Explore Chestnut Hill 2019 by The Chestnut Hill Local

SPRING/SUMMER 2019

EXPLORE | SPRING â&#x20AC;¢ SUMMER 2019

ISSUE 1 / SPRING • SUMMER 2019

It was time for a small change. For the past four years, we’ve called our seasonal magazine – the one you now hold in your hands --Welcome. This year, we decided to rename the publication Explore. The name change is more than just redecorating. Welcome suggested an introduction to the neighborhood. A hand shake and a quick orientational talk for the newcomer. With Explore, our hope is to go a little deeper than a brisk greeting. We want to reach both newcomers and those who who’ve lived here their whole lives. So, whether you’re in the neighborhood for the weekend or have owned a house here

for decades, we hope Explore is useful to you. For the newcomer, we touch on some of the best bets for spring and summer diversion. And for everyone, there’s a discussion with Bacchus Market and Catering’s Tracey Wolfson, who offers advice on the best dining options in town. We also explored Chestnut Hill’s growing reputation as a planning and reception destination for weddings. We hope you enjoy this issue. And we’re always interested in suggestions about how you think we could make it better. You can let me know at pete@chestnuthilllocal.com. Cheers. Pete Mazzaccaro

Copyright 2019 by the Chestnut Hill Local Welcome is published twice yearly by the Chestnut Hill Local, 8434 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19118, 215-248-8800, online at chestnuthilllocal.com. The Chestnut Hill Local is owned by the Chestnut Hill Community Association 215-248-8810 Publisher: John Derr | Editor: Pete Mazzaccaro Designer and Production Manager: Ray DeJohn | Advertising Design: Cheryl Piehota Display Advertising Manager: Sonia Leounes | Advertising Rep: Leslie Cerf

With editorial assistance from: Peter Elliott and Brendan Smaple Cover photo provided by the Chestnut Hill Business Association. For advertising, contact Sonia Leounes (215) 248-8133 sonia@chestnuthilllocal.com or Leslie Cerf (215) 248-8816 leslie@chestnuthilllocal.com

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 8 EXPLORE CHESTNUT HILL Whether you’re new to the neighborhood or a long time resident, you’re likely to learn something about Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia’s Garden District. 16 BEST BETS IN THE NORTHWEST We review some of the key events and institutions where you can seek education, entertainment and, in most cases, plenty of both. 22 WEDDING DESTINATION CHESTNUT HILL Getting married? Chestnut Hill is a one-stop-shop for everything the soon-to-be-married couple needs. 30 FOODIE ADVICE Bacchus Market and Catering owner Tracey Wolfson dishes the best advice in local dining destinations. 36 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Your agenda for a good spring and summer in Northwest Philadelphia.

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Explore Chestnut Hill Chestnut Hill, located in the northwestern corner of Philadelphia, is one of the city’s most beautiful, affluent and historic neighborhoods. Anchored by Germantown Avenue and Bethlehem Pike, Chestnut Hill is surrounded by Fairmont Park and adjacent to the Mt. Airy neighborhood as well as the Montgomery County suburbs of Erdenheim, Wyndmoor and Lafayette Hill. Chestnut Hill is known for its walkable, village feel and for the great shopping and dining options along its Belgian-block-lined artery, Germantown Avenue. The neighborhood was designated one of the top seven urban enclaves in the USA by Forbes.com and selected as a 2010 Distinctive Destination by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Chestnut Hill is the home to Chestnut Hill College, Chestnut Hill Hospital, the University of Pennsylvania’s Morris (Continued on page 10)

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Arboretum and the Woodmere Art Museum as well as the Philadelphia Cricket Club. Its housing stock ranges from modest row houses to architectural landmarks by Louis Kahn and Robert Venturi. Shopping Chestnut Hill is home to more than 100 unique shops and businesses, most of them in convenient storefronts clustered on Germantown Avenue and Bethlehem Pike. Antiques, gifts and clothes, banks and spas, two yarn stores, two cigar stores, two independent toy stores, an old-fashioned candy store, a neighborhood co-op grocery, a farmers’ market, a country market and more than a few bakeries and cheese shops. For a complete business directory, see chestnuthillpa.com/business. Dining From fast food to fine cuisine and from neighborhood bars to BYOBs, Chestnut Hill has something for everyone. There’s Mica,

