ensemble will provide funk tunes for guests.

Snag a VIP ticket for $25, and gain early access to the cook-off (at noon) and 12 food and drink tickets. VIP tickets are available online and at participating restaurants.

For those looking for general admission to the event, purchase your food and drink tickets on the day of the event, at the event.

Dog Days of Summer Hot Dog Cook-off
When: Saturday, July 20, VIP, noon-4 p.m.; General admission, 1-4 p.m.
Where: Headhouse Shambles, 2nd and Lombard streets
Cost: VIP $25; General admission, 10 tickets for $25, 4 tickets for $10, or 2 tickets for $5
More info: www.southstreet.com

Roundup: A Guide To The More Than 50 Late-Summer And Early-Fall Festivals Coming Your Way In Philadelphia

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Get your calendar ready, it's about to fill up. More than 50 festivals are slated to fill weekends and weeknights in September and October, and we're here to provide you with our top festival picks for late-summer and early-fall. (Photo credits, clockwise from top left: D. Tavani, E. Mencher, G. Widman and E. Mencher, all for GPTMC)

Summer may be winding to a close, but there certainly isn’t any shortage of alfresco festivals to fill your calendar.

September and October usher in more than 50 (!!!) festivals to celebrate the end of summer and the beginning of fall, and all happenings are set to spotlight the great things that come with the season change think pumpkin beer, Oktoberfest celebrations and temperate weather.

Over the next two months, Philadelphia and its countryside host lively events of all sort every single weekend.

Spend time with friends and family at everything from interactive performance festivals to art shows to beer festivals to block parties to food truck gatherings.

Below, we’ve organized more than 50 festivals chronologically to serve as your September and October guide.

Read on for the latest on the late-summer and early-fall festival scene.

Late-Summer Festivals

Philly Fringe: September 5-22. The popular Philly Live Arts and Philly Fringe Festival is back with hundreds of dance, theater, visual arts, music and spoken-word presentations performed in venues of every stripe, from traditional stages to street corners, cars, galleries, cabarets and restaurants. It’s all offbeat, daring and avant-garde and entertains Philadelphia for weeks; from September 5 to 22.

Philadelphia Honey Festival: September 6-8. The Philadelphia Beekeepers Guild presents the Philadelphia Honey Festival for all lovers of things sweet and local (a.k.a. everyone!). From September 6 through 8, the Wagner Free Institute of Science, Wyck Historic House and Garden and Bartram's Garden open their doors to the honey connoisseurs of Philadelphia.

Go West! Craft Fest: September 7. On September 7, the Go West! Craft Fest returns to The Woodlands in West Philadelphia. While browsing through handmade items from more than 70 vendors, festival-goers enjoy performances by jugglers, hoop dancers and acoustic musicians. Kids engage in free crafts-related activities, and hungry patrons dig into fare from local restaurants and food trucks. Rain date is September 8.

Phoenixville Blues Festival: September 7. Numerous blues artists take the stage at the annual Phoenixville Blues Festival on September 7. The free festival keeps guests grooving all day long. Talented youth performers also steal the limelight for portions of the day. Pair the performances with fresh eats from the numerous vendors and you’re set for some late-summer fun.

Doylestown Arts Festival: September 7-8. The free two-day Doylestown Arts Festival takes place in the heart of beautiful Doylestown Borough in Bucks County. This annual festival has grown to include more than 150 exhibitors and a food court. Diverse entertainment is presented at numerous locations throughout the downtown area.

WHYY Connections Festival September 7-8. On September 7 and 8, WHYY and the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation present the third annual WHYY Connections Festival, a festival of free concerts and family-friendly activities at Penn’s Landing.

Kennett Square Mushroom Festival: September 7-8. Indulge in some of the land’s freshest mushrooms at the Kennett Square Mushroom Festival on September 7 and 8. Pick up mushroom-centric souvenirs, freshly picked mushrooms and enjoy mushroom soup Masonic Lodge. The mushroom offerings over the weekend are nearly endless, click here for the full event listing.

Longwood Gardens’ Autumn’s Colors Festival: September 7-November 24. The trees and plants of Longwood Gardens burst with autumnal glory at the annual Autumn’s Colors Festival. All season long, fall-themed family-friendly activities abound, including the garden railway, lantern celebrations and the chance to pose with a jaw-dropping 800-pound pumpkin.

Feria del Barrio: September 8. The 29th annual Feria del Barrio returns to the El Centro de Oro section of Philadelphia on September 8. A celebration of Latin American heritage, arts and culture, this free event offers a variety of live entertainment, including art demonstrations, music, dancing and children’s games. This year’s main act is the four-time Grammy-nominated Afro-Rican band Plena Libre. The revelry also features cuisine from several Latin American countries.

Greenfest Philly: September 8. Honor Mother Nature at Greenfest Philly located in Headhouse Square, between Pine and South streets on 2nd street. On September 8, visit booths to learn how to preserve the earth, while enjoying bites from some of Philly’s favorite food trucks Sum Pig Food Truck and Little Baby’s Ice Cream to name a few.

Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll: September 12. The super popular Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll returns for 2013 on September 12 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. From 42nd Street to 50th Street on Baltimore Avenue, area vendors provide discounted items from their shops for just one dollar. Can you say Little Baby’s scoops for $1 and $1 seven-ounce glasses of Dock Street brews? We can.

Feastival: September 12. Feastival, the epic foodie festival, returns for 2013 with more than 75 of the city’s finest chefs think fare from Morimoto, Pizzeria Vetri, Zahav, Parc and many more, offering up a variety of tasty eats to attendees. The event raises money for the FringrArts and the Fringe Festival.

Rally for the Rail Park: September 14. Raise money in the best way possible on Saturday, September 14, by noshing, drinking and viewing live art installations at a block party to raise money for Reading Viaduct Rail Park, an upcoming elevated public green space for all to enjoy. The block party raises money for phase one of the project which is set to start in 2014. Stop by between 5 and 7:30 p.m. for a pig roast, fare from some of the city’s favorite food trucks, beer from Yards Brewery and performances curated by FringeArts.

Stroll through the Gayborhood for the annual Outfest, a block party celebration of National Coming Out Day. (Photo by G. Widman for GPTMC)

Longwood Gardens’ Fireworks and Fountains: September 14. The last Fireworks and Fountains event of the season brings the popular tunes of Elton John to the forefront and a spectacular fireworks show high above the gardens. The show begins at 8:15 p.m., and tickets are available online.

Shady Brook Farms PumpkinFest: September 14-15; 21-22; daily September 28-October 31. Get in the fall spirit at Shadybrook Farm’s PumpkinFest, more than a month of family-friendly pumpkin picking, hayrides, games, hands-on activities and much more.

Uhuru Flea Market: September 14. The Uhuru Flea Market brings a variety of home goods, antiques, clothing, jewelry, records, food and arts and crafts to Clark Park for its annual shopping extravaganza. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. stock up on a wide spectrum of goods to benefit the African People’s Education and Defense Fund.

Mexican Independence Day Festival: September 15. The sights, sounds and tastes of Mexico take over the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing during the Mexican Independence Day Festival on September 15. This free celebration features arts and crafts, Mexican rock bands, face painting, Mexican food, dancing and more.

Global Philly 2013: September 15-November 12. From September 15 to November 12, Global Philly 2013 aims to shine the light on Greater Philadelphia’s global influences and strengths through a series of more than 55 events held throughout the City of Philadelphia and the surrounding region. Look for internationally themed affairs spanning arts and education to sports and dining.

