Weekend Things To Do In Philadelphia ~ Chinese New Year Celebration At Penn Museum, Philadelphia Auto Show, Ice Skating and More!

Photo by Tibor Puskas

‘Exploring All Of Philadelphia’

The weekend kicks off with the ending of Center City District Restaurant Week, Dinos After Dark at the Academy of Natural Sciences, the continuation of the Terracotta Warriors Exhibitice skating at Rothman Ice Rink, Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest at Penn’s Landing, Winter Fountains On The Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Parkway 100 Celebration and more.

During the weekend enjoy the Philadelphia Auto Show, Chinese New Year Celebrations at Penn Museum, Groundhog Day Night Hunt Puzzle Pub Crawl, the Terracotta Warriors Exhibitice skating at Rothman Ice Rink, Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest at Penn’s Landing, the Parkway 100 Celebration, FREE tours of Yards Brewing Cofarmers’ markets, free yoga, and much more.

The weekend ends with the Philadelphia Auto Show, Winter Fountains On The Benjamin Franklin Parkway and more.

During the week enjoy the continuation of the Terracotta Warriors Exhibit at The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia Auto Show, the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest at Penn’s Landing, ice skating at Rothman Ice RinkPay-What-You-Wish and much more.

In upcoming weeks get ready for The Havana Nights: A Celebration of Cuban Food & Music at World Live Cafe, Super Bowl 52 & Philly Sports Bars, Philadelphia Theatre Week, First Friday, Mardi Gras Celebrations, Valentine’s Day Restaurants, Chinese New Year Celebrations, Winterfest Live Beer Festival, Flannel Animal Event, President’s Day, 4th Friday in Headhouse District, East Passyunk Restaurant Week, Philadelphia Flower Show, Philly Wine Week, Brewer’s Plate and much more.

What event or activity this weekend or during the week excites you the most? Please share with us in the comments below. Tip: If you haven’t done so in recent months or years, visit the many wonderful museums in Philadelphia. Philadelphia Museums Did you hear that Philadelphia was named best place to visit in the U.S. by Lonely Planet. Read more, click here.

No matter what tickles your fancy, we have a lot events and attractions for you below. Are you a fan of our Facebook fan page. Follow us here for exciting daily updatesMyPhillyAlive on Facebook –

Here at MyPhillyAlivewe like to share fun and exciting events and attractions with you. Check out what’s happening for you this weekend in Philly and for the upcoming week and put these events on your calendar.

Things To Do In Philadelphia this Weekend & Week of ~ January 26 – February 1 ~

FYI – There are many events & attractions listed below that have been open prior today which are listed as “Now”. Also, check back daily for updates!

Informational Posts For Things To Do Year Round or Seasonal

  • Our Guide to All Museums in Philadelphia ~ Visit many wonderful museums in Philly. ~ Philadelphia Museums ~
  • Our 2018 Guide To Fireplaces At These Philly Bars & Restaurants ~ January & February ~ Feeling cold and like to find a nice bar or restaurant in Philadelphia that has a fireplace. Check out our recommendations. If you have one that we didn’t mention, please tell us in the comments. Thanks.  ~ Our 2018 Guide To Fireplaces At These Philly Bars & Restaurants ~
  • Season Preview & Expectations of The Philadelphia Eagles ~ 2017 – 2018 Season ~ It’s football time and who is not excited about the 2017 – 2018 Philadelphia Eagles! Disregarding the fans who predict that, “This is the year we win it all!” most Eagles fans are still bubbling over with excitement and playoff hopes. Let’s take a peak into how the Eagles should fair this season. ~ Season Preview & Expectations of The Philadelphia Eagles ~
  • La Peg Pegsicle Bar ~ January 26 – 28 or until the bar melts ~ La Peg at FringeArts at 140 N. Columbus Boulevard. This time 5 local artists will be chosen to create ice works of art to make up a temporary sculpture garden. Enjoy drinks on a frozen bar! ~ La Peg Pegsicle Bar ~
  • Ice Skating At Rothman Ice Rink ~ January 26 – February 26, 2018 ~ Held at Dilworth Park, the Rothman Ice Rink is open 7 days a week, to include all holidays. So make plans with the family, with friends, and enjoy this new found winter location in the heart of Philadelphia. ~ Ice Skating At Rothman Ice Rink ~
  • Terracotta Warriors Exhibit ~ January 26 – March 4 ~ Held at The Franklin Institute. This is your chance to dive into the secrets behind the 2,000 year-old army of clay statues that guarded the tomb of China’s first emperor. The exhibit features 10 original clay statues and over 140 artifacts from the tomb of China’s first emperor China’s First Emperor Qin Shihuangdi.  ~ Terracotta Warriors Exhibit at The Franklin Institute ~
  • Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest at Penn’s Landing ~ January 26 – March 4 ~ Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest at Penn’s Landing will be a winter wonderland for all ages to explore. Enjoy ice skating, live music, warm fire pits, food, craft beers, shopping and much more. ~ Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest at Penn’s Landing ~
  • Winter Fountains on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway ~ January 26 – March 18, 2018 ~ FREE – Enjoy this outdoor exhibit that features a stunning nighttime display of surreal, glowing videos projected on to four large domes! ~ Winter Fountains on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway ~
  • Parkway 100 Celebration ~ January 26 to Nov 16 ~ The Ben Franklin Parkway is turning 100 and Philadelphia is set to mark this milestone with a year of special events, promotions, and family-friendly experiences through November 18, 2018.  ~ Parkway 100 Celebration ~
  • Philadelphia Auto Show ~ January 27 – February 4 ~ Philadelphia Auto Show is recognized by the industry as one of the top shows in the country, usually featuring more than 700 concept, classic, luxury and exotic cars on display! Show-goers get to sit inside the vehicles, pop the hood and kick the tires; excluding the concept or exotic vehicles. Even take a few for a test ride. Check it out. ~ Philadelphia Auto Show ~

