16 Things to Do in Philly This Weekend
Get our weekly picks of what to do this weekend and the latest on Philly's arts and entertainment scene.
Philly Photo Day
Attention photo enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels: Fascinated by the cityscape and beautiful people of Philadelphia? Send in your best pictures of the city for Philly Photo Day this Friday to the Philadelphia Photo Arts Center. The images will be compiled into a November exhibit, and the best 3 will be selected for display throughout SEPTA platforms. Friday, October 9th, all day.
He Named Me Malala
Fiftenn-year-old Malala Yousafzai was shot in the head by the Taliban for trying to get an education as a young girl in Pakistan, and survived. This documentary explores the story of the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, and how she inspires folks across the globe. Through October 15th, various times, $7-$7.50 online, Ritz Five theatre.
"Mia Rosenthal: Paper Lens"
Inspired by her trip to Switzerland's Large Hadron Collider, PAFA alumna Mia Rosenthal connects the microscopic to the extraterrestrial in her new exhibit at the Academy, "Paper Lens." The exhibition will be part of the renewed Morris Gallery program that showcases both upcoming and more-seasoned Philadelphia artists. Through January 3rd, $0-$15, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Morris Gallery, Historic Landmark Building.
Kurt Vile & The Violators at Union Transfer
Philly native Kurt Vile is back for another sold-out performance after playing Johnny Brenda's with his band The Violators last week, just days after the release of b'lieve i'm going down… The indie rocker's sixth album brings dark introspection and folk twang, while aiming for a "back-to-the-couch" songwriting approach. Listen before you go: "Pretty Pimpin." Friday, October 9th, 8:30 pm, Union Transfer.
Jewish Film Festival's PreFest
In anticipation of the official festival from November 7th to 21st, see four moving films about survival and endurance from the Jewish Film Festival in Center City and suburban Philadelphia. Before the final film, Imber's Left Hand (pictured), about a Jewish painter with ALS, there will be an exhibition of film posters by festival intern Kathleen Kazmier. Through Monday, October 12th, various times, $10 each, various locations.
Art of Tom Everhart
Educated at Yale University of Art and Architecture and the Musée de l’Orangerie, artist Tom Everhart developed a close relationship with his friend and mentor Charles Schulz, the creator of Peanuts. Ocean Galleries will host an exhibit of some of the world-renowned fine arts work by Everhart, inspired by the beloved comic strip characters. Through Monday, October 12th, 10 am, free, Ocean Galleries, Stone Harbor NJ.
Pearl Street Block Party
Along with 2015 DesignPhiladelphia Festival and pop-up exhibit Pearl Street Passage, the Asian Arts Initiative (AAI) will host its third annual Pearl Street Block Party. Live shows, music and interactive art displays by AAI's artists will be enjoyed during the festivities. Tickets for an evening community dinner can also be purchased in a pay-what-you-want fashion. Saturday, October 10th, 2 pm, free, 1200 block of Pearl Street.
Seafood and Music Festival
Who doesn't love a free street fair with food? In Wildwood, partake in pie-eating contests, games and crafts for the Seafood and Music Festival. There will be two stages for music performances, including Animal House and The Chameleon Band. Bring the kids along for face- and pumpkin-painting, and bouncy-house fun. Saturday, October 10th, 11 am, free, Atlantic Avenue between Wildwood and Schellenger Avenues, Wildwood, NJ.
Laura Shay Band at Tin Angel
Philly singer-songwriter Laura Shay has a strong and soothing voice that, like the city itself, rings of northern and southern influence. A self-described occasional musician, Shay is a full-time speech-language pathologist that bares her creative soul in powerful acoustic melodies. Listen before you go: "I Take It All." Saturday, October 10th, 8 pm, Tin Angel.
Old City Fest
Old City is a place of art and history. With DesignPhiladelphia, this year's family-friendly Old City Fest will offer over 100 food and shopping vendors, artist displays, pop-up street performances, and a design showcase. Look out for performances from the likes of the West Philadelphia Orchestra, Polkadelphia, and the Philadelphia Dance Academy. Sunday, October 11th, noon, pay as you go, 3rd and Arch Streets.
OutFest
For National Coming Out Day, Philly's Gayborhood leads a celebration of LGBT+ pride in the 25th annual OutFest. The first and largest event of its kind, the 10-block party will feature drag shows, vendor booths, food and drink, as well as special events like the Gloria Casarez mural dedication. Sunday, October 11th, noon pay as you go, the Gayborhood, 13th and Locust Streets.
Whoopi Goldberg
Throughout her decorated career, Goldberg has artfully embraced both drama and comedy, becoming one of the few esteemed EGOT winners (recipient of an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award). The always outspoken The View co-host will perform at Valley Forge Casino Resort, followed by a Q&A session. Saturday, October 10th, 8 pm, $62-$85, Valley Forge Casino Resort, King of Prussia.
Brandi Carlile at Fillmore Philadelphia
Singer-songwriter and Looking Out Foundation founder Brandi Carlile visits the newly opened Fillmore Philadelphia this weekend with her band. The country-folk artist released her sixth record, The Firewatcher's Daughter, this past year, ringing of country soulfulness and acoustic harmonies. Sunday, October 11th, 8 pm, $37.50.
Joey Bada$$ at TLA
This raspy-voiced Brooklyn rapper is a unique blend of old-school flow and of-the-moment lyrics. Only 20, he’s already caught the attention of the hip-hop industry and more mainstream tastes, performing earlier this year on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. One reviewer described his all-out stage performances, “like a one-man Wu-Tang Clan.” Described as “deeply lyrical” this young talent sets himself apart with tracks such as “Waves” and “Christ Conscious.” Sunday, October 11th, 7 pm, $26.
Questlove Supreme at the Fillmore
Another Philly great is set to break in the brand new stage at the Foundry, the top floor of new venue The Fillmore Philadelphia. The Roots musician and producer Questlove will close out next weekend DJing at the Fillmore's "club within a club." Listen before you go: Questlove DJ Set. Sunday, October 11th, 11 pm, The Foundry, The Fillmore.
Submit An Event
Have an event you'd like featured in an upcoming "Things to Do" post? Send information to ksordjan@phillymag.com.
