Just because summer is over doesn’t mean it’s the end of festival season. This month’s top events feature one-of-a-kind Philly festivals with visits to the Gayborhood, Old City, and Hogwarts – no joke, keep reading below. And celebrate sweater weather with free outdoor movie screenings and concerts.
Outfest and Old City Fest
When: Sun., Oct 12, 12 – 6 p.m. Where: Outfest, Gayborhood, 1200 Locust St.; Old City Fest, N. 3rd St. between Market St. and Race St. Cost: Free entry. Pay-as-you-go.
Both on the same day, Outfest and Old City Fest are guaranteed to turn a slow Sunday into a full-blown block party. Celebrate National Coming Out Day in the heart of the Gayborhood where there’ll be food, flea markets, music, as well as carnival attractions and activities run by local businesses. At the main stage, don’t miss the high heel race, penis-shaped bagel eating, crowning of Miss Philly Gay, and award ceremony honoring members of the community.
At the same time, Philly’s historical district will be highlighting art and design, fashion and food, creativity and culture at Old City Fest. Visit Philly favorites Smak Parlour, Franklin Fountain, and Scout Vintage who’ll make an appearance along with other designers, creative firms, retailers, and restaurants. The festival stage will play live music all day as you enjoy pop-up theater, design showcase room, and – of course – food.
I Love My Creative Job!
When: Wed., Oct 15, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Where: Greek Hall at Macy’s, 1300 Market St., Philadelphia Cost: Free!
Listen to creative industry professionals as they talk about their careers in advertising, fashion design, interior design and more. This DesignPhiladelphia Festival event includes speakers from Allen & Gerritsen, Anthropologie, IKEA, and Philadelphia Fashion Incubator. Afterwards Campus Philly will be hosting a “ask me anything”-style discussion and networking reception. Reserve your spot on the Campus Philly website.
Harry Potter Weekend in Chestnut Hill
When: Fri., Oct. 17 and Sat, Oct. 18 Where: Various locations in Chestnut Hill. See schedule. Cost: Free entry. Pay-as-you-go.
Potter fans unite at Chestnut Hill for a weekend of wizardry and magic. Local businesses near Germantown Avenue will be transformed into the world in the world of J.K. Rowling’s book series where you’ll find Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade, and Weasley’s Wizarding Wheeezes and more. Start off the weekend with a scholarly discussion in the Harry Potter Conference at Chestnut Hill College, and then those holding a 21+ ID can jump on the pub crawl. Return on Saturday to ride the Hogwarts Express, discover your house through the sorting hat, take Defense Against the Dark Arts classes, watch the intense Quidditch Tournament, and take a selfie with Hedwig – a day’s work at Hogwarts. Dressing up is a must (don’t let them find out you’re a muggle).
Forbes Under 30 Music Festival ft. Afrojack and Wiz Khalifa
When: Sun., Oct. 19, 4 – 9 p.m. Where: Piazza at Schmidts, 1001 N. 2nd St., Philadelphia Cost: Free tickets from Global Citizen
Win two free concert tickets at the Under 30 Music Festival by taking action to end extreme poverty on the Global Citizen’s website. The night’s lineup will include Afrojack, Wiz Khalifa, LP, and OCD: Moosh And Twist. This music event will kick off the first day of the Forbes 30 Under Summit, a weekend bringing together members of Forbes “30 Under 30” list with business leaders and mentors. Support the fight against Ebola AND score free concert tickets – I’m in!
Pictures in the Park: Sixth Sense
When: Tues., Oct. 28, 6:30 p.m. Where: Dilworth Park, City Hall, 15th St. and Market St., Philadelphia Cost: Free!
Cozy up in a thick sweater or blanket while enjoying a scary movie in the crisp October night. The newly redesigned Dilworth Park will be hosting a free movie screening of the thriller classic Sixth Sense. Feel free to bring picnic blankets and low beach chairs. No worries if you forgot to pack popcorn, head over to the nearby Rosa Blanca café to pick up snacks. This event will be the finale of Dilworth Park’s Tuesday free movie nights.
