By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times
West Chester Restaurant Festival
This is a weekend in which summer events are disappearing from the area schedule while most harvest and Halloween activities have yet to arrive.
Fortunately, there is still plenty of interesting events representing a wide range of genres such as cars, food, ethnic, arts and crafts, trains, scarecrows and lots more.
The Chester County Restaurant Festival (Gay Street and downtown area, West Chester, https://westchesterpa.myrec.com/info) has been treating visitors to the borough with the opportunity to sample a wide variety of gourmet treats for more than 40 years.
This year, the free festival, which will be held on September 20 in downtown West Chester, is a party – a 45th birthday party.
Many of the area’s top restaurants — more than 50 altogether — will have booths where visitors can purchase samples of a mouth-watering array of culinary delights and gourmet food items.
There will be more than 100 vendor booths featuring arts and crafts, three stage areas for live music and the “Beer and Wine Garden” where patrons can sit and relax with a pint of refreshing brew.
The Restaurant Festival will take place from noon-5:30 p.m. on Sunday. The layout is: Gay Street between Matlack and Darlington streets; Walnut Street between Market Street and Prescott Alley; High Street between Market and Chestnut streets; and Church Street between Market and Chestnut streets.
Chadds Ford Historical Society
On September 19, the Chadds Ford Historical Society (Barn Visitors Center, Creek Road, Chadds Ford, http://www.chaddsfordhistory.org) will be hosting a battle reenactment allowing visitors to take a historical journey back to September 11, 1777, when the British army engaged Washington’s troops at Chads’ Ford.
The Chadds Ford Historical Society will host a colonial-centric day and battle reenactment complete with a battlefield encampment, military drills, and mock skirmishes.
The Battle of Brandywine was the largest single-day battle of the American Revolution. On Sept. 11th, 1777, an estimated 30,000 American and soldiers with the Royal Army reconvened in Chads Ford which was a crossing along the BrandywinenRiver.
This event, which will run from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, is designed to be part colonial festival and part “living history” since it will feature not only authentic 18th-century reenactors, but also colonial craft demonstrators and military encampment activities (1777 style).
The American Continental Army was led by General George Washington, The Crown Forces by Sir William Howe. Wilhelm von Knyphausen of the Crown Forces advanced north on present day Route 1 to converge with Washington’s troops at Chads’ Ford.
This was only a diversion to keep the Americans occupied while the bulk of their Crown Forces led by Cornwallis advanced northward along the Brandywine to flank Washington on his right side at Birmingham Hill.
The Continentals were forced to retreat eastward while the Crown Forces remained and plundered the area restocking their supplies.
This weekend, battle reenactments will be held twice daily and reenactors will also perform military drills.
Battlefield encampments will demonstrate life in the 18th century, including daily tasks performed by “camp followers” the women that supported their army. Youth will have the opportunity to learn military drills and march with soldiers.
Colonial crafters will demonstrate historic trades such as beer brewing, blacksmithing, wood carving and wool dying, to name a few, while modern artisans will also be on site selling their handmade items.
Local authors will sell their latest books and non-profits will be available to speak with the public about their organization. Live music, food and local beer and wine will be available.
There will also be a “Tavern Night in the Grove” on Saturday from 6-9 p.m.
At 6 p.m., visitors can start the evening with a boom as the cannons roar to light off a new immersive event, “Tavern Night in the Grove.”
The event will feature food and beverages from Fletcher’s Kitchen, Kettle Express Concessions and Harvest Ridge Winery.
Visitors are encouraged to dress in their favorite 18th century clothing and join fellow reenactors as they sing along to live music.
Admission for the Battle is $10 adults and $5 youth. Admission for the Tavern is $15. A $20 combined Battle and Tavern ticket will also be available.
Gay Street Open-Air Market
The Gay Street Open-Air Market in West Chester (www.downtownwestchester.com/openairmarket) gives residents and visitors more space to shop, eat, and explore the town.
Four blocks of Gay Street from Matlack Street to Darlington Street are closed to vehicles every weekend, so everyone can partake in al fresco dining and shopping.
The streets are closed from roughly Friday at 8 a.m. to Monday at 8 a.m.
This event, which is rain or shine, will run through September 27.
The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center (100 Station Avenue, Oaks, 484-754-EXPO, http://www.phillyexpocenter.com) is hosting two attractive events this weekend – the Pennsylvania National Quilt Extravaganza and the Navratri Festival of Philadelphia.