The Philadelphia Collection: September 18-25. Fashion-forward Philadelphians, take note. The style-centric Philadelphia Collection returns this year from September 18 to 25 with a number of fashionable events throughout the city. Put on your finest attire and head out for a week full of fashion shows, trunk shows, lectures, panel discussion, movies and more.

More late-summer and early-fall festivals, below.

Mt. Airy Street Fare: September 19. Germantown Avenue in Mt. Airy turns into a hub for mobile fare on September 19 in celebration of its first Street Fare, an evening of more than 40 food vendors, live music, shopping, craft beer and family-fun.

Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show: September 20-22. From September 20 to 22, more than 100 artists set up shop at Rittenhouse Square for its annual fall Fine Art Show. The historic festival dates back to 1932 when art students displayed their work from trees throughout the park. The festival now features artwork by local art students as well as professional artists.

Early-Fall Festivals

Frankford Hall Oktoberfest: September 21. From noon to 10 p.m., the annual Frankford Hall Oktoberfest block party closes Frankford Avenue from Girard Avenue to Shackamaxon street. Stroll the street for multiple beer tents, food trucks, carnival games, kid-friendly activities, live German pop music and a ceremonial keg tapping.

Brauhaus Schmitz Oktoberfest: September 21. The block of South Street in front of Brauhaus Schmitz shuts down in celebration of its epic Oktoberfest celebration. German beer, a pig roast and live music are the themes of the day. Beyond the block party, Brauhaus Schmitz hosts specials, games and giveaways from September 16 to 26.

MGK Brew Blast: September 21. Board the Battleship New Jersey for the 3rd annual MGK Brew Blast featuring more than 50 craft beers, tours of the historic ship and live rock music. The festival is presented by the classic rock station WMGK. Tickets are $45 a piece and are available online.

PHS Fall Garden Festival: September 21. On September 21, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society presents its annual PHS Fall Garden Festival. From 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., an assortment of activities take place on the parade grounds of the Navy Yard, including a marketplace selling local produce, plants, home decor and gardening tools; a PHS Kids Zone, where youngsters can participate in games, activities and crafts; a “Garden Giants” demonstration, where growers show off their oversized tomatoes, pumpkins and other gigantic goodies for a panel of judges; and bus tours of the revamped Navy Yard.

The German Society of Pennsylvania’s Oktoberfest: September 21. The German Society of Pennsylvania presents a day full of traditional German food, drinks and fun at its annual Oktoberfest celebration think a traditional pig roast, bratwurst, music and lots of German beer. Tickets are available online.

Newtown BeerFest: September 21. Breweries from all over the country are heading for Newtown this September for its annual BeerFest, a day full of craft beer sampling and live music. From 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., taste and learn about a wide variety of brews.

Clark Park Music and Arts Festival: September 21. From noon to sundown, the Clark Park Music and Arts festival brings local musicians to the stage for free performances all day long. Children are invited to create crafts at stations throughout the park, and adults are encouraged to browse fine goods from local artists and vendors.

Manayunk StrEAT Food Festival: September 21. Kicking off Manayunk Restaurant Week, the Manayunk StrEAT Food Festival on September 21 is a foodie’s dream, featuring food trucks, gourmet food vendors and specials at Main Street’s restaurants. Between bites, attendees enjoy live music and sidewalk sales.

Riverfront Ramble: September 21. Roughly 12,000 people are expected at this year’s Riverfront Ramble in Chester, making it the largest riverfront festival in Delaware County. On September 21, the Wharf at Rivertown on the Chester Waterfront features an antique car show, live performances, an Iron Chef competition, fitness instruction, a science fair, food and craft vendors, a petting zoo and spectacular fireworks over the Delaware River.

Peddler’s Village Scarecrow Festival: September 21-22. During the Peddler’s Village Scarecrow Festival, taking place September 21 to 22, visitors can view more than 100 amazing scarecrow creations and take part in scarecrow-making workshops, pumpkin pie-eating contests, pumpkin painting and live music.

Jenkintown Festival of the Arts: September 22. The Jenkintown Festival of the Arts is back with two stages of live music, a juried and student art show, brew fest, kid’s court, lots of food, artisan vendors and more.

Philadelphia Film & Animation Festival: September 27-29. Celebrate the best of independent film and animation at Project Twenty1′s annual Philadelphia Film & Animation Festival. The festival is set to take place largely at International House Philadelphia, but a few other venues are also hosting events. The weekend-long fest spotlights film screenings from all over the world and offers industry-related workshops, after party celebrations and even a red carpet awards show.

40th Street Summer Series: September 28. The final evening of the well-loved summer events, the 40th Street Summer Series, falls on Saturday, September 28 and the Millennial Territory Orchestra takes the stage for a roaring performance. The Grammy-nominated Steven Bernstein leads an ensemble of 12 through a performance of hit songs by Sly and The Family Stone.

FoCA and SOSNA’s 50/50 Block Party: September 28. The South of South Neighbors Association and the Friends of Chester Arthur Elementary School present a Graduate Hospital style block party on Saturday, September 28. From 3 to 7 p.m., head to the 20th block of Catharine Street for tasty pickings from a fleet of food trucks, a variety of homemade baked goods and beer.

Pour The Core: September 28. The Navy Yard celebrates apple’s prime season with a festival devoted to one of its finest fruits: hard cider. The Pour the Core festival brings together local and international ciders in an afternoon fete on Marine Parade Grounds. Sample more than 30 hard apple (and pear) ciders, dance to live music and listen to discussions led by cider experts. This is a 21 plus and ticketed event. Tickets are available online.

Slyfox Can Jam: September 28. Can Jam celebrates all things local craft beer, with live music, deliciously crisp canned beer, BBQ and more. The all day event takes place at the Slyfox Brewing Company in Pottstown.

Campus Philly College Day: September 28. College students flock to the art museum steps for food, live music, free goods and more at Campus Philly’s College Day. Students are encouraged to bring their college i.d.’s for free admission to a number of Philadelphia museums such as Eastern State Penitentiary, the National Museum of American Jewish History, the Philadelphia Museum of Art and more.

Asian Art Initiative’s Pearl Street Block Party: September 28. Celebrate Philly’s culture and art community at the first-ever Pearl Street Block Party presented by the Asian Art Initiative on September 28. Beginning at 2 p.m., live performances and interactive artwork displays from the Mural Arts Program, Asian Arts Initiative, Fleisher Art Memorial and more will fill the space. At 5 p.m., enjoy a community feast at the outdoor block party.

The Kennett Square Mushroom Festival brings a variety of mushroom-centric fun to the countryside town for an epic weekend long celebration. (Photo by G. Widman for GPTMC)

New Hope Arts & Crafts Festival: September 28-29. The New Hope Arts & Crafts Festival highlights the work of more than 200 artists and artisans specializing in photography, watercolors, oils, pastels, pen and ink drawings, silver and gold jewelry, ceramics, wearable art, glass, wood, sculpture and furniture. Exhibitors sell their works on display in booths lining Union Square. In addition to art, festival fare also satisfies guests.

Brandywine Valley Harvest Festival: September 28-29, October 5-6. The 11th annual Brandywine Valley Harvest Festival returns for multiple days of live music, wine tastings, food truck bites and games at a number of participating wineries along the Brandywine Valley Wine Trail. The full schedule of events and locations is available here.

Downingtown FallFest: September 29. The fourth-annual Downingtown FallFest welcomes more than 5,000 guests on September 29 for a day filled with festive events, including live music, food vendors, craft activities and displays from local businesses. And, of course, since Victory Brewing Company presents this festival, guests can expect a stellar beer garden with delicious brews and bites.

Vendemmia Wine Festival: September 29. The Vendemmia Wine Festival aims to capture the spirit of traditional Italy through a friendly wine competition (of amateurs and professionals) at Girard Park in South Philadelphia. The festival highlights both red and white homemade wine along with live music to contribute to the merriment.

