PHILADELPHIA'S MULTICULTURAL EVENTS FOR 2010
JANUARY
NOVEMBER 14, 2009-FEBRUARY 28, 2010
THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES PRESENTS THE GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER EXHIBIT: This exhibit focuses on how the former slave became an educator, scientist, and humanitarian and how his life’s work impacted research for years to come. This exhibit will take place at the Academy of Natural Sciences on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Info: 215-299-1000, www.ansp.org
JANUARY 1, 2010
MUMMERS PARADE AND FANCY BRIGADE FINALE: This uniquely Philadelphian New Year’s Day parade features 20,000 spectacularly costumed string bands, fancy brigades, fancies and comics performing their traditional “strut” on Market Street. After the parade, come inside to watch the Fancy Brigade Finale at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Info: 215-925-7676, www.mummers.com
JANUARY 2-3, 2010
SHEN YUN PERFORMING ARTS: Classical Chinese dance, music, and more are brought to life in an exhilarating show by the world’s premiere Chinese dance and music company. Ancient legends of virtue are brought to life alongside modern tales of courage in this unique, thrilling, and unforgettable culmination of song, dance, and stunning backdrops. Info: www.shenyunperformingarts.org
JANUARY 6, 2010
THREE KINGS DAY: Hispanic celebrations will take place at various locations throughout Philadelphia with traditional performances, plays and other activities.
JANUARY 19, 2010
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. CELEBRATION: Diverse groups of Americans come together on the King Holiday to actively celebrate Dr. King's life of promoting social justice and helping others. Each year, the annual Greater Philadelphia King Day of Service has been the largest event associated with the holiday in the nation. Info: 215-665-2475, www.mlkdayofservice.org
JANUARY 30-FEBRUARY 7, 2010
PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW: The fifth largest auto show in the country takes place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Info: www.phillyautoshow.com
FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY 2010- MAY 2010
FAMILY STYLE OPEN MIC SERIES: Hosted by Michelle Myers and Catzie Vilayphonh of Yellow Rage, the popular Asian American open mic welcomes extended “family from all communities and cultures”. Each month includes a feature artist and a specific theme. To share a piece, come at least 30 minutes before showtime, or sign up in advance at www.AsianArtsInitative.org. Info: www.AsianArtsInitative.org
FEBRUARY 6, 2010
AFRICAN AMERICAN CHILDREN'S BOOK FAIR: The 18th Annual African American Children’s Book Fair will feature the books of some of today’s best-selling African American writers. Authors and illustrators will autograph and read from their books. A wide selection of affordable African American books for children, preschool to young adult, will be available for purchase. There will be lots of prizes, games and freebies too! Info: 215-878-Book
FEBRUARY 14, 2010
CHINESE NEW YEAR: A celebration of Chinese culture and heritage throughout Chinatown. Dragon parades and firecrackers mark every Sunday during the New Year’s celebrations, starting around noon. Come out and celebrate the year of the Tiger.