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The Pennsylvania National Quilt Extravaganza, which is running now through September 20, is the largest and most prominent quilting arts event in the Northeast all under one roof. The quilt competition features wonderful entries from throughout the nation. Entries to the competition include traditional and innovative quilts.
On exhibit at the Extravaganza will be more than 600 quilts and garments presented in gallery style. There will also be more than 200 vendor booths with items including completed quilts and garments as well as the supplies and equipment used in making them.
The Pennsylvania National Quilt Extravaganza will also offer a wide array of lectures and workshops presented by some of the top professionals in the field of quilting and the textile arts.
Show hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $18. Children under 16 are admitted free.
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center is also hosting the Navratri Festival of Philadelphia on September 18 and 19.
It is billed as “live garba in the largest Navratri Festival in the Tri-State of 2026.”
Navratri Festival captures the excitement of a premier dance/music event for the Indian community – and also for Western fans. Navratri is a time of joy, devotion, and cultural celebration.
Garba is a vibrant Indian folk dance from Gujarat, performed in circular patterns to celebrate life, devotion, and community, especially during the Navratri festival.
Whether you’re a Garba aficionado or new to the dance, this event is your chance to immerse yourself in the festive spirit of this beloved tradition.
The show at the Oaks venue on September 18 features Ashwarya Majmudar bringing the Garba vibes.
On Saturday night, the concert will feature Kirtan Brahmbhatt, Hariom Gadhavi and Prachi Solanki. Both events start at 8 p.m.
Navratri is a nine-night Hindu festival honoring the Divine Mother, celebrated in the U.S. by Indian diaspora communities through a rich mix of traditions.
For Gujaratis, the focus is on Garba and Dandiya Raas — devotional dances performed in colorful circles around symbols of the goddess — while many South Indian groups create Golu displays and hold Saraswati Puja.
These gatherings fill temples, halls, and arenas with music, ritual, and community, offering both a spiritual connection and a vibrant cultural showcase.
The festival’s U.S. presence began with small diaspora gatherings in the late 20th century, growing into large-scale events that preserve regional customs while adapting to American rhythms like weekend celebrations.
Ticket prices for the shows at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center start at $30.
There is also a Navratri celebration which will be held on three Saturday nights at Bensalem High School (4319 Hulmeville Road, Bensalem, icapusa.org).
“Bensalem Navratri Mahatsov 2026” has a showcase event slated for September 19 in the form of a Garba celebration with Geeta Rabari.
Fans can experience possibly the best of Garba in Philadelphia with a mesmerizing performance by the renowned Geeta Rabari, a top-level star in both America and India.
Video link for Geeta Rabari — https://youtu.be/vYjdGNNdjPc?list=RDvYjdGNNdjPc.
Ticket prices start at $30.
Other “Bensalem Navratri Mahatsov 2026” concerts feature Kavya Limaye on September 26 and Jigardan Gadhavi on October 3.
The shows in Bensalem will start at 7:30 p.m. and conclude at 2 a.m.
The 49th Annual Greek Affair at St. Luke’s Greek Orthodox Church (35 North Malin Road, Broomall, 610-353-1592, www.st-luke.org) is running now through September 20 — 4-10 p.m. on Friday, 11a.m.-10 p.m. on Saturday and noon-8 p.m. on Sunday.
The free festival focuses on food — tasty Greek main dishes such as moussaka (eggplant dish), shish-ka-bob (meat and vegetables on skewers) and placki (fish) and Greek dessert treats including baklava (phyllo, nuts and honey) and kataifi (shredded wheat and nuts).
Other activities at the free popular annual event are midway rides, vendors with crafts and Greek items, live music by Greek-American bands and folk dancing demonstrations. Additionally, the Taverna will be open from 9 p.m.-midnight on Friday and Saturday.
The Delaware Saengerbund’s Oktoberfest (Saengerbund festival grounds, 49 Salem Church Road, Newark, Delaware, www.delawaresaengerbund.org) is running from September 18-20.
The Delaware Saengerbund’s festival is a traditional Munich-style Oktoberfest featuring a wide array of tasty German food delicacies, including Bratwurst, Weisswuurst, soft pretzels, Rollmops (marinated herring served with rye bread), Kartoffelsalad (potato salad), sauerkraut as well as dessert items such as Torten and traditional plum cake.