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an offshoot of Blackfish that was named Philadelphia’s best restaurant. There’s CinCin owned by the owner of Yang Ming, named America’s best Chinese restaurant. as well as well as Cake, a restaurant in the former greenhouse of Robertson’s Flowers. Chestnut Hill’s Market on the Fareway is a recently upgraded and remodeled take on the farmer’s market. But this isn’t your ordinary farmer’s market. In addition to high quality stalls for meats, seafood and produce, there are café’s a pho noodle shop, sushi and even a brewery and gourmet pizza shop. The neighborhood’s pub scene includes the venerable McNally’s (home of the famous Schmitter), Campbell’s Place and Tavern on the Hill. All three offer great beer selections and terrific food. Culture Chestnut Hill has an active arts and culture scene. First, there’s Stagecrafters, a non-profit, (Continued on page 12)

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semi-professional theater, that has put on high quality theatrical productions for more than 90 years. Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” is playing through April 20. In addition to the Woodmere Art Museum, Chestnut Hill is also home to numerous art and photography galleries. It is also home to the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts Museum Store and Gallery, which gives the renowned arts academy a small outpost right on Germantown Avenue. Attractions On the northern end of Chestnut Hill is the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania, a 92-acre, Victorian landscape garden of winding paths, streams, flowers and special garden areas, featuring the new Out on a Limb tree adventure for kids of all ages as well as the Woodmere Art Museum, a 19th century stone mansion converted to a Philadelphia-centric museum

and surrounding grounds. To the south is Fairmount Park, the nation’s largest city park with scenic trails for walking, biking and horseback riding and fishing along the Wissahickon Creek (including one of the area’s only covered bridges). There is ice skating at the Wissahickon Skating Club and tennis, golf and cricket at the Philadelphia Cricket Club, and indoor activities at the Water Tower Recreation Center. History of Chestnut Hill Chestnut Hill became part of Philadelphia in 1854 when the state legislature annexed some 129 square miles to the old city of Philadelphia, which occupied the land between the Schulykill and the Delaware Rivers. The village of Chestnut Hill lay 10 miles north of city hall and served as a way station for travelers and a gathering place for the surrounding farms and the mills operating on the Wissahickon (Continued on page 14)

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Creek. According to Chestnut Hill College Prof. David R. Contostaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s definitive history, Suburb in the City: Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, 18501990, prosperous Philadelphians first headed to Chestnut Hill to escape the summer heat of the low-lying old city. When the railroad provided a link in 1854, suburban development took off. The village provided services to the new suburbanites and the new commuters lived in the comfortable, breezy enclave of Chestnut Hill while they depended on the city for their livelihood and culture. For more on the history of Chestnut Hill, please visit the Chestnut Hill Historical Society website at chconcservancy.org or stop by their office at 8708 Germantown Avenue. Civic Resources: 14

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Chestnut Hill Community Association (CHCA) Chestnut Hill has remained a vital community since its annexation with the City more than 100 years ago, by controlling it destiny through a strong community. In the 1950s and 1960s local residents established a formal organization, the Chestnut Hill Community Association, dedicated to the social and economic well-being of the neighborhood. See chestnuthill.org

Chestnut Hill Conservancy (Continued on page 15)

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The Chestnut Hill Conervancy is dedicated to preserving the historical, architectural, and cultural resources and the open spaces that define the character of Chestnut Hill and its environs. See chconservancy.org

Hill, the beautiful Northwest Philadelphia neighborhood designated by Forbes.com as one of the top seven urban enclaves in the country. It also has more than 200 professional and sustaining members. See chestnuthillpa.com

Chestnut Hill Business Association The Chestnut Hill Business Association is a membership organization for the 125 retailers and restaurants located in Chestnut

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Best bets for spring and summer fun

People gather to watch a film at the Water Tower Recreation Center at the Chestnut Hill Community Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Movies Under the Stars.

by Peter Elliott

Spring and summer are just around the corner! Chestnut Hill and the surrounding area have numerous places that are worth visiting during the coming months. From nature sites to art museums, local spots can provide visitors with a rich emotional connection the environment, the arts and the local culture. Here are five places you can check out this spring and summer in Chestnut Hill and northwest Philadelphia that are both affordable and close by.

