What To Do This Weekend…
Warning: if you leave your house this weekend, be prepared for an insane amount of traffic, loud music and street vendors literally anywhere you go.
For the seventh year, this annual festival will once again celebrate East Kensington and the wonderful things the neighborhood has to offer with an afternoon of live music, food and fun as well as 200+ booths of local arts vendors. Some of the featured crafters whose handmade creations are likely to make you swoon include, As The Crow Flies and Co. (vintage ceramic china and stained glass jewelry), ABJ Glassworks (affordable and stunning 3-dimensional stained glass terrariums, mobiles, nightlights and lamps), Orgotten (sustainable, eco-friendly clothing/handmade, cruelty-free jewelry) and Two Lucky Cats (fun, vibrant textile accessories). Saturday, 12-6pm. Free. Trenton Ave. between Norris St. & Frankford Ave.
Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival
One of the city’s most popular spring festivals, the annual event attracts over 10 thousand people around the region each year, rain or shine. For the sake of conserving space, let’s just say that basically every store and restaurant in the neighborhood will have something special going on—cooking demos, sales, workshops, live entertainment, kid’s activities, free shit, ect. In the midst of all the chaos, just be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the spring fashion booth from Rittenhouse Row’s many super-chic boutiques (Knit Wit, Sephora, Town Home, Joan Shepp, Arcadia, South Moon Under, Bella Turka, ect.). Saturday, 12-5pm. Free. Rittenhouse Row (Walnut St. between Broad & 19th Sts.)
9th Street Italian Market Festival
That’s right, yet another festival. So what does this one have to offer that the other two do not? In short, cannolis. In fact, you’ll find delicious, authentic Italian food literally everywhere you look (beat that Rittenhouse!) There will also be stages set up at each intersection with live music throughout the day and a craft marketplace between Fitzwater & Christian Streets featuring one-of-a-kind, handmade items from a juried selection of local artists. What local artists, you ask? Ummm…presumably whichever ones aren’t in Rittenhouse or Kensington. Again, the party doesn’t stop in the event of rain. Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm. Free. Along 9th St., between Fitzwater & Federal Sts.
During the Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival, SA VA will be serving light refreshments and hosting a trunk show featuring three talented local designers who make all their items right her in the U.S.A: Toggery, J&I Jewelry and BCS Designs. Founded by Kate D’Arcy, Toggery is a contemporary fashion collection for women that blends beautiful design with luxurious, environmentally conscious fabrics (50 percent organic). The J & I jewelry collection is highlighted by gemstones and freshwater pearls, each piece hand formed in their Philly studio. Finally, there’s Center City designer Beth Soffer of BCS Designs who will be bringing along her collection of exquisite gemstones and 18K gold plated chains. Saturday, 12-3pm. Free. @ SA VA (1700 Sansom St.)
Nadeau Grand Opening Celebration
Enjoy drinks and nibbles while being one of the first to discover Manayunk’s newest retail haven: Nadeau. The store offers beautifully handcraft hardwood furniture imported from around the globe. This includes traditional and brightly painted dressers, TV stands, chair, accessories and more. And while perhaps not as cheap (or shitty) as Ikea furniture, Nadeau’s prices are actually pretty reasonable, especially considering that none of their pieces are mass-produced or cookie-cutter. Saturday, 10am-6pm. Free. @ Nadeau (4131 Main St.)
What To Do This Weekend
Far from your average clothing swap, the extra “Rama” is a series of DIY workshops in which locals can explore easy, creative and sustainable ways to upcycle used clothing and textiles. Here’s how it works: while not mandatory, those who come with at least a bag of unwanted clothing will save $10 on admission and once all the donations have been collected, everyone will get to dive into the massive pile of gently worn treasures like wild (yet courteous) scavengers. Finally, skilled local artists will help Swappers work their creative mojo and revamp their new duds. You can spruce up a boring tee with a screen-printed image with Candy Depew of the Philly-based silk-screen studio, school and showroom, Candy-Coated or with a simpler version of designer Nicole Rae Styer’s unique embellishments. Amber Zaraza of Phea Jean and the crafty folks of Handmade Philly will even show you how to transform an article of clothing into a one-of-a-kind accessory. Saturday, 12pm. $10-$20. @ Broad Street Ministry (315 S. Broad St.)
