To celebrate the warmer weather, we’ve got a couple of outdoor events this week for you to enjoy. So whether you want to catch a film or spend the day in a museum, or you’re more inclined to head outdoors for an afternoon or evening, there’s something for you. Either way, get out of your dorm or apartment and enjoy the city!
Night Skies in the Joel N. Bloom Observatory
When: March 12, 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Where: The Franklin Institute, 222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia Cost: $5
Night Skies is a monthly stargazing event at the Franklin Institute hosted by Chief Astronomer Derrick Pitts. You’ll be able to look through five different rooftop telescopes at the Joel N. Bloom Observatory, taking in stars, planets, nebulae, and maybe a distant galaxy if the conditions are clear. In addition to celestial viewing, the evening includes a Fels Planetarium show and a lecture or presentation on varying astronomical topics. So after sunset, head over to the Franklin Institute, grab a free star map, and gaze at the great frontier!
International House Philadelphia: Kiki’s Delivery Service Screening
When: March 14, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Where: International House Philadelphia, 3701 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia Cost: $5
Acclaimed animator Hayao Miyazaki brings the story of a young witch to life in the 1989 film Kiki’s Delivery Service. Kiki uses her ability to fly to establish a delivery service for a local bakery in a seaside village, bringing her black cat with her wherever she goes. When she loses her gift, Kiki must set out to re-discover herself to reclaim her powers. This weekend matinee is the perfect break from work or school, and the beautifully animated showing is an entertaining way to enjoy the afternoon!
Pi Day at the Franklin Institute
When: March 14, 9:26 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Where: The Franklin Institute, 222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia Cost: Free with admission
The Franklin Institute in celebrating the most popular mathematical constant, π (pi)! The museum will be opening its doors early on Saturday (the first 8 digits of pi are 3.1415926, so on 3/14/15 the museum will open at 9:26 a.m.), and the day will be full of pi-centered fun. A hands-on station will explain why pi is important, and there will be prizes for those who can recite as many digits as they can remember. Or maybe you’d like to get more on the pie side of pi, so the museum will offer “pi” launching (yes, with a catapult), and a “pi” eating contest at 3:14 p.m. Tap into your nerdy side and celebrate math this weekend!
Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
When: March 15, 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Where: Begins at 16th and JFK Boulevard, Philadelphia Cost: FREE!
The Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day parade is the second oldest of its kind in the country (the cultural celebration started in 1771). About 20,000 people participate, including marching bands, music and dance groups, Irish associations, and floats. And of course, thousands of spectators decked out in green beads and clothes line the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. So put on your green, watch the parade, and then grab a celebratory St. Paddy’s lunch in Center City to make a day of it.
The Philadelphia Moth StorySLAM
When: March 17, 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Where: World Café Live, 3025 Walnut Street, Philadelphia Cost: $8
This event is an open-mic storytelling competition that is featured in major cities across the country. You can attend as just a listener, or you can come with a story ready. Storytellers place their names in the hat at the door, and a half hour later the tellers are picked and take the stage one by one. The ten stories that are featured are scored by judges, and the winner of the slam goes on the to the GrandSLAM Championships. You’ll hear everything from tales of failure and overseas adventure to how it feels to be faced with an ethical dilemma—whatever the storytellers want to share! So whether you’re looking to exercise your open mic skills or you just want a fun and unique event, this is the place to go.
