Uwishunu.com

This summer, Philabundance and Citizens Bank are teaming up for “Phans Feeding Families,” a new initiative to raise money and collect food for those in need in the Delaware Valley.

On Sunday, July 31, bring a donation of a non-perishable food item, like plastic jars of peanut butter and jelly, or canned tuna, to the Phillies game. Drop off locations are at Citizens Bank Park or SEPTA’s AT&T station.

In addition, Sunday’s game will include a Pre-Game Tent Party Fundraiser to benefit “Phans Feeding Families.” From 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., enjoy a lunch buffet including beer and soft drinks, a chance to see Roy Halladay (or another Phillies player) and a chance to bid on items in the silent auction. All attendees will receive a commemorative Phans Feeding Families pin, which anyone can buy for $5 each at the ballpark or online.

Tickets are $125 each, $75 of which will go to benefit Philabundance. Tickets include include admission to the tent, plus seats on the pavilion deck during the 1:35 game against the Pirates.

Phans Feeding Families Fundraiser
When: Sunday, July 31, 1:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Where: Citizens Bank Park, Citizens Bank Way and Pattison Avenue
Cost: $125
More info: www.philabundance.org

Summer is an amazing time to visit Longwood: experience a lush world of exotic flowers, and get lost among acres of exquisitely maintained grounds featuring 11,000 different types of plants. (Top by B. Krist for GPTMC, bottom photos courtesy Longwood Gardens)

Philadelphia Hospitality, Inc. and Longwood Gardens have teamed up to offer visitors a more convenient way to explore the floral majesty of the famed horticultural landmark.

Dubbed “Beyond Philadelphia,” the bus tours are a relaxing way to explore Philadelphia’s countryside. The 24-passenger mini buses will leave Center City twice every Friday to arrive at Longwood Gardens for tours and special exhibitions.

In the past, visitors to the region had to rely on public transportation or rental cars to get to Longwood Gardens, so Philadelphia Hospitality came up with a creative solution to give tourists more access to one of the most popular natural destinations in the region.

Long praised for their holiday exhibitions and romantic atmosphere, Longwood Gardens is a must-see at any time of year. Don’t miss the remaining two Fireworks and Fountains light and sound spectaculars, August 13 and September 3.

Throughout the summer and into the fall, two tours will be offered every Friday, at 8:30 a.m., returning at 1 p.m.; and at 1:30 p.m., returning at 6 p.m.

Tickets, $70, can be purchased onboard the buses prior to departure, at hotel concierges in Center City, or online.

Beyond Philadelphia Longwood Gardens Bus Tour
When: Fridays through the fall, 8:30am-1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.-6 p.m.; from September 10-November 5, every Saturday 12:30-5:30 p.m. (just one trip)
Where: Tours depart from Fairmount Park Welcome Center, 16th & J.F.K. Boulevard
Cost: $70
More Info: www.beyondphiladelphia.org

Philadelphia continues to build its reputation as a great biking region thanks to new events, expanded trails, locally made products, city-to-countryside routes and reliable bike clubs. (Photo credits: top by R. Kennedy for GPTMC, bottom two by J. Smith for GPTMC)

Philadelphia loves biking. The city is home to the world-class Philadelphia International Bike Race in Manayunk, and we boast more than 205 miles of bike lanes and trails, with more on the way.

Last year, Philly was named one of the top 50 biking cities in the United States by Bicycling Magazine. And Philadelphia was recently ranked the #1 big city for bike commuting per capita in the U.S., a whopping two times as high as the next-best major city, Chicago.

Biking is not only eco-friendly, but a great way to keep fit and to get wherever you’re going, especially in the summertime. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or are just starting out, here are some helpful hints about the ins and outs of biking in Philadelphia:

Most Popular Trails: The Schuylkill River Trail wins by a landslide as the most popular biking destination. Stretching along the banks of the river, the scenic 25 miles includes the beautiful Kelly Drive and Boathouse Row. As if that mileage wasn’t enough, the trail is about to get an extension with a boardwalk from Locust Street to South Street.

You can also take your bike down to the sun-dappled waters of Wissahickon Creek for a ride along Forbidden Drive, a gravel path that winds its way through the trees. Or for a change of scenery and a paved path, go to Pennypack Park in Northeast Philadelphia for a scenic ride through green hills and creeks. And in the 800-acre Central Perkiomen Valley Park northwest of the city, an old Reading Railroad right-of-way has been converted into a trail perfect for mountain bikers of all levels.

Best Kept Secret Spot: The Cobbs Creek Park trail in West Philadelphia is a hidden gem for bikers. Aside from a great trail to bike, the park serves as a final resting place for Betsy Ross, and many other colonial men and women. For another less crowded path, head to the recently developed Delaware River Trail, a two-mile riverfront trail between Tasker Street and Lombard Street.

Where to Gear Up: Get properly outfitted in all of the necessary gear at Bicycle Therapy, a full-service shop in Center City that carries single-speed, mountain and trail bikes. Another stand-out is Bicycle Stable, a shop with a friendly, knowledgeable staff that will let you take your potential bike for a spin. For custom wheels, check out Bell’s Bikes, where they promise “if you can dream it, we can do it!”