On September 18, the opening parade will be held at 7 p.m. The lid-lifting event features the “Muenchner Kindl” (Munich Child — the symbol of the city of Munich) who is dressed in brown monk’s garb with golden stripes, similar to that of the Benedictine order (founders of the City of Munich).
The “Enzian Volkstanzgruppe”, the Bavarian dance group of the Delaware Saengerbund, will entertain throughout the three days of the festival.
When the EVTG is not dancing, German music will be performed. The Saengerbund’s Haus Band, the Enzian Musikanten, will open the festival each day with its performance.
There will also be concessions with an array of imported German gifts and souvenirs, as well as Oktoberfest souvenirs and Bavarian specialty clothes.
Included in the admission price of $10 are unlimited free amusement rides.
Hours are 5-11 p.m. on Friday, noon-11 p.m. on Saturdays and noon-6 p.m. on Sunday.
“52 Weeks of Firsts” (www.visitphilly.com/52-weeks-of-firsts) is a yearlong, citywide celebration honoring Philadelphia’s legacy of innovation produced by the Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee.
Not only was Philadelphia the birthplace of the country, but it was also the backdrop for many other marvels.
To honor these groundbreaking inventions and firsts, the Philadelphia Historic District is holding a year’s worth of free events to celebrate the country’s 250th birthday.
52 Weeks of Firsts shines a light on different Philly-born Firsts each week through a series of free public events called Saturday Firstivals — held every Saturday in 2026 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in more than a dozen neighborhoods.
Firstival: September 19 will present “Firstival: First Naming of the United States: 1776” from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
What’s in a name?
Everything.
At Independence Hall, “The United States of America” was spoken into being, giving a brand-new nation its identity. We still say it proudly, but Philadelphia said it first.
The design of the sculpture by Kat Black illustrates how the United States received its name. It traces the origin back to Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci, who was the first to propose that Europeans had discovered an entirely new continent rather than Asia.
The artwork represents the original 13 colonies that formed the foundation of the country. The name “United States of America” was officially established in 1776.
Black is a painter who specializes in murals and photo-realistic gouache paintings. She draws inspiration from independent films, literature, the beauty of nature, and cultural celebrations and rituals.
Black divides her time between Oaxaca, Mexico, and Philadelphia and is deeply influenced by both places.
Currently based in Philadelphia, she has worked on large-scale projects alongside teams of highly skilled artists, where she has refined her technical painting, color mixing and mural installation skills.
The event on Saturday will take place at Independence Hall, which is located at 520 Chestnut Street in Old City Philadelphia.
Each September, “Pumpkinland” returns to Linvilla Orchards (137 West Knowlton Road, Media, 610-876-7116, www.linvilla.com). “Pumpkinland,” which runs through November 7, features fairy tale characters from nursery rhymes along with a huge scarecrow and a really tall storybook.
Other activities include train rides, a straw bale maze, hayrides, pick-your-own apples and pony rides.
There will also be “Harvest Hayrides” and “Autumn Moon Hayrides” starting later in September along with “Straw Bale Maze,” “Train Rides,” “Corn Maze” and “Pony Rides.”
Pumpkinland is open from mid-September through early November and takes center stage at Linvilla Orchards. Larger than life figures and scarecrows illustrate the legends and lore of the harvest season, featuring local history and some of the many stories of pumpkins and apples.
There will be piles of pumpkins in all colors, shapes and sizes – more than 100 tons on display.
Visiting Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, www.longwoodgardens.org) is a real treat at any time during the year but especially sweet during late summer when the grounds are filled with vibrant colors produced by a variety of flowers.
Longwood Gardens is one of the best outdoor attractions in the area, one of the best family attractions in the state and one of the best gardens attractions in the country.
The popular illuminated fountain shows are being held throughout the summer.
There are times when even the very best can get better.
Each of the six districts has a distinct personality.
Chimes Tower District — A stunning hillside of rare, expertly edited plants, a historic bell tower anchored on a 50-foot waterfall, and award-winning trees beckon, all within view of the majestic Main Fountain Garden.
Conservatory District — Considered the centerpiece of Longwood Gardens, stunning 19th-century architecture works in harmony with a perpetual flower show under acres of glass. Explore dazzling displays and rare plant species through a series of breathtaking rooms.
