Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
Derby Day at Woodford Mansion
Philadelphians can suit up for a Kentucky Derby watch party this Saturday at the historic Woodford Mansion. From 4 to 8 p.m. on May 7, participants can watch the race from the venue’s lawn while sipping on Manatawny mint juleps, craft cider and beer from Wyndridge Farm, along with other Derby drinks. The event will also feature a Southern-styled picnic lunch from Joshua’s Catering, live music from The Cheddar Boys, a hat judging contest, games, and appearances from local horse riding clubs.
Those who head to the 1756 National Historic Landmark can also take house tours highlighting horse-related history and collection objects, and self-guided tours of their award-winning gardens. This event will act as a fundraiser to restore portions of the Mansion. Tickets cost $35 or $55 for a boxed lunch are available on Eventbrite.
2300 North 33rd St., eventbrite.com
Garden Days on East Passyunk
May 7 marks the beginning of East Passyunk’s Garden Days, which will be running this year until Memorial Day. The three-week themed series of events lead up to the Philadelphia Flower Show, and features live music, specialty menu items from the area’s eateries, photo opportunities with floral arrangements at the Singing Fountain, pop-up classes/events and even ways to shop for sustainable and floral finds.
As a release states, this year’s Garden Days programming kicks off a little early with Good Buy Supply’s Spring First Friday activation dubbed the “Bee Our Guest” pop-up on Friday, May 6. While there, local beeswax wrap makers will post up outside of the storefront with goods for sale while educating customers on beeswax wrap usage and care.
Other opening weekend activations on May 7 include a guided tour and scavenger hunt from Fanny Jackson Coppin School’s Community Garden Day at the South Philadelphia Older Adult Center (East Passyunk Avenue and Dickinson Street), and interested parties can pre-register by clicking online as space is limited.
American Street First Friday
Looking for fun things to do in Philly this weekend? This Friday, May 6, from 6 to 9 p.m., Philadelphians can head to the first ever American Street First Friday, organized by Olde Kensington Boutique and hosted in part by New Liberty Distillery. The inaugural event will feature food, drinks, live music (beginning at 6:30 p.m.), vendors selling artisan goods and the chance to check out the New Liberty Distillery Cocktail Garden. While in the Garden, select artists and other vendors will be stationed, and hand-crafted cocktails from the new spring menu will also be available.
Some highlighted offerings from the event include empanadas, handmade soaps, original art, bites, jewelry and more. If slowing down the pace is more your speed however, that same night from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m., New Liberty Distillery and Monarch Yoga will host a Free Yoga Friday. Monarch Yoga’s Free Flow classes at New Liberty Distillery are free of charge, but spots are limited to just 25 attendees, so guests must reserve a space ahead of time online using Monarch Yoga’s online calendar.
1431 Cadwallader St., newlibertydistillery.com
Behind the Stage Door
The Philadelphia Ballet and Mural Arts will be showcasing two free art events this weekend on May 7 and 8 if you’re looking for things to do in Philly this weekend. As a release states, the experience titled Behind the Stage Door, features an interactive multimedia performance that explores the “invisible” forces that bring the ballet to life. Through a soundscape of diverse voices, original musical composition, dance, film, sculpture and interactive multimedia stage design, the piece illuminates the many personalities, stories, and experiences that make ballet possible.
The free pop-up will take place first on Saturday, May 7 at 7:30 p.m. at Teatro Esperanza (4261 N. 5th St.) and then again at FDR Park at 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 8. The show will also continue to run at Cherry Street Pier on a schedule until May 24.
