Going to college in Philly, we’re so often bombarded—on social media and IRL—with seemingly endless options for how to spend our free time. So I’m delighted to announce that Street has done the hard part for you: We’ve rounded up what we think are the can’t–miss events for the month in one convenient place. If I’ve done my job right, there’ll be something in here for every one of our readers, no matter what you like to do with your free time.
—Jules Lingenfelter, Print Managing Editor
Sept.14, 2024–March 2: Shared Vision: Portraits from the CCH Pounder-Koné Collection @ African American Museum in Philadelphia
The Shared Vision: Portraits from the CCH Pounder-Koné Collection exhibition at the African American Museum highlights 40 works of art that explore the artistic legacy of the African diaspora. If you’ve been searching for a way to get an insider view of Philly’s vibrant art scene, grab your friends and make the trip to the exhibit before the end of March!
Student tickets with ID $10, 701 Arch St.
Nov. 15, 2024–March 9, 2025: Wintergarden @ Greenfield Lawn
Looking for a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of campus? Search no further. Wintergarden at Greenfield Lawn offers a picturesque sanctuary for taking a midday stroll with your friends or finding solace in the nature’s tranquility. Complete with reindeer topiaries and twinkling lights, you can enjoy the explore the garden at no cost!
Free, 1 S. 15th St.
Jan. 16–March 2: Holy Grail of Memphis @ the Arden Theater
Looking to support your local theater in the heart of Old City? Don’t miss the Arden’s production of Holy Grail of Memphis, a new comedy play by an up–and–coming Philadelphia playwright about a young man who discovers the long–lost recordings of a legendary bluesman in the basement of his granddaddy’s rundown music studio and resolves to rebuild his legacy. Bring your friends, grab some popcorn, and have a night!
Tickets start at $38, 40 N. Second St.
Jan. 31–Feb. 27: Black ‘90s Curated Film Series @ the Philadelphia Film Society
Join PFS for a weeklong celebration of ‘90s–era Black cinema! The lineup includes many beloved comedies, romances, crime flicks, and more. And did we mention it’s happening all month?
Tickets $14, 1412 Chestnut St.
Feb. 4, 11, 18, and 25: Tuesday Tea @ Carpenters’ Hall
Rediscover the childlike joy of a simple tea party by joining your friends at Carpenters’ Hall to indulge in an array of sweet and savory treats! A hidden architectural jewel tucked away in Old City, Carpenter’s Hall is offering a Rosenbach tea tour along with an authentic tea party, at which the hall’s rarely seen six–piece silver tea service will be on display!
Tickets $85, 3:30–5 p.m., 320 Chestnut St.
Feb. 10: Kelsea Ballerini concert @ Wells Fargo Center
Kelsea Ballerini has been making waves in the world of girl–pop country music for years, and now she’s bringing her talents to Philly. Grab a friend and a cowboy hat and hop on the SEPTA for a great night!
Tickets start at $65, 7 p.m., 3601 S. Broad St.
Feb.14: Valentine’s Day Tours @ Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
The perfect Valentine’s Day date: exploring the magic of things stuck in concrete on South Street, while learning about the love story of the founder Isaiah Zagar and his wife Julia. Whether it be a date night with a romantic partner, a group outing with friends, or perhaps even a solo trip, Magic Gardens is the place to be on this day celebrating love.
Tickets $25, 6:30–9 p.m., 1020 South St.
Feb. 14: Sweetheart Skate @ Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
In the excess of jest and jamboree that Winterfest has to offer, there’s the sparkling opportunity to hold hands with that special someone and indulge in flights of fantasy—all whilst enjoying a spectacular view of the Delaware River. Tickets include roses, a keepsake photo, and complimentary hot cocoa. Don’t miss it!
Tickets $23, 7–11 p.m., 101 S. Columbus Blvd.
Feb. 14–15: With Love, Philly: Make Love Marketplace @ Love Park
Have you ever wanted to get married at the LOVE statue? Or at least buy some Valentines day gifts from local artisans? Now and Then Marketplace and Philly Parks and Rec have the collaboration event for you! From Feb. 14–15, hang out in Love Park, peruse the marketplace, and maybe even engage in a little speed dating.