House & Theater District — Developed with the specific purpose of display and performance, experience a vista to the early days of Longwood, taking in views that Pierre and his family enjoyed more than a century ago, including Peirce’s Park and Peirce’s Woods.
Lakes District — Open vistas, rolling green lawns, sparkling water, and splashing fountains recall a European holiday from days gone by, reminding us of the joy of fresh air, a nice walk, and an exquisite view.
Meadow & Forest District — The expansive landscape of the Meadow and Forest District harmonizes the best practices in ecological restoration with garden designs showcasing horticultural excellence and beauty while prioritizing plant and animal communities.
Main Fountain Garden District — The classical gardens and grand theatre of this district have captivated guests for more than 90 years. Inspired by Pierre S. du Pont’s travels to Europe’s great water gardens, World’s Fairs, and expositions, the Main Fountain Garden highlights horticulture, engineering marvels, and the beauty of exceptional design.
Longwood’s summer schedule features Main Fountain Garden Performances through October, Illuminated Fountain Performances Thursdays-Saturdays through October, Festival of Fountains through October, Fireworks & Fountains Shows on select dates through October, Open Air Theatre Fountain Shows daily through November, and Festive Fridays one per month.
Admission to Longwood Gardens is $38 for adults, $38 for seniors and college students, $29 for active military and $22 for youth.
On September 20, the Marcus Hook Preservation Society is presenting its 18th Annual Pirate Festival from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at 4 East Delaware Street in Marcus Hook (http://www.marcushookps.org/piratefestival.php).
The festival on Saturday includes a full pirate encampment with period tents, demonstrations and pirates showcasing their wares, firearms, cannons and beer making.
The park area will feature games, food, live pirate music, face painting, pony rides, petting zoo, crafters, beer garden and more. All funds raised during this event go towards the ongoing restoration project of the historic Plank House, aka “Blackbeard’s Mistress’ House.”
The Marcus Hook Preservation Society are the owners and caretakers of this one-of-a-kind plank log house.
Chaddsford Winery (632 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221, http://www.chaddsford.com) is presenting “Live on the Lawn” now through September 27 and “Friday Night Wine Down” now through September 25.
“Live on the Lawn” is a brand-new outdoor music series featuring local talent, great wine, and relaxed vibes every summer weekend afternoon.
“
Friday Night Wine Down” offers fun games, drink specials, and extended hours on Friday evenings.
The laid-back, laugh-filled series features Quizzo trivia with fun themes and great prizes; seasonal wine slushies, PA craft beer, fresh mocktails, and the venue’s newest wine releases; and delicious bites from the winery’s new, in-house food menu including specialty weekly pizzas.
Penns Woods Winery (124 Beaver Valley Road, Chadds Ford, http://www.pennswoodswinery.com) is presenting a summer music series.
The winery will open at 11 a.m. each day and have matinee performances of live music.
The music schedule features Joe Nester on September 18 from 5-7 p.m., Rick Caldwell on September 19 from 2-5 p.m. and Ashley Sweetman on September 20 from 1-4 p.m.
The Brandywine Museum of Art (1 Hoffman Mill Road, Chadds Ford, brandywine.org) will present “Drawing and Painting with Karl J. Kuerner” on September 19
Immerse yourself in Kuerner Farm, a source of inspiration for Andrew Wyeth for over 70 years, and a featured property on the National Register of Historic Places, with an art class led by Karl J. Kuerner.
As the grandson of two of Andrew Wyeth’s best-known subjects and a student of Carolyn Wyeth, Kuerner’s personal experiences with the farm provide special insight into the property and its rich history.
Participants will provide art materials of their own choosing and should dress appropriately for working outdoors. Class size is limited to allow for individual instruction, and classes are for adults only.
The event will run from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. with tickets priced at $240 for members and $290 for non–members.
This workshop will also be held on:
Tuesdays, September 22-November 3; Wednesdays, September 23-November 4; and Thursdays, September 24-November 5.
The main exhibit at the Museum is “Treasures from the Family: The Gift of Betsy James Wyeth.”
Visitors can discover Betsy James Wyeth’s role as the curator and archivist of the Wyeth family’s rich history and collections in “Treasures from the Family: The Gift of Betsy James Wyeth.”
The exhibition consists of art and archival material from the major bequest she left to the Brandywine Museum of Art upon her death in 2020.
