Going to college in Philly, we’re so often bombarded—both on social media and in real life—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
Feb. 8–June 1: Christina Ramberg: A Retrospective at The Philadelphia Museum of Art
Best known for her fragmented explorations of feminine beauty rituals and standards, Christina Ramberg was an influential figure in Chicago’s contemporary art world. This exhibition features close to 100 pieces—from paintings, to quilts, to sketches—that span her 20–year career. They’re also accompanied by essays and other archived writing, allowing viewers a glimpse into the thought process behind the art.
$14 for students, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
April 12–Sept. 1: Boom: Art and Design in the 1940s at The Philadelphia Museum of Art
This PMA exhibit delves into the art of the ’40s in all its forms: clothing, paintings, furniture, and more. The decade was a time of social, political, and economic contention, bringing with it a prolific era of artistic expression. Tickets always include regular admission to the PMA.
$35, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
April 15: Sex ed trivia at Tattooed Mom
How do you define sex? Is there a limited number of eggs? What’s the female equivalent of being pegged? These are questions that seem to baffle Street staff, but if they don’t baffle you, try your hand at some sex ed trivia. As a bonus, all proceeds go to the If/When/How Reproductive Legal Defense Fund.
21+, suggested donation of $5, 6–9 p.m., 530 South St.
April 16: Lucy Dacus at The Met Philadelphia
Lucy Dacus, a fan favorite of Street, is making a stop in Philly this month. Catch her on her Forever Is a Feeling Tour and cry at the barricade to this beautiful angel of music. With her beautifully rich vocals and sweetly melancholic melodies, a night of hearing Lucy Dacus live will change your life.
Tickets start at $65, 7:15 p.m., 858 N. Broad St.
April 17: Mod Podge: A Variety Night at Fringe Bar
No, it’s not a scrapbooking event or craft night. Mod Podge at Fringe Bar is a eclectic collection of performances that will titillate and delight audiences. Featuring drag shows, stand–up, and the occasional clown, the fast–paced two–hour show will keep audiences on their toes. The best part? It features all local artists!
$15 for students, 8 p.m., 140 N. Christopher Columbus Blvd.
April 18: Make & Take Activity at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
Take a piece of the beautiful Magic Gardens home with you. The event includes general admission to the Gardens and the opportunity to create your own mini–mosaic fridge magnet. Let the colorful hodgepodge of this Philly staple make your day every time you open the fridge.
$20 for students, 12:30 pm–2:30 pm, 1020 South St.
April 26: Karaoke night field trip at Let Me Know Club
What better way to shake off finals stress than belting out your favorite tunes at Yakitori Boy? If you don’t feel moved to sing along, don’t worry: This is an introvert–friendly night out! You’re always welcome to sit back and enjoy the performance, snack, and soak in the ambiance.
$10, 211 N. 11th St.
April 26–27: Panda Fest at Dilworth Park
This nationwide festival is making a pit stop in Philly this month. Filled with Asian street food vendors, performances, and all things pandas, Panda Fest is one event you won’t want to miss out on.
Tickets start at $12, 10 a.m.–10 p.m., 1 S. 15th St.
April 27: StrEAT Food Festival at Main Street Manayunk
Dumplings, crepes, and barbecue, oh my! This street food festival has it all. Walk through the beautiful neighborhood of Manayunk and enjoy some unforgettable food. This fest also offers live music on different stages—we like to call that dinner and a show.
Free, 11 a.m.–5 p.m., 4000 Main St.
May 8–11: La Sylphide with Études at the Academy of Music
Performing a double feature of two different shows, the Philadelphia Ballet is bringing a weekend of dreamlike dancing to the stage. Flow through the hazy world of a farmer in the Scottish highlands discovering the magic of the forest, then follow up with a showcase of impressive ballet techniques to the classical score of Carl Czerny.
Tickets start at $28.25, 240 S. Broad St.
May 10: Eat the Weeds! at the Morris Arboretum and Gardens
Not often does one get to forage for their food in the city, but the Morris Arboretum is offering the chance to do just that this spring. Taught by Tama Wong, this class allows participants to forage for plants and then learn how to cook with what they find. Return to your roots, literally!
$55, 10:30 a.m., 100 E. Northwestern Ave.
May 12: Deafheaven at Union Transfer
It seems like spring is finally here, but if you already miss the grey gloom of Philly winters, Deafheaven is here to bring you back into your misery. The San Francisco–based death metal band brings its incredible multipart harmonies and powerful vocals to Union Transfer in May—don’t miss out.
Tickets start at $29, 1026 Spring Garden St.
May 15–16: Japanese Breakfast at The Met Philadelphia
Whether you know Michelle Zauner from crying over Crying in H Mart or her melodic indie vocals, join in soaking up the gloomy, pensive sound of Japanese Breakfast’s newest album. The band will be returning to its roots this spring: Not only is Zauner a graduate of Bryn Mawr College, but also, the band was formed in Philly in 2013—what better place to return than the grandiose interior of this former opera house turned concert venue? This concert is for melancholy brunettes, sad women, and anyone who needs something to look forward to after finals week.
Tickets start at $88, 858 N. Broad St.