Below, you’ll find info on bike rentals, clubs and more, plus a Schuylkill River Trail map. Commence the cycling!

(more…)

Founded in 1824, the Historical Society of Pennsylvania is one of the oldest historical societies in the U.S. (Photo courtesy Historical Society of Pennsylvania)

In conjunction with this summer’s feature exhibition Discover the Real George Washington at the National Constitution Center, the Historical Society of Pennsylvania (HSP) will host a special one-day exhibit on Wednesday, August 3 to celebrate the life of our nation’s first president.

The exhibit will feature extraordinary historical artifacts and documents from HSP’s special collections libraries related to Washington’s personal life, military career, presidency and legacy.

Also on display will be portraits of Washington by artists Charles Wilson Peale and Gilbert Stuart, as well as Washington’s pocket diary, his wife Martha’s cookbook and household journal, and even a lock of Washington’s hair!

Exhibit hours are 12:30 to 7:30 p.m, and admission is free.

One-Day George Washington exhibit
When: Wednesday, August 3, 12:30-7:30 p.m.
Where: Historical Society of Pennsylvania, 1300 Locust Street
Cost: Free
More info: www.hsp.org

Pub & Kitchen and Kalamazoo, Michigan-based Bell’s Brewery are dishing up a collaborative dinner including four courses and four beers, tomorrow, July 28.

For $40, you get to chow down and drink up some delicious food and beer. The full menu is as follows:

• New Jersey Fluke Crudo: Blue Moon Acres Radish + Sorel, Green Olive Oil, Citrus, Pickled Watermelon
Beer Pairing: Oarsman

• Rachael’s Petite Arugula: charcoal grilled peach, sunflower, sweet tomatoes, fresh cheese, vin cotto
Beer Pairing: Pale Ale

• Roasted Poulet Rouge Poussin: coppa wrapped stuffed leg, creamed silver queen corn, fava beans, hen of the woods mushrooms
Beer Pairing: Oberon

• Semifreddo of Chocolate and Sicilian Pistachio
Beer Pairing: Double Cream Stout

Email events@thepubandkitchen.com to make reservations.

Bell’s Brewery Dinner
Where: Pub & Kitchen, 1946 Lombard Street
When: Thursday, July 28
Cost: $40
More info: www.thepubandkitchen.blogspot.com

Attention barbecue aficionados: the annual Stephen Starr + Garry Maddox BBQ Challenge coming to the ballpark in August is a foodie event that is not to be missed! (Top and bottom left photos courtesy the Phillies)

It’s back!

This year’s Stephen Starr + Garry Maddox Barbecue Challenge will take place on Saturday, August 13, when both restaurant teams and pit master teams will converge on Citizens Bank Park to compete for the bragging rights that go along with claiming the region’s best barbecue.

And you get to reap the rewards by eating all the barbecue you want!

The event is super popular and is free and open to the public; it runs from 4:30 – 7 p.m. along Citizens Bank Way just outside the ballpark. Food sampling tickets will be available at the event on August 13 for a donation to charity. Tickets are around $5 per ticket.

NOTE: while there is a Phillies game later that night, you do not need a Phillies game ticket to attend and enjoy the Barbecue Challenge that afternoon. It’s open to the public.

This year’s event is expected to feature 45 pit master teams and 15 restaurant teams including Alma de Cuba, Big D’s Pizza and BBQ, Bomb Bomb BBQ Grill, Bull’s BBQ, Butcher and Singer, Carolina Blue, Continental Mid-town, El Rey, El Vez, Famous Dave’s, Jones, Le Cochon Noir, London Grill, McFadden’s, and Rosey’s BBQ.

That list includes six restaurants from All-Star restaurateur Stephen Starr, whose commitment to begin co-hosting the event three years ago has helped elevate the profile of this competition. “We are proud and excited to continue our partnership with Garry Maddox for the tenth annual barbecue challenge. Each year brings even more excitement as outstanding chefs compete to help raise funds for the enrichment and support of our city’s youth,” said Starr. “It’s an amazing event that we’re thrilled to celebrate with the participants and the public each year.”

Also be on the look out for special guest judges at this year’s event including Tony Luke of Tony Luke’s Steaks and Phillies announcer Gary “The Sarge” Matthews.

In addition to the bounty of amazingly delicious barbecue eats, the event also features family-friendly entertainment and appearances by Phillies alumni and the Phillie Phanatic.

And while you’re there, be sure to stop by the With Love 3-D Art and have your picture taken.

Stephen Starr & Garry Maddox Barbecue Challenge
When: Saturday, August 13, 4:30 – 7 p.m.
Where: Citizens Bank Way outside Citizens Bank Park (Between the Third Base and Left Field Gates)
Cost: Free to attend; BBQ sampling tickets have a nominal fee.
More info: facebook.com/bbqchallenge

Standard Tap is just one example of a Northern Liberties beer hot spot, pairing local microbrews with excellent pub fare. (Photo by G. Widman for GPTMC)

Just in time for this weekend’s sure-to-be awesome 2nd Street Festival, The New York Times’ T Magazine just published a glowing report on the beer scene in Northern Liberties.

