Out and About: What’s Happening in Philly
Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson: The Cosmic Perspective
Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson is an award-winning astrophysicist, author, and science communicator born and raised in New York City. He graduated from the Bronx High School of Science, earned a BA in Physics from Harvard, and completed a PhD in Astrophysics at Columbia University. He has been a significant advisor on U.S. space policy, serving on presidential commissions and NASA’s Advisory Council. He is the director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History and a research associate in its Department of Astrophysics.
When: Monday, Oct. 20 at 7 p.m.
Where: Marian Anderson Hall, inside the Kimmel Center, 300 S. Broad St.
Broadway Cabaret at Rittenhouse Grill
Philadelphia’s only Broadway cabaret venue is proud to present acclaimed Broadway performer and jazz vocalist Darius de Haas in a solo cabaret performance. Darius de Haas is celebrated for his versatile Broadway performances, including roles in renowned productions such as “RENT,” “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” and “Carousel.” Rooted in a rich musical legacy, Darius brings both jazz sophistication and Broadway flair to his performances.
When: Monday, Oct. 20
Where: Rittenhouse Grill, 1701 Locust St.
Ethiopian Cultural Center Mural Dedication
Mural Arts has partnered with the Ethiopian Cultural Center to create a new mural on their facade, designed by local photographer and filmmaker Sosena Solomon. Solomon is an Ethiopian American and currently teaches at the Community College of Philadelphia. Her recent work includes a commission by the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the World Monuments Fund to produce a 12-part film series documenting her journey across Africa, showcasing the continent’s rich cultural heritage.
In collaboration with the Ethiopian Cultural Center’s board and with input from the community, she has developed a mural utilizing photographs from her travels across Ethiopia along with references provided by the Ethiopian community in Philadelphia.
When: Tuesday, Oct. 21 from 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Where: Ethiopian Cultural Center, 4400 Chestnut St.
“Kimberly Akimbo”
In this “howlingly funny heartbreaker of a show” (The New Yorker), Kim is forced to navigate family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush, and possible felony charges. Ever the optimist, she is determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure.
Named Best Musical by the Tony Awards, New York Drama Critics Circle, The Drama Desk Awards, The Lucille Lortel Awards, and The Outer Critics Circle Awards, “Kimberly Akimbo” also won four additional Tony Awards including Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical, Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical, Best Score (David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori), and Best Book (David Lindsay-Abaire).
With her win for Kimberly Akimbo, Jeanine Tesori made history as the first female composer to win two Tony Awards for Best Score. Kimberly is about to turn 16 and recently moved with her family to a new town in suburban New Jersey.
When: Tuesday, Oct. 21 – Nov. 2
Where: Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.
Storytime in the Square
Join Ms. Chen from Independence Branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia every other Wednesday for free storytime and crafts in the Pavilion or on the Great Lawn. Stories, rhymes, and dancing explore different themes throughout the season ending with bubbles and fun crafts. All kids and their caregivers are welcome.
When: Ends Wednesday, Oct. 22 from 10-11 a.m.
Where: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th St.
Día de los Muertos Ofrenda
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens partners with artist Ivonne Pinto-Garcia to create a special Día de los Muertos ofrenda (altar) in the Back Gallery. The Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday where families welcome back the souls of their deceased relatives for a reunion that includes food, drink, and celebration.
Guests are welcome to leave notes or photos in remembrance of loved ones who have passed.
When: Wednesday, Oct. 22 – Nov. 3
Where: Magic Gardens Museum, 1020 South St.
“You Are Welcome Here; I Saved a Chair for You” at William Way LGBT Center
Running through October, this exhibition features an inspiring collection of weavings and drawings by fiber artist Kathryn Pannepacker, whose practice centers on community, connection, and inclusivity.
Chaired as symbols of gathering and connection, the works evolve from intimate drawings into expansive woven pieces created through a meticulous process. The exhibition fosters radical inclusivity, offering a welcoming space with free resources, art workshops, and community gatherings.
When: Ends Thursday, Oct. 23
Where: William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St.
“El Bloque de Oro” Mural Dedication
Mural Arts and HACE developed artistic storefront enhancements on North 5th Street’s “El Bloque de Oro,” a commercial corridor for Philadelphia’s Latino community. Artist Henry Morales designed custom murals, signage, and improvements for three properties, incorporating national flowers, historic patterns, and quotes gathered from local seniors and business owners.
When: Friday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Where: 2700 N. 5th St.