Date Specific Events & Activities ~ January 26 – February 1 ~

  • Philadelphia Mural Arts Tours Month of January ~ Come check out the many Mural Arts tours throughout Philadelphia. ~ Philadelphia Mural Arts Tours for January 2018 or 215-925-3633. ~ About Philadelphia Mural Arts ~
  • Our 2018 Guide To Fireplaces At These Philly Bars & Restaurants ~ January & February ~ Feeling cold and like to find a nice bar or restaurant in Philadelphia that has a fireplace. Check out our recommendations. If you have one that we didn’t mention, please tell us in the comments. Thanks.  ~ Our 2018 Guide To Fireplaces At These Philly Bars & Restaurants ~
  • Center City District Restaurant Week ~ January 26 ~ Last day to enjoy Philadelphia restaurant week aka Center City Restaurant Week! Savor discounted prices at over 100 Philly restaurants! Do you have a favorite? Is there a restaurant that you have been dying to try? Please tell us & your experiences! Thx Center City District Restaurant Week ~
  • Dinos After Dark ~ January 26 ~ Pay-What-You-Wish from 5 pm to 8 pm at the Academy of Natural Sciences at 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway. On the fourth Friday evening of every month this winter and spring, the Academy of Natural Sciences is offering pay-what-you-wish admission, family activities, and an indoor beer garden in their famous Dinosaur Hall. ~ Dinos After Dark at the Academy of Natural Sciences ~
  • Art After 5 January 26 Free with admission, from 5 pm to 8:45 pm. ~ Final Fridays: Weird Science ​​ Indulge your inner nerd with an evening devoted to experiments, discoveries, and art. Held at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in the Great Stair Hall. Art After 5 ~  
  • 4th Friday in Headhouse District January 26 ~ Starting at 5 pm in the South Street Headhouse District, Experience the creativity and energy of the fabulous Fourth Street and South Street business communities with an evening of extended hours, art, music, food and shopping along Historic Fabric Row (and beyond). ~ 4th Friday in Headhouse District ~ 
  • Filter Square Farmers’ Market ~ January 27 ~ From 9 am to 2 pm, The Food Trust holds an outdoor market at 23rd and Pine Streets. Enjoy fresh vegetables & food from favorite local farmers and producers. ~ Filter Square Farmers’ Market ~
  • Liberty Lands Market ~ January 27 ~ From 9 am until 3 pm at 926 N. American St in Northern Liberties. One can find everything from fresh organic produce to hand crafted wears and lotions. Hand made soaps, Ice Creams, sauces, organic teas and coffees and more. Part of the market, you will find animal rescues with adoptables & pet products. Liberty Lands Market ~
  • Rittenhouse Farmers’ Market ~ January 27 ~ From 9 am to 3 pm from 18th & Walnut Streets, enjoy fresh seasonal produce, fresh seafood, fresh bread and much more! ~ Rittenhouse Farmers’ Market ~   
  • Clark Park Farmers’ Market ~ January 27 ~ From 10 am to 2 pm, The Food Trust holds an outdoor market at 43rd St and Baltimore Ave. Enjoy fresh vegetables & food from favorite local farmers and producers. ~ Clark Park Farmers’ Market ~
  • Chinese New Year Celebrations ~ January 27Held at the Penn Museum from 11 am to 4 pm. Guests will enjoy a contemporary Asian film, Kung Fu martial arts demonstrations, Chinese story telling, calligraphy, a lion dance and parade and more. For more info, Click Here.  ~ Chinese New Year Celebrations at Penn Museum ~
  • Groundhog Day Night Hunt Puzzle Pub Crawl ~ January 27 ~ Starts at 5:30 pm at 6ft Under Gastropub at 727 Walnut St. The object is simple: figure out where Punxsutawney Phil (a 12” stuffed groundhog doll) is hiding! The first team to find Phil wins – and gets to keep him forever! Teams of any size and shape solve puzzles and play games while looking for hidden clues. You will visit three bars where you can eat, drink and hang out while trying to find Phil. Groundhog Day Night Hunt Puzzle Pub Crawl ~
