Through Monday June 16, 2025
Made and Remade – the Art of the Philadelphia Dumpster Divers
It takes a certain vision to see art in the trash. But 15 – let’s call them art-cyclers — have that gift of grab; they grab it before the sanitation department shows up. And those 15 art finders are being rewarded and recognized for their craftiness in the exhibition Made and Remade – the Art of the Philadelphia Dumpster Divers. It’s called a “celebration of imagination by a unique artist collective from the Philadelphia region,” who turn trash into treasures of art. They are the warriors of the unwanted, the reclaimed, and the repurposed. Sustainable art is their jam. Some of the show’s participants are part of a tight community of found-object artists known as the Philadelphia Dumpster Divers, who even have meetings to revel in their finds. City Hall Art Manager Tu Huynh thought it would be a keen idea to showcase their thrifty passion at City Hall, one of the city’s most famous public buildings. Check out his idea. The free public exhibit, 10 a.m. EST to 4 p.m. EST. Creative Philadelphia Art Gallery (Rm. 116), Broad Street and John F. Kennedy Blvd. 215- 686-8446 or https://www.creativephl.org or https://dumpsterdivers.org/
Through Sunday, June 29, 2025
Staged: Studio Photographs from the Collection
Portrait-style photography is a true art form confined to a tight space. But the truth-bearing lens does not lie in Staged: Studio Photographs from the Collection. This collection of riveting images, both in black-and-white as well as color, from the 19th century to the present catches the eye. Each tells many stories through studio portraits, advertising, and editorial photography, still life images, and images of scientific experimentation by Mickalene Thomas, Samuel Fosso, Berenice Abbott, Rachel Stern, Irving Penn, Cindy Sherman, and other artists. Individual tickets: $30 (adults); $28 (seniors), students ($14), free for kids 18 and under; pay what you wish on the first Sunday in June, the show’s finale. Open Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, 10 a.m. EST to 5 p.m. EST. Philadelphia Museum of Art Main Building / Honickman (Galleries 156-157), 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy. 215-763-8100 or https://philamuseum.org/calendar/exhibition/staged-studio-photographs
Through Friday, July 25, 2025
My City, My Story: Local Identity and Community
Creative Philadelphia’s Art In City Hall exhibition program is presenting My City, My Story: Local Identity and Community, a cool student exhibition by Photography Without Borders. The show celebrates the nonprofit’s 15th year. It features the works of 29 talented elementary and middle school students from Eugenio Maria de Hostos Charter School and Antonia Pantoja Charter School. Most of the students live in North Philly, Hunting Park, and Kensington. Urban Puerto Rican life comes alive on canvas and through the lens of photography. The mission of Photography Without Borders’ art program is to nurture the creative talent of photography students. The promotional material explains: “Students express their personal stories and perspectives offering a powerful reflection of local identity and the vibrant spirit of their neighborhoods.” Free, Mondays to Fridays, 10 a.m. EST to 4 p.m. EST. Philadelphia City Hall / northeast corner (4th-floor corner hallway) & the Creative Philadelphia Office (Rm. 116), Broad and Market Sts. 215-686-8446 or https://photographywithoutborders.org/
Through Friday, July 25, 2025
Patterns of Promise
More than a dozen high school students from diverse backgrounds show off their artwork using hand-screen printing applied to cotton sateen fabric in Patterns of Promise. The students’ newfound art and entrepreneurial skills are honed under the direction of professional artists and studio staff at The Fabric Workshop and Museum’s High School Apprentice Training Program (HSATP). The exhibit looks at themes of identity and personal expression. It is hosted by Creative Philadelphia’s Art In City Hall. Free, 10 a.m. EST to 4 p.m. EST weekdays. City Hall (2nd floor, northeast corner hallway), 1401 John F. Kennedy Blvd. 215-686-8446 or https://fabricworkshopandmuseum.org/ or https://www.creativephl.org
Through Monday, September 1, 2025
Boom: Art and Design in the 1940s