Chinatown Night Market: October 3. Crowds are drawn to one of the city’s most popular food truck events, the Night Market. Top-of-the-line food vendors make their way to Chinatown for the seasonal event on October 3. Indulge in a variety of eats (everything from Thai to tacos to gourmet cheese curds) and imbibe local brews and cocktails from area distributors.

Revolutionary Germantown Festival: October 5. On October 4, 1777, the Continental Army attempted to fight the British out of Germantown. Washington and his troops lost the battle and were forced to retreat to Valley Forge for the winter. Germantown commemorates the event on October 6 during the Revolutionary Germantown Festival with a battle reenactment, tours, food vendors and more.

RiverCity Festival: October 5. Showcasing the best of Fishtown, the annual RiverCity Festival returns to historic Penn Treaty Park on October 5. Activities like moon bounces and magic shows delight young revelers, while adults engage in grown-up amusement, including the RiverCity Fun Run and the on-site beer garden.

PumpkinFest at Franklin Square: October 5. Franklin Square is all about fall fun during the third annual PumpkinFest on October 5. The event helps raise funds to maintain the park, which is one of Philadelphia’s most picturesque settings. Guests of all ages partake in festivities such as a costume parade, pumpkin painting, pony rides, spooky mini-golf, carnival games, cupcake decorating and more. Plus, admission includes unlimited rides on the historic Philadelphia Park Liberty Carousel.

Phoenixville Food Festival: October 5. For the first time ever, the Phoenixville Food Festival brings together some of the area’s best food trucks for a day-long festival. From noon to 6 p.m., sample fare from a variety of sweet and savory trucks and shop items from an array of art vendors. The festival comes right before restaurant week in the Chester County town, which runs from October 6 through October 10.

The Philadelphia International Dragon Boat Festival: October 5. Culture meets athletic ability during the Philadelphia International Dragon Boat Festival, one of the largest festivals of its kind in North America. Throughout the day on October 5, more than 140 teams totaling roughly 5,000 paddlers of all ages, abilities and ethnicities take to the Schuylkill River in boats whose elaborate design originated in ancient China.

Morris Arboretum Fall Festival: October 5-6. Morris Arboretum presents its annual Fall Festival, on October 5 and 6, set amidst 92 acres of exquisite plant life and horticultural displays. This year’s family-friendly activities include scarecrow making, pumpkin painting and apple tasting. Also, from October 5-20, visitors can view 30 designer scarecrows along Scarecrow Walk.

Midtown Village Fall Festival: October 6. The Midtown Village fall festival, the popular eight-block outdoor party is back. Indulge in food samples from Midtown Village restaurants, sidewalk sales, handmade items from artisans and crafters. An assortment of pumpkin brews take the stage at this neighborhood-wide event along with alfresco beer garden tents. Food from some of the most-loved Midtown Village restaurants move outside for some tasty street fare, and shops offer storewide discounts to festival goers.

Chestnut Hill Fall for the Arts Festival: October 6. Chestnut Hill transforms into an outdoor arts and crafts marketplace during the Chestnut Hill Fall for the Arts Festival on October 6. More than 150 talented artists from throughout the country display and sell their creations in media ranging from watercolor paintings to jewelry. Live entertainment, children’s rides and alfresco dining round out the excitement during this free event. The rain date is October 13.

Old City Seaport Festival: October 11-13. Guests can embrace Philly’s maritime culture at the second annual Old City Seaport Festival, kicking off on October 11 with a majestic sunset Parade of Boats. On October 12-13, visitors head to Penn’s Landing for a crafter’s village, deck tours of the Tall Ships, food trucks, a moon bounce, face painting and an outdoor beer garden. Throughout the weekend, guests can expect fun encounters with roaming, costumed pirates and their live parrots.

Reading Terminal Market Harvest Festival: October 12. Reading Terminal Market is undoubtedly one of the best places to savor the bounty of fall, and on October 12, visitors are invited to do just that during the Harvest Festival. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a portion of Filbert Street is closed to traffic and transformed into an urban farm, complete with hay bales and corn stalks. Kids and adults walk through an on-site pumpkin patch, ride an authentic farm tractor and enjoy freshly prepared donuts, candy apples and other seasonal goodies.

Hawthornes’ Ales for Tails Block Party: October 12. Rain or shine, Hawthornes’ Ales for Tails block party prevails on Saturday, October 12. Beginning at 2 p.m., the street-closing festival promises guests a solid selection of awesome brews all while raising money for PAWS. Take your pick of 35 beers ringing in at $5 a piece everything from ciders to lagers to seasonal pumpkin brews. Pair your drinks with a variety of street food at the all-day fest and dance to live music all along the festival. Also, keep in mind, this is a cash only event.

Before the Bridge Music Festival: October 12. The Before the Bridge music festival spotlights independent artists from all over the country in a full day of live music in Collingswood, NJ.

OutFest: October 13. All throughout the Gayborhood on October 13, folks gather for Outfest, a National Coming Out Day Festival that brings a GLBT embracing block party to the streets. Guests enjoy contests, games, shopping, live music, bar specials and lots and lots of dancing.

DesignPhiladelphia Festival: October 10-18. From October 10 to 18, the ninth annual DesignPhiladelphia Festival, a signature program of the Philadelphia Center for Architecture, shines a spotlight on the vibrant creative community across the region. This year’s theme, EXPERIENCEdesign!, focuses on the experiential and emotional aspects of design by engaging festival goers’ five senses. More than 120 events are held in a variety of locales across the city, including boutiques, museums, warehouses and public spaces.

Philadelphia Film Festival: October 17-27. Returning for its 22nd year from October 17 through 27, the Philadelphia Film Festival, presented by the Philadelphia Film Society, celebrates the art of cinema with more than 100 films from around the world. The festival also includes industry panels, post-screening Q&As and special events with filmmakers at venues across the region.

Family Moon-viewing Weekend at the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden: October 18-20. Celebrate the harvest moon and give thanks for a good harvest during the Family Moon-viewing Weekend at the Japanese House at the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden from October 18 through 20. Events and activities include a moon-viewing tea ceremony, a moon-viewing party, a sweets-making class, a traditional Japanese choral performance and storytelling.

Harry Potter Festival: October 18-19. For two magical days, Chestnut Hill transforms into Hogsmeade, the fictional town made famous in the Harry Potter series, for Harry Potter Festival. On October 18, an opening ceremony and pub crawl kick off the festivities. On October 19, spectators can catch the collegiate Quidditch tournament at Chestnut Hill College. Plus, throughout the weekend, restaurants and shops all over town participate in Harry Potter-themed fun.

Blocktoberfest: October 19. Mark your calendars, Graduate Hospital’s Blocktoberfest fills South Street from Broad to 18th Streets on October 19. Local vendors set up shop with beer, eats and giveaways to entertain the masses. The festival also welcomes a solid lineup of food trucks for the day-long event.

Roundup: A Guide To Festive Oktoberfest Celebrations In And Around Philadelphia

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From large-scale block parties to smaller celebrations, September and October are home to a variety of German beer and food-centric Oktoberfest celebrations. (Photo credits, clockwise from top left: courtesy Frankford Hall, G. Widman for GPTMC, Brauhaus Schmitz, Frankford Hall)

Prost! Oktoberfest takes over Philadelphia once again this year with more traditional German music, bratwurst and steins of beer than ever.

From quiet backyard celebrations to street-closing block parties our list has got you covered. We’ve compiled a chronological list of Oktoberfest celebrations that are bound to be full of Oktoberfest ales and German-centric fare.