Free (but $250 per marriage), Arch and 16th streets
Feb. 15–Sept. 1: BODY WORLDS: Vital @ the Franklin Institute
Any pre–med students should be sure to mark this on their calendars: an exhibition that uncovers (literally) the human body. Examine real human specimens and the things that go on right underneath our skin.
Tickets start at $20, 222 N. 20th St.
Feb. 17: Lauren Mayberry @ Union Transfer
The former frontwoman for CHVRCHES, Lauren Mayberry has found inspiration as a solo artist from musicians like Fiona Apple and Tori Amos, whom she listened to in her girlhood bedroom in Scotland. Her debut solo album, Vicious Creature, is both nostalgic and forward thinking, a glittering tribute to both girlhood and womanhood.
Tickets $35–40, 8 p.m., 1026 Spring Garden St.
Feb. 20: Philly Mag’s Wine and Dine @ Ensemble Arts Philly Kimmel Center
Searching for the perfect spot to wine and dine? Check out Philly Mag’s event where you can taste over 400 premium wines paired with top–notch cuisine from the restaurants featured in Philadelphia magazine’s 50 Best Restaurants list. The night will be complete with on–site sommeliers and winemakers, so make sure to grab a spot.
21+, Tickets $125, 6–9 p.m., 300 S. Broad St.
Feb. 24: A Reading by Patti Smith @ Kelly Writers House
Fanatics of the punk–rock legend and her iconic memoir Just Kids will be happy to know that Patti Smith is gracing us with her presence at Kelly Writer’s House on Feb. 24. If you can’t make it to the reading, you can attend the conversation with her the following morning at 10 a.m.
Free, 6:30 p.m., 3805 Locust Walk
Feb. 25: Father John Misty @ the Fillmore
You need to see the incredible Father John Misty make even straight love seem romantic at the Fillmore this February!
Tickets start at $110, 8 p.m., 29 E. Allen St.
March 1–9: PHS Flower Show: Gardens of Tomorrow @ the Pennsylvania Convention Center
The world’s grandest indoor plant competition takes place at the convention center this March! Explore the gardens of the future: flower hybrids, sustainable ecosystems, and all the possibilities that Philly’s gardeners have come up with for the next decades.
Student tickets $25, 1101 Arch St.
March 6–16: Swan Lake @ the Academy of Music
Whether you’re familiar with the story through the Barbie DVD or the actual ballet, you’re sure to enjoy Angel Corella’s reprisal of this classic. The musical compositions of Pyotr Tchaikovsky accompany Philly’s most talented dancers en pointe as they navigate a story of yearning, sorcery, and true love.
Tickets start at $25, 240 S. Broad St.
March 7: Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra @ the Barnes Foundation
For one night only, the local chamber orchestra is bringing their music live to the Barnes Foundation. Enjoy a walk through one of the world’s leading centers of impressionism and post–impressionism with the inventive music of the Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra. Not only will visitors have access to the main gallery, but they’ll also get a chance to view the Barnes’ newest exhibition Cecily Brown: Themes and Variations.
Student tickets $10, 6 p.m., 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
March 8: Whiskey Walk @ the Philadelphia Zoo
Alcohol and animal enthusiasts rejoice! Sample whiskey at eight different stations throughout the zoo while strolling around to admire exhibits, all while supporting the mission of discovery and conservation. Just remember, the animals can’t partake in any food (or drink).
21+, Tickets $65, 11 a.m.–6 p.m., 3400 W. Girard Ave.
March 8: Jorja Smith @ the Met Philadelphia
The British R&B vocalist Jorja Smith is bring her falling or flying tour to Philly this March. An exploration of fame and navigating through the public sphere, Smith’s poignant lyrics and grounding sounds are a live experience you don’t want to miss.
Tickets start at $56, 8 p.m., 858 N. Broad St.
