Throughout history, top hats have signaled an air of class and sophistication. Whether on a rich man or a poor man, you always get the impression that a top hat is sitting above someone of importance; a real man-about-town who knows where the action is. So it should come as no surprise that Lucy’s Hat Shop, Philly bar-baron Avram Hornik’s Old City institution, is sporting some sleek new headgear.

Top Hat resembles a dance studio, with white walls combining with exposed brick and hardwood. And with dance spaces on either end of the room and windows overlooking Market street, you will quickly find your groove.

And that shouldn’t be too difficult with Friday and Saturday parties from some of the best Philly DJ’s. If you are a fan of the party nights offered by Bar Noir, you are in luck. Because even though Bar Noir is in the process of being sold, the party nights like Breath Stretch Shake and cuts from Ian St. Laurent are still hitting the dance floor every weekend

But because top hats are generally thought of as high-class accessories, Top Hat will feature weekly first Friday events exhibiting local artists and crafters with art/trunk sales. Featuring free appetizers, two cash bars and a ton of local talent, First Friday’s at Top Hat gives Lucy’s the formal touch to impress the Old City scene. Come see what a famous hat shop puts on its head this weekend. For more info, visit www.tophat215.com.

Top Hat @ Lucy’s Hat Shop
247 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
www.tophat215.com

Retro bowling lanes at North Bowl. (Photo by G. Widman for GPTMC)

Much has been made of North Bowl’s capacity for fun: its beer, pub grub, photo booths, video games and soul-tastic soundtrack — plus, of course, two levels of bowling lanes.

Wednesday and Sunday are the thriftiest nights to lace up and bowl. Here’s the deal (valid 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.):

- $2 games
- $2 shoe rentals
- $2 tater tots
- $2 Pabst Blue Ribbon and Dales Pale Ale and Old Chub

Bowl ‘em straight!

Click here to visit North Bowl’s official Web site.

North Bowl [gophila.com]

The sublime, labyrinthine passageways of Philadelphia's Magic Gardens. (Photo by Albert Lee)

The first time I walked through Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, I was instantly enchanted. Isaiah Zagar, South Street’s poet of the mosaic arts, crafted this exuberant and emotionally cohesive collection of bottles, bicycle spokes, tiles and anything else you can think of, spending several decades in this parking lot-turned-thing of beauty to bring it closer to completion. Today, the Gardens is nothing short of genius.

Haven’t visited? Well, you’re missing some of the best stuff in this city. And you can redeem yourself this weekend.

This Sunday, June 21st, the Magic Gardens is hosting its second annual Summer Solstice Festival from 2 until 10 p.m. The event kicks off with six hours of world music, drumming performances, artistic wood burning, storytelling, dance ensembles and more (2 to 8 p.m.). A DJ takes over for the final two hours for a Gardens-wide dance party (8 to 10 p.m.).

Food and non-alcoholic drinks will be provided by Jim’s Steaks, Starbucks, La Fourno, Black and Brew, Gennaro’s and others.

Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for students and free for kids.

The Summer Solstice Festival is a perfect way to 1) enjoy the longest day of the year; 2) treat your dad to a Father’s Day he’ll never forget; and 3) turn your Sunday into something extraordinary. I promise that, once you’ve visited the Gardens, it will be forever in your mind. And it just may bring the artist out of you.

Click here or the image below to download the official flyer.

Summer Solstice Festival @ Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
1022-1024 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 733-0390

CLICK HERE to read more about Philadelphia Magic Gardens’ Summer Solstice Festival

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens [gophila.com]

The roof deck and skyline view at Vango; photo by G. Widman for GPTMC

The summer cocktail season officially begins tonight with Center City Sips! The Wednesday-night special (running June 3 – August 26, 5 – 7 p.m.) includes $4 cocktails, $3 wine, $2 beer and half-priced appetizers. I’ll drink to that!

To make it even more fun: Center City meters are free on Wednesdays, so fear not the wrath of ticket-issuers! Just remember to treat your designated driver to a half-priced app.

More than 70 restaurants are participating; click here for the full list.

A good pick for Night 1 is Vango Lounge and Sky Bar. The sensational skyline view from Vango’s roof deck (see above) is pretty much unparalleled; and, for the lazier among us, an assortment of beds lets you catch some r & r while you sip & snack. To top it off, if you stay for dinner after 7 p.m., Vango will take 15% off your food bill (click here to see which restaurants offer this discount).