Read on for our top picks for Oktoberfest celebrations in Philadelphia.

Frankford Hall’s Oktoberfest: September 14-27. Block Party, September 21. On Saturday, September 21, Frankford Hall turns Frankford Avenue from Girard Avenue to Shackamaxon street into a proper German festival with multiple beer tents housing keg upon keg of German beer, food trucks, live music, family-friendly activities (including carnival and pony rides!) and much more. Beyond the Oktoberfest party, contests, discounts, a kid-toberfest on September 22 and a special happy hour from September 16 through 20 from 4 p.m. to close pleases patrons.

Brauhaus Schmitz’s Oktoberfest: September 16-26. Block Party, September 21. Oktoberfest is a multi-week adventure at South Street’s Brauhaus Schmitz. From September 16 through 26, games, happy hours, live music and much more take place at the German beer hall. All festivities surround the epic outdoor block party on September 21 that shuts down South Street in front of Brauhaus Schmitz and fills the street with steins of beer, live music, a pig roast and much more.

The German Society of Pennsylvania’s Oktoberfest: September 21. Visit the German Society of Pennsylvania’s home base on September 21 for bunches and bunches of German goodness at its annual Oktoberfest celebration. From 2 to 6 p.m., enjoy classic German dishes like sauerkraut, bratwurst and a traditional pig roast. Also enjoy traditional German music and dancing. Tickets purchased before September 17 are discounted, so get yours soon. Tickets are available online and include all food and non-alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic beverages (can you say beer?) are available on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Oktoberfest at Morgan’s Pier: September 21. Cozy up at Morgan’s Pier for its end-of-summer Oktoberfest event. Starting at noon, enjoy autumnal brews, warm spiked drinks, freshly grilled sausages and housemade charcuterie at the waterfront hangout. In addition to drinks and eats, DJ A-Trak, a renowned DJ who is a member of Duck Sauce, an award-winning DJ group, will spin beats for the crowd in the evening.

MGK Brew Blast: September 21. Step aboard the Battleship New Jersey for the 3rd annual MGK Brew Blast, an event featuring more than 50 craft beers, classic German fare, tours of the historic ship and live rock music. The festival is presented by the classic rock station WMGK. Tickets are $45 a piece and are available online.

Wursthaus Schmitz: September 22 and October 4. Wursthaus Schmitz, Reading Terminal Market’s go-to Bavarian sausage spot hosts two days of Oktoberfest celebrations complete with live music, German fare, a plethora of festive decorations, beer and more. The events run from 1 to 6 p.m. on September 22 and October 4. Get excited, Wursthaus Schmitz will also pair-up with Reading Terminal’s pub, Molly Malloy’s for flowing German beer all day.

Cedar Point Bar and Kitchen’s Oktoberfest: September 26. Cedar Point Bar and Kitchen invites guests out for a Thursday evening (and afternoon!) Oktoberfest celebration on September 26. Groove to traditional German music while enjoying German bites (think sausage platters and potato pancakes) and a slew of Oktoberfest brews. Bonus: Wear lederhosen to the Oktoberfest celebration and receive free drinks.

Xfinity Live Xtoberfest: September 28. On Saturday, September 28, sip more than 150 types of craft beer at Xfinity Live’s Xtoberfest. Tickets include access to a variety of Oktoberfest-inspired food, unlimited beer, live DJs and additional live music, games and much more. Beyond beer, a whiskey room and cider room fill the South Philly venue as well. The full listing of the day’s events is available here.

Hop Angel Brauhaus: September 28-29. The last weekend in September turns into a true German festival at Fox Chase’s Hop Angel Brauhaus. Inside and outside of the German-American bar and restaurant, the taps are set to overflow with a variety of Oktoberfest brews. Sausages, pretzels and other German treats will be available for guests as well. Bonus: Those sporting lederhosen or a dirndl receive a free sausage sandwich.

Devil’s Den: September 28-29. Head to Devil’s Den for the best of German food and drink on September 28 and 29. The South Philly beer haunt is chock-full of Oktoberfest specials including eight German brews on tap all weekend (light, hoppy or heavy take your pick!) and an assortment of German food additions to the menu. Enjoy house-made German sausages, German potato salad served with traditional meat dumplings and more. Food will be available after 3 p.m. on September 28 and 29.

Bru Craft & Wurst: October 1. Midtown Village’s Bru Craft & Wurst hosts an open bar party in celebration of the Oktoberfest holiday. An advanced $40 ticket gets you all-you-can-drink draughts from Avery Brewing Company from 6 to 9 p.m., a souvenir pint class and your choice of a Bavarian pretzel, a bratwurst sandwich or Bru fries. Tickets are available online. Tickets are not required for entry, those without tickets may enjoy an assortment of German eats on special for $5 a piece and a solid selection of featured draughts. All guests are encouraged to come in costume sport a helmet and be entered to win an Avery Brewing Company gift basket or a Bru “haus key” for the beer wall. Also keep a look out for Bru Oktoberfest specials and festivities during the Midtown Village Fall Festival.

King of Prussia Beerfest Royale: October 3 and 5. The King of Prussia mall parking lot transforms into a German beer oasis at the annual Beerfest Royale, a two-day event consisting of more than 50 breweries and more than 100 brews. Enjoy sips from Samuel Adams, Hoegaarden, Magic Hat, Dogfish Head and more. Indulge in food from area restaurants and groove to live music at multiple stages throughout the festival.

Shacktoberfest at Shake Shack: October 4-13. Shake Shack brings back Shacktoberfest, its popular take on Oktoberfest, for a number of days in October. From October 4 to 13, indulge in a variety of bratwursts and even a bratwurst burger complete with cheddar cheese and ShackSauce. Also, now’s the time to take home a limited edition Shake Shack beer stein filled with Brooklyn Brewery’s Oktoberfest for $10. Come back with your stein during Shacktoberfest and get $7 refills.

Memphis Taproom Thirst-Oberfest: October 5. Thirst-Oberfest returns to Memphis Taproom on October 5 with more than 25 flagship and limited release beers you’re invited to enjoy in their beer garden. As for munchies, look to the special-edition food truck that will be appropriately and selling German-inspired hotdogs.

Read on for more beer-fueled Oktoberfest celebrations.

Grumblethorpe Oktoberfest: October 5. Following the Revolutionary Germantown Festival, the Grumblethorpe homestead goes back to its German roots with its annual Oktoberfest event. Embark on tours of the colonial home and join in the fun at a party in Grumblethorpe’s garden. Sip beer, enjoy German meals and listen to live music at the evening event. Admission is free, but all food and tours are pay as you go.

Ambler Main Street Oktoberfest: October 5. Downtown Ambler turns into a traditional Bavarian festival with their annual event hosting great food, live music, art work, hand-crafted items and rides for the kids all day long.

Steins filled high with German beer is the theme of September and October with more than a dozen Oktoberfest celebrations taking over Philadelphia. (Photo courtesy Shutterstock)

Roxtoberfest: October 5. Lyceum Avenue in Roxborough welcomes a beer garden, food trucks, a dunk tank, carnival games and more at its Roxtoberfest celebration. From noon to 6 p.m., enjoy the best of Northwestern Philadelphia at the all-day event. In the case of rain, the Oktoberfest celebration is set to take place on Saturday, October 5.

Distinguished Oktoberfest at The Cambridge: October 6. Enjoy a relaxed Oktoberfest celebration at The Cambridge on South Street. $30 gets you a variety of German eats, a beer stein to take home and two German brews all in the atmosphere of The Cambridge’s backyard patio.