In the 1940s, the arts bustled with new ideas in fashion, textiles, craft and design, printmaking, drawing, photography, painting, and sculpture. The exhibit Boom: Art and Design in the 1940s is a great reflection of the creative forces that emerged in the face of many restrictions and adversities in that era which was punctuated by the Second World War. Politics, science, economics, industry, the arts, and culture all were tested, but not suppressed, by the turmoil of the era. The exhibition will showcase 1940s works from the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s permanent collections. Individual tickets: $35; $33 for seniors 65+ & $19 for students (includes admission to view other museum exhibits); pay what you wish on the first Sundays of the month. Mondays: 10 a.m. EST to 5 p.m. EST, Thursdays: 10 a.m. EST to 5 p.m. EST, Fridays: 10 a.m. EST to 8:45 p.m. EST & Saturdays & Sundays: 10 a.m. EST to 5 p.m. EST. Philadelphia Museum of Art, Dorrance Galleries (Main Building), 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy. 215-763-8100 or philamuseum.org
Odunde Festival
Festival Week: June 1-7th, Festival: June 8th
The ODUNDE festival is the “staple event” for the organization and the City of Philadelphia. The festival attracts up to 500,000 attendees, covers 15-city blocks, has over 100 arts & craft and food vendors and has two stages of LIVE entertainment. The festival is known throughout the world as one of the original models for African-American festivals, hosting many internationally known African and Caribbean performers, dignitaries, folk artists and cultural leaders.
CALLING ALL PERFORMERS!!!
Enter your CHANCE to perform at ODUNDE
The largest African American Street festival in NORTH AMERICA!!!
Follow the instructions on the flyer.
Tuesday, June 3 to Sunday, June 15, 2025
THE WIZ
From Broadway to Broad Street, it will be well worth it to catch the reimagined production of THE WIZ. From the start, the soul, gospel, and 70s funk mixed with upbeat ballet jazz and modern pop dancing will grab you. Dorothy is not playing’ — as she navigates the perils, potholes, and detours along the yellow-brick road in this action-packed modern take. The show is in the hands of director Schele Williams, with lively choreography by JaQuel Knight and additional material by Tony-nominated and Emmy-nominated writer Amber Ruffin. Individual tickets: $34.00 to $161.68; show times vary. Academy of Music. 240 S. Broad St. 215-893-1999 or ensembleartsphilly.org/
Wednesday, June 4, 2025
WE WANT THE FUNK Film Screening & Rooftop Concert
Who’s got the funk? Enjoy a film, live music, and terrace vibes at the Parkway Central Library’s Indie Lens Pop-Up and WHYY’s screening of the PBS Independent Lens documentary, “WE WANT THE FUNK.” Celebrate Black Music Month in style. The movie will tell the story of funk music — from African, soul, and early jazz roots up to its rise into the mainstream. Dress fly in your best funky-fabulous party threads (Don’t say that three times). Following the screening, enjoy refreshments and live funk music under the stars on the rooftop courtesy of Mister Mann’s Jam Band. The event is sponsored in part by the Miriam Spector Endowment for the Humanities. Free but pre-register; 6 p.m. EST to 9 p.m. EST (doors open at 5:30 p.m. EST). Parkway Central Library (Skyline Room & Terrace), 1901 Vine St. 215-351-1200 or whyy.org/events
Friday, June 6
Immigrant Heritage Month kick-off
To mark National Immigrant Heritage Month, the city’s Office of Immigrant Affairs is throwing a big cultural shindig. Check out the Immigrant Heritage Month kick-off featuring documentary screenings about the immigrant and refugee experience, panel discussions on mental health in the community, cultural festivals, food demonstrations, and conversations about the positive impact that immigrants have in the civic, economic, and rich cultural fabric of Philadelphia. The event will celebrate the closing weekend for The Philadelphians, a public art projection by artists Nadia Hironaka and Matthew Suib showing films about the city’s vibrant immigrant communities. Enjoy local food, beverages, performances by Cambodian American Girls Empowering, remarks from Alain Joinville, Acting Executive Director of the Philadelphia Office of Immigrant Affairs, and other local organizations. As part of The Philadelphians project, Forman Arts Initiative and Mural Arts Philadelphia will be hosting “Conversations in the Kitchen: Cultural Storytelling Through Food,” at the Reading Terminal Market on June 3, free, 3 p.m. EST (RSVP here). Immigrant Heritage Month Kickoff: Free, but pre-register; 7 p.m. EST to 9 p.m. EST, LOVE Park, 15th Street & John F. Kennedy Blvd. RSVP here or on the OIA website.