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Movies Under the Stars The Water Tower Recreation Center Field 209 East Hartwell Lane, Philadelphia 215-685-9296 Movies Under the Stars will return in 2019 for families to enjoy a big-screen experience outdoors at the Water Tower Recreational Center. A different movie will be shown every Friday night throughout the month of August. One of numerous popular (Continued on page 19)

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food trucks are also available for food and snacks during the movies, with each week featuring a different food truck. Nature Play Saturdays Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education 8480 Hagy's Mill Road, Philadelphia 215-482-7300 An outdoor event to bring Philly youth closer to nature, Nature Play Saturdays provide a healthy and productive activity to do during the spring and summer. The events teach children the importance of outdoor activity while exploring the nature life around the Schuylkill Center. The Schuylkill Center holds Nature Play Saturdays every week of the year in collaboration with Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital of Philadelphia. The Schuylkill Center also provides art and education programs to those who want to further engage with nature.

Woodmere Art Museum 9201 Germantown Ave. 215-247-0476 Woodmere Art Museum, located on Germantown Avenue, provides its patrons, both adults and children alike, access to over 6,000 art pieces from artists around the world. The museum holds numerous exhibitions each year, including an exhibit on Philly artist Edith Neff which starts in September. Multiple events are also held each week, including film screenings on Tuesdays and jazz music concerts on Fridays. The Woodmere Art Museum provides a rich art and cultural experiences that are worth checking out. Wissahickon Valley Park 300 W Northwestern Ave., Philadelphia 215-685-9285 Covering close to 2,000 square acres with 57 miles of trails to explore, (Continued on page 20)

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Children enjoy Ice Cream at last year’s Ice Cream Social, an annual event to celebrate and inform people about the Friends of the Wissiahickon.

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Wissahickon Valley Park is one Philly nature spot that should not be missed. The park has been maintained by the Friends of the Wissahickon, a group whose mission is “to conserve the natural beauty and wildness of the Wissahickon Valley and stimulate public interest therein.” While one can trek on their own to experience the nature of the park, visitors can get a more informed tour by the executive director of Friends of Wissahickon, Maura McCarthy, once every month. One particular section of the park worth visiting is Andorra

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Natural Area, which house many species of trees not native to the Philadelphia area. Morris Arboretum 100 E. Northwestern Ave., Philadelphia 215-247-5777 Originally started in 1887, the Morris Arboretum hosts one of the largest collection of native and foreign trees in the United States. Visitors can admire the thousands of species of trees, plants, birds and other ani(Continued on page 21)

The Morris Arboretum's "Out on a Limb" tree exhibit, a massive platform with rope canopies and lookout spots, is an ideal place to take children. (Photo by Pete Mazzaccaro)

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mals, along with sculptures from worldrenowned artists. The Garden Railway, a model-train railroad that travels across a quarter-mile of tracks, is a part of the arboretum that visitors young and old can admire

and enjoy. Visitors can also reach for the treetops through the “Out on a Limb” canopy walk, which sits 50 feet above the forest ground. Morris Arboretum also works alongside the University of Pennsylvania to provide classes and events for students and visitors throughout the year.

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Chestnut Hill: A one-stop shop for the bride to be

Dresses for sale at Chestnut Hill’s brand new bridal shop, Kimberly James Bridal. (Photo by Maddie Clark)

by Maddie Clark

As the winter weather appears to be coming to a long awaited close, shops all around the Hill have begun to prepare for one of the busiest times of the year: wedding season. This year the Chestnut Hill Business District will hold its second annual Chestnut Hill Unveiled Bridal Event – an event where bridesto-be can stroll down Germantown Avenue for a day of bridal shopping, demonstrations, trunk shows, music, food and champagne in Philadelphia’s garden district. With this event, people can “get a taste of what having a wedding in Chestnut Hill is like,” said Philip Dawson, Executive Director of the Chestnut Hill Business District. Not only will brides be able to get a glimpse of the many wedding services that the Hill has to offer, but the stores within the wedding contingency will be able to promote their brands. This event, which takes place from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 6, is especially important for Kimberly Kingkiner, who will be celebrating the grand opening of her bridal shop, Kimberly James Bridal, on March 29. Kimberly James will be the Hill’s first ever bridal shop of this kind. 22