Midtown Village Fall Festival: October 6. The Midtown Village fall festival, the popular eight-block outdoor party is back. Indulge in food samples from Midtown Village restaurants, sidewalk sales, handmade items from artisans and crafters. An assortment of pumpkin brews take the stage at this neighborhood-wide event along with alfresco beer garden tents. Food from some of the most-loved Midtown Village restaurants move outside for some tasty street fare, and shops offer storewide discounts to festival goers.

McGillin’s Oktoberfest: Through October 6. Every day through October 6 at the Midtown Village haunt, Oktoberfest brews and German food are the theme. McGillin’s serves up everything from Yuengling Oktoberfest, to Sly Fox Oktoberfest Lager, to Oktoberfest brews straight from Germany all month long. Pair your fall-centric beer with a variety of German eats, think mussels steamed in Oktoberfest Lager or a German style sausage platter.

SugarHouse Casino’s Oktoberfest 2013: October 12. Along the Delaware River, Sugarhouse Casino presents a full afternoon of German celebrations. From 2 to 8 p.m., sip German beer and partake in educational beer tastings at an outdoor beer garden, and enjoy your brews with discounted Bavarian fare, live music, contests and games.

Elmwood Park Zoo Oktoberfest: October 12. Craft beer and zoo animals come together at the annual Oktoberfest at the Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown. Enjoy all-you-can-drink beer from six craft breweries Brooklyn Brewery, Smuttynose Brewing Company, Philadelphia Brewing Company, River Horse Brewing Company, Lancaster Brewing Company and wine from Karamoor Estate Wines. Tickets are $40 for those looking to get their drink and include beer, a souvenir tasting glass and live animal encounters. Tickets for designated drivers are available for $15 and VIP tickets featuring all-you-can-eat food are available as well.

Blocktoberfest: October 19. Mark your calendars, Graduate Hospital’s Blocktoberfest fills South Street from Broad to 18th Streets on October 19. Local vendors set up shop with beer, eats and giveaways to entertain the masses. The festival also welcomes a solid lineup of food trucks and live music for the day-long event.

Brauhaus Schmitz To Celebrate Oktoberfest With A Week-Long Series Of Events And A Giant Outdoor Festival On Saturday, September 21; Enter To Win VIP Tickets!

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Raise a glass at Brauhaus Schmitz Oktoberfest celebrations from September 16 through 26. (Photo courtesy Brauhaus Schmitz)

Get ready to raise a stein at Brauhaus Schmitz as the bustling South Street beer hall celebrates Oktoberfest with a multi-week adventure.

From September 16 through 26, report to the German beer haven for daily doses of games, happy hours, live music and an epic outdoor block party on September 21 that shuts down South Street in front of Brauhaus and fills the street with steins of beer, live music, a pig roast and much more.

Plus, this year brings another round of Oktoberfest fun with a second festival slated for Sunday, September 22, at the Reading Terminal Market with Wurthaus Schmitz, Brauhaus’ awesome sausage and sandwich counter at the market.

Below, take a look at a handful of major happenings during Brauhaus’ Oktoberfest:

Liter Lift Competition Qualifying Rounds: September 16-20, 8 p.m. nightly. South Street’s German beer hall hosts its own Masskrugstemmen, a competition of stein-holding skill. Each night at 8 p.m., 15 contenders will see who can hold a filled liter of beer with one outstretched arm for the longest time. The top two finishers from each night not only get sweet prize packages from various breweries, but also gain entry into the championship round, to be held on Saturday, September 21 at 2 p.m. Entry is free, but participants must reserve their spot here.

Oktoberfest Flight Night: Monday, September 16 and Monday, September 23, available during dinner service. Preview 10 different German and American Oktoberfest-style beers in two tasting flights, all paired with rare, interesting DiBruno Brother's cheeses.

Chef's Industry Night: Tuesday, September 17, 8 p.m. Chef Jeremy Nolan’s restaurant industry band Big In Munich rocks the Brauer Bund room.

Oktoberfest at Reading Terminal Market with Wursthaus Schmitz: Sunday, September 22, noon-6 p.m. In its first year, Wursthaus Schmitz gets in on the Oktoberfest action with an afternoon-long celebration in the center court at Reading Terminal Market. Continue the celebrations with live music, German food and more beer.

Oktoberfest Street Festival: Saturday, September 21, noon-8 p.m. The real headliner of the week-long celebration is the Oktoberfest Block Party on Saturday, September 21. Rain or shine, the block party runs from noon to 8 p.m., shutting down the 700 block of South Street with all manner of merriment, including oompah music, a pig roast and plenty of brilliant German brews.

Sound like a festival you’d like to attend? You’re in luck. We’re giving away two VIP tickets to Brauhaus’ Oktoberfest Street Fair!

Valued at $100 each, two VIP tickets will be awarded to one lucky winner, and include exclusive bar service in the Brauer Bund, full wait staff and bar staff with five private bathrooms, complimentary appetizers, six tickets good for beer from the VIP list or for food items, a commemorative beer stein and T-shirt and more.

Enter here through Wednesday, September 18, and click here for the official rules.

Prost!

Brauhaus Schmitz Oktoberfest
When: September 16-26; Block party, September 21, noon-8 p.m.
Where: 718 South Street
Cost: Pay as you go
More info: www.brauhausschmitz.com

*The contest period has ended.*

Tonight Picks: The Philadelphia Collection Kicks Off, The Fringe Festival And Oktoberfest Carry On, Restaurant Week, Art Openings And More

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It's a gorgeous evening, Philly, and a perfect evening to embrace fall happenings all over town from fashion events and art openings to live theater and brew-fueled dinners. (Photo by B. Krist for GPTMC)

As the fall festival season swings in to its prime — there are more than a dozen scheduled for this weekend alone! — this city’s opportunities for festive happenings rolls back well into Wednesday.

With the weather cooperating so beautifully, you’ll definitely want to head out tonight to take advantage of a slew of after-dark happenings — from fashion and shopping events with The Philadelphia Collection and an opening reception at the Institute of Contemporary Art, to live theater with the Fringe Festival and plenty of toasting with two Oktoberfests.

Our top picks for tonight, below.

The Philadelphia Collection 2013: Put your fashion foot forward, The Philadelphia Collection launches today for a weeklong run of haute happenings. Tonight, attend everything from a men’s happy hour with shoe shines and a trunk show at Barclay Prime to an accessories-centric shopping event complete with a red carpet and make-up demos. The full events for tonight (and the week!) is available here.

When: Wednesday, September 18
Where: Various locations
Cost: Varies

Fringe Festival: The multi-week Fringe Festival continues with tons of live performances on stage this evening in neighborhoods all over Philadelphia. Tonight, more than 25 works of theater and dance are set to entertain, including LEO by Y2D Productions at the Arts Bank, The Sea Plays (Bound East for Cardiff & In the Zone) by Philadelphia Artists’ Collective at Penn’s Landing, and The Talkback by The Berserker Residents at Plays & Players. The full listing of tonight’s events is available here.

When: Wednesday, September 18
Where: Various locations
Cost: Varies

Jason Rhoades, Four Roads Opening: In one of the most ambitious exhibitions ever presented by the Institute of Contemporary Art, Jason Rhoades, Four Roads takes over ICA in its entirety, with four installations focusing on four themes prevalent in the life of Rhoades. The show marks the first major American museum exhibition of the work of this little-exhibited, though exceptional artist who died in 2006 at just 41 years old. Tonight, celebrate the exhibition’s opening with talk from ICA chief curator Ingrid Schaffner at 6:30 p.m. and a public reception from 8 to 10 p.m.

