Happy Autumn!

As the mosaic of nature's colors arrive, the pumpkins grow in the cornfields, and the cornucopia of harvest festivals enrich our area, we want to wish you a Happy Autumn.

The Philadelphia Orchestra: Classic Concerts

The Philadelphia Orchestra makes its home at the breathtaking Kimmel Center, and strives to deliver fabulous classical concerts to the Philadelphia public. The orchestra was started back in 1900, and has had an impressive history of renowned conductors, international tours, and countless popular recordings of classic masterpieces. The orchestra is currently under the direction of conductor Charles Dutoit, and continues to perform delightful symphonies from all eras and nations. With a goal to make music accessible, the orchestra offers reasonably priced package deals with ticket prices as low as $15 per concert. Also, the eZseatU ticket program offers an array of wallet-friendly options for college students. Though the Kimmel Center season officially begins in October, the Philadelphia Orchestra continues to offer free neighborhood concerts and educational programs to students all year long.

Philadelphia Orchestra
260 S. Broad Street
Suite 1600
Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 893-1900

The Kelly Writers House: Pick Up The Pen

Philadelphia has been home to many of the greatest men of American letters, so it’s no surprise that the city is seeking to keep its literary tradition alive at the Kelly Writers House. Founded in 1995 by a group of students, teachers, and alumni at the University of Pennsylvania, the facility is a thriving hotspot for the literary arts in all their forms, staging over 300 events yearly. Some of the biggest events include the Fellows program, which brings nationally famous writers in for a brief residency where they discuss their work, speaking with students during the day and then hosting a panel at night. These are typically packed to the gills. The interesting thing about the Writers House is that it actually is a house – events take place in the living room, and seats are often at a premium. Everything is free, but for popular programs it’s wise to RSVP.

The Kelly Writers House
University of Pennsylvania
3805 Locust Walk
Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 573-9748
http://www.yelp.com/biz/kelly-writers-house-philadelphia

Amuse: A Philadelphia Favorite for French Cuisine

This fantastic Penn Center restaurant has become a Philadelphia favorite for a number of reasons. First and foremost, the ambience at Amuse is spectacular. The rooms are heated by large, impressive fireplaces and decorated beautifully. Service is discreet and attentive as well. But the real reason that Amuse is excelling is because of the food. A toothsome combination of French bistro classics with some new influences, the menu is top-to-bottom great. Some of the most popular dishes include the great steak frites, the salad of baby lettuces, and the house-made charcuterie plate. Go for the French onion soup if you want a decadent treat to start your meal – made from three types of onions and an Emmenthaler Swiss gratin, it might be the best in the city. Desserts are also great – try the deconstructed take on coffee & donuts with a donut bread pudding and house-made Illy coffee ice cream. Amuse's prices are very reasonable for such high-quality food.

Amuse
1421 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 422-8222
http://www.yelp.com/biz/amuse-philadelphia

Beau Monde: Classy Crepes

Crepes are undergoing a bit of a renaissance in American restaurants lately, and for good reason. The skinny French pancakes are remarkably versatile, pairing equally well with sweet and savory ingredients. At Philadelphia’s Beau Monde, loyal diners rave about the exceptionally light, airy crepes and well-chosen fillings that make up the menu. Owners Jim Caiola and David Salama imported traditional cast-iron griddles from the Brittany region of France for their restaurant, and they make them the traditional way. Pretty much everything on the menu is splendid, but some dishes that draw raves from regulars include the mushroom, Swiss cheese, and toasted almond crepe, as well as the Andouille sausage with ratatouille and caramelized tomato sauce. You can also create your own crepe from a wide range of ingredients, and Beau Monde is happy to recommend combinations for you. The Saturday and Sunday brunches are a great way to start a day as well.

Beau Monde
624 S. 6th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 592-0656
http://www.yelp.com/biz/beau-monde-philadelphia

The Prince Music Theater

Named for renowned Broadway producer/director Hal Prince, the Prince Music Theater is housed in a restored 1920’s movie house. A visit to the theater is a fantastic way to support the arts, enjoy the thrill of live performance, and spend time in a gorgeously updated historic venue. Upcoming shows include a screening of La Boehme filmed on opening night at Barcelona’s Gran Teatre del Liceu, a cabaret benefit of Broadway musical performances, and a comedy called Defending the Caveman. Visit the Prince Music Theater's website for performance schedules and ticket info. 

1412 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 569-9700

Happy Labor Day!

Wishing you a very happy and relaxing Labor Day!

The Wagner Free Institute of Science: Investigate the Earth

Situated just outside of the museum district in Philadelphia, The Wagner Free Institute of Science offers a wonderfully comprehensive overview of the vast realms of science — for free! Curators at the Institute have brought in various unique specimens to create vivid, 3-D exhibits that enthrall everyone who visits. Adults and children, alike, will love checking out the collections of minerals, fossils, shells, and mounted birds and mammals. A few must-sees of the Institute are the assembled dinosaur skeletons, as well as the first American saber-tooth tiger. In addition, people of all ages can receive more in-depth instruction through free, hands-on classes — some are geared toward young students, while the introductory college level courses are for adults of any level. Other offerings include the weekly lecture series, group discussions, as well as family-friendly festivals. The Wagner Free Institute is open Tuesdays through Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and admission is free.

The Wagner Free Institute
1700 W. Montgomery Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19121
(215) 763-6529

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