  • Philadelphia Auto Show ~ January 27 – February 4 ~ Philadelphia Auto Show is recognized by the industry as one of the top shows in the country, usually featuring more than 700 concept, classic, luxury and exotic cars on display! Show-goers get to sit inside the vehicles, pop the hood and kick the tires; excluding the concept or exotic vehicles. Even take a few for a test ride. Check it out. ~ Philadelphia Auto Show ~
  • Yards Brewing Co Tours ~ Starting Back Up Feb 2018 FREE – Saturdays & Sundays from 12 pm to 4 pm at Yards Brewery, enjoy a wonderful tour of the brewery! All tour-goers must be 21+ unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Bus tours, private tours and guided tastings are offered by appointment only. Please contact events@yardsbrewing.com for booking information. ~ Yards Brewing Co Tours ~
  • Taste of Philadelphia: Market Tours ~ January 27 & 31 ~ Starts at 10 am every Wed & Sat – Learn the story behind cheese steaks, hoagies, pretzels and other Philly food favorites, and the 115-year history of the vibrant Reading Terminal Market where they’re sold during this 75-minute, food-writer-led walking tour. ~ Taste of Philadelphia: Market Tours ~
  • Headhouse Farmers’ Market ~ January 28 ~ Established in 2007, this market is located in the historic Society Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia. Featuring more than 40 vendors, Headhouse is one of The Food Trust’s largest farmers markets. Headhouse Farmers’ Market ~
  • Philadelphia Auto Show ~ January 29 – February 4 ~ Philadelphia Auto Show is recognized by the industry as one of the top shows in the country, usually featuring more than 700 concept, classic, luxury and exotic cars on display! Show-goers get to sit inside the vehicles, pop the hood and kick the tires; excluding the concept or exotic vehicles. Even take a few for a test ride. Check it out. ~ Philadelphia Auto Show ~
  • Pay-What-You-Wish ~ January 31 ~ Stop in at the Philadelphia Museum of Art every Wednesday from 5 pm – 8:45 pm and ”Pay What You Wish”,  as you explore the museum and its remarkable collections. ~ Pay What You Wish ~ 
  • Philadelphia Mural Arts Tours Month of February ~ Come check out the many Mural Arts tours throughout Philadelphia. ~ Philadelphia Mural Arts Tours for February 2018 or 215-925-3633. ~ About Philadelphia Mural Arts ~
  • Dilworth Park ~ Now Open ~ Enjoy seating areas for relaxation, food & live music. ~ Dilworth Park ~
  • Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk  ~ Now Open ~ Enjoy this 2,000 foot new extension bridging the South Street Bridge & the Locust Street bike trail. ~ Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk  ~
  • “Your Brain” at Franklin Institute ~ Now Open ~ A permanent exhibit at the Franklin Institute. Travel through a two-story tall neural network climbing structure with dynamic lighting and sound effects that are triggered by your footsteps. Kids can act as a Doctor by scanning the brain with an MRI machine, explore your brain, challenge your brain & much more.   ~ “Your Brain” at Franklin Institute ~ 
  • Native American Voices Exhibit at Penn Museum ~ Now Open ~ Stop over at Penn Museum in University City and learn about contemporary issues in Native America. Uncover the rich history and identity of the Native American people through 200 plus objects on display & much more. ~ Native American Voices Exhibit at Penn Museum ~
  • The Artifact Lab – Mummy Conversation at Penn Museum ~ Now until (no date set) ~ Here is your chance to get up close and personal. Watch conservators clean, examine, & preserve Egyptian Mummies at Penn MuseumBest of all, there are special times during the week to where you can ask them questions in person. ~ Conserving Mummies at Penn Museum ~

Visiting Philadelphia

Are you Visiting Philadelphia? Have you lived in or near the City of Philadelphia, but never ventured out too the many historical sites in Philly? Here is a quick guide for some must see attractions in the City of Brotherly Love.