When: Wednesday, September 18, 6:30 p.m., 8-10 p.m.
Where: Institute of Contemporary Art, 118 S. 36th Street
Cost: Free

Oktoberfest at Frankford Hall: In celebration of Oktoberfest, Frankford Hall has a bunch of events going on for the next week. Tonight, the Fishtown hang out pairs up with Yards Brewing Company for a special beer release party featuring a new German pale ale specially crafted for the beer garden. Also tonight, enjoy an extended happy hour from 4 p.m. to close and an informative beer-centric lecture at 7:30 p.m.

When: Wednesday, September 18, 4 p.m.
Where: Frankford Hall, 1210 Frankford Avenue
Cost: Pay as you go

Brauhaus Schmitz’ Oktoberfest Liter Lift Competition Qualifying Rounds: South Street's German beer hall hosts its own Masskrugstemmen, a competition of stein-holding skill. Each night this week at 8 p.m., 15 contenders will see who can hold a filled liter of beer with one outstretched arm for the longest time. The top two finishers from each night not only get sweet prize packages from various breweries, but also gain entry into the championship round, to be held on Saturday, September 21 at 2 p.m. Entry is free, but participants must reserve their spot here.

When: Wednesday, September 18, 8 p.m.
Where: 718 South Street
Cost: Pay as you go

Center City District Restaurant Week: The fall installment of Center City Restaurant Week is here for the tasting. Enjoy discounted meals at more than 100 participating restaurants including Zahav, Amada, Mercato and Pumpkin BYOB. Restaurant week dinners ring in at $35 per person. The price does not include tax, gratuity or alcoholic beverages. The full list of participating restaurants and their menus is available here.

When: Wednesday, September 18
Where: Participating restaurants
Cost: Pay as you go

More picks for tonight, below.

Wool to Live Exhibition Opening: Visit the ever-charming stadler-Kahn textile and design shop in Rittenhouse this evening to join in the opening festivities for Wool to Live II, an exhibition by Philadelphia-based sculptor Heidi Bleacher, who employs needle-felted wool in her whimsical pieces. Tonight, Bleacher will be in attendance demonstrating her needle-felting technique, while guests sip sangria and shop proprietor Alexander Stadler’s collection of objets d’art.

When: Wednesday, September 18, 5:30-8 p.m.
Where: stadler-Kahn, 1724 Sansom Street
Cost: Free

Allagash Brewery Clam Bake at Southwark: Queen Village bar and restaurant Southwark hangs on to summer tonight, with a three-course clam bake and Allagash beer special during dinner service. For $35, diners can enjoy a salad with Allagash White vinaigrette, the bake with clams, corn, new potatoes, celery and house-made andouille sausage, and a sweet apple turnover.

When: Wednesday, September 18, 5-10 p.m.
Where: Southwark, 701 S. 4th Street
Cost: $35

Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesday at the Philadelphia Museum of Art: Another Wednesday evening brings another night of discounted admission to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Head out for pay-what-you-wish Wednesday, ednesday night is always an eventful one at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Its Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesday brings a variety of events to the forefront. The full listing of the night's events is available here.

When: Wednesday, September 18, 5-8:45 p.m.
Where: Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Cost: Pay-what-you-wish

Brauhaus Schmitz Brings An Oktoberfest Celebration To South Street With A 200-Foot Beer Tent, Pig Roast, Liter Lift Championship, Live Music And More, Saturday, September 21

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This Saturday, head to South Street to spend the afternoon under an outdoor beer tent sipping steins of German beer and digging in to helpings from a pig roast at the Brauhaus Schmitz Oktoberfest block party, September 21. (Photo courtesy iStockPhoto)

Time to break out your lederhosen. South Street’s German beer hall Brauhaus Schmitz celebrates Oktoberfest in a big way with a humongous block party this Saturday, September 21.

In addition to the festivities at Frankford Hall, the annual Oktoberfest celebration at the German Society, and the Oktoberfest party at Morgan's Pier, Brauhaus throws a huge bash, blocking off South Street.

Rain or shine, the block party runs from noon to 8 p.m., shutting down the 700 block of South Street with all manner of merriment, including oompah music, a pig roast and plenty of brilliant German brews.

All afternoon, the 700 block of South Street will be closed to vehicular traffic to make way for a 200-foot-long tent with seating for approximately 700 revelers.

Chef Jeremy Nolan takes to the street with a traditional pig roast, roasting and grilling approximately 2000 pounds of sausage and pork to feed the masses.

Look for a stage of live oompah music near 8th Street, the championship round of the liter lift competition, as well as facepainting, schnapps tasting, a tapping of a ceremonial keg, and — yup — copious amounts of German beer.

Plus, this year brings another round of Oktoberfest fun with a second festival slated for Sunday, September 22, at the Reading Terminal Market with Wurthaus Schmitz, Brauhaus’ awesome sausage and sandwich counter at the market.

From noon to 6 p.m., Wursthaus gets in on the Oktoberfest action with an afternoon-long celebration in the center court at Reading Terminal Market. Continue the brew-fueled celebrations with live music, German food and more beer.

Prost!

Brauhaus Schmitz Oktoberfest Block Party
When: Saturday, September 21, noon-8 p.m.
Where: 700 block of South Street
Cost: Pay as you go
More info: www.brauhausschmitz.com

Wursthaus Schmitz Oktoberfest
When: Sunday, September 22, noon-6 p.m.
Where: Reading Terminal Market, 12th and Arch streets
Cost: Pay as you go
More info: www.readingterminalmarket.org


The Craft Beer Express Returns To Transport You To 12 Well-Loved Craft Beer Bars This Saturday, November 9

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Hop aboard the Craft Beer Express for a full day of craft brews at 12 participating bars, this Saturday, November 9. (Image courtesy Craft Beer Express)

All aboard the craft beer train!

The super popular Craft Beer Express returns for the fall edition of its suds-filled day this Saturday, November 9.

From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., embark on a citywide bar crawl (via bus!) to 12 participating bars, each hosting a different special event in celebration of the day of craft beer.

Devil’s Den is slated to tap a cartoon-inspired draft list and host a costume party those who arrive in a cartoon character costume will be entered to win prizes. Head to The Institute Bar for a stout and porter tap takeover and screenings of the Star Wars trilogy. Kraftwork will be tapping a special lineup of Midwestern brews and Brauhaus Schmitz will be serving up beers from German Monastery Breweries.

Standard Tap, Sidecar Bar and Grille, Kite and Key, Bishop’s Collar, Johnny Brenda’s, Jose Pistola’s, Pub on Passyunk East and Race Street Cafe also have things in store for the weekend bar crawl. The full list of the bar’s events is available right here.

Tickets for the Craft Beer Express are $10 per person and are available online and at the participating bars. Each guest must purchase a ticket from a particular starting point one of the 12 bars. Guests have to start at their designated starting point, but after that, can travel to any bar of their choosing. Buses will run roughly every 25 minutes.

Craft Beer Express
When: Saturday, November 9, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: Participating bars
Cost: $10 plus beer
More info: www.craftbeerexpress.com

Roundup: Our Top Picks For Fireside Dining At Bars And Restaurants In Philadelphia

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From fireplaces to fire pits, Philadelphia has many cozy spots where you can thaw out this winter. (Photos clockwise from top left by Matt Stanley for DRWC, courtesy Starr Restaurants, by T. Scheid for Visit Philadelphia, courtesy XIX)

Ready for a winter warmer, Philadelphia? Chilly, snowy weather leaves us longing for warm meals and even warmer environs.

With just a little planning, a cozy fireside seat at a Philadelphia dining destination can be easily had.

Escape the chill and snuggle up by the fire at any of the numerous bars and restaurants around the city that offer dining near a hearth or fire pit.

