When it comes to learning about art, science, and culture, Philadelphia is one of the best classrooms around. Philadelphia’s museums, institutions, and innovative residents bring endless opportunities to learn and appreciate a side of our city you don’t always see.
This is a weekly roundup of events that can help you add a little culture to your schedule.
9.11
Edward Snowden in Conversation with Jeremy Scahill: The Surveillance State Then and Now
Parkway Central Library
Edward Snowden will be appearing via a live closed-circuit link to discuss the current state of surveillance with Jeremy Scahill. Although auditorium tickets are sold-out, you can still purchase in-house simulcast tickets.
La Haine Screening
The Barnes Foundation
Join the Barnes Foundation and other movie lovers for a screening of the French film La Haine, about three men from immigrant families navigating through race issues and marginalization on the outskirts of Paris.
9.12
Loudon Wainwright III and Eileen Myles
Parkway Central Library
Singer-songwriter Loudon Wainwright III and author Eileen Myles will both be discussing their fascinating memoirs about life in the arts and creative field.
9.13
Jake Clemons Performance
World Cafe Live
Enjoy the musical styling of Jake Clemons, a jazz musician, as he performs some of his older songs and songs that can be found on his current full-length album Fear & Love, which was released in January.
9.14
Hairspray Movie Night
The Piazza at Schmidt’s Commons
Free
Watch the original “Hairspray” movie musical al fresco this Thursday and feel free to sing along.
Night Skies in the Observatory
The Franklin Institute
Admire the night sky using world-class telescopes from the Bloom Observatory at the Franklin Institute. Chief Astronomer Derrick Pitts will be teaching you all about space and will be there to answer any questions you might have about the galaxy.
Festival O
Various Locations
Price Varies
Festival O is a city-wide festival centered around the musical and theatrical genre of opera. Seven operatic performances will be occurring throughout 12 days in Philly, with dramatic and innovative shows at different venues.
Cai Guo-Qiang: Fireflies
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Free
A colorful light installation created by artist Cai Guo-Qiang will be unveiled along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in honor of Parkway 100.
9.15
The Hot Club of Philadelphia
The Piazza at Schmidt’s Commons
Free
The Hot Club of Philadelphia, an energetic jazz ensemble, will be performing at Schmidt’s Commons this Friday. There will be free Swing Dance lessons, as well.
Linda May Han Oh Performance
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Free after admission
The Art Museum will be hosting Linda May Han Oh, a jazz bassist, and her ensemble for a musical performance, with tapas and cocktails provided by Starr Catering.
Artist Bash: Drivers of Social Change
The Barnes Foundation
In an attempt to bring together musicians, comedians, poets, and civic leaders, the Barnes Foundation will be hosting an Artist Bash, with an open-mic opportunity, performances, food and drink, and exhibition access.
9.16
South Street Oktoberfest
700 Block of South Street
Free
Drink all the German beer you could ever want and eat as much Bavarian buffet as you can fit in your stomach at the South Street Oktoberfest. Brauhaus Schmitz will be providing the food and drink for this event, with dancing, giveaways, and more.
9.17
Brazilian Day
The Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing
Free
Appreciate Brazilian culture at Brazilian Day, sponsored by the PECO Multicultural Festival Series. There will be lots of food, dancing, and music.
Feria Del Barrio
N 5th Street between Huntingdon and Somerset Streets
Free
Feria del Barrio is an event with a goal to celebrate the Latino culture and economic development through traditional music and dancing, food, arts and crafts, and so much more.