  • The Independence Visitor’s Center – Your guide for all of your information relating to historical sites in Philadelphia and other things to do in Philadelphia. ~ Independence Visitor’s Center ~
  • Museum of the American Revolution – The Museum of the American Revolution tells the full story of the American Revolution and explores its ongoing legacy, showcasing a vast collection. There are over 3,000 artifacts that have been collected to include General George Washington’s marquee and much more. The museum anchors the eastern end of Independence National Historical Park. ~ Museum of the American Revolution ~
  • Philadelphia Zoo ~ With the warmer weather approaching, you can not miss America’s Oldest Zoo. 42 acres of awesomeness and over 1,000 animals. ~ Philadelphia Z00 ~
  • Liberty Bell – Symbol of American Independence – If you are visiting Philadelphia, this is one site that must be seen. ~ Liberty Bell ~
  • Elfreth’s Alley ~ Get to walk down a street with 300 years of history. Elfreth’s Alley is one of the oldest continuously inhabited residential streets in America. ~ Elfreth’s Alley ~
  • Philadelphia City Hall ~ Like Architecture? Philadelphia History? They give tours of the Philadelphia City Hall. If you go up high enough, you get to see the whole city. ~ Philadelphia City Hall ~
  • Philadelphia Museum of Art – So many things that surround this museum. The “Rocky” Steps or the “Rocky” statue. A great view down Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Behind the museum, you can view Boat House Row and a few other things. ~ Philadelphia Museum of Art ~
  • Betsy Ross House – Did Betsy Ross actually make the American Flag? Learn about some of Philadelphia’s earliest history. ~ Betsy Ross House ~
  • Independence Hall – This is where the Declaration of Independence was adopted and where the Constitution of the United States was debated, drafted and signed. ~ Independence Hall~
  • National Constitution Center – If anything, you must see the ‘We the People’ exhibit. There are other timely exhibits. ~ National Constitution Center ~
  • Philadelphia Parks – Such as Fairmount Park or even Franklin Square for the kids or relaxing.

Those visiting who need a good tour company to show you around the City of Philadelphia, the historical sites, and much more, please ask us in the comments below, Tweet us at @MyPhillyAlive or ask us on our Facebook Page. ~ If you feel like walking instead, check out Free and Friendly Tours. Click Here for more info.

