Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
The Layaway
The Bearded Ladies Cabaret is back for the Philadelphia Fringe Festival, and their latest showcase will take over the Wanamaker Building. The show is described as a vibrant hideaway where art, music, and mischief come together in unexpected harmony. Audiences can expect an eclectic lineup of cabaret experiences spanning “stripped-down acoustic reveries, soaring organ(ic) ecstasies, genderqueer tomfoolery and tailor-made programming crafted just for the Kids Department.”
A performance with family programming will take place on Sept. 21, at 3 p.m. and with adult programming on Sept. 20, at 9 p.m. Tickets ($10+) are available online.
100 E Penn Sq.,fringearts.com/event/the-layaway
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
‘Water Orchestra’ at Dilworth Park
‘Water Orchestra’ debuted at the outdoor venue earlier this month, and this immersive experience invites locals and visitors alike to step up to the conductor’s podium. The creative addition comes from Center City District in partnership with The Philadelphia Orchestra and is meant to be a fusion of technology, classical music, and public engagement.
Visitors can step up to the plate and channel their inner maestro daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. until Oct. 3. Conducting times will be limited to two-minute intervals.
1 S. 15th St., centercityphila.org
Frankford Hall’s Oktoberfest
This German favorite in Fishtown will host an Oktoberfest celebration that’s free of charge and fido friendly. The occasion, set for Sept. 20 (noon to 8 p.m.), will feature activities for all ages, live music by the Polka Brothers, and plenty of great German Beer, pretzels, sausages, dancing in the streets and more
1200 Block of Frankford Ave., frankfordhall.com
Calder Gardens Opening
The Parkway is chock full of experiences, including a new collab between The Calder and The Barnes Foundations, featuring the former’s muse, artist Alexander Calder.
Dubbed Calder Gardens, this 1.8-acre site was designed to “immerse visitors in a space that catalyzes reflection and renewal, highlighting the interplay between art, architecture, and landscape.” It’s all meant to inspire a new approach to museums and art in the Philadelphia area by allowing the showcase — which incorporates different structures and outdoor focal points — to speak for itself.
To celebrate the opening, locals can head to the venue this Saturday, Sept. 20, for a free public parade dubbed, ‘Chaos and Kisses: A Grand Opening Parade for Calder Gardens.’ The festivities will be in full swing from noon to 2 p.m. with an array of different performances from local artists and performers—including Pig Iron Theatre, Almanac Dance Circus Theatre, Mad Beatz Philly with youth drumlines, and the Brazilian percussion ensemble, PHonk.
2100 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, caldergardens.org
F1 Arcade
Speed demons, race enthusiasts and craft cocktail fans now have a combined meeting place with the opening of the F1 Arcade in Philadelphia.
The main draw of the locale is the chance to try out some of the Formula 1 simulators—and there are a few options to choose from. Going “Head to Head” works for groups of two to three people and allows for three to five races. Three races comes out to be about a half hour, while with five, the runtime is around 45 minutes. Prices start at $20 per person and fluctuate based on time and length. “Team Racing”, on the other hand, is perfect for larger groups. Up to three drivers can be on a team, with four races in store for them. For groups of 13 or more, there’s also a way to book private events.
Drink-wise, there’s a cocktail menu (curated in collaboration with mixologist Lauren “LP” O’Brien from Netflix’s ‘Drink Masters’). The sips are complemented by a variety of food options: Appetizers span bites like soft pretzel sticks with honey mustard whipped butter, dynamite fried chicken and grilled tiger shrimp skewers, plus tacos (think spicy ahi tuna and wild mushroom), flatbreads (like Italian sausage and chicken tandoori), burgers, sides and desserts.
1330 Chestnut St., f1arcade.com