Spring 2012 Art Star Craft Bazaar
Just in time for Mother’s Day, Art Star has hand selected over 140 local and national artists to set up shop and sell their wares outside at Penn’s Landing for the spring edition of their beloved art fair/craft show. Basically, anything and everything you can think of and then some. Some local vendors to keep an eye out for: exit343 design, Concrete Polish, Black Heart Letterpress, BirdQueen Designs and Bob Dix Illustration. Going through the long list of vendors, I’m going to be on the look out for Moonlight Bindery, Spread The Love and Inedible Jewelry. As usual, there will also be live music from local bands, vegan/vegetarian friendly food and interactive art demos like sculpting/mold making with The Philadelphia Sculpture Gym and recycled crafts with NL Arts. Saturday, 11am-6pm. Sunday, 11am-5pm. Free. The Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing (Columbus Blvd. at Chestnut St.)
Breaking Away: 2012 Fashion Show
This annual fashion extravaganza in conjunction with Moore College’s commencement celebrations will feature 28 innovative senior collections as well as designs by junior and sophomore students of the college’s acclaimed fashion design department. The showcased designs include swimwear, bridal, childrenswear, menswear, sportswear and last but not least, eveningwear. The theme “Breaking Away” is specifically for the senior eveningwear finale. There will also be a closing reception for “Emerging Artists and Designers,” featuring the best work from their senior students in fine art, graphic design, illustration, interior design photography and textile design. So come out and help congratulate the Class of 2012 Who knows—you may wind up discovering America’s next big designer before everyone else. Saturday, 8pm. $25. @Moore College, Aviator Park (20th & Ben Franklin Pkwy.)
Pennsylvania Guild Fine Craft Fair
While fine art might be a bit of a snooze-fest, fine crafts are a whole different story. For their signature premiere fair, the PA Guild of Craftsmen has invited 140 of its finest crafts artists to pile into Rittenhouse Square this weekend and showcase/sell their exceptional one-of-a-kind creations. We’re talking everything from handcrafted jewelry, designer clothing and contemporary furniture to functional and decorative pottery, limited edition photography and fine porcelain. Will these items be pricey? You betcha! But there’s sure to be some affordable pieces. Either way, everything else is guaranteed to be worth the price. Fri.-Sat., 11am-7pm. Sun., 11am-5pm. Free. @ Rittenhouse Square
If you’re having trouble finding the perfect Mother’s Day gift (and somehow PW Style’s incredibly awesome and comprehensive Mother’s Day Gift Guide didn’t help), why not just mom out to the KOP Mall so she can pick out something herself? While there, be sure to stop into Free People where they’ll offering complimentary tea, coffee and other refreshments as well as a free flowers for the mommas (unless you show up late). You may want to also grab something for yourself since you’ll receive an exclusive soy candle by Candles with Love with a purchase of $250. Sunday, 11am-6pm. Free @ Free People, King of Prussia Mall (452 Mall Blvd.)
Photos: Sakura Sunday
Sakura Sunday is the centerpiece event of Philly’s own annual Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival. But this year’s day-long event was celebrated against an unseasonably green background instead of Fairmount Park’s pink, fluffy canopy of cherry blossoms. Despite the early heat spell, Japanese dancing, drumming, fashion shows, and vibrant costumes of both guests and performers lit up the park.
The sunny and 80-something degree weather brought out an eclectic crowd of anime lovers, dog owners, and fashionistas–all of which could find activities to their liking. Anime fans were invited to show off their representations of their favorite characters in a Zenkaikon Cosplay Fashion Show, while Harajuku lovers took their designs to the main stage for an eccentric, space-age fashion show. The ASPCA and PAWS were present to host the Prettiest Pet in Pink parade. Asian food vendors lined the park’s oblong fountain-turned-pool.