And hey. If you feel you’ve saved enough during happy hour to warrant a splurge, Vango’s roof deck morphs into a bottle-service-only, exclusive hangout in the later hours.

Vango Lounge and Sky Bar [official site]

Center City Sips [centercityphila.org]

Wednesday is a great night for any thrifty Philadelphian.

First, all of Old City’s Ritz Theater locations offer $6 tickets to films all day and all night.

Then, hop over a few blocks to where South Street dive bar Tattooed Mom basically gives pierogies away at a measly price of $0.50 each ( 12 noon to 11 p.m.). Two quarters for a Philly favorite? You can’t beat that with a bat!

Add $1.50 Pabst Blue Ribbon 16 oz. cans to the mix (another hump day special), and you have the perfect Wednesday night tradition (trust me). It may not be “fine dining” per se, but you’ll have a lot of fun and your wallet will thank you.

(Sugar Mom’s, the subterranean, pinball machine-filled bar at 2nd and Church Streets, also honors the deals. Take your pick.)

The Ritz [gophila.com]

Tattooed Mom [MySpace.com]

The owners of Connie’s Ric Rac, performing as the Discount Heroes

The Italian Market has long been talked about the way many Philadelphians like to talk about New York: great to visit but I would never want to live there. That might have something to do with the neighborhood’s reputation for having a lot of shops and eateries but nowhere to stay and hang out.

But in the last few years, a new influx of bars, art galleries and music venues have made the area a nightlife destination like never before. And much of that credit can go to Connie’s Ric Rac.

The Ric Rac used to be an electronics store in the early-to-mid nineties before its owner, Connie Tartaglia took her business online, leaving the space empty for storage. Now, her sons have taken the place over and made it into a theater for live music and improv comedy.

The venue is more than just a stage in a room, as one might expect from the lo-fi South Philly ‘hood. Video games line the back wall, open mic nights come through every Monday and the entire venue is BYOB. That’s right, no more $6 drafts. Just walk around the corner to the bodega, grab a six-pack, pay the cover and you are good to go.

Connie’s Ric Rac has welcomed great Philly acts like Black Landlord and Langhorne Slim, as well as comedy troupes like Steal This Show and Secret Pants. So if you like cheap music and BYOB drinking, in the grand South Philly tradition, this is the place for you.

Connie’s Ric Rac
1132 S. 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 279-7587
www.conniesricrac.com

Silk City

Like all major American cities, Philadelphia will always have a list of things that we could use more of. Parking spaces come to mind, as do sports championships. But one thing no casual onlooker could yearn for in the City of Brotherly Love is DJ events. With multiple party promoters hustling shoulder to shoulder to flood an already crowded market, DJs struggle to make a name for themselves and the party that surrounds them.

But if you were to ask the average bar-hopper which type of DJ event, few are going to turn their nose up at funk and vintage-era boogie records. Its retro, its old school and there is enough dance beats to go around. The recipe is for booty-shaking and hip-quaking for the ages.

This is, of course, no unexplored territory for Philly DJs… but would you rather dance to a reinvented Turnaround Vs. Immediate party or watch a DJ try and make a name for himself remixing sad-sap indie records? Yeah, that’s what we thought.

Electric Soul has a happy medium. They are not a direct descendant of the Barbary’s funk fiesta but you can definitely expect a visceral level of old-school sounds mixed with beat-driven electro-funk, nu-jazz and boogie. And with grooves brought to you by the Illvibe Collective and special guest J. Boogie, you know you are getting the best the decks have to offer.

Best of all, the event is hosted by Silk City, famous host of King Britt’s original Monday night Back 2 Basics jam. In short, their moody lounge vibe, full of velvet paintings and twisting neon, puts Electric Soul in good company.

Check out the event at Silk City, every 3rd Sunday, starting May 17th. $5 cover.

Silk City
435 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123
(215) 592-8838
www.silkcityphilly.com

Though I’m not Mexican, for the past several years, I have gone out to celebrate Cinco de Mayo at one of Philly’s Mexican watering holes. But Cinco de Mayo, or “May 5th”, is more than just a drinking holiday. It is a celebration in remembrance of the epic Battle of Puebla–which occurred in Puebla, Mexico on May 5th, 1862. On that day, the Mexican army defeated the French army even though they were outnumbered two to one. Cinco de Mayo has come to represent a day to celebrate Mexican heritage and enjoy Mexican culture. For me, this means food (and margaritas).