“Treasures” highlights paintings held by the Wyeth family, many of which were on loan to Brandywine for decades.
In addition to these familiar paintings, other works in the bequest showcase moments in N.C. Wyeth’s career development such as a teenage self-portrait and his experiments with impressionist brushwork.
Admission to the Brandywine Museum of Art is $20 for adults,
$18 for seniors (65+) and $8 for children ages 6-18 and students with ID.
A sweet place to enjoy flowers in bloom is Tyler Arboretum (515 Painter Road, Media, 610-566-9134, www.tylerarboretum.org).
The arboretum’s schedule for this weekend features “Saturday Wildflower Walk” on September 19 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
On Saturday, guests can join wildflower expert Dick Cloud on an informative two-hour hike that takes them through meadows, woods, and occasionally streamside.
Although the focus is on plants, the guide will talk about whatever participants might see while they are out.
On September 20, Tyler will present a “Native Woodland Walk” from 1-3 p.m.
When visitors discover the “Native Woodland Walk,” they find a collection that highlights the beauty of Southeastern Pennsylvania’s woodlands and showcases some of Tyler’s native species that thrive in and enhance home gardens.
It is a maximum one-mile hike on mostly even ground with some uphill segments. Participants should dress for the weather and wear shoes suitable for walking.
Admission to Tyler Arboretum is $18 for adults (ages 18-64), $15 for seniors (65 and older) and $15 for teens (ages 12-17).
On September 19, Newlin Grist Mill (219 South Cheyney Road, Glen Mills, 610-459-2359, www.newlingristmill.org) is hosting its “Fall Festival” – an event focusing on history, archaeology and family fun.
A local favorite, the Fall Festival features a wide variety of historic skills and trades demonstrations, archaeological excavations and activities, displays from local historical organizations, hayrides, and hands-on activities for kids of all ages.
In addition, there will be vendors with handcrafted goods in the Colonial Market, a beer garden, a Community Corner featuring local businesses and organizations, and food vendors.
Admission to the Fall Festival, which runs from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., is free.
Parking is $10 per car. Shuttle buses between the parking area and the festival site will run every 15 minutes throughout the event. Additional costs may apply for certain activities.
Newlin Grist Mill is also holding its “1704 Mill Tour” on September 19 and 20 starting at 11 a.m. each day.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the site’s 1704 water powered mill.
While the Mill is not currently operational, visitors on guided tours will get a rare opportunity to see the process of building a new waterwheel and waterbox.
Visitors must be on a guided tour to go inside the Grist Mill.
Cost is $10 for adults and $6 for seniors and children 12 and under.
The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire (Mount Hope Estate and Winery grounds, Route 72, Cornwall, www.parenfaire.com).
This year’s 47th annual staging of the event, which bills itself as “the most wondrous event in all the Knowne World,” is running now through October 25.
The festive annual event features authentic Elizabethan food and drink, traditional crafts from the guildsmen of yore and old-time games of skill — and a cast of hundreds of colorfully costumed re-enactors.
Each week, there are themed weekends.
On September 19 and 20, the theme at the Faire will be “Shamrocks & Shenanigans.”
Visitors can wrap on their kilts, grab their shillelaghs and hold on to their potatoes and dash because the Celtic nations have come to revel in Mount Hope.
Guests can enjoy a good stout, a scotch egg, and show off their calves all weekend long. (Note: This is not the Celtic Fling & Highland Games event that occurs in June.)
Featured events are Wee Highland Games, Royal Hound Costume Exhibition and Whole 9 Yards Kilt Competition.
Mount Hope has gotten even more magical.
Are you visiting from the forgotten realms or maybe just need to refresh your stock of alchemical supplies? The gates of the shire are open to you.
Every summer, the Faire, which takes place at Mount Hope Estate and Winery’s authentic 35-acre recreation of a 16th-century village in Olde England, features a new story from a different year of England’s past.
The year is 1567 and Queen Elizabeth is becoming ever more beloved by her people as each year passes. Having heard her father, Henry VIII, spin many tales about Mount Hope with all its joys and perils, she wishes to experience it for herself and has decided to make a visit to the Shire. With her, she brings along her favored Ladies, Sir Walter Raleigh, and her most favorite, Lord Leicester, Robert Dudley.
