September 23, 2011
The gorgeous Ridgeland mansion will play host to a local beer, wine and food-filled event this Sunday. (Photo courtesy The Wellness Community of Philadelphia)
This Sunday is “Taste of Fall” in West Fairmount Park, featuring food, beer and wine tastings, live music and plenty of activities for adults and children alike.
This autumnal outdoor affair, sponsored by The Junior League, will offer selections from both local farms and gourmet food vendors, plus showcase the work of artisan and craft vendors.
This second annual event will take place rain or shine, and is sure to provide an enjoyable afternoon for all. In addition to enjoying all the wonderful offerings provided by “Taste of Fall,” be certain to set some time aside for a walk around The Suzanne Morgan Center at Ridgeland, which normally houses The Wellness Community of Philadelphia and will be made-over for the day’s celebrations.
Tickets are $60 for adults, $30 for young adults (ages 13-20) and $20 for children (ages 5-12). Tickets are available online.
Taste of Fall
When: Sunday, September 25, 1-5 p.m.
Where: The Suzanne Morgan Center, West Fairmount Park, 4100 Chamounix Drive
Cost: $60 for adults, $30 for young adults, $20 for children
More info: www.jlphiladelphia.org
August 29, 2011
Fall has almost fallen; the scarecrow festivities at Peddler's Village are one of the most highly anticipated events of the season. (Photo by R. Kennedy for GPTMC)
Peddler’s Village, located in charming Bucks County, offers fine dining, boutique shopping, gourmet delights and artful galleries. The village also holds several super popular annual festivals: the Strawberry Festival in spring, the Christmas Lighting in early winter and the Scarecrow Festival in the fall, coming up on September 17-18.
The 33rd Annual Scarecrow Display commences on September 5, and runs through Halloween. Starting September 5, Peddler’s Village will be adorned with more than 100 creative scarecrows, all vying for the top prize, which will be awarded October 30.
Though the scarecrows will be on display for two months, the fun really gets underway the weekend of September 17-18 with the official Scarecrow Festival. Special events and attractions, such as pumpkin painting, live music, scarecrow making, children’s activities and pie eating contests, encourage families to enjoy fall to the fullest extent. The whole festival calendar is online.
Peddler’s Village is an easy hour drive from Philadelphia; don’t miss out on this hotly anticipated annual event!
Peddler’s Village Scarecrow Festival
Where: Peddler’s Village Road (Routes 202 and 263), Lahaska
When: Saturday, September 17-Sunday, September 18, 10 a.m.06 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: www.peddlersvillage.com
August 12, 2011
A picturesque train ride through historic Bucks County makes for a lovely summer evening; the wine and cheese are just an added bonus. (Photo courtesy New Hope Railroad)
A great summer excursion to fit into the last six weeks or so of the sunny season is a trip to New Hope, an easy hour drive from Center City, for its Grapevine Express, a scenic train ride through the Bucks County countryside complete with wine and cheese.
Instead of enjoying cocktails at a local watering hole, embark on this romantic excursion, which departs at 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays through October 30. The 50-minute ride features a different wine region each month, and passengers enjoy gourmet cheeses and fine vintages in a thoughtfully restored, first class Parlor Car.
There are two ticket options: $43 per person for general seating at a table for four, or $60 per person for a private table for two. With either package, passengers enjoy an air conditioned car, two glasses of wine and a cheese platter fit for a gourmand outfitted with crackers and fruit.
Cash bar is available onboard the train as well, and parking is available at the train station (daily parking fees apply).
The charming river town is replete with boutiques, cafes, restaurants and galleries offering endless options for visitors, so you can commit to a whole weekend’s visit as well.
Grapevine Express
Where: 32 W. Bridge Street, New Hope
When: Saturdays and Sundays through October 30, 5 p.m.
Cost: Tickets start at $43
More info: www.newhoperailroad.com
August 5, 2011
New Hope, PA and Lambertville, NJ are co-hosting fireworks displays over the Delaware River every Friday night through September 23.
The fireworks “shooting” location is strategically located so viewers from both Lambertville and New Hope can see the breathtaking 10-minute display. Most of the towns’ river merchants have a great view of the fireworks. Some of the fireworks will reach 280 feet above the launch site!
Several restaurants offer “Friday Night Specials” and many also run double happy hours, one from 5-7 p.m. then another 9-11 p.m. In addition, local shops and boutiques keep their doors open much later than their usual 6 p.m. close to catch the influx of people.
New Hope and Lambertville are both known for their quaint atmospheres and sophistication. A fantastic destination for couples and families alike, these two river towns boast renowned restaurants, art galleries, antique shops, museums, charming bed & breakfasts and much more.
Friday Night Fireworks
When: Fridays through September 23, 9:30 p.m.
Where: New Hope, PA/Lambertville, NJ
Cost: Free
More info: www.newhopelambertvillefireworks.com
August 1, 2011
Valanni's SOCIAL lounge is the perfect summer oasis. (Photo courtesy Gabello Studios)
Valanni, Washington Square West’s trendy eatery known for its creative cocktails and mouthwatering tapas, has rolled out a new “Skinny Cocktail” menu just in time for summer.
The slimmed-down, summer-perfect concoctions lack nothing when it comes to taste and range from a mere 100 to 170 calories per drink. It’s the perfect refreshment for a scorching summer day or night.
Pick from a pinot grigio wine spritzer; vodka, orange juice and tonic cocktail; light margarita made with fresh lime and agave nectar, and more.
Stop by Valanni for a truly happy happy hour, with food and drink specials offered 5-7 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Valanni
1229 Spruce Street
www.valanni.com