Upcoming Events & Attractions in Philadelphia ~ February 2 & beyond

  • Art After 5 ~ February 2 Free with admission, from 5 pm to 8:45 pm. ~ Uri Gurvich ​​ Saxophonist Uri Gurvich blends world influences, including sounds from his native Israel, with progressive jazz. Songs from his latest release, Kinship, explore tribal and familial connections between different cultures and individuals.. Held at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in the Great Stair Hall. Art After 5 ~  
  • Havana Nights: A Celebration of Cuban Food & Music at World Live Cafe February 2 ~ FREE – Doors open at 7 pm & show at 8 pm at World Live Cafe – Enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine & drink specials, and music courtesy of Philly’s most exciting Cuban band, Conjunto! A perfect date night or just a night out with friends & is open to those 21 and up. ~ Havana Nights: A Celebration of Cuban Food & Music at World Live Cafe ~ 
  • Where To Watch Super Bowl 52 & Philly Sports Bars ~ February 4 ~ Where to watch the Super Bowl in Philadelphia? Check out the many Philly sports bars! Good luck to the Philadelphia Eagles! ~ Super Bowl 52 & Philly Sports Bars ~
  • Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl ~ February 4 ~ The Philadelphia Eagles play the New England Patriots at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, MN. If not going to the game, then watch the game at many different sports bars in Philly! ~ Info about XFinity Live ~
  • Philadelphia Theatre Week February 8 – 18 ~    ~ Philadelphia Theatre Week ~
  • First Friday’s in Old CityFebruary 9 ~ Starts at 5 pm. Your chance to visit Art Galleries throughout Old City after normal hours. You will be able to talk to the art directors and possibly some of Philadelphia’s local artists. This also takes place as First Saturdays with select Art Galleries extending out to Fishtown. ~ First Fridays ~ 
  • First Friday’s in Manayunk ~ February 9 ~ Starts at 5 pm. Come enjoy art in Manayunk. Before or afterwards, enjoy a meal at the many restaurants, or stop in one of Manayunk’s wonderful specialty shops. ~ First Friday’s in Manayunk ~
  • First Sundays at Barnes Foundation ~ February 11 ~ FREE – On the first Sunday of every month, visitors to the Barnes Foundation will enjoy free admission, family entertainment and informative seminars from 10 am to 6 pm. Free tickets can be obtained at the Barnes Foundation beginning at 9 am. Advance reservations are not available for Free First Sundays. ~ First Sunday’s at Barnes Foundation ~
  • Pay As You Wish ~ February 11 ~ Stop in at the Philadelphia Museum of Art every 1st Sunday of the month from 5 pm – 8:45 pm and ”Pay What You Wish”,  as you explore the museum and its remarkable collections. ~ Pay What You Wish ~
  • Mardi Gras Celebrations ~ February 13 ~   ~ Mardi Gras Celebrations in Philadelphia ~
  • Valentine’s Day Restaurants ~ February 14 ~ Love is in the air in Philadelphia! We have a list of restaurants for your Valentine’s Day, as well as date ideas and things to do in Philly. ~ Valentine’s Day Restaurants ~
  • Chinese New Year Celebrations ~ February 14 – 22 ~  Throughout Chinatown & Philadelphia, enjoy exhilarating Lion Dancestraditional music and dance performances, martial arts demonstrations and traditional Chinese cuisine. ~ Chinese New Year Celebrations ~
  • Chinese New Year ~ February 16 ~ The Chinese New Year kicks off with a midnight parade in Chinatown on Chinese New Year’s Eve and continues to explore many events throughout Philadelphia for the next 2 weeks. Check out the excitement, the Chinese culture and much more! ~ Chinese New Year ~
  • Winterfest Live Beer Festival ~ February 17 ~ Held at XFinity Live from 3 pm to 7 pm (VIP starts at 2 pm). Guests will be able to sample 150 + beers from 74 breweries in a custom beer stein, enjoy live music, multiple DJs, tournaments, games and more! ~ Get Tickets ~ ~ Winterfest Live Beer Festival at XFinity Live ~
  • Flannel Animal Event ~ February 18 ~   ~ Flannel Animal Event ~
  • President’s Day ~ February 19 ~     ~ President’s Day ~
  • 4th Friday in Headhouse District February 23 ~ Starting at 5 pm in the South Street Headhouse District, Experience the creativity and energy of the fabulous Fourth Street and South Street business communities with an evening of extended hours, art, music, food and shopping along Historic Fabric Row (and beyond). ~ 4th Friday in Headhouse District ~
  • East Passyunk Restaurant Week ~ February 26 – March 9 ~     ~ East Passyunk Restaurant Week
  • Philadelphia Mural Arts Tours Month of March ~ Come check out the many Mural Arts tours throughout Philadelphia. ~ Philadelphia Mural Arts Tours for March 2018 or 215-925-3633. ~ About Philadelphia Mural Arts ~
  • Philadelphia Flower Show ~ March 3 – 11 ~      ~ Philadelphia Flower Show ~
  • Philly Wine Week ~ March 22 – 29 ~   ~ Philly Wine Week ~
  • Brewer’s Plate ~ March 30 ~ Brewer’s Plate ~

As always, no matter if you are visiting Philadelphia or live in the City of Philadelphia, we hope our list of things to do in Philadelphia helps you out. If you have stumbled upon something else that we did not mention, please let us know in a comment or in an e-mail. If you are a business or organization that has an event coming up, please contact us. MyPhillyAlive If you happened to visit any of the things mentioned above, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment here or on that article describing what you liked about that event or attraction. As always, we would greatly appreciate any feedback. Thanks, MyPhillyAlive

Philadelphia Weather for the weekend of January 26 – 28

Friday  |  Sunny  |  High 45°  |  Low 23°

Saturday  |  Partly Cloudy  |  High 57°  |  Low 47°

Sunday  |  80% Showers  |  High 54°  |  Low 35°

Disclaimer : This blog post is a weekly update of things to do in Philadelphia. Please check the date above, when such article was posted. If an earlier date appears above, just go to this link for current events and attractions in Philadelphia. ~ Click : Things to do in Philadelphia ~

Photo Credit: Photo courtesy of Tibor Puskas for MyPhillyAlive

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