Mount Hope is wild with excitement to welcome Elizabeth and her Court and feeling that since the Shire is the place that ranked foremost in royal hearts for generations, who better to relieve the Queen of a burden that surely weighs on her heart and mind, namely, who shall be her consort?
As a woman, of course she must marry, and word on the Shire is that Dudley is vying for her hand, but not everyone is keen on that idea.
As far as Mount Hope is concerned, there could be no finer choice than for her to marry a good stout Englishman from the best Shire in the land.
And so, in true Mount Hope fashion, candidates are put forward, choices are made, sides are taken, conflicts, resolutions, and hijinks ensue.
More than 70 shows are scheduled throughout each day on the Faire’s numerous stages.
Without a doubt, the most popular attraction is the Jousting Arena. Visitors to the Faire flock to Bosworth Field whenever it’s time for the Ultimate Joust. Peasants lead cheers for their favorite knights while musicians pound out a heart-thumping beat. The Master of the List announces the combatants and soon an encounter of royal proportions ensues.
The Faire offers a wide variety of activities for visitors, including listening to bagpipe music, checking out handsome Lords in their colorful silks, watching a jester’s acrobatics, learning how to juggle, being the recipient of a gypsy woman’s flirtations and watching the march of Beefeater Guards.
Guildsmen’s Way is the area that features a large variety of merchants and artisans, including jewelers, candle makers, potters, herbalists, leather smiths, clothiers, and pewter makers — all offering for sale and demonstrating their ancient wares.
And there are more than 20 Royal Kitchens located around the faire with menus featuring a wide variety of food and beverages.
Single-day tickets are available at the gate for $35.95. For children (age 5-11) single-day tickets are available at the gate and online for $18.95.
The Kitchen Kettle Village’s “Tailgating Festival” is scheduled for September 18 and 19 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. each day at Kitchen Kettle Village (3529 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, 800-732-3538, http://www.kitchenkettle.com).
Visitors are invited to celebrate the autumn tailgating and harvest season with a two-day food festival full of food, music, sports and fun.
Every year Kitchen Kettle Village pays tribute to tailgating season with a two-day food festival filled with delicious and fun events.
There are plenty of activities for young and old, families and couples alike. This year, visitors can see Lancaster County Non-Profit themed scarecrows throughout the village and vote for their favorite.
Guests can savor a tasty sample of homemade tailgate foods at one of the grills or restaurants and tap their toes to a Dixieland Band or other live music.
On September 19, Laurel Hill Cemetery (3822 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, laurelhillphl.com) will present “Autumn Abundance in Nature’s Sanctuary, a Horticulture Tour.”
The event, which starts at 10 a.m., is billed as “A September tour to remember!”
Late summer and early autumn are periods of abundance for the site’s native wildlife. A great way to witness that glory is by taking a celebratory walk through Nature’s Sanctuary.
Laurel Hill Green Burial Horticulture Intern Glenn Scarborough will give an informative and inspiring tour showcasing the many forms of floral and faunal wildlife that call this beautiful setting their home.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and $10 for youth (ages 6-12).
Hope Lodge (553 South Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington, 215-343-0965, http://www.historichopelodge.org.) will be presenting a “Guided Mansion Tours” on September 20.
Hope Lodge was built between 1743 and 1748 by Samuel Morris, a prosperous Quaker entrepreneur. Morris acted as a farmer, shipowner, miller, iron master, shop owner, and owner of the mill now known as Mather Mill. Hope Lodge is an excellent example of early Georgian architecture, and it is possible that Edmund Woolley, architect of Independence Hall, offered advice in building. Samuel Morris owned the estate until his death in 1770.
The site opens at 12:30 p.m. with self-guided tours starting at 1 and 2:30 p.m. The event closes at 4 p.m.
Tour admission is $8 for adults, $5 for seniors (age 65+) and for youth ages 6-17, and free for children under 5.
There will be several “Self-Guided Museum Tours of Rockwood” this weekend at Rockwood Park & Museum (4651 Washington Street Extension, Wilmington, DE, www.newcastlede.gov/431/Rockwood-Park-Museum).
Visitors can explore the grandeur, history and beauty of the Rockwood Mansion, home of the Shipley, Bringhurst and Hargraves families for 120 years.
These tours will be held on September 19 and 20.
Rockwood Park & Museum is taking its history outside.