This Cinco de Mayo, I’ll be at one of my favorite spots, Cantina dos Segundos. Although their food is more of a modern twist on traditional Mexican dishes, “Dos” (as we like to call it) will definitely get you into the spirit of the holiday. They are throwing a party with some great deejays (Robotique DJs Billy W. and Darklord–spinning funky jams, disco beats and soul classics) as well as drinks specials, games and prizes.

I’ve been to Cinco de Mayo at the Cantina in South Philly, and if this party is half as fun, I might have to get rolled home in a wheelbarrow. If you stop by, look for me and say “hola”. I’ll be elbow deep in chips and salsa, looking for the bottom of my passion fruit margarita. Ole!

Cantina dos Segundo
931 N. 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA
Deejays being at 9pm
www.cantinadossegundos.com

Wandering Alice

On Saturday May 9th, this corner of Frankford and Girard Avenue will be hosting Nichole Canuso Dance Company’s (NCDC) first Annual Benefit Cabaret. No joke, a lot of talent will be crammed into one night, including an excerpt from NCDC’s sold-out 2008 Live Arts Festival hit Wandering Alice. The show begins at 8:30 pm and costs just $15.00 if purchased in advance, $20.00 at the door.

NCDC redefines interpretive dance as they showcase the complexities of human emotions and behaviors often left unnoticed in daily life. Nichole Canuso is not only the Artistic Director but choreographer. The benefit proceeds will allow Nichole Canuso Dance Company to continue its mission of supporting the creation of dance projects that exist at the crossroads of movement, visual art, and theater.

The full event concludes with a midnight dance party with DJ Laris Kreslins. Consider your Saturday night taken care of! Featured events to include a Magic Photo Booth by photographer JJ Tiziou, tarot card readings, and made-to-order hand puppets.

Johnny Brenda’s
1201 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125
(215) 739-9684
www.johnnybrendas.com

Moshulu

Pirates have skewered all realms of pop culture with a hook hand and a peg leg. National Talk Like A Pirate Day is celebrated in office parks and college classrooms across the nation. Johnny Depp’s role as the Keith-Richards-inspired Capt. Jack Sparrow has spawned 3 films. And it’s not hard to see why. After all, we love a good bottle of rum. We love the fantasy of getting aboard a ship and most of all, we are all looking for some sort of buried treasure.

Philadelphia’s thrifty Pirates couldn’t have it easier this summer because with the Moshulu’s Mojito Summer Kickoff Party, the treasure is already on the ship.

That’s right, the world’s oldest and longest clipper ship is back, bringing you great dance deals all summer long. And like any good Pirate, as soon as the anchor drops on this summer season, mayhem will ensue.

The Mojito Summer Kickoff Party features DJ’s Brandon Bring ‘Em and and Dirty on two outdoor decks. Just $5 if you RSVP and get there before 11. And why would you get there late when there is an open bar. That’s right, open bar from 10-11pm.

You know how this movie ends. Now that you have found the treasure, its time to drop anchor and party down. Drink some rum, rock an eye patch, and sing a shanty or two. The Moshulu is back in port and its time to hit the deck.

Mojito is docked at Penns Landing. Saturday, April 25th. Open bar from 10-11pm. RSVP for the $5 guestlist price here on Paperstreet.

Moshulu
401 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 923-2500
www.moshulu.com

Head over to Johnny Brenda’s this Saturday, April 11th as DJs Emynd, Bo Bliz, and 215hiphop.com continue their slam dunk “It’s The Year…” party series with their latest historical tribute – 1988.

Emynd and Bo are no strangers to the Philly scene, with their White T’s White Belts and The Bounce parties bringing them international attention. Their “It’s The Year…” collaboration with 215hiphop.com features music, videos and more from a specific year in music history. 1988 was the year of Public Enemy’s Nation of Millions and numerous bubblegum new wave hits from Duran Duran, INXS and more.

So drop by Johnny Brenda’s on the 11th because Al B. Sure is going to be In Effect Mode!

Johnny Brenda’s
1201 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125
(215) 739-9684
www.johnnybrendas.com

In need of a little something different for this Wednesday night? Hop over to Apothecary at 13th and Sansom. Head Bartender Nicholas Jarrett is mixing up a special menu featuring variations on the Manhattan with Rittenhouse Bonded Rye whiskey. Mmm!