From Japan themselves, one of the country’s best performing art schools, Tamagawa University, lit up the stage with thundering taiko drumming paired with the graceful dancers flicking fans in dresses that looked like origami. Speaking of origami, local vendors sold Japanese wares, from anime-themed snuggies and beautiful kimonos to wooden sandals and paper kites.
Here’s some highlights from the day’s festivities…
If you missed Sakura Sunday, don’t fret- the festival’s activities are near from over. A few events include a sushi making class Tuesday, April 17, “Kirie” paper-cutting workshop the 18th, amateur Sushi-Making Contest the 19th, and a Samurai sword performance and Kimono dressing demonstration April 21st. Check out a listing of the beautiful photo exhibits and galleries around Fairmount Park that will be up for the remainder of the month here.
–Marissa Oswald
Celebrate Japanese Culture This Week at Liberty Place
If you have time on your lunch break this week, be sure to stop by The Shops at Liberty Place (1625 Chestnut St.), where each afternoon in the Rotunda from 12-2 p.m., they’ll be hosting some really amazing activities as part of the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia.
Today instructors will be teaching folks how to make origami and tomorrow, they’ll show you the art of kimono dressing. Here’s the complete schedule of daily events:
Tuesday: Origami
Wednesday: Kimono Dressing
Thursday: Calligraphy
Friday: Harajuku Fashion Display
Hosted by the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia, the Cherry Blossom Festival is going on now through April 21, and has tons of events lined-up for you to further explore the cultural, social and educational customs of Japan, including…
Sushi Making Class: Philadelphia’s Queen of Sushi, Madame Saito will teach you the basics and show you how to make your very own original rolls. Participants will event get to take home leftovers. Thurs/12, 6:30-8:30pm. $30. @ Headhouse (124 Lombard St.)
Nodate Tea Ceremony: Enjoy traditional Japanese tea ceremony on the veranda under the weeping cherry. Drink a bowl of matcha (green tea) and taste a seasonal sweet. Space is limited and reservations are required. Sat/14, 1pm & 2:30pm. $35. @ Shofuso – Japanese House and Garden (Horticutre & Lansdown Drives)
Kirie Workshop: Renowned kirie artist, Shu Kubo will explain the art of cutting paper and assist participants as they work on their own creations. Wed/18, 6:30pm. $10. @ JASGP at The Bellevue (200 S. Broad St., Suite 700)
Sakura Sunday: The festival’s centerpiece event features an action-packed day of live dance performances, music, demonstrations, workshops, a fashion show and even a pet costume contest. Sunday, 10:30am-4pm. $5. @ Fairmount Park Horticulture Center (Montgomery Dr. & Belmont Ave.)
Kimono Dressing Demonstration: Marvel at Fumiyo Batta’s extensive collection of kimons while learning about their history and how to wear them. Sat/21, 11am-2pm. $7-$16. @ Morris Arboretum (100 E. Northwestern Ave.)
Shopping at the Flower Show
Of course there is plenty of reasons to attend the Philadelphia Flower Show, the crazy displays, the massive floral sculptures, the music – but we happen to think the shopping is a great reason to attend. There are so many interesting vendors at the show, you could find something you like around every corner if you’re not careful.
Here are just a few of things that we took, and wanted to take, home with us from the show:
This pressed flower art was so pretty, and reminded us of those Victorian di-o-ramas.
These glass, hand-painted garden mushrooms would look super cool in our apartment, too.
If we had a house, we would be buying this flower chain that hangs from your roof, collecting rain water and turning it into a art nouveau fountain, brilliant.
These brooches and earrings are made from real flowers and would look great in our hair.
Cool pressed metal and leather watches.
Pressed metal hand earrings!
How cool is this brass body hair barrette?!
Some of these Tilandsias (or “air plants”) came home with us.
And here’s a great hanging bubble vase to keep them in, for only $8.50!
We love the idea of this stone planter for a mini succulent garden.
Another air plant holder we could not resist, mini tree stump holders!
The Flower Show is on now until March 11th at the Convention center, so get over there and check out the country’s biggest botanical show in your backyard. Follow their tweets and keep an eye on their facebook, too for special deals and announcements.