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“It’s nice to be the first,” Kingkiner said. “I don’t know why there was never a bridal shop in Chestnut Hill … hopefully it’ll be the last one.” Kimberly James, “a bridal boutique experience all about you,” will offer wedding gowns, veils, belts, jewelry, white outfits for engagement parties, beach attire, glassware and much more, said Kingkiner. The ribbon-cutting ceremony for Kimberly James will take place on March 29 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.. KimberlyJamesBridal.com 15 W. Highland Ave., First Floor Philadelphia, PA 19118 267-809-5784 REGISTRY Before that dress is purchased, however, no wedding plan is complete without a registry. Chestnut Hill’s Tailored Home provides a boutique experience for the newly engaged. You can create a registry on the company’s site or walk in and work with staff. Instead of a big box store or Amazon, Tailored Home offers a much more manageable and intimate way to choose wedding gifts. The shop carries dozens of brands for (Continued on page 23)

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home furnishings, dining sets and more, including Wedgwood, Richard Ginori, Juliska and Simon Pearce. Call or visit them online to get started. Shoptailoredhome.com 8528 Germantown Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19118 267-297-6502 VENUES Chestnut Hill is not only a good place to shop for bridal gowns. It’s also a great place to get married. In terms of venues, the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania is definitely at the top of the list. The arboretum’s lush 92-acre garden makes for a perfect location to say, “I do.” The Widener Visitor Center, a 100-year-old stone carriage house, can serve as the base for the reception for up to 175 guests. There’s also room for adjacent tented areas with either space heaters or fans to make sure that no

matter the time of year, your wedding can be as perfect as can be. The arboretum’s rental fees also include free on-site parking, photo opportunities throughout the meadows and gardens, tables, chairs and a golf cart and driver for up to three hours to transport you and your guests all throughout the grounds. Another choice of wedding venue is the Philadelphia Cricket Club, where no request is too big or too small. With only one wedding per day, the club ensures that you, your family and friends will have the full attention of the dedicated staff. In terms of the ceremony, you have the option of exchanging vows either amidst the greenery of the golf course or under the arches of the ballroom. Then for the reception, the club’s historic ballroom offers a restored stage for your choice of a band or DJ, an expansive hardwood dance floor and room for up to 250 guests. While the Club’s wedding packages are fully customizable, a standard package (Continued on page 25)

A Bridal Experience All About You!

15 West Highland Avenue Philadelphia PA 19118 267.809.5784 KimberlyJamesBridal.com

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includes 11 hors d'oeuvres, a three-course seated dinner, a four-and-a-half-hour open bar and champagne toast, valet parking with a coat room attendant, votive candles and white or ivory linens. MorrisArboretum.org 100 E. Northwestern Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19118 215-247-5777 PhilaCricket.com 415 W. Willow Grove Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19118 215-247-6001 FLOWERS For those interested in floral arrangements for the big day, Robertson’s Flowers & Events has got you covered. Whether your style is trendy, sophisticated, artistic or garden-chic, Philadelphia’s Premier Wedding Florist is sure to transform your one-of-a-kind vision into an intimate celebration of you. From the initial consultation up until the big day, a professional design team will walk you through all of the details, including a formal proposal based on your vision, a mock-up floral design (for booked weddings), flowers for the wedding party, an escort table, ceremony and reception, linens, chairs, lighting, candles, props, handmade décor and a day of delivery setup and breakdown. RobertsonsWeddings.com 1301 E. Mermaid Ln. Wyndmoor, PA 19038 215-836-3050

A wedding cake by Night Kitchen Bakery.