Friday, June 6 & Saturday, June 7, 2025
Toll the Bell
Organizers call Toll the Bell one of the nation’s biggest sound installations against gun violence. On June 6th, more than 40 faith-based and community organizations will take part in the gun violence awareness event to recognize National Gun Violence Awareness Day. Toll the Bell will call attention to the alarming issue that has griped communities nationwide. While community violence-prevention initiatives are making a sizable impact (Philadelphia has experienced a 42 percent dip in victims of gun violence), more action is needed. More than 45 “sound partners” will activate bells and other loud sounds citywide, at 1 p.m. EST. The event includes an Interfaith vigil at the Annenberg Center Outdoor Plaza, followed by a Reflective Walk from the Annenberg Center to Philadelphia Episcopal Cathedral, where Ruth Naomi Floyd will perform the soul-stirring Echoes: Shattered Flesh and Breathless Souls, created for the occasion. On June 7th, the singer-composer will perform an encore of her meditative song exploring the loss experienced by victims of violence. The program will include remarks by community leaders and performances by Omar’s Hat, a West Philly band, featuring a commissioned work about loss, community, and hope. The Religious Leaders Council of Greater Philadelphia is partnering with Penn Live Arts and other groups to host the event. June 6th activities: Free, 12:15 p.m. EST to 2 p.m. EST. Annenberg Center to Philadelphia Episcopal Cathedral, 3680 Walnut St., & Philadelphia Episcopal Cathedral, 19 S. 38th St. June 7th activities: Free, 2 p.m. EST, Tindley Temple United Methodist, 750 S Broad St. Email: jg@interfaithphiladelphia.org or https://pennlivearts.org/events/tollthebell.php
Saturday, June 7
Vibrant Vibes: Where Bold Moves Meet Clarity
Get ready to change your life. Get ready for Vibrant Vibes: Where Bold Moves Meet Clarity, a dynamic brunch celebration designed to empower and inspire women to step into their purpose, embrace their ambition, and live boldly and confidently. This engaging transformative event will be Saturday, June 7, from 11 a.m. EST to 2 p.m. EST at Clique Socially, 30 Crown Point Rd. #8, in West Deptford, New Jersey (08086)
Led by a licensed mental health professional and a women’s empowerment & trauma recovery coach, participate in educational sessions featuring tools and strategies to reclaim your confidence and clarity.
Engage in practical exercises designed to help you make immediate bold strides towards your goals and purpose. Learn from inspiring women who have transformed their lives by making assertive moves. Their journeys will leave you motivated to embrace your own power through this vibrant storytelling session.
Build meaningful relationships by networking and connecting with inspiring high-level professional women who are ready to elevate and grow. Gain clarity about your goals, and take steps to achieve your dreams and purpose. Amplify your voice. Learn how to effectively own your story and share it unapologetically. Embrace your true identity by showing up authentically and confidently, as a powerful woman. Be part of a supportive thriving community.
Surround yourself with women who uplift, inspire, and truly support one another. This opportunity is perfect for female professionals and entrepreneurs who are prepared to “level up.” It’s ideal for ambitious individuals seeking clarity and confidence in their journey, and for creatives, leaders, and visionaries eager to make bold moves. The event is presented by Say Something Good LLC and Speak Life Transformation. For more information and to register, visit Eventbrite Ticket Link.