Philly Fashion Week by FBH Celebrates its 7th Season….
After my New York Fashion Week struggle, I thought I was cursed from the fashion world. Fortunately, Philly Fashion Week by FBH was an opportunity to redeem myself. The event was divided into two main days, Ready to Wear fashion on Friday, February 24th, and Couture on Saturday, February 25th.
In the past, I’ve attended the Philly Fashion Week events, and I felt it could have been organized much better. However, the show went very smoothly this year for me. The organizers let the press in promptly, but attendees were forced to wait in a hot waiting room for about 45 minutes before the doors to the runway room opened. The organizers need to specify that doors open at 7, but the show doesn’t start until 8-8:15. In New York Fashion Week, if the show says it starts at 6 p.m., and it starts at 6 p.m. sharp.
Once the show started, it was apparent that Philadelphia is home to a wide array of fashion opinions. There were lines that appealed to an urban audience, like Street Mode, and others, like Banana Republic’s “A Weekend at the Hamptons” that appealed to clean cut, preppy fashionistas.
The organizers tweeted each designer that walked down the runway for the “Ready to Wear” show, so it was easy to figure out who was on the runway. Unfortunately, they didn’t do the same on the couture day, so if any designers names are butchered, I apologize. Click the jump for the highs and lows of the show!
Local Gifts for the Valentine Zealots
Once February rolls around, dedicated alt-weekly readers start encountering the many, many “Anti-Valentine’s Day” articles, lists and parties. And, to be honest, it’s getting a little weak. I get that it’s a holiday invented by the greeting card company, I’ve heard the schpiel about how you are supposed to be romantic everyday of the year and not just one. But, what people always seem to forget is that, an excuse to celebrate anything, is pretty awesome and a necessary part of life. How often would you get all of your friends together to go rollerskating if it wasn’t your birthday? Think about it.
So, I’ve found some great local stuff that celebrate love and Philly and the act of celebrating. Here’s to a year of not being Anti anything and pro everything!
1. Jin-Ja is a spicy beverage created by local Philly lawyer Reuban Canada. It’s a blend of ginger, cayenne, green tea and sugar that would be so good with gin and a great way to heat up, if you know what I mean. Buy it at Green Aisle Grocery.
2. John and Kiras Chocolate Lovebugs really can’t get any cuter. The chocolates, made by local Philly couple John and Kira, are salted caramels, touched with basswood honey from a local farm, covered in ganache and handpainted.
3. Okay, enough with the cute stuff, The Erotic Literary Salon happens every month at Time at we couldn’t think of a better time to go and check it out. Susana Mayer Ph.D. leads the night of erotic readings and performances centered around classical and modern erotica. Go order an absinthe and listen to some smut, it will be a very European evening.
4. Ah, The Flower Show. It’s the only place where you can physically go out and buy romance. This year promises the sound of CGI waves crashing, the constant smell of lush gardens and orchids, and magically tropical gardens as far as the eye can see. No wonder people are always getting engaged there. Follow them here and here to find out about sweetheart packages they offer!
What To Do This Weekend
Crafty BalboaOh yes, the “Italian Stallion of Craft Markets” is upon us once again. This year you’ll find 50 amazing artists and crafters from around the region under one roof including, Kaye Rachelle Designs, Duke & Winston, Nicole Rae Styer, Amy B. Jewelry, Gritty City Beauty, Made With Awesome, Hipster Bingo, Rachel Shoshana’s jewelry, BeDo & Beccaroon and Yardsale Press. Handmade Philly will also be hosting a workshop during the event. Make sure you’re there bright and early because the first 50 shoppers in the doors will receive a Crafty Balboa tote filled with goodies from the vendors. Sat., 11am-5pm. Free. @ Broad St. Ministry (315 S. Broad St.)
The Philadelphia Independent Craft Market Holiday Show
What might you find at an indie craft market that you won’t find at the others? Try four bands and free refreshments compliments of PBR. Oh, and there will also be over 45 vendors selling a variety of handmade treasures. Sat., 1pm-8pm. Free. @ 2424 Studios (2424 York St.)