While the Museum’s interior galleries are closed for important construction and preservation projects, visitors can still discover the history, beauty and stories of the Rockwood estate through a new lineup of outdoor experiences.
Rockwood staff will welcome visitors from the Conservatory at the east end of the mansion during our temporary operating hours — 11 a.m.-3 p.m. each day.
Construction is expected to continue through Fall 2027. During this time, Rockwood will offer outdoor tours, programs, special events and new ways to explore the estate.
One of the most popular annual events at the Hagley Museum and Library (Route 141, Wilmington, 302-658-2400, www.hagley.org) is the Hagley Car Show.
The historic site, which is located in Delaware just a few miles south of Kennett Square, will host its 2026 Car Show on September 20 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Visitors to the show will be able to browse the site and check out more than 500 antique and restored cars that date from the early 1900s-1980s.
The show features a vehicle parade, motoring music, and a food court.
While at the Car Show, visitors can stop by the exhibition “Du Ponts Down the Road” in the 1844 Hagley Barn.
The exhibition features historic vehicles created from 1890 to 1941 and ranging from a horse-drawn carriage to an early electric car to a WWII Era Indian Motorcycle—all owned and used by members of the du Pont family. Highlights of the new exhibition include a 1918 Cadillac and a 1928 DuPont Motors Model G Phaeton.
Tickets for the Car Show are $30 per carload (up to eight guests).
The 34th Annual Radnor Fall Festival (www.radnorfallfestival.com) is scheduled for September 20.
The event will be held from noon-4 p.m. on North Wayne Avenue and West Avenue in the center of Wayne between Lancaster Avenue and the Wayne train station.
It will feature participation by local merchants, service providers and restaurants. Activities include street performances by local bands, dancers from local dances studios, amusement booths, face painting and carnival rides.
The Strasburg Railroad (Route 741, Strasburg, 717-687-7522, www.strasburgrailroad.com) is always one of the most popular spots around when it hosts “Day Out With Thomas™.”
There is a mutual love affair between kids and Thomas the Tank Engine and it’s especially evident when Thomas gets up-close and personal with his fans during his visits to the Strasburg Railroad.
Every year, the steam locomotive named Thomas makes several visits to Lancaster County where he entertains enthusiastic children and their parents.
T
he locomotive, which has its own PBS television series, will return to Strasburg for “Day Out With Thomas™: Let’s Rock, Let’s Roll! Tour” now through September 20.
The “Day Out With Thomas™: Let’s Rock, Let’s Roll! Tour” is hitting the tracks and bringing the beat to heritage railways across the country — and Strasburg is on the tour list!
Guests can hop aboard a real train ride with Thomas, strike a pose at themed photo ops, and snag something special at the exclusive gift shop.
Then they can keep the rhythm going at the Music Corner where they will find lawn games, hands-on activities, and music-inspired fun that will have the whole family dancing along.
Tickets for the “Day Out With Thomas™: Let’s Rock, Let’s Roll! Tour” start at $32.
The West Chester Railroad (www.wcrailroad.com) is running its “Summer Picnic Specials” every Sunday now through September 27.
There will be one excursion each day at noon.
Passengers can enjoy a 90-minute round trip train ride from West Chester to Glen Mills and return on a warm summer afternoon. Riders are invited to pack a lunch to enjoy during excursion’s stop at the Glen Mills train station picnic grove.
Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for children (2-12) and free for children (under two).
The New Hope Railroad (32 Bridge Street, New Hope, www.newhoperailroad.com) is running its “Grapevine Express,” which features “Wine & Cheese Tasting” on September 18 and 19 at 5 p.m. each night.
Riders are invited to take part in a romantic “Wine and Cheese Excursion” and enjoy fine gourmet cheese, artisan crackers, meats, fruit, and our featured local wines. Additional Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic beverages are also available onboard.
Wine and cheese will be served to passengers as they travel along the same railroad line passengers did when it was built in 1891 connecting New Hope with Philadelphia. The journey travels through the beautiful hills and valleys of Bucks County, along once vital waterways and streams and across numerous trestle bridges.
The excursions will take place aboard one of the railroad’s lavishly appointed first-class parlor cars.
T
ickets are $99 (Ages 21 and older only).
The Northern Central Railway (2 West Main Street, New Freedom, www.northerncentralrailway.com) is running its “So Long Summer” train excursion on September 19 at 6 p.m.