SPA TREATMENT Because the bride is the top priority, she’ll also need a bit of pampering to prepare for the big day. At Diamond Spa, there’s no better way to celebrate brides than through a day of rest and relaxation with family and friends. Some of Diamond Spa’s services include nail treatments, spa treatments, perle therapy, waxing and more. Whether it be for a bachelorette party, bridal shower or wedding party, Diamond Spa offers customizable packages to fit everyone. Then at Salon 90, all of the bride’s hair and makeup needs will be met for her and her bridal party. Salon 90 offers a selection of hairstyles and makeup options, and can offer their services either on-site or at your wedding location. Salon 90 is also less than a mile from the Morris Arboretum and the Chestnut Hill Hotel. (Continued on page 28)

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ILoveDiamondSpa.com 8430 Germantown Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19118 215-242-4800 Salon90.net 90 Bethlehem Pike Philadelphia, PA 19118 215-242-2888 CAKE Lastly, what’s a wedding without a cake? The Night Kitchen Bakery works closely with each bride and groom to create unique wedding cake designs. Tasting appointments are available Tuesday through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.. The Night Kitchen Bakery and Café is also one of the featured shops for Chestnut Hill’s Unveiled Bridal Event. NightKitchenBakery.com 7725 Germantown Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19118 215-248-9235

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In addition to the annual Unveiled Bridal Event, the CHBD also promotes Chestnut Hill weddings through its bi-monthly newsletter, Insider’s Guide to Chestnut Hill. Their latest article, “How to plan your dream wedding in Chestnut Hill,” highlights several local businesses that offer services and goods from wedding gowns, jewelry, save the dates, venues and gifts for two. There’s also a one-minute commercial featuring all of the businesses included in the article. There is also an ongoing drawing to win an overnight stay at the Chestnut Hill Hotel, an engagement session photo shoot with Nomadic Reverie, dinner for two at Cin Cin, a wedding gift from Tailored Home and champagne toasting flutes from Gravers Lane Gallery. To enter, interested brides must register for Chestnut Hill Unveiled in advance by visiting chestnut-hill.ticketleap.com/unveiled2019 Otherwise, enjoy your stroll through the garden district as you prepare to say “I do.”

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Foodie dishes dining favorites

Chestnut Hill foodie and Bacchus Market and Catering owner Tracey Wolfson. (Photo by Elizabeth Coady)

by Elizabeth Coady

Tracey Wolfson doesn’t just eat food. The owner of Bacchus Market & Catering in Center City dines with an attention to detail – smell, look, presentation – born from a real affection for food. “I love food,’’ said Wolfson, 51, a longtime resident of Chestnut Hill. “I’m obsessed with food. I love the way it looks. I get excited when the new seasons come. It’s spring, ... so that means peas and Fiddlehead ferns and mint and asparagus, and it’s all green and it’s so fun. ... I think there’s just certain people who really get excited about it and love everything about it. Cooking it, smelling it, tasting it.’’ Wolfson opened her gourmet catering and take-out eatery at 23rd and Spruce Streets nearly 20 years ago to immediate success.

Although the idea was “terrifying,’’ she took it as a good sign when things fell easily into place as she executed her plans. “There was no way it was a coincidence,’’ she said. “It was just the universe telling me I was on the right path.” Backed by such “foodie” bona fides, we asked Wolfson to pay it forward by sharing her best ‘‘dish” on food and eating out locally. She happily obliged. Tell us about your own home’s kitchen. Would you describe yourself as a cook? Do you enjoy cooking? What are your favorite meals to prepare? I LOVE to cook, but honestly I hardly ever have the time. Being in the food business, I am (Continued on page 32)

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around food and chefs all day long, but I rarely get to play in the kitchen. For example, last night for dinner we had a beautiful cheese and fruit platter (cheeses from Bacchus and fruit from Weavers Way). I enjoy using local and seasonal ingredients as much as possible, and summer is probably my favorite time to cook as everything is so gorgeous and abundant then! Whose company do you most like to keep when eating out?

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I mostly dine out with my fiance Steve, and most of the time we stay local as I get home pretty late sometimes! I love to try new restaurants as much as I can. I have a few "foodie" friends who like to eat adventurously with me. How would you describe Chestnut Hill’s restaurant scene? We can always use more restaurants. ... But parking can also be an issue. It makes me happy to see our Chestnut Hill restaurants bustling with customers. What are your three favorite area restaurants? Tavern on the Hill, my extended dining room, and stumbling distance from home. An amazing staff and great food. I can’t say enough good things about Jansen. Huge fan of the restaurant and David Jansen, and have been since his Four Season days. CinCin -- consistently good! When thinking about the meals you’ve enjoyed in area restaurants, what has been the most memorable? The worst? My family had dinner Christmas Eve at Jansen and every dish was a culinary delight! Someone loved their dinner so much that there was not a speck left on his plate! As far as worst dinner, thankfully the place is closed. Steve and I were sharing two dishes and when we swapped plates, I realized his chicken was rare. Needless to (Continued on page 34)

