Starting this weekend, Philadelphians will be able to enjoy one popular and typically-rustic activity, indoors. Parks on Tap has announced a new location that will be opening this weekend in Fairmount Horticulture Center Arboretum. The new 30,000 square foot venue marks the first pop-up for the popular traveling beer garden that benefits Philly parks, and this venue will be no different with a portion of sales going to just that. While in the green and lush environment, families and those looking to do something different will be able to indulge in new brews, fresh food, wine, hot beverages and much more.
Parks on Tap made waves over the summer opening a few different locations in Fairmount Park, FDR Park and outside the famous Fairmount Water Works at 640 Waterworks Drive. During the pandemic, FCM Hospitality, who runs Parks on Tap, even partnered with Wheel Fun Rentals to offer medical first responders (plus hospital and urgent care workers, EMTS, paramedics and firefighters) free 4-wheel multi-passenger surrey rides for sight-seeing along Boathouse Row.
“Parks on Tap has proven to be a hit with local residents looking to get outside and enjoy our parks but keep their social distance and practice safety first,” said FCM Hospitality Owner Avram Hornik in a statement at the time. “During the global pandemic, outdoor socially distanced options like Parks on Tap are more important than ever as city residents look to spend summer in the city, while they find new and different ways to enjoy stay-cation options.”
For this particular new pop-up, reservations are strongly encouraged with each table being limited to 4 people in compliance with local safety mandates. Additional seating is on a first come, first serve basis, but the pop-up will also have outdoor seating when the weather permits it.
Safety-wise, however, the new activity will be making sure that strict rules are followed. According to the release, Parks Pop-Up on Tap will be extensively following state regulations in regards as the best way to safely operate and will be adjusting (if necessary) to the city guidelines once they are released. Social distancing markers will be measured out and posted throughout the garden and its outside fencing area as reminders for guests. Guests reservation information also allows for contact tracing if a local outbreak occurs. Sanitizing spray and/or wipes will be accessible to guests, so they are able to wipe down chairs and tables. Staff and guests in Parks Pop-Up area must always wear a mask, except when seated. Staff will be subject to temperature checks prior to the start of all shifts to assure they are safely able to work. Additional cleaning standards will be implemented prior to opening, after closing and throughout the day by staff.
Season hours for the Parks pop-up at the Fairmount Horticulture Center Arboretum will be Wednesday to Friday starting this Friday, Jan. 22, from 4 to 10 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 10 p.m. Hours and days of operation may change due to weather and special events, Philadelphians can visit @parksontap on Instagram and Facebook for regular updates.
