Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
Delicious City’s Hoagie Throwdown
This quirky and tasty event at Other Half Brewing pairs premium hoagies and professional wrestling into one delicious activation. On Sept. 7, from noon to 5 p.m., more than a dozen of the region’s top sandwich connoisseurs will be in attendance—including Angelo’s Pizzeria, Farina Di Vita, Breezy’s Deli and Market, Càphê Roasters, and many more. The day will also feature live wrestling from Pro Wrestling Entertainment (PWE) inside a full-size ring, a lineup of local creative vendors and the “iron chef-style” celebrity hoagie making competition.
At the end of the event, attendees will vote on their favorite hoagie, and the maker with the most votes will be crowned and take home the belt as Delicious City’s Hoagie Champion for 2025. Those who opt for GA tickets ($55) will gain access to samples from all of the sandwich makers, a complimentary seasonal beer from Other Half Brewing, entry to all the live wrestling matches, one vote, wrestler signings, meet-and-greets, access to the vendor marketplace and a Hoagie Throwdown lanyard and commemorative card.
The VIP option on the other hand ($85), includes all GA benefits, plus early access to a VIP-only lounge, food from Liberty Kitchen, a commemorative poster signed by featured wrestlers, a VIP-only meet and greet, two exclusive hoagies, and two votes in the People’s Choice competition.
1002 Canal St., deliciouscitypodcast.com
Kampar at Jet Wine Bar
The latter, on the other hand, is essentially an interactive oyster and cocktail pairing. According to a release, guests will walk through a reimagined oyster stall to try flights of six local oysters dressed in three Malaysian preparations. Each oyster is paired with a curated shot, served directly in the shell. Pre-orders are highly encouraged for both events and can be reserved online at sate-kampar.square.site.
Bluecoat Cabana Experience
Gin lovers, there’s a way to soak in the last bit of nice weather with Bluecoat’s Cabana Experience at the W Philadelphia’s WET Deck. Inspired by Bluecoat’s botanical gin recipe, this offering is a fresh take on the hotel’s standard cabanas, decked out with custom décor, an interactive garnish garden, and an exclusive cocktail menu crafted tableside.
The experience features dedicated servers to prepare the cocktails, caviar and chips, a complimentary bottle of Rosé, a complimentary Philadelphia Distilling distillery tour token and much more. Locals can book their spots from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or 4 to 8 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Sept. 28. Reservations can be made by emailing phlwhb&fmanagers@marriott.com.
1439 Chestnut St., marriott.com
Open Streets West Walnut
This recurring initiative turns some of Center City’s streets into pedestrian-only areas for a few select Sundays, including this weekend on Sept. 7. Street closures start at 7 a.m. and end at 6 p.m. along the program route, which includes 18th Street from Chestnut to Locust, and Walnut Street from 15th to 19th. It’s up to businesses along the routes to determine how they take advantage of the space—some plan to offer exclusive discounts, in-store entertainment or other special incentives.
Food and beverages will be sold exclusively at restaurants along the route (with many expanding their tables onto the sidewalk.) The fall edition of this fan-favorite series is also planning some extra entertainment in the form of bubble magic, busker-style musicians and pop-up performances. A designated family-friendly zone will feature games and toys for all ages, plus, seating pods will be set up along the route.
Historic Odessa Brewfest
Set for Saturday, Sept. 6 (1 to 5:30 p.m.), this occasion features more than 50 local, regional, and national breweries. The event comes from a partnership with the Historic Odessa Foundation and Cantwell’s Tavern, and uses its landscape (Delaware’s first house museum) as a way to showcase both the past and present on the 256-year-old estate. The festival has all the makings of your typical tasting experience (mugs, samples and bites). But Odessa also incorporates the sights and sounds of a bygone era as well— visitors can even find colonial brewing and open camp demonstrations on site throughout the day.
The event will also be packed with artisan vendors, lawn games, historically educational demonstrations, live music (with bands like Spokey Speakey and the Sheehan Brothers), plus, the return of the Men’s and Women’s Steinholding Competitions and Fusion Beer Mile. VIP tickets are currently sold out, but general admission tickets ($60 in advance, $70 at the door) include entry at 1 p.m. and a souvenir tasting mug. Designated Driver tickets ($15) will be available at the gate as well.
202 Main St., Odessa, Delaware, odessabrewfest.com