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say, I didn't eat it, and was his belly was very unhappy later that evening! We never went back and they didn't last long so I guess we were not the only unhappy customers. They say the aesthetics of food can actually make a meal taste better. What local restaurant has the most eye-pleasing dishes? Which local restaurant has the most appealing ‘room?’ Jansen and Mica have beautiful presentation. Chef Al Paris created a beautiful space at Paris Bistro. The upstairs is bright and open with a fantastic bar. Downstairs in the jazz cafe, the dark, sexy room transports you to another place and time! Can you give us your suggestions on the best local restaurant to celebrate your 25-year wedding anniversary? A high school graduation? A promotion at work? For a special night or celebration, I would say Jansen. Or really anytime. The food is excellent, they have a great wine list, excellent cocktails, knowledgeable and friendly staff in a beautiful setting. I also love the artwork on the walls with many Chestnut Hill scenes by local artist Judy McCabe Jarvis. Fantastic addition to the local food scene. Entertain out-of-town family and friends visiting for a few days? Just this past week, on the last snowy day, we had lunch at Valley Green Inn with outof-town guests and everything we had was

delicious. I had not been there for a very long time and am looking forward to going back for dinner soon! Where would you eat after completing the Philadelphia Marathon? Or just to grab a sandwich on the go? McNally's or Top of the Hill....both great sandwiches! You didn't ask about breakfast so I will go ahead and tell you what I like. On Mondays, Bacchus is closed so Steve and I usually go out to breakfast at one of two places if we are staying local. We go to Fairlane Grill or Fiesta. I do not think a lot of people know that Pete at Fiesta does a Greek diner-style breakfast that is terrific! Unfortunately, Cake is also closed on Mondays, so I rarely get to enjoy their delicious breakfast/brunch. Where do you order a healthy meal for home? Bacchus – Can I say that? What kind of restaurant would like to see operating in Chestnut Hill that isn’t here now? Maybe a few little BYOBs. And I always want more fish entrees (and NOT just salmon) and someplace with great, interesting salad entrees. (Tavern on the Hill makes a fabulous chopped salad for me with TONS of veggies, but it is not on the menu.) I'd love more upscale wine lists. Maybe someone can set up shop in the old Under the Blue Moon space. I still miss that place.

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EXPLORE / CALENDAR OF EVENTS

A crowd gathers to watch a performance at the Morris Arboretum’s annual Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival (Photo by Paul Meyer)

APRIL Friday Sweat Friday, April 5 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Summit Presbyterian Church Connect with your inner self as you practice meditative dancing with instructor Michelle Mahan. Little instruction required as Michelle leads the different forms of dance. This event will also be held on May 3 and 17, along with June 14 and 28. For more information, visit meetup.com/ThePhillyTribe/events/257864083 7th Annual Caribbean Extravaganza Saturday, April 6 7 p.m. – 1 a.m. Keneseth Israel Reform Congregation Join the Keneseth Israel Reform Congregation as they host their 7th annual Caribbean-themed gala. Enjoy the performances, arts and foods of Caribbean natives along while checking out vendors and auctions. Formal attire only. For more information, call 267-237-7504. 36

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Into the Woods April 12 – 14 8:00 p.m.; Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Chestnut Hill College Performances of the famous musical by Stephen Sodheim and author James Lapine, which is a re-telling of the “Rapunzel” story with Rapunzel and other characters created by the Brothers Grimm. The performance will be held by Chestnut Hill College and is open for public attendance. For more information, visit chc.edu/events/woods-performances Swing into Spring Spring Dance Workshop Saturday, April 13 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Merge Dance Studio Looking to learn some fun dance moves or how to stop stepping on your partner’s feet while slow dancing? Merge Dance Studio will be hosting a “Swing into Spring” workshop to help improve your (Continued on page 38)