Remember, though, call the restaurant ahead in inclement weather to be sure the kitchen is open and the fires are blazing.

Check out our top picks for fireside dining, below.

The Dandelion: Rittenhouse, 124 S. 18th Street, 215-558-2500. Where better to enjoy British pub fare fish and chips, toffee pudding, Welsh rarebit and one brilliant burger than by the fire? One of Stephen Starr's most popular restaurants, The Dandelion, offers all of the above along with a deep craft beer list and belly-warming cocktails.

XIX (Nineteen): Rittenhouse, Hyatt at The Bellevue, 200 S. Broad Street, 215-790-1919. Whether enjoying an aperitif before dinner or savoring a warm drink after a decadent meal, the wintertime spot to covet at XIX Nineteen is in front of the fireplace in the library-style bar.

Continental Midtown: Rittenhouse, 1801 Chestnut Street, 215-567-1800. Stephen Starr's retro-hip Rittenhouse restaurant features a rooftop dining area complete with a toe-defrosting fireplace. Partially enclosed so that it's serviceable year-round, the deck area at Continental is one of the most popular nightspots in the Rittenhouse neighborhood.

Libert: Rittenhouse, 120 S. 17th Street, 215-569-8300. Though the palatial lobby and sophisticated dining room may not reveal the blaze immediately, fireside dining at Libert at the Sofitel Phladelphia can be had off to the left when you enter the lounge. The glass-encased fireplace makes for a lovely complement to contemporary, French-inspired food and hand-crafted cocktails in the urban chic setting.

The Lodge at Waterfront Winterfest: Blue Cross River Rink at Penn’s Landing, 101 S Columbus Boulevard, 215-925-RINK. Though temporary, the fire pits at The Lodge at Waterfront Winterfest, the seasonal pop-up beer garden at the Blue Cross RiverRink, should be sought out for fireside fun. Available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday through March 2 (weather permitting), fire pits light up the courtyard at the RiverRink, perfect for roasting s’mores and warming up with a craft brew post-ice skating.

Swann Lounge at the Four Seasons: Logan Square, 1 Logan Square, 215-963-1500. The warm winter atmosphere at Swann Lounge is one of Philadelphia's most elegant choices for fireside drinks. Plus, through January the Four Seasons hosts Haute Winter Nights, extending the service of the lounge into the charming outdoor courtyard of the Logan Square hotel, weather permitting, every Friday and Saturday night from 5 to 8 p.m. through January.

Amuse at Le Meridien: Logan Square, 1421 Arch Street, 215-422-8222. Within the chic Le Meridien hotel, score a spot by the fireplace for a French brasserie-inspired meal or drink at Amuse.

McGillin's Olde Ale House: Washington Square West, 1310 Drury Street, 215-735-5562. A comfortable antique reported to be the oldest continuously operating bar in Philadelphia, McGillin’s features high beamed ceilings and a working fireplace, the perfect friendly spot at which to imbibe.

Jones: Washington Square West, 700 Chestnut Street, 215-223-5663. Stephen Starr's take on the The Brady Bunch living room delivers on all fronts in a way that would make Carol proud. At the heart of the dining room, a double-paned fireplaces warms diners snacking on fried chicken and apple pie.

Stratus Lounge: Old City, 433 Chestnut Street, 215-925-2889. More than 10 stories above the street, Stratus Rooftop Lounge, situated on the hotel's roof, keeps those who want to venture alfresco toasty with a 30-foot fire wall just behind the seating area. And the vistas from the rooftop locale aren't that bad either.

Serrano: Old City, 20 S. 2nd Street, 215-928-0770. Warm lighting, speakeasy-style atmosphere and a roaring brick fireplace make Serrano an ideal spot to settle in on a winter’s night in Old City. And with a menu of savory small plates and globally influenced entrees, plus a deep list of wine, beer and cocktails, the impulse to linger is strong.

More places to warm up, below.

The Plough & the Stars: Old City, 123 Chestnut Street, 215-733-0300. Old City's The Plough & the Stars is a great winter watering hole. The ground-floor fireplace, high ceilings, wooden fixtures, and brews will keep revelers warm all season long.

Standard Tap: Northern Liberties, 901 N. 2nd Street, 215-238-0630. This locally loved craft beer bar in Northern Liberties is a go-to in the winter just as much as the summer. Those looking for a killer selection of local drafts and hearty eats to be enjoyed by the fireplace should report directly to Standard Tap.

Frankford Hall: Fishtown, 1210 Frankford Avenue, 215-634-3338. Ever-popular Fishtown beer garden Frankford Hall has battened down the hatches for the winter season, setting up a slew of heat lamps outside complemented by a generally roaring fire pit, as long as the weather isn’t truly frightful. Pair the flames with an alfresco fireside brew, or admire from indoors with ping-pong, juicy burgers and delicious spiked milkshakes.

The Twisted Tail: South Street, 509 S. 2nd Street, 215-558-2471. Bourbon, blues and barbecue joint The Twisted Tail is home to not one, but two fireplaces in its upstairs lounge. Really, though, a warm vibe from rich wood tones envelops the entire bar, so a cozy seat is never far away on either of the two floors of seating.

Brauhaus Schmitz: South Street, 718 South Street, 267-909-8814. One of the premier German beer bars in Philly, the Brauhaus packs in European soccer fans on the regular, but it's also a top-notch restaurant with modern German cooking and a lovely dining room in the back, which is outfitted with a charming potbelly fireplace.

Growlers: Bella Vista, 736 S. 8th Street, 267-519-3242. Guests who snag one of the comfy leather chairs beside the blazing fireplace at Growlers might not ever want to move. Fortunately, the bar and kitchen serves up a wide array of comfort food and craft beer daily to keep diners cozy and well fed.

Hawthornes Cafe: Bella Vista, 738 S. 11th Street, 215-627-3012. Soak in the heat from the wrought iron-covered fireplace at Hawthornes, which is an excellent beer boutique and sandwich shop that’s become a popular breakfast-through-dinner spot.

Creperie Beau Monde: Bella Vista, 624 S. 6th Street, 215-592-0656. Enjoy traditional sweet and savory crpes at Beau Monde, a chic corner spot made even quainter by the cozy fireplace. On weekends, dance off the winter blues upstairs at L'Etage.

Devil's Den: Bella Vista, 11th and Ellsworth streets, 215-339-0855. At neighborhood haunt Devil’s Den, knock back fireside-appropriate smoked and wood-aged beers or toasty eats like French onion soup and salmon BLTs.

Stogie Joe's: East Passyunk, 1801 E. Passyunk Avenue, 215-463-3030. Sure, the tomato pie and live music are draws to East Passyunk joint Stogie Joe’s, but in the winter, the warm fireplace might just be the main attraction.

Marigold Kitchen: Spruce Hill, 501 S. 45th Street, 215-222-3699. Nestled on a quiet, tree-lined block of Victorian houses in the Spruce Hill section of University City, innovative American restaurant Marigold Kitchen positions tables nearby the homey hearth. It's BYOB to boot.

City Tap House: University City, 3925 Walnut Street, 215-662-0105. Featuring extensive outdoor seating on two terraces and a row of five stone fire pits overlooking Walnut Street, this West Philly spot combines great food and great beer in a cool atmosphere. The fire pits, turned on every night unless it's raining or snowing, facilitate outdoor fun all year.

Han Dynasty: University City, 3711 Market Street, 215-222-3711. Though the deep winter months may not allow for it, the always-popular Han Dynasty University City does offer guests a fireside dining option with its alfresco fireplace on the patio. Should weather allow, indulge in the tasty Chinese food and yummy Scorpion Bowl drinks beside a roaring fireplace.