FEBRUARY 19, 2010- APRIL 30, 2010
CARRYING ACROSS: Curated by local artist Yvonne Lung, Carrying Across is a multi-media group exhibition that explores the nature, processes, and products of interpretation and translation. The findings range from morbidly beautiful to elegantly understated, hysterical to heartfelt. Info: www.AsianArtsInitiative.org
FEBRUARY 28, 2010
PAST/PRESENT CONNECTIONS: THE ROLE OF TRADITIONS IN CONTMPORARY INDIAN ART: Dr. Vishakha N. Desai, President and CEO of the Asia Society, highlights the visual and performing arts of modern-day India with a special focus on artists who mine the past to create contemporary works, and discusses the survival of traditional crafts in India’s rapidly modernizing society. This lecture is being given in honor of the late Stella Kramrisch, and is made possible by a grant from the Ralph E. Ogden Foundation through H. Peter Stern. Info: http://www.philamuseum.org/calendarEvents/adults/special_lectures.html
FEBRUARY 28-MARCH 7, 2010
PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW: Ten acres of lush gardens, lavish floral settings and inspirational displays at the Pennsylvania Convention Center make one of the largest and most prestigious flower shows in the world. Info: 215-988-8899, www.theflowershow.com
MARCH
MARCH–SEPTEMBER 2010
PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES BASEBALL: The Phillies take on the competition of the MLB at the Citizens Bank Park. Info: 215-463-1000, www.phillies.com
MARCH 5-APRIL 17, 2010
THE SUBARU 2010 GREATER PHILADELPHIA CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL: The Greater Philadelphia area will celebrate the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival, or Sakura Matsuri, as it is known in Japanese. The opening day of the Festival on Sakura Sunday, will feature performances of traditional Japanese culture and arts at the Horticulture Center in Fairmount Park. Info: 215-204-7422, www.jasgp.org
MARCH 6-13, 2010
PHILLY BEER WEEK: Philadelphia is known around the world for its savvy beer-drinkers. Many of the best imported German lagers and Belgian ales are shipped first to Philadelphia, while the rest of the country has to be satisfied with meager leftovers. Meanwhile, every American microbrewery either sends its kegs to Philadelphia, or wishes it could. Coupled with Philadelphia’s tradition and history with beer (America’s first lager!), this is a week beer lovers should not miss! Info: www.phillybeerweek.org
APRIL
APRIL 11, 2010
SAKURA SUNDAY: Participate in a spring celebration of Japanese arts and culture! Sakura Sunday is Philadelphia's own o-hanami, the Japanese tradition of revelry beneath the blossoming cherry trees. The centerpiece event of the festival will feature live music, dance, performances, martial arts demonstrations, tea ceremony presentations, origami and calligraphy, workshops, shiatsu massage, Japanese food and much more. Info: www.phillycherryblossom.org
APRIL 14, 2010
SAKE FEST: This unique tasting event features the finest Japanese and American brewers pairing their delicious sakes with an array of food from Philadelphia's renowned restaurants. Come learn about the rich history and versatility of sake. Info: www.sakefest.com
APRIL 15-18, 2010
KIMMEL CENTER PRESENTS: PHILADANCO: Philadanco, a dance company founded in 1970, flawlessly blends African-American dance with ballet, jazz, and modern. Come and see what the excitement is all about as Joan Myers Brown and her 17 dancers celebrate their 40th Anniversary at the Kimmel Center. Info: 215- 387-8200, www.philadanco.org
APRIL 18-25, 2010
PHILADELPHIA BLACK GAY PRIDE: Organized in 1999, this annual celebration was created to support unity among African Americans and people of African descent who are sexual minorities. Info: 1-877-487-7247, www.phillyblackpride.org
APRIL 22-24, 2010
PENN RELAYS: The world’s oldest and largest track meet, at the University of Pennsylvania, includes 5K and 10K meets, road races, a decathlon, heptathlon and a celebratory carnival. Info: 215-898-6151, www.thepennrelays.com
MAY
MAY 2010
JAM ON THE RIVER: Philadelphia’s, “official kick-off to summer,” includes a weekend of great music, food and crafts New Orleans style. Junior Jam highlights children’s activities, while adults celebrate the musical genres of Dixieland, jazz and zydeco on the waterfront at Penn’s Landing. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing. Info: 215-923-2061, www.delawareriverwaterfrontcorp.com
MAY 1 2010
TWO COUNTRIES, ONE CAUSE.:. BENEFIT CONCERT THE PHILIPPINES & HATI: Concerned students at Temple University have joined together to form a benefit concert to raise funds for the Philippines and Haiti; two countries that have recently been hit with natural disasters. There will be performances by top Filipino artists, Haitian artists, and special guests. Info: http://twocountriesonecause.eventbrite.com
MAY 7, 2010- JUNE 25, 2010
THE WORLD THROUGH OUR EYES: Discover the subtle beauties of contemporary Cambodia and the rich resilience of its youth. The series of photographs displayed in The World Through Our Eyes reveal a vibrant statement by youth countering the stereotypes of artistic and emotional desolation in the developing world. Info: www.AsianArtsInitiative.org
MAY 7-9, 2010
LATIN ROOTS & RHYTHMS FESTIVAL: Raíces Culturales Latinoamericanas Inc. proudly invites you to their first annual Latin Roots & Rhythms Festival! This three-day festival celebrates Latin American, Spanish and African dance, music, and culture with 14 hours of entertainment, food, crafts, workshops and authentic cultural performances. Info: www.LatinRootsandRhythmsFestival.com
MAY 29-31, 2010
17TH ANNUAL CHEROKEE INDIAN FESTIVAL: Sponsored by the Southeastern Cherokee Confederacy of Pennsylvania, this outdoor festival held at Temple University's Ambler Campus, showcases a variety of Native American cultures featuring native dancing, vendors and crafts. Info: 215-549-4191, www.secherokee-confederacypa.org/events.html
MAY 30, 2010
PORTUGUESE HERITAGE FESTIVAL: A celebration of Portuguese heritage including folk dancing groups, live Portuguese music, an Arts and Crafts Expo, and a variety of Portuguese restaurants. This festival is part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing. Info: www.delawareriverwaterfrontcorp.com
JUNE
JUNE 2010
ASIAN FESTIVAL: This annual festival is based on the celebration of Asian culture featuring food and entertainment. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing. Info: www.delawareriverwaterfrontcorp.com
June 5, 2010- January 2, 2011
CLEOPATRA: THE SEARCH FOR THE LAST QUEEN OF EGYPT: More than 250 artifacts and multimedia features will transport visitors from modern-day Philadelphia to ancient Egypt, where the elusive queen Cleopatra ruled as the last Pharaoh before the Romans took power. Info: 215- 448-1200
JUNE 13, 2010
ODUNDE AFRICAN AMERICAN STREET FESTIVAL: For 34 years, thousands in Philadelphia have celebrated the arrival of a new year in the Yoruba tradition of Nigeria, West Africa. This outdoor festival stretches 10 blocks and encompasses live performances and the largest outdoor vendor market of the year. Info: 215-732-8510, www.odundeinc.org
JUNE 13, 2010
ISLAMIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL: Celebrate Islamic culture with music, foods, crafts and educational programs at Penn’s Landing. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing. Info: 215-922-2386, www.delawareriverwaterfrontcorp.com
JUNE 13, 2010
RETURN OF THE QUILTS--KANTHAS FROM INDIA TOUCH, TEXTURE, AND FAMILY TIES: KANTHAS IN BENGALI HOUSEHOLDS: Join The Philadelphia Museum of Art in celebrating the Indian Kantha with two lectures in one day! Lectures to be held in the Van Pelt Auditorium at The Philadelphia Museum of Art. Info: http://www.philamuseum.org/calendarEvents/adults/special_lectures.html
JUNE 18-20, 2010
ANNUAL FATHER’S DAY WEEKEND: A weekend celebration honoring fathers with a reception and a picnic. Info: 215-236-3372
JUNE 19-20, 2010
7TH ANNUAL WEST OAK LANE JAZZ FESTIVAL: About 400,000 people will head to Ogontz Avenue for the seventh annual West Oak Lane Jazz and Arts Festival, which includes three days of free, non-stop music with more than 65 bands on four outdoor stages, along with arts and crafts vendors and fun activities for the whole family. Info: 1-877-WOL-JAZZ, www.westoaklanefestival.com
JUNE 20, 2010
20TH ANNUAL FATHER'S DAY PICNIC: Join fathers and their families from throughout Philadelphia for a day filled with food, games and fun! The Father's Day Rally Committee will host this picnic at Belmont Grove, in Fairmont Park. Info: 215-236-3372
JUNE 25-JULY 4, 2010
Wawa WELCOME AMERICA!: Philadelphia invites you to celebrate America’s birthday in America’s birthplace with more than 50 fun and free events honoring Independence Day. Info: 215-683-2200, www.americasbirthday.com
JULY
JULY 1-4, 2010
TIGER WOOD’S AT&T NATIONAL EVENT: The AT&T National Event pays tribute to the men and women in our Armed Forces by bringing together 120 of golf’s finest players together for a tournament to support the Tiger Woods Foundation, held at Aronimink Golf Club. The Golf Club will represent the first professional golf event held in the Philadelphia area since the Senior PGA Championship played at Aronimink in 2003. Info: www.pga.com
JULY 10, 2010
35TH ANNUAL PHILADELPHIA GREEK PICNIC: The Philadelphia Greek Picnic continues to be the nation’s oldest reunion for the members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council and for the people who have supported them over the years. Info: www.phillygreek.com
JULY 10-11, 2010
30TH HISPANIC FIESTA AT PENN’S LANDING: Two fun-filled days featuring music, dance, entertainment, ethnic food and artisans from Puerto Rico and other parts of Latin America take place at Columbus Blvd & Chestnut Streets. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing. Info: 215-922-2386, www.delawareriverwaterfrontcorp.com, or 215-627-3100, www.elconcilio.net/index.html
JULY 12-17, 2010
MAC GLOBAL FUSION FESTIVAL WEEK: Philly brings the world together again this summer during Global Fusion Week, July 12th -17th. This electrifying week of non-stop entertainment, draws diverse communities together to celebrate the “cultural fusion” of the world. Fusion-inspired events take place across Philadelphia all week, wrapping-up Saturday with a FREE festival featuring big-name performers, ethnic dancers & vendors, and kid's activities! Bring your heritage along with your appetite and experience Philadelphia’s hottest summer event. Info: www.GlobalFusionFestival.com
THE BLACK WOMEN’S ART FESTIVAL: This 4-day festival hosts over 50 artists from around the globe showcasing their talents in: performance, visual arts, literary arts and film. BWAF looks to empower the community and be positive role models for the youth. Info: 215-951-0330 ext. 2108, http://bwafphilly.homestead.com/index.html
AUGUST
AUGUST 2010
ACANA AFRICAN FESTIVAL: Festival highlighting African American history and culture with live performances and a marketplace on Penn’s Landing. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing. Info: 215-922-2386, www.delawareriverwaterfrontcorp.com
AUGUST 2010
FESTIVAL OF INDIA: A celebration of East Asian culture with live stage entertainment and traditional foods and crafts at Penn’s Landing. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing. Info: 215-922-2386, www.delawareriverwaterfrontcorp.com
AUGUST 2010
CARIBBEAN FESTIVAL: A celebration of Caribbean culture with live stage entertainment and traditional foods and crafts at Penn’s Landing. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing. Info: 215-922-2386, www.delawareriverwaterfrontcorp.com
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER 8, 2010
21ST ANNUAL HISPANIC JOB FAIR: Held at the Concilio Ballroom, check out this job fair with a resume in hand. Info: 215-627-3100, www.elconcilio.net/index.html
SEPTEMBER 10, 2010
GOYA LATINO FAMILY NIGHT: PHILLIES VS. BREWERS: Goya Foods, the largest Hispanic-owned food company in the United States, will once again team up with the Phillies to host the Goya Latino Family Celebration & Food Drive.The celebration pays tribute to Hispanic Heritage Month and includes on-field performances from national and local artists, as well as a food drive to help needy families in the Latino community.