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dancing skills. Bring a partner or friend along, or go by yourself, as you learn to swing dance to different rock tunes. The workshop is available for dancers of all ages; registration in advance is required. For more information, call 215-266-1311 or email info@mergedancestudio.com Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival April 13 and 20 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Morris Arboretum Witness the Japanese cherry blossoms in bloom during this annual event. Enjoy Japanese music and activities as you walk around a garden full of cherry blossoms and other plants in the Arboretum’s collection. The exhibit is included with admission into the Arboretum ($20 for admission, $17 for veterans and $10 for students). For more information, visit morrisarboretum.com or call 215-247-5777. Manayunk StrEAT Food Festival Sunday, April 14 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Manayunk.com Kicking off Manayunk’s Spring Restaurant Week, the Manayunk StrEAT Food Festival will close down Main Street for visitors to try out dozens of eateries and food trucks. From strawberry sweets to gourmet eats, the event will provide visitors with delicious food from over 50 of the most popular Philadelphia food trucks and vendors. The event will also host various

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Manayunk merchants and live music. The StrEAT Food Festival will be held rain or shine. For more information, visit manayunk.com/events/manayunk-streat-foodfestival.html Stenton Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 20 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Stenton House The Stenton House will be holding an Easter egg hunt, along with other familyfriendly activities, such as dyeing eggs, making crafts and more. The event is free, but reservations must be made in advance and baskets for eggs will not be provided. For more information or to register for the event, visit eventbrite.com/e/the-stentoneaster-egg-hunt-tickets-53263278901 Earth Day Painting Sunday, April 21 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. ARTrageous Brush & Flow Join ARTrageous Brush & Flow as help celebrate Earth Day 2019 by painting. Join the hosts as they create art as a tribute to planet Earth. All materials and light refreshments will be provided, and all ages are welcome to attend the event. Outside food and BYOB allowed. For more information, visit eventbrite.com/o/artrageous-brushamp-flow-14781978568

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Stenton Star Gazing Friday, April 26 7:30 p.m – 9 p.m Stenton House A family-friendly event for those who are looking for a cosmic experience. Gaze at distant stars and planets in the historic home of William Penn’s secretary. Participants need to meet at 6:30 p.m. at the Logan Neighborhood Library before walking over to the Stenton House. For more information about this and other events at Stenton House, visit eventbrite.com/o/stenton-7950329448 Oreland 5K Saturday, April 27 Starts at 9 a.m. East Oreland Neighborhood Association The East Oreland Neighborhood Association will hold its 12th annual 5K run. All proceeds for the race will be given to the Histiocytosis Association. There will also be a one-mile “Walk the Loop” race and a “Kid’s Fun Run.” To register for the race, visit oreland5k.org MAY Mini Spring Fling Tuesday, May 2 Noon – 2 p.m. Cedar Grove Barn Celebrate the beginning of spring with this family event in Whitemarsh Township. There will be games and activities for chil-

Melissa Coleman with a flower crown at the 2018 Home and Garden Festival. The crowns were being made and sold by volunteers with Christ Ascension Childcare.

dren, along with food and music for the whole family to enjoy. For more information, visit whitemarshtwp.org or call (610) 828-7276. Chestnut Hill Home & Garden Festival 2019 Sunday, May 5 (Rain date: Sunday, May 19) 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. 8000 to 8600 block of (Continued on page 42)

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Germantown Ave. Enjoy live music and delicious food as you check out over 150 vendors specializing in home and garden care. Learn more about landscaping, beekeeping and garden care, or buy some hand-made jewelry and arts from local vendors. Admission is free. For more information, email inquiry@chestnuthillpa.com or call 215247-6696. LuLu Shrine Circus Thursday, May 16 (6:30 p.m.); Friday, May 17 (7 p.m.); Saturday, May 18 (11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.); Sunday, May 19 (Noon and 4 p.m.) 5140 Butler Pk., Plymouth Meeting The 2019 LuLu Shrine Circus marks the 78th year “The Greatest Show on Earth” has been held. Experience elephants and big cats up close along with skits from the Shriner’s Klownz. Tickets for adults start at $24 for adults ($15 for the first 200 tickets online) and $12 for children. The arena gates open an hour prior to the show opening. For more information, visit lulushrinecircus.com Mother’s Day Brunch Sunday, May 12 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Morris Arboretum Take your mother to the Morris Arboretum to celebrate her special day. The garden’s Compton Café features professionally made food from the café’s chef, John