Landmark Americana: University City, 3333 Market Street, 215-222-4500. Again, though winter weather may keep most diners indoors, University City bar and restaurant Landmark Americana does offer up delicious food and drinks and outdoor fire pits that are turned on full blast when the weather allows.

Save The Date: The Third Annual Philly Bierfest Returns To The German Society Of Pennsylvania On Saturday, February 22

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The historic German Society of Pennsylvania hosts Philly Bierfest, an annual celebration of German beer-brewing heritage. (Photo courtesy German Society of Pennsylvania)

Get ready to raise a liter in celebration of local German brewing culture.

Philadelphia gets all sudsy on Saturday, February 22 for the German Society of Pennsylvania's third year of Bierfest, a festival to celebrate Pennsylvania's considerable German brewing heritage — ever heard of that little neighborhood north of Fairmount dubbed Brewerytown?

Founded by local beverage authority Marnie Old in support of the Philly Roller Girls, the Brewers of Pennsylvania and the German Society of Pennsylvania, Bierfest highlights this state’s national leadership in brewing German-style craft beer, and welcomes dozens of local and international brewers to pour their goods.

In fact, German-style beers are the most popular of all beers, with more than 90 percent of the world's beer made in the method of lagers and pilsners, which both trace their roots to Germany. And Pennsylvania has the longest history of any state of German immigration and the strongest bonds to German culture.

With so many German brew traditions to celebrate, Bierfest offers up a packed schedule of beer-fueled fun.

The afternoon-long festival runs from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. and features a lively beer-garden vibe, a slew of German and German-inspired beers, folk dancing, arm wrestling, a liter lift competition and live music by the Keystone Mountain Boys and the Belleville Quartet.

As for the brews, look for a dozen German varieties as well as local beer from such breweries as Barren Hill, Free Will, Lancaster, Lion, Neshaminy Creek, Nodding Head, Round Guys, Samuel Adams, Sly Fox, Susquehanna, Victory, and Yuengling.

Attendees can also enjoy a free brewer's discussion panel on “The Rise and Fall and Rise Again of German Beer Styles” at 4:30 p.m. featuring some of the state's leading brewers.

Tickets start at $45 (plus a small handling fee for online purchases) and are available online. Those interested in early entry, a beer seminar and a German-style snack spread, should go for the VIP tickets for $65. Scoop up tickets now before the event sells out.

Don’t want to drive home after imbibing? Make a weekend out of the festival and stay over in Philadelphia.

Prost!

Philly Bierfest 2014
When: Saturday, February 22, 1:30-5:30 p.m.
Where: The German Society of Pennsylvania, 611 Spring Garden Street
Cost: $45-$65, $20 for designated drivers
More info: www.phillybierfest.com

The Third Annual Philly Bierfest Returns To The German Society Of Pennsylvania This Saturday, February 22 And Tickets Are Still Available

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The annual Philly Bierfest returns to the historic German American Society for a day celebrating German and Pennsylvania brews, Saturday, February 22. (Photos by Krista Patton Photography)

Ready to raise a liter, Philadelphia?

This Saturday, February 22 the German Society of Pennsylvania hosts the third year of Bierfest, a festival to celebrate Pennsylvania's considerable German brewing heritage.

Founded by local beverage authority Marnie Old in support of the Philly Roller Girls, the Brewers of Pennsylvania and the German Society of Pennsylvania, Bierfest spotlights this state's national leadership in brewing German-style craft beer, and welcomes dozens of local and international brewers to pour their goods.

Read on for more on this sudsy annual affair.

The Layout

 
Held in the historic German Society of Pennsylvania hall on Spring Garden Street, the daylong event kicks off at 1:30 p.m., with VIP early access available at 1 p.m.

Festivities continue throughout the day until 5:30 p.m. and Bierfest offers up a packed schedule of beer-fueled fun in both the German Society building and in adjacent Latvian Society building, accessed via a private tented garden.

Besides the brews, count on a lively beer-garden vibe with folk dancing, arm wrestling, a liter lift competition, live music by the Keystone Mountain Boys and the Belleville Quartet, and food from Wursthaus Schmitz.

Attendees can also enjoy a free brewer's discussion panel on "The Rise and Fall and Rise Again of German Beer Styles" at 4:30 p.m. featuring some of the state's leading brewers.

The Beer

 
With a lineup of brews from more than 20 Pennsylvania breweries and two dozen German brewers, the beer will certainly flow.

Look for local beer from such breweries as Barren Hill, Free Will, Lancaster, Lion, Neshaminy Creek, Nodding Head, Round Guys, Samuel Adams, Sly Fox, Susquehanna, Victory, Yards and Yuengling.

Plus, there are a slew of German brewers on tap, too, including those producing rare varietals as well as well-known favorites like Bitburger, Hofbru, Paulaner, Warsteiner and many more.

Tickets & Staying Over

 
Both general admission and VIP tickets are still available as of today, but we advise scooping up tickets now before the event sells out.

Tickets start at $45 (plus a small handling fee for online purchases) and are available online. Those interested in early entry, a beer seminar and a German-style snack spread, should go for the VIP tickets for $65. Plus, there are beer-less tickets for just $20.

Don't want to drive home after imbibing? Make a weekend out of the festival and stay over in Philadelphia.

Folks can ask about the Bierfest room block for $99 weekend room nights at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, or check out the Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package, a two-night package including free parking.

Check out a preview of the beer-fueled festivities below, too.

Prost!

Philly Bierfest 2014
When: Saturday, February 22, 1:30-5:30 p.m.
Where: The German Society of Pennsylvania, 611 Spring Garden Street
Cost: $45-$65, $20 for designated drivers
More info: www.phillybierfest.com

Save The Date: Brauhaus Schmitz Celebrates Oktoberfest 2014 With Its Annual Street Festival On Saturday, September 20

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Brauhaus Schmitz

Mark those calendars for Brauhaus Schmitz’s Oktoberfest block party, Saturday, September 20. (Photo by M. Edlow for Visit Philadelphia)

Most people probably need time to prepare to face 2,000 pounds of roast pork and sausage, so this should be considered an official heads up: Brauhaus Schmitz Oktoberfest 2014 will take place on Saturday, September 20.

And there will be lots and lots of meat. The South Street bierhall is going above and beyond in an attempt to break last year's record for pork consumption.

In addition to the aforementioned meats, there will be bratwurst, bauernwurst, potato salad, sauerkraut and jumbo pretzels.

Of course, no Oktoberfest bash is complete without steins of beer. Brauhaus will be tapping its exclusive Traunstein Oktoberfest beer, plus nine other German notables: Warsteiner Oktoberfest, Pilsner and Dunkel; Paulaner Oktoberfest and Helles; Hofbru Oktoberfest and Helles; and Knig Ludwig Weissbier (no relation to this author).

Live oom-pah music, face painting and German folk dancing round out the rain-or-shine festivities.

For those looking to guarantee all of these and more, a limited quantity of VIP tickets are available for $100 each (tax and gratuity included). The splurge-worthy passes lock in an all-you-can-eat buffet of delicacies from 1 to 6 p.m., plus six beer tickets, an official t-shirt, and a liter size glass stein filled with "Oktoberfest survival supplies," as well as no-wait bathrooms — which is an absolute boon.

The block party festivities are free to attend with food and drink on a pay-as-you-go basis. For VIP tickets, check right here.

Prost!

Brauhaus Schmitz 2014 Oktoberfest Street Festival
When: Saturday, September 20, noon-8 p.m.
Where: Brauhaus Schmitz, 700 block of South Street
Cost: VIP package costs $100; otherwise pay as you go
More info:www.brauhausschmitz.com

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