In the summertime, it’s easy for Philadelphians to jam pack their week/weekends with typical social obligations: BBQs, trips down the Shore, outdoor happy hours… And while we love soaking up the sunset with a cocktail, for city residents, there are also so many exciting happenings taking place in the foreseeable future! Check it out, here are some of the more exciting events coming up over the next few months:
1. The DNC
Our liberal city is opening its arms to the Democratic National Convention, which means for a whole 4 days, all eyes will be on us! Possibly more exciting than even the historic politics taking place in Wells Fargo will be the deals going on everywhere else. Be sure to follow #DNCDeals on social media to take advantage of specials and discounts by local restaurants and shops. There will be TONS of fun events going on (fans of Pokemon Go will love spotting Donkeys Around Town) and you won’t want to miss out! Read up on the official guide here.
2. Punch Line Philly
So, our newest comedy club had what The Morning Call reported was an “underwhelming” launch when Russell Peters helmed its grand opening earlier this month. That aside, the cool new Punch Line Philly in NoLibs is a neighbor of The Fillmore, also owned and operated by Live Nation’s House of Blues division. The inside looks incredible, and the lineup thus far? Pretty damn solid. We’ll be checking it out this summer, for sure!
3. Best of Philly 2016 Soiree
If you want something to raise your glass to, how about we pour one out for local businesses? Each year, Philadelphia Magazine recognizes the best and brightest establishments in the area, and each year, we look forward to the chance to drink, dance, and sample bites from the top restaurants at the grand soiree! Grab your tickets, and look out for the Best of Philly 2016 issue taking the stands in August.
4. Yards Brewing Company
Speaking of drinks, we can’t wait to visit Yards’ new digs when they move closer to Center City this fall. Following the $13 million sale of Destination Maternity’s old headquarters at 5th and Spring Garden, the area is being redesigned into a creative office space. And the brewmasters of the city-favorite Brawler will be occupying 80,000 square feet of this space, where they can both open a brewpub and more than double current production numbers.
5. KOP’s Expansion
Who’s ready to shop?! The King of Prussia Mall is undergoing some serious renovations right now. While a nightmare for commuter traffic, the result will be heaven for fashionistas throughout the tri-state area. When unveiled in August (fingers crossed), the connection between The Plaza and The Court will be supported by 50 brand new storefronts – with promises of valet parking too.
6. Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia
When you hit up KOP, definitely plan to shop for an all-white ensemble. (Bring along our DEB Buyer’s Guide, especially if it’s your first time.) On August 18th, the lucky chosen will be awaiting a text message to the secret location of this year’s Dîner en Blanc party. It’s not too late to sign up for the waiting list! We highly recommend that you try because DEB is undoubtedly one of the most stylish events of the season!
7. Liquor Reform Bill
You may recall that Governor Wolf signed a bill into legislation in June that would allow grocery stores in Philadelphia to sell wine. (!) That Liquor Reform Bill will officially go into effect next month, which feels soon but really has been a long time coming, considering grocers haven’t been able to legally sell wine in Pennsylvania since before the Prohibition. This bill also includes extended hours for the PLCB, meaning you may be able to purchase booze on Sundays and state holidays. If you need a 6-pack, you can grab them from the nearest gas station, and if a trip to the liquor store is out of the question, you can have wine shipped right to your home. The future is here.
8. ITV’s Weekend Opening
We’ve been waiting a loooong time for Nicholas Elmi to open Laurel’s bar! If you’ve never been – first of all, go get in line to make a reservation at the number one restaurant in all of Philadelphia. While you’re waiting, there’s good news now: his long-promised next door bar opens this Saturday! Named ITV “In the Valley” for the translation of its home street “Passyunk”, the restaurant’s small plates and beverages are sure to live up to its sister restaurant’s illustrious menu.
9. MilkBoy’s South Street Debut
Any day now, we’re hoping to get wind of the grand opening of MilkBoy’s newest location! The indie music hall recently took over Lickety Split’s old digs at 4th and South, and added their signature garage rolling doors to the space. They’ve been keeping a pretty tight lid on both their new concert venue and what fate awaits their current location in the Gayborhood, which is now owned by Jefferson. We’ll keep our ears to the ground for any bass rumblings, but word is they should be opening soon…
10. Evil Genius’ Beer Garden
You didn’t think we could get through a Philly-focused listicle without mentioning beer gardens, did you? Last weekend was the kick-off party for Evil Genius Beer Company’s new (and permanent) outdoor space, and it looks like a great addition to the NoLibs neighborhood.The spot will be open for five weekends through October, where patrons can drink, enjoy live music, watch outdoor movies, and grab food from local food trucks that will be parking it nearby. The best part? Proceeds will benefit a local charity each month, beginning with the Fishtown Neighbors Association. Cheers to drinking for a cause!
What events or big news are you most excited about? We’d love to hear your picks in the comments or on social media!
