Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
Winter Activities at Franklin Square
The popular destination transforms annually at this time of year into a seasonal wonderland of sorts, with the free Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO acting as its centerpiece. The show will be accompanied by some returning fan favorites, plus some new activations for this year, with opening day on Nov. 16.
New this go-around is the addition of Franklin Square Street Curling. The game is played on an elevated platform where two teams take turns sliding “stones” (rocks) across the curling surface toward the target (The House). At Franklin Square, people can book a 30-minute session for up to 8 players at each of two rinks for $40 per session.
Other returning activities include Philly Chilly Mini Golf, a variety of hand-crafted cocktails and food being offered by vendors, the carousel, and some stand-out events including Nutcracker Night with the Philadelphia Dance Academy (Nov. 19), a Hanukkah Celebration with Old City Jewish Arts Center (Dec. 10), a Kwanzaa Celebration with the African American Museum in Philadelphia (Dec. 29), Ice Princess Night (Jan. 27), Chinese New Year Celebration (Feb. 10), and more.
200 N. 6th St., historicphiladelphia.org
Hanukkah Makers Market
The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History is offering a new holiday shopping event for the 2023 season. The inaugural Hannukah Makers Market will be in full swing on Sunday, Nov. 19, and will feature some of the Museum Store’s top artisans and creators popping up with some unique fare.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, there will also be fresh baked goods for sale from Second Daughter Baking Company along with free hot apple cider and apple-filled sufganiyot (doughnuts) for the first 40 guests, thanks to Neuman’s Kitchen, a release states. There is no cost to attend and the Museum Store will offer a gift with purchases, while supplies last. All Museum Store proceeds benefit the Museum’s mission to “teach the powerful and true stories of Jewish life in America as an antidote to antisemitism.”
101 S. Independence Mall E, theweitzman.org
Poi Dog and Di Bruno Bros Thanksgiving Pop-ups
On Friday, Nov. 17, Philadelphians can head to Di Bruno Bros.’ Wayne location (385 West Lancaster Ave.) from 5 to 8 p.m. where Chefs Kiki Aranita and Ari Miller from Poi Dog will be on-site answering guests’ chef and Thanksgiving cuisine-related inquiries, while offering samples of the Poi Dog Huli Huli Dip and Chili Peppah Water. While there, a few specialty menu items will also be served up, including Chili Peppah Water Mac and Cheese, plus their version of a Gobbler and wings.
Then, on Nov. 18, another pop-up will take place, this time at Piazza Di Bruno (inside the Italian Market at 920 S. 9th Street) from noon to 3 p.m. Chefs Aranita and Miller of Poi Dog will be popping-up with pay-as-you-go menu items spanning the Chili Peppah Water Mac & Cheese, Gobbler and the addition of Huli Huli Hot Dog and the Huli Huli Spam Musubi.
As a release states, a Di Bruno Bros.’ wine tent featuring a new release, Di Bruno & Friends Wine #8 ($12/glass, $24.99/bottle), in collaboration with Division Winemaking Company in Portland, Oregon, will be offered to those who come out this weekend for purchase as well.
dibruno.com and poidogphilly.com
Miracle on American Street
Taking place on Nov. 18, this event from NextFab and Olde Kensington Boutique will be in full swing from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. featuring local and handmade gifts from over 100 Philadelphia-based artists and makers plus, demonstrations, and make-and-take activities for the whole family.
Food and drinks will be provided by local vendors, including Sor Ynez, and visitors can also participate in meeting the makers in their studio spaces, jewelry making, s’mores fire pits and a make-your-own-ornaments area. If you can’t make the event but still want the scoop on localized gift options, Philadelphians can also check out NextFab’s annual Gift Guide.
The Gift Guide showcases the talent of local artisans and encourages the public to shop local and handmade, a release states. It will feature over 50 businesses that work out of NextFab and showcase over 170 products.
1800 N American St., nextfab.com
Manayunk Tree Lighting
The official Manayunk Tree Lighting set to take place this Thursday, Nov. 16. The fun begins at 5:30 p.m. at Canal View Park (4418 Main St.) with some entertainment provided by The City Belles, Maggie Mae, Koser, and even Santa himself will be on site. While there, Philadelphians will also be able to meet and greet with Kris Kringle (or write him letters) before the main event (which will happen at 7 p.m.)
4418 Main St., manayunk.com