“Receipts: We Have Them” at the Painted Bride
Curated by Andrea Walls of the Museum of Black Joy, this group photography exhibition offers a powerful meditation on the creative labor, joy, and resistance shaping Black cultural life in Philadelphia.
Featuring work by Ursula McCarthy, Ken McFarlane, Terrell Halsey, and others, the exhibition honors everyday Black life as foundational and enduring cultural architecture rather than mere ornamentation.
When: Through Sunday, Oct. 25
Where: Painted Bride Art Center, 4029 Cambridge St.
Lansdowne Farmers Market
Now in its 18th season, the Lansdowne Farmers Market introduces a fully themed summer lineup designed to nourish bodies, strengthen community, and promote mental well-being. Weekly themes include Pride, Juneteenth, Classic Cars, Food Truck Day, International Blues Day, and more.
Enjoy live music, fresh local food, artisan vendors, and interactive nonprofit partners in a welcoming space to connect and celebrate.
When: Ends Saturday, Oct. 25 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Veterans Landing, 30 N. Lansdowne Ave.
East Passyunk Fall Fest
South Philly’s beloved Halloween tradition returns for its 13th year, transforming East Passyunk Avenue into a festive block party with over 110 artists and makers, live music, trick-or-treating, pumpkin carving, costume contests, and seasonal food and drinks. This free festival is pay-as-you-go.
When: Saturday, Oct. 25 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: East Passyunk Avenue, from Morris to Dickinson streets
17th Annual Kensington Kinetic Derby & Arts Festival
Moving to fall this year, Frankford Avenue becomes a vibrant corridor of art, music, and human-powered vehicle spectacle. Watch teams parade their no-motor, human-powered vehicles into the legendary mud pit on Hagert Street.
Features include a new kids-only mud ride, food trucks, nearly 100 vendors and artists, DJs, local merchant specials, and family fun.
When: Saturday, Oct. 25 from 12-8 p.m.
Where: Frankford Avenue, Sergeant Street to York Street
Trick or Treating on the Hill
Families can enjoy an afternoon of trick-or-treating along Germantown Avenue and Bethlehem Pike. Participating businesses will hand out candy and festive treats. Look for “Treats Here” posters and teal pumpkins indicating allergy-friendly options as part of the Teal Pumpkin Project by FARE, ensuring a safe and inclusive Halloween experience.
When: Saturday, Oct. 26 from 1-3 p.m.
Where: 8600 Blocks of Germantown Avenue
Fall Flower Arranging Workshop
Led by Andalusia’s Senior Horticulturist Stephanie Harold, this hands-on class invites participants to create an autumn-inspired floral arrangement using a pumpkin as the vessel. The “make it and take it” workshop is limited to 12 participants and lasts one hour. Tickets required.
When: Saturday, Oct. 25 from 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Where: Andalusia Historic House, Gardens and Arboretum, 1237 State Rd., Andalusia, PA 19020
Tasha & Naomi Live in Concert
Experience an unforgettable live worship concert with Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Naomi Raine, featuring hits like “Break Every Chain,” “You Know My Name,” and new songs from Leonard’s album TASHA, alongside Raine’s inspiring tracks.
Special guests Dr. Jackie Greene and Kobe Campbell will offer encouragement throughout the event.
When: Saturday, Oct. 25 at 7 p.m.
Where: Miller Theater, 250 S. Broad St.
The Bald Brothers: KevOnStage and Tony Baker
This comedy duo, actors, and viral sensations bring their North American tour to Philadelphia. Tony Baker is a stand-up comedian and actor known for his unique humor, while Kevin Fredericks (KevOnStage) is a prolific content creator and comedian with millions of views across platforms.
When: Saturday, Oct. 25 at 7 p.m.
Where: The Fillmore Philadelphia, 29 E. Allen St.
Peter Richard Conte and the Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass
The 10-piece brass ensemble joins legendary Wanamaker Grand Court Organist Peter Richard Conte for a concert featuring music from Bach to Bourbon Street, under the direction of conductor Andrew Ennis.
When: Saturday, Oct. 25 from 7:30-8:45 p.m.
Where: Wanamaker Building, 100 E. Penn Sq.
Boo at the Zoo
Philadelphia Zoo’s annual Halloween event returns for three weekends of costumes, fall treats, and fun. Bring a bag and trick-or-treat throughout the Zoo, enjoy festive décor, photo ops, children’s activities, and more.
Note: Halloween costumes with toy guns, weapons, and adult masks are prohibited.
When: Saturday, Oct. 25 & Sunday, Oct. 26 from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Ave.