Saturday, June 7
Cuddles & Clouds Community Baby Shower
Bring the whole family to the Cuddles & Clouds Community Baby Shower created for expecting families in Philadelphia. The event will be presented by the nonprofit Health Promotion Council (HPC) with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The fundraiser will benefit more than 200 local families. This huge group “baby shower” for families from marginalized communities will be a day of support and fun offering free baby-care items, parenting resources, community partner assistance, kids activities like face-painting, a bouncy house, and amusement games. The Center City-based Health Promotion Council is dedicated to improving health and preventing chronic disease through outreach, education, and advocacy. Free but pre-register; 10 a.m. EST to 3 p.m. EST. Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 4601 Market St. 215-901-0622 or www.hpcpa.org
Saturday, June 7
Black Men in Media Summit
As part of Bridging Blocks and the News & Information Community Exchange Program, WHYY News is sponsoring the “Black Men in Media Summit.” The professional development event will feature speakers from CBS3 Sports Anchor Don Bell and MSNBC Correspondent Trymaine Lee. In addition to media journalism, hear from experts in music and art. Take part in brand-building and career-counseling panels, and resume reviews, and get your professional headshot taken. The event offers how-to sessions on building a media career and creating an effective resume. Learn about how social media impacts mental health, the value of mentors, and how storytellers can dismantle harmful stereotypes. Students are encouraged to participate, and the event will include a light breakfast and lunch. Free but pre-register; 9 a.m. EST to 4 EST p.m. WHYY, 150 N. 6th St. Email: rstanley@whyy.org, 215.351.1200 or https://support.whyy.org/page/82257/event/1?
Saturday, June 7
Future Forward: Garden Party Pitch Competition
Belmont Mansion, once a stop on the Underground Railroad, will transform into a lively oasis of innovation, culture, and celebration at the Future Forward: Garden Party Pitch Competition. It will be a twist on traditional business-pitch events designed to jumpstart financial liberation for Black and Brown entrepreneurs. Nine finalists will make a case highlighting their business concepts before a panel of judges and compete for more than $30,000 in cash and prizes, including a $20,000 grand prize. Inspired by the theme “Garden Party,” what is the business without pleasure? Enjoy live music, cocktails by Ki Rae Wines, and gourmet small bites on the lawn of the historic grounds. The Philadelphia-based Mom Your Business connects female Black and Brown entrepreneurs with the resources to build their businesses and wealth. Explains Mom Your Business founder Tanya T. Morris: “It’s about honoring our ancestors by creating pathways to economic freedom on land that once symbolized our journey to liberation.” Individual tickets: $23.18; 1 p.m. EST to 4 p.m. EST. 2000 Belmont Mansion Dr., Fairmount Park. To attend or be part of the competition: Email: info@momyourbusiness.com, 800-524-4934 or https://www.momyourbusiness.com/
Saturday, June 7
Friends of FDR Park Flea Market
It’s free to get in the flea! For some vintage and essential finds, Friends of FDR Park Flea Market will be the big hotspot this Saturday. It will be a bevy of vendors selling everything from old wall clocks, and sports memorabilia to contemporary treasures like tools, toys, and home goods. Check out the plant sales and a raffle. Free entry; 10 a.m. EST to 1 p.m. EST. Swedish Museum parking lot, Franklin D. Roosevelt Park, 1900 Pattison Ave. Email: info@fdrpark.org or www.fdrparkphilly.org
Sat Jun 28 at 7:30 PM / 6:00 PM Doors
Steven B
Having a sound that could be described as “smooth and edgy at the same time”, saxophonist Steven B. comes straight at you with a mission of seizing your ears! Filling each musical moment with emotions and colors that can only come from one’s soul, his saxophone is the tool used to tell a story. His story! His voice!! His WAY!!!
Friday July 4-Sunday July 6
International African Arts Festival
Wednesday, August 13 7:30pm
Gregory Porter
His generation’s most soulful jazz artist, two-time Grammy Award-winning jazz singer-songwriter Gregory Porter takes the stage with his bone-deep baritone voice, warm sound, and stirring mix of jazz, soul, blues, and gospel music.
One of eight siblings raised by a minister mother in a poor part of Bakersfield, California, young Gregory found his voice both by singing in church and by studying her Nat King Cole records at home. Though Cole’s talent, wisdom, and poise made him something of a surrogate father to a musically gifted boy who lived in his own head, it was a football scholarship that eventually carried Porter from California’s Central Valley to San Diego State University. An injury derailed his athletic career, but while singing in jazz clubs in San Diego, he found a mentor in producer Kamau Kenyatta, who brought him into a Hubert Laws session and has worked with Porter ever since (in fact, he co-produced All Rise‘s L.A. sessions).
Location: Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348