The piece is part one of a two-part series on two neighborhoods in what the Times refers to as North Philaldelphia. An excerpt:

“[T]he beer scenes in the North Philadelphia neighborhoods of Northern Liberties and Fishtown are currently thriving, thanks to a spate of excellent taprooms, pubs and bars that focus on local brews.

Beer culture in this part of America is lively, rife with chance taking, hybridization and healthy competition, and while a week or more could be spent driving across Delaware and Pennsylvania to properly experience it all, a simple walk makes for an easier journey.”

Specifically highlighted bars included on the writer’s walking tour are the 700 Club, Standard Tap, The Foodery, North Third and The Abbaye.

The piece also references the historical marker that now stands at the intersection of Poplar and American Streets, informing passersby of Philadelphia’s role in lager history; did you know that in 1840, John Wagner brought lager yeast from his native Bavaria and brewed the nation’s first lager beer right here in Northern Liberties? Pretty cool.

We are obviously already big believers in Philadelphia’s amazing beer scene, but it’s always nice when a national publication recognizes as much and shares the news with its readers.

And, like we said, this is only part one of a series — we can’t wait for part two to hit, undoubtedly exploring some of the great bars in Fishtown. We would not be surprised to see the likes of Johnny Brenda’s, Fathom, Kraftwork, Frankford Hall, and Memphis Taproom make the cut…

Drink Up | North Philly Beer, Part 1 [New York Times' T Magazine]

With miniature golf, a fountain, playground, carousel and Stephen Starr's delicious Squareburger, Franklin Square is a top Philadelphia summertime hangout. (Photo credits: top and bottom left by R. Kennedy for GPTMC, bottom right by J. Smith for GPTMC)

It seems like only yesterday that Franklin Square opened.

The award-winning outdoor amusement oasis located in the heart of Historic Philadelphia was completely renovated in 2006 to include Philly Mini Golf, a vintage marble fountain, playground and carousel and, a few years later, Stephen Starr’s SquareBurger was added.

The square has brought smiles to many faces, full stomachs to many hungry eaters and traditions to Philadelphia locals and visitors, from holiday tree lightings to Memorial Day celebrations for half a decade now.

Celebrate five seasons of fun at Franklin Square this Sunday, July 31, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., at a special birthday celebration.

Bring the whole family to sign a giant birthday card, eat Birthday Bonanza Sundaes at SquareBurger, enjoy face painting, birthday “craftivities” and more.

The first 55 children get free rides on the carousel and free sundaes!

You can also celebrate the Franklin Square 5th Birthday Season by becoming part of its lasting legacy. Name a brick in the square for a tax-deductible donation of $100. Call (215) 629-5801 x207 or email donation@historicphiladelphia.org for more information.

It’s absolutely the perfect spot for summertime fun.

Franklin Square’s 5th Birthday
When: Sunday, July 31, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: 6th and Race Streets
Cost: Free
More info: www.historicphiladelphia.org

The Supper at Emmaus, 1648. Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn, Dutch. (Image courtesy Philadelphia Museum of Art)

The Philadelphia Museum of Art presents a singular exhibition, Rembrandt and the Face of Jesus, opening at Philadelphia’s premier art museum Wednesday, August 3.

This exhibition, the first Rembrandt exhibition in Philadelphia since 1932 and the first ever in the city to include paintings by the Dutch master, reunites a rare series of portraits of Christ for the first time since 1656.

Never before have so many of Rembrandt’s finest paintings, etchings and drawings that depict Jesus Christ and events of his life been assembled for an exhibition.

It’s a must-see for art lovers and neophytes alike.

You can get tickets online in advance.

Rembrandt and the Face of Jesus
Where: Philadelphia Museum Of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
When: August 3-October 30
Cost: Adults $25, Seniors $23, Students and kids 13-18 $20, Kids 5-12 $12, Kids 4 and under Free
More info: www.philamuseum.org

Stop into Independence al Fresco to cool off with a Summer Love Ale — with a free With Love beer koozie. (Photo by R. Kennedy for GPTMC)

It’s summertime and the living — and drinking — is easy.

Starting today, July 26, the Independence Visitor Center’s new Independence al Fresco, a casual outdoor garden cafe, is running a great Foursquare/Facebook Places promotion.

Check into the cafe using Foursquare or Facebook Places and show your mobile device to an employee to redeem a free With Love beer koozie.

You’re going to need a cold beer to make use of it; make sure you order some Victory Summer Love Ale.

All summer, the café will stay open until 7 p.m. on Wednesdays for Center City Sips. Take advantage of $3 wines, $2 beers and half-price appetizers, outdoors against a beautiful architectural backdrop.

Independence al Fresco
1 N. Independence Mall East
www.independencevisitorcenter.com