Not only is this Kensington nursery bursting with fresh, local holiday greens (garlands, wreaths, table top evergreens, winter flowering plants, ect.), but they’ve invited 30 local vendors to come and sell their wares over the course of two weekends. There will also be a handful of local businesses and non-profits in attendance, including InLiquid, Green Street Coffee, Cares4Pets and Philly Brewing Co., which will be holding a beer tasting. Sat-Sun., 11am-4pm. Free. @ Greensgrow Farm (2501 E. Cumberland St.)
The Waldorf Annual Holiday Fair
Now in its ninth year, the family-friendly fair will feature puppet plays, children’s activities, homemade, organic food and, of course, a wide selection of crafts from 30 juried artisans including, Saffron Creations (jewelry handcrafted from cookie and tea tins), Le Savon Maison Natural Soap, Untold Imprint (paper, prints and towels) and Kurt Walser Handmade Chocolates. You’re better off stopping by Friday when admission is free. On Saturday, you’ll be charged $5 at the door. Fri., 6pm-10pm. Sat., 10am-5pm. Free. @ The Waldorf School (7500 Germantown Ave.)
The Collected Collage Holiday Pop-Up Boutique
At this week-long holiday pop-up shop you will find a slew of amazing, one-of-a-kind, gifts, including, Mockingbird Moon’s handmade terrariums, apothecary bottle candles and soaps by Helix and Hive, Tremundo’s band-bound journals and the timeless fashion of Hinterland Vintage. The Collected Collage will also be there selling items from their beautiful selection of antique and vintage jewelry. On Friday, there will be an opening party from 5-8pm featuring live music by The Spinning Leaves and refreshments. Dec. 15-23. 10am-7pm daily. Free. @ 550 Carpenter Ln. (across from Weavers Way Co-op in Mt. Airy)
Art Not iPods Affordable Art Show
Ok, so you’re friends and loved ones would probably much prefer an iPod over an original piece of art. But who has money to me shelling out on iAnythings? Hosted by Jinxed and Out of Print Magazine, the show will feature the work of over 30 local artists—all for sale and for no more than $200. There will also be plenty of holiday spirit (aka. free booze). Sat., 6pm-9pm. Free. Jinxed (1050 N. Handcock St.)
611 Lifestyle Pop-Up ShopThis weekend, 611 Lifestyle will be transforming an empty Center City space into a gallery-style boutique. While shopping the fashion-forward men’s and women’s apparel and accessories from 611’s “DJ Life” and “Luxe Life” collection, visitors will also get to see the inspiration behind the brand through the works of local artists and photographers featured on the walls. As if that weren’t enough, there will be cocktails served and several guests DJ spinning live each day. Fri. & Sat., 11am-8pm. Sun., 11am-6pm. Free. @ 225 S. 18th St., Unit 103
Procrastinator’s Holiday Bazaar 5
If by some chance, come Sunday, you’re not unbelievably sick of shopping yet or are still searching for the perfect gift for that uber-picky friend of yours, head on down to the Italian Market for one final holiday craft bazaar. Participating crafters include, Geek Boy Press, Corina Dross and two of my own personal faves: Night Owl Designs and Rainbow Alternative. Sun., 11am-4pm. Free. @ Connie’s Ric Rac (1132 S. 9th St.)
What To Do This Weekend
NoLibs Holiday Shopping Spree
Sat., Dec. 2 and Sun. Dec. 3, 11am-7pm
Having roamed NoLibs yesterday in search of items for PW’s annual Gift Guide, I can assure you that this is one shopping event you won’t want to miss. If you’re not familiar with how it works, allow me to explain: At the first participating story and you’ll receive 10 percent discount as well as a spree card with a sticker. Head to another store and you’ll get 15 percent off your purchase + 1 sticker. At the third participating store, you’ll score 20 percent off your purchase + 1 sticker. Once you’ve got three stickers, you’ll receive 25 percent off at any participating store thereafter. It’s sorta like an awesome shopping game—one that allows you to cross several people off your shopping list while getting a few goodies for yourself. Participating stores include Once Worn Consignment, Bloom, Art Star, Swag Boutique, Duke & Winston and Arcadia Boutique. Oh, and did I mention you’ll find holiday treats and refreshments at each location?