A great way to say goodbye to summer is sitting by the campfire roasting hot dogs and marshmallows for smores.
This evening excursion to Glen Rock will stop for one-and-one-half hours at Railroad Park for a campfire (weather permitting) where riders can roast hot dogs and marshmallows for s’mores.
Tickets are $29.99 for adults and $19.99 for children (ages 2-12). Tickets include the train ride, campfire, one hot dog and two smores. Additional hot dogs and smores will be available for purchase.
The tourist rail line is also running its “Glen Rock Express” on September 18 at 5 p.m.
The “Glen Rock Express with No. 17” will take the train to Glen Rock with the William H. Simpson No. 17 (the rail line’s authentic replica steam locomotive) on a former Pennsylvania Railroad mainline that has been in operation since 1838.
The ride follows the route of the original Northern Central Railroad through the scenic Heritage Rail Trail County Park.
The Reading Blue Mountain and Northern Railroad (Reading Outer Station, Reading, www.rbmnrr-passenger.com) is running “All Day Train Excursions” every Saturday and Sunday in September.
Passengers can take a train excursion through Pennsylvania’s beautiful landscape to Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. They can board the train at the Reading Outer Station, Port Clinton Station, or Tamaqua Station.
During the trip, riders will see rolling farmland, beautiful mountains, glistening lakes, and small towns along the railroad’s mainline. The train will also travel through tunnels and over bridges — a highlight being the Hometown High Bridge.
Once the excursion arrives in Jim Thorpe, riders have more than 3.5 hours to explore the many shops, restaurants, and attractions before boarding the train for your return trip.
While in Jim Thorpe, they can also ride one of the rail line’s 70-minute Lehigh Gorge trains at a discounted rate.
If you like to look at model railroad layouts in addition to experiencing live trains, then you should definitely check out the Garden Railway Display at the Morris Arboretum & Garden (100 Northwestern Avenue, Chestnut Hill, www.morrisarboretum.org).
The ultra-popular Garden Railway Display has become a major summer attraction at The Gardens at Morris Arboretum. The 26th annual edition of the display will remain open until September 30.
This summer, Morris Arboretum unveiled a brand-new exhibition in its popular Garden Railway – “Garden Railway: Dinos!”
With more than 15 different rail lines running along a third of a mile of track, visitors will enjoy a spectacular display of dinosaurs including Triceratops, and Velociraptor, as well as other Mesozoic creatures—all made out of natural materials such as bark, leaves, and twigs.
As one of the largest outdoor miniature train displays in the United States, the Garden Railway will delight and amaze visitors of all ages.
The railway has a quarter mile of track featuring seven loops and tunnels with 15 different rail lines and two cable cars, nine bridges (including a trestle bridge you can walk under) and bustling model trains.
The buildings and the display are all made of natural materials – bark, leaves, twigs, hollow logs, mosses, acorns, dried flowers, seeds and stones – to form a perfectly proportioned miniature landscape complete with miniature rivers.
Philadelphia-area landmarks are all meticulously decorated for the holidays with lights that twinkle. There is even a masterpiece replica of Independence Hall are made using pinecone seeds for shingles, acorns as finials and twigs as downspouts.
Visitors will be able to see miniature replicas of iconic structures at some of America’s most famous public gardens including the Climatron at Missouri Botanical Garden, Torii Gate and Pavilion at Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Science Pyramid at Denver Botanic Gardens, and so much more.
Admission is $20 for adults; $18 for seniors (65 and older); $10 for students (ages 13-17 or with ID), active military and retired military; and free for children (under 3).
Treetop Quest Philly (51 Chamounix Drive, Philadelphia, www.treetopquest.com) is an aerial adventure park that will challenge you physically and mentally as you maneuver from tree to tree through obstacles and zip-lines. Once you’re equipped, they will teach you how to operate your equipment and you’ll be able to swing through each course as many times as you want for 2.5 hours.
Each participant is outfitted with a harness and gloves. Each course has a continuous belay system — a lifeline that is impossible to detach without a staff member. The activity is self-guided, and the staff is ready to assist when needed.
Gloves are required for our activity. During this time, we encourage participants to bring their own gloves to use while up in the trees, gardening gloves are perfect for this activity.
Ticket prices start at $47.
“TreeTrails Adventures Trevose” (301 West Bristol Pike, Trevose, treetrails.com/trevose-pa) is an