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Hunter. After breakfast, you can take your time to admire the blooming flowers and foliage around the garden. Tickets for the event go on sale on April 1. For more information, visit morrisarboretum.org Eat and Enjoy Social Thursday, May 16 Noon – 2:00 p.m. Whitemarsh Township Parks and Recreation Building The Parks and Recreation Department in Whitemarsh Township will be holding a catered lunch social for residents and nonresidents alike. Along with lunch, entertainment will also be provided. Reservations are $10, and seats are limited. For more information, visit whitemarshtwp.org Chestnut Hill Great House Tours Sunday, May 19 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields 8000 Saint Martins Ln. This event allows visitors to explore and admire the architecture and interior design of five Chestnut Hill homes. The main idea behind the event is to highlight how traditional and contemporary home designs can coexist in Chestnut Hill. Tickets start at $40. For more information, visit chconservancy.org/great-houses Stroll the Street Thursdays, May 30 – August 29 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. (Continued on page 43)

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Manayunk.com Visit Manayunk with family and friends this summer to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stroll the Street.â&#x20AC;? Held every Thursday starting May 30, visitors can enjoy the local foods, music and art of Manayunk, with special discounts and $6 cocktails. For more information, visit manayunk.com/events/stroll-the-street.html JUNE British Car Show and Jaguar Concurs dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Elegance Saturday, June 1 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 p.m. Historic Hope Lodge Explore the grounds of the Hope Lodge mansion as you get up close and personal with over 200 iconic cars and motorcycles from British automakers such as Jaguar, Triumph and Rolls Royce. The event will also have live music, craft beer and food, and visitors can also enter the mansion to experience its architecture and dĂŠcor.

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Visitors will also witness the Jaguar Concours, a nationally sanctioned competition to decide the most â&#x20AC;&#x153;authenticâ&#x20AC;? Jaguars around the country. Tickets start at $10; seniors pay $5 and children 12 and under get free admission. For tickets and more information, visit delvaljaguarclub.com/british-car-show-concours Copenhagen June 7-9, 13-16 & 20-23 8 p.m.; Sunday matinees @ 2 p.m. The Stagecrafters Theater The Stagecrafters Theater will be performing the Tony Award-winning play by Michael Frayn. The play, set in 1941, follows Danish scientist Neils Bohr and German scientist Werner Heisenberg, as their friendship is torn apart by World War II and the coming of the atomic age. These performances will be directed by David Flagg. For more information and to buy tickets, visit thestagecrafters.org/copen(Continued on page 44)

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Children with decorated bikes at the annual Fourth of July Parade hosted by the Chestnut Hill Rotary Club (Photo by Pete Mazzaccaro)

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hagen Juneteenth Festival Saturday, June 22 Noon – 7 p.m. Hosted in Germantown, the Juneteenth Festival will start the day with an “Honor Our Ancestors” breakfast. After breakfast, a new parade route will begin at 52nd and Jefferson Streets and continue until it reaches Malcom X Park at 52nd and Pine Streets. A special ceremony will also take place to commemorate the renaming of 52nd Street to “Muhammad Ali Way” after the legendary boxer, who lived in Philadelphia from 1970 and 1973. For more information about the event, visit june-

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teenthphilly.org JULY Chestnut Hill July 4 Parade and Festival Thuesday, July 4 9 a.m. 118 East Hartwell Lane (the headquarters of the Chestnut Hill Bocce Club) Decorated bikes and wagons gather at the intersection of Devon St. and Hartwell Lane at 9 a.m. for a parade to the Water Tower Recreation center which starts at 10. Judges will award prizes to the best decorations in a number of categories. Face painting, balloons, pony rides and races (Continued on page 45)

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for boys and girls at the Watertower Recreation Center ballfields. There will also be a candy find for toddlers, clowns, a moon bounce and petting zoo. At 11 a.m., there will be a free lunch of hot dogs, juice and ice cream. At 11:30 a.m., there will be a magic show. This event is sponsored by the Chestnut Hill Bocce Club. For more information, call 215-247-9776

The tour will guide visitors though the history of the water elements in the garden and how they have shaped and evolved over time. The tours are included with general admission and begin at the Widener Visitor Center. For more information on the tour and other special events at Morris Arboretum, visit

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