The menu is offered from 5PM to close with no cover, and will feature over 15 variations on O.H. Byron’s original 1884 Manhattan—a whisky and vermouth cocktail. With Manhattan recipes created by some of the star mixologists of the New York bar scene, it’s bringing the best of the Big Apple directly to Philly. Bevvies from Milk & Honey, Pegu Club, Death & Company, and more will be available in both tasting size and full size portions.

Apothecary’s signature whisky beverage, the Midtown Village, will of course be offered, as well as variations named for Philadelphia’s other neighborhoods such as the Fairmount, the Queen Village, and the Strawberry Mansion. Come out and drink some fantasticly delicious cocktails in Apothecary’s chill setting.

Apothecary
102 S 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 735-7500
www.apothecarylounge.com

To all my friends of the queer persuasion, the second annual Pink Pub Crawl is set to take place this Saturday March 21st at a number of your favorite “gayborhood” night spots. What better way to usher in the Spring season than with a bunch of friends, winding through the city streets and absorbing local color – the color pink to be exact.

Grab any article of clothing you could find that’s pink, special discounts will be offered for your bold and trendy statement.

Festivities are slated to begin sharply at 9:00 PM at Tavern on Camac (243 S. Camac St). At 10:30 PM crawlers will work their way to the second venue of the evening, The Bike Stop (206 S. Quince St) then its off to Woody’s, (13th and Walnut St) for music, dancing, and great drinks before the night ends at Philly’s most exclusive after hours club, PURE (1221 James St).

Tickets for the Pink Pub Crawl are $20.00 for those sporting pink clothing, and $30.00 for those who opt on more traditional colors. In return, party patron will receive one drink at each of the first three stops, as well as free admission to PURE. Altogether it’s a $35.00 value offered at a discounted price.

And for those of you who often run behind schedule and don’t make it to Tavern on Camac, you can join the crawlers at The Bike Stop with a $3.00 discount off the ticket prices.

For more information about the PINK Pub Crawl, visit www.pinkpubcrawl.com.

Throngs of party goers are set to descend into Old City on Friday, February 27th, for the 32º Luxe Lounge Anniversary party with Philly’s own DJ ?uestlove (Hip-Hop pioneer and drummer of the Roots). He’ll be there spinning the hottest and latest tracks for this special occasion.

This much talked about and highly anticipated anniversary party is not to be missed! 32º is celebrating 7 fabulous years of entertaining Philadelphia “glitterati.” A secluded VIP room set off the main dance floor is perfect for any party. In fact, 32º will host a special VIP pre-party with festivities kicking off at 9 PM. Hurry up and get on the list, seating is limited.

32º is located in the heart of Old City. Doors swing open at 10PM. Don’t miss a this chance to celebrate in one of Philly’s hottest night spots! I’ll be there with my dancing shoes! For more information visit their official website.

32 Degrees
10 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 627-3132
www.32lounge.com

Post by Jacqueline Rupp

Party like you’re in the French Quarter without having to go any farther south than Walnut Street. Philly’s own Rum Bar brings the best of the French Quarter’s Mardi Gras celebration north with it’s all day par-tay on Fat Tuesday, February 24 starting at 6:00 P.M.

No need for floats or parades here, Rum Bar has its priorities straight for Mardi Gras-lots of specialty drinks, including $3 Rum Barrel Lagers, $4 Cruzan & Coke and $5 Cruzan Hurricanes. There’s no cover charge to attend, but you do have to be over 21!

The lush Caribbean atmosphere of Rum Bar sets the perfect mood for a tropical Fat Tuesday festivity. But that’s not all for the Creole ambiance. Steel drummer Kristin Paradis will be performing live and a special Cajun menu featuring Louisiana goodness like étouffée, catfish fingers, jambalaya and other Big Easy favorites will be served up.

All this partying should give you a warm feeling inside, knowing you are helping a good cause. Rum Bar will be raising money during the celebration for the St. Bernard Project, a preeminent New Orleans charity that is working to rebuild the Katrina-devastated 9th Ward. $1 of all Cruzan Drinks goes to the project, which means the more you party, the more you contribute. Talk about a win-win deal!

Rum Bar Lounge & Restaurant
2005 Walnut Street, Philadelphia PA 19103
(215) 751-0404
www.rum-bar.com