Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
Philly Goat Project’s Fourth Annual Christmas Tree-Cycle
This Saturday is the last opportunity to check out Philly Goat Project’s Fourth Annual Christmas Tree-Cycle. What this family-friendly farm festival does is turn what would be waste (in the form of your Christmas tree) into snacks for the goats and/or wood chips that help cover trails and gardens throughout Philadelphia (thanks to their partnership with the Philadelphia Streets and Parks and Recreation departments). All the while, the event also acts as a fundraiser for Philly Goat Project’s free year-round programming including goat walks, children’s literacy events in libraries, environmental education events in city parks, youth job training program and their monthly All Abilities RAMble, which is their inclusive animal-assisted therapy program. There is a suggested $20 donation per Christmas tree recycled, which can be paid in cash, through Venmo, CashApp, Pay Pal or a check. PGP can provide a tax receipt for those who need them as well. There are three different locations for tree drop-off: Express curbside drop-off-and-donate (6336 Ardleigh St. entrance), the “G.O.A.T. Safari” drive through the farm to drop off (6336 Ardleigh St. entrance), and the park on Washington Lane where you bring your tree in yourself (Washington Lane entrance – look for the ambassadors to guide you). Beyond the Christmas tree drop, activities during the farm festival will include exploring the farm, a roaring fire pit, hot cocoa and a petting area with the goats. You can join the fun even if you don’t have a tree, too. Just park and walk into the farm using the Washington Lane entrance. A “Quiet Visiting Area” will also be available for special friends, and swag will be available for purchase at the event including PGP’s famous 2022 calendar, which features the goat squad at landmarks around Philadelphia.
6336 Ardleigh St., phillygoatproject.org
Spa Pop Up at the W Philadelphia
The W has made it their mission this New Year to partner with local, small businesses to bring one-of-a-kind experiences to their guests spanning from health trends to beauty must-haves. And they all have an emphasis on well-being. Beginning this weekend, the W Philadelphia will be bringing Callowhill Greens to their spa, AWAY, to help fuel your body, fuel your workout and fuel your glow. Founded by Christie Desir, Callowhill Greens is a wellness and beauty café at 18th and Callowhill, and while at the spa (from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday) they will be offering beauty and detox elixirs from their nutricosmetics line. According to a news release, these refreshers work from within to clear skin, support a healthy gut, relieve stress and enhance mood. Another experience called the Lex Effect will also be available. This is a 35-minute private training session with Alexis Guss of the Lex Effect, followed by a detox body treatment (composed of a full-body AHA peel and wrap, which drains tissues and boosts the body’s natural detoxification systems). The release also states it’s the perfect self-care treatment after the Lex Effect’s low-impact, high-energy, super-toning sculpt class. Semi-privates can be accommodated for groups up to six and to book, you can call the AWAY Spa at 215-608-1000 or email AWAYSpa@wphiladelphia.com.
1439 Chestnut St., marriott.com
Jurassic Quest
Philadelphians can make this weekend larger than life while exploring the world of dinosaurs with “Jurassic Quest.” Located at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, this traveling experience will be in the city until Sunday and will feature more than 100 photorealistic dinosaurs. While there, families can also check out dinosaur-themed rides, live dinosaur shows, interactive science and art activities, a “Triceratots” soft play area, bounce houses and inflatable attractions (socks required), photo opportunities and a walk back in time through the Cretaceous, Jurassic and Triassic periods. It’s all realistic too: Jurassic Quest works in collaboration with leading paleontologists to ensure each dinosaur is “painstakingly replicated” in every detail, from coloration to teeth size, to textured skin, fur or feathers, drawing on the latest research about what we understand about how dinosaurs and ancient giants of the sea looked and moved. Timed ticket prices ($19-$36) range depending on what experience you would like to check out and are available online.
1101 Arch St., jurassicquest.com
A Toast to History: Airbnb Experience
At historic Carpenter’s Hall, for the first time ever, visitors will be able to get a private, after-hours tour of the site of the First Continental Congress in 1774 and the birthplace of American democracy. As the news release states, while at this event participants will first explore the main hall where Congress met. It’s there where you’ll see original artifacts from the period and a detailed model showing the construction of Carpenter’s Hall. Then it’s up to the second floor, which is off-limits to regular visitors, where you’ll see the 19th-century library and get to explore some of the rare books and other items from the collection. The tour will close with questions and a whisky tasting to toast the continued good health of visitors, the Carpenter’s Company and the importance of history. Each guest will also receive a copy of “Meeting Place of History,” a fully illustrated booklet about Carpenters’ Hall. Tickets start at $35 per person and tours will take place every Thursday from 4 to 5:30 p.m.
320 Chestnut St., airbnb.com