Sat., Dec. 3 @ Arcadia Rittenhouse // Sun., Dec. 4 @ Arcadia NoLibs
In addition to taking part in the NoLibs Shopping Spree, Arcadia Boutique has invited designer, Kelly Lane to showcase her full winter collection of incredibly chic, colorful and somewhat futuristic tops, skirts, holiday dresses and jackets all weekend. They’ll also be serving up cocktails and offering free gift-wrap.
Sat., Dec. 3, 11am-5pm @ The Rotunda (4014 Walnut St.)
On Sunday you’ll find 40 of Philly’s finest artisans under one roof selling all sorts of handmade wares—from jewelry, ornaments and hand-stitched woolens to ceramics, soaps and candles. This includes Fitbliss Organic’s line of organic skincare and bath products and Amy B’s cool, custom laser-cut acrylic jewelry (see right).
University City Arts League Annual Holiday Craft Show & Sale
Fri., Dec. 2-Dec. 15 @ UCAL (4226 Spruce St.)
Tomorrow, the U.C Arts League is kicking off its annual Holiday Craft Show & Sale featuring the work of more than 30 local artisans as well as UCAL facu
lty members. You’ll find plenty of unique and affordable gifts—all 100 percent handmade, including jewelry, hand-painting silk scarves, pottery, small paintings and prints, fine art, clothes and hand-made gift cards. Best of all, 60 percent of the proceeds will go to the artists while the remaining 30 percent will help the league continue it’s many community arts programs.
Celeste Giuliano’s Magazine Release Party
Sun., Dec. 4, 7pm. @ The Troc Balcony (10th & Arch sts.)
Philly’s “Queen of the Pin-up,” Celeste Giuliano has just released a special edition of Retro Lovely Magazine and to celebrate, she’s throwing a full-blown pin-up extravaganza. While mingling with the beautiful pin-ups gracing the 88 pages of the mag, guests will be treated to complimentary samplings of Sailor Jerry’s rum and classic drink specials as well as a show featuring Philly’s finest burlesque performers. And just in case that wasn’t enough, you’ll have a chance to win some amazing door prizes and raffles and with every purchase (or pre-order) of the magazine, you’ll be entered in a drawing to win a complimentary pin-up photo shoot with Celeste herself—perhaps the greatest prize of all. Be sure to come in your sexiest 1950s-inspired attire. You may not fit in otherwise. Tickets are just $10 bucks. 
Sun., Dec. 4, 4pm-7pm @ South Street Headhouse District (2nd St. b/w Pine & Lombard)
For their annual tree lighting event, the South Street Headhouse District is hosting a day full of holiday festivities. What might these festivities entail exactly? Well, live music, free horse and carriage rides, a caroling sing-a-long, a hot chocolate and tea tasting, holiday craft-making, a Nutcracker mash-up performance and free holiday photo booth station, just to name a few. If you have kiddies or young relatives, bring them along. There’s going to be plenty of activities for them too.
“Roaring! A 1920s Event” Should be a Night to Remember
On Thursday the 10th from 9PM – 2AM, Noel Zayas events is hosting “Roaring! A 1920s Event” at the gorgeous Arts Ballroom at 1324 Locust St. The event is essentially a time warp back to the 1920s with fashion, dancing and art. Philly designer Carmelita Couture wowed audiences at Philly Fashion Week in the fall of 2010, and she’s in charge of styling the models.
While enjoying the fashion of the 1920s, DJ Rahsaan, from the Kimmel Center’s Summer Solstice event, will please attendee’s ears. There will be several cabaret performers attending to fully immerse the audience in 1920s culture.
Tickets for the event start with general admission for $35.00 plus a ticketing fee, but there are also VIP tickets available that include a cocktail reception and small dinner before the event.
Personally, I can’t wait to experience 1920s culture, and I hope to see some of our readers there!