SEPTEMBER 10, 2010
4TH ANNUAL HEALTH PARTNERS LATINO DIABETES EVENT: Help bring awareness to Latinos with diabetes at the 4th Annual Health Partners Latino Diabetes Event. Info: 215-627-3100, www.elconcilio.net/index.html
SEPTEMBER 12, 2010
MEXICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY: A celebration of Mexican independence with music, foods, crafts and educational programs at Penn’s Landing. This event is one of the many great festivals taking place as part of this year's PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing. Info: 215-922-2386, www.delawareriverwaterfrontcorp.com
SEPTEMBER 18, 2010
48TH ANNUAL PUERTO RICAN FESTIVAL AWARDS GALA: This annual awards gala is being held in the Hyatt Regency Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing. Tickets are required. Info: 215-627-3100, www.elconcilio.net/index.html
SEPTEMBER 20, 2010
FLAG RAISING CEREMONY: Hosted by Councilwoman Maria Quiñonez Sanchez, the Flag Raising Ceremony will take place at the Northeast Corner of City Hall. Info: 215-637-3100, http://www.elconcilio.net/Festival/flag_raising/flag_raising.htm
SEPTEMBER 23, 2010
PUERTO RICAN FESTIVAL MASS: The 23rd annual Puerto Rican Festival Mass will take place at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul in Center City, as a spiritual gathering to celebrate faith and to commemorate the Puerto Rican Festival. Info: 215-637-3100, http://www.elconcilio.net/Festival/catholic_mass/catholic_mass.htm
SEPTEMBER 26, 2010
48TH ANNUAL REGIONAL PUERTO RICAN DAY PARADE: This annual parade from the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to Independence Hall, celebrates the culture of Puerto Rican heritage. Info: 215-627-3100, www.elconcilio.net/index.html
OCTOBER
OCTOBER 2010
HALLOWEEN GHOST TOURS: There is terror behind the walls! The Eastern State Penitentiary’s crumbling walls, rusting cell doors and vaulted corridors have left tens of thousands of visitors unnerved for this ghoulish month-long event. Info: 215-236-5111, www.easternstate.com
OCTOBER 4, 2010
PHILADELPHIA DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL: Stroll along the Schuylkill River to watch this ancient Chinese tradition of brilliantly-festooned dragon-headed boats and festivities. Info: 610-642-2333, www.philadragonboatfestival.com
OCTOBER 10, 2010
24TH BOOKS AND CRAFTS FAIR: At this family event, find great books or attend a clay workshop. Info: 215-627-3100, www.elconcilio.net/index.html
NOVEMBER
NOVEMBER 2010-APRIL 2011
PHILADELPHIA 76ERS BASKETBALL: The 76ers take on the competition of the NBA at the Wachovia Center. Info: 215-465-4500, www.sixers.com
NOVEMBER 7-9, 2010
PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL ART EXPO: The largest African American art show and sale in the country attracts more than 20,000 art lovers to view the work of the nation’s leading African-American artists and emerging stars. The 24th annual event takes place at the Liacouras Center at Temple University. Info: 215-629-3939, www.octobergallery.com
NOVEMBER 25, 2010
THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE: The oldest parade of its kind celebrates the beginning of the holiday season with elaborate floats, toe-tapping music and the arrival of Santa Claus. The parade, which takes place on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, features the largest number of helium balloons in the country. Info: 215-581-4529
NOVEMBER 27, 2010-JANUARY 11, 2011
CHRISTMAS AT LONGWOOD GARDENS: During the holiday season at Longwood Gardens, thousands of poinsettias, Christmas trees, and fragrant flowers transform the indoor gardens into a concert space and holiday celebration. Outside, 400,000 lights shine after dark against Longwood’s many shimmering fountains. Info: 610-388-1000, www.longwoodgardens.org
DECEMBER
DECEMBER 11, 2010
2010 ARMY-NAVY FOOTBALL GAME: A longstanding American tradition built around one of the nation’s oldest rivalries, the football game between the military academies of Annapolis and West Point will be played in the Philadelphia Lincoln Financial Field. Info: www.PhillyLovesArmyNavy.com
DECEMBER 26, 2010-JANUARY 1, 2011
KWANZAA CELEBRATION: Celebrations will take place at various locations throughout Philadelphia with traditional performances, storytelling and other activities. Info: 215-769-7324
DECEMBER 26-28 AND 30-JANUARY 1, 2011
AAMP CELEBRATES KWANZAA AT THE GALLERY AT MARKET EAST: This seven day event, from noon-4 PM, features daily candle lighting ceremony and introduction to Kwanzaa symbols and principles. Along with a screening of The Black Candle: The Story of Kwanzaa - A film by M.K. Asante Jr., there will be live traditional music, dance, drumming, storytelling, historical re-enactments, face painting, balloon art, and a Kwanzaa craft and game workshop.
COMING SOON
MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER PHILADELPHIA: MLS is expanding with a Philadelphia team in Chester. The ground breaking construction of the 18,500 seat stadium in Chester occurred December 1st, 2008. The stadium is located just 13 miles outside of Philadelphia. Info: www.mlsnet.com
NOTE: Event dates subject to change. Dates listed where available and admission is required to some of the events. Call the numbers listed or visit the Web sites for more detail. For additional information, visit www.PhiladelphiaMAC.org