Chew Playground Mural Dedication
This vibrant mural at Chew Playground in the Point Breeze community is a collaboration between colorist Calo Rosa and artist Gabe Tiberino. It features tribute portraits of community leaders and celebrates the children who regularly use the recreation center and playground.
When: Sunday, Oct. 26 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Chew Playground, 1800 Washington Ave.
Dale Elliott Jr. Comes to Philly
Actor and comedian Dale Elliott Jr. brings his Son of an Immigrant World Tour to Philadelphia. The Jamaican-born, Los Angeles-based comedian has become a prominent voice of Caribbean comedy through his social media and stand-up performances.
When: Sunday, Oct. 26 at 7 p.m.
Where: Punch Line Philly, 33 E. Laurel St.
34th Philadelphia Film Festival
The Philadelphia Film Society presents its 34th Film Festival with in-person screenings at its remodeled Philadelphia Film Center and other PFS venues. The festival opens with “Wake Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” and closes with “Sentimental Value.”
All screenings take place exclusively at Philadelphia Film Society venues.
When: Ends Sunday, Oct. 26
Where: Film Society Center, 1412 Chestnut St.; Film Society Bourse, 400 Ranstead St.; Film Society East, 125 S. 2nd St.
“Falsettos”
Arden Theatre Company opens its 2025/26 season with the Tony Award-winning musical “Falsettos.” Directed by Kevin Glaccum, the show explores themes of love, family, and connection during the early AIDS crisis through the story of Marvin, his family, and friends.
When: Ends Sunday, Oct. 26
Where: Arden Theatre Company, 40 N. 2nd St.
“Fly Me to the Moon” by Marie Jones
Northern Irish playwright Marie Jones presents a sharp comedy about two community care workers on a routine visit to their patient, Davey McGee, whose day takes an unexpected turn. The play explores the humor found when ordinary people face extraordinary opportunities.
When: Through Saturday, Nov. 1
Where: Hedgerow Theatre Company, 64 Rose Valley Road, Media, PA 19063
Lincoln Mill Haunted House
After Hurricane Ida devastated the area, the renowned Mad River in Manayunk reopens as Lincoln Mill Haunted House for season four in 2025. Featuring over 40 live scare-actors, production-quality sets, animatronics, and special effects, it promises to be Philadelphia’s scariest haunted house.
Family-friendly daytime events will be available on select Saturdays. Tickets are required.
When: Through Sunday, Nov. 2
Where: Lincoln Mill Haunted House, 4100 Main St.
“FIRE!!”
This theatrical event honors the 1927 all-Black magazine “FIRE!!,” featuring literary works by legendary figures of the Harlem Renaissance through music, dance, debate, and performance.
When: Through Sunday, Nov. 2
Where: Quintessence at The Sedgwick Theater, 7137 Germantown Ave.
“Relics” by Wendy Chidester
An exhibition of oil paintings showcasing once-iconic machines like typewriters, projectors, and vintage cameras. Artist Wendy Chidester captures these relics with smooth, velvet-like realism that elevates each object as a cultural icon.
When: Through Friday, Nov. 7
Where: Morton Contemporary Gallery, 115 S. 13th St.
“Clay as Care” at The Clay Studio
This exhibition explores the relationship between ceramic art and health, featuring artists whose work addresses healing, rest, and resilience. The project includes exhibitions, scientific research, publications, and public programs.
When: Through Wednesday, Dec. 31
Where: The Clay Studio, 1425 N. American St.
“To Provide a Naval Armament: U.S. Navy & Marine Corps History, 1775–1958”
Explore the history of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps through the lens of Philadelphia’s role from the American Revolution to the early Cold War, featuring letters, journals, and historical collections.
When: Through Friday, Jan. 9, 2026
Where: Historical Society of Pennsylvania, 1300 Locust St.
“Henri Rousseau: A Painter’s Secrets” at the Barnes
This landmark exhibition showcases 18 paintings by self-taught artist Henri Rousseau from the Barnes collection alongside 11 from the Musée de l’Orangerie in Paris. Many works reunite after more than 100 years, some never before exhibited together.
When: Through Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026
Where: The Barnes Foundation, 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.
“Jerrell Gibbs: No Solace in the Shade” at Brandywine Museum
The first solo museum exhibition for Baltimore artist Jerrell Gibbs surveys a decade of his large-scale figurative paintings that focus on Black life, identity, reflection, and belonging. Featuring 30 paintings from collections across the U.S. and Europe.
When: Through Sunday, March 1
Where: Brandywine Museum of Art, 1 Hoffmans Mill Rd., Chadds Ford, PA 19317
You may also like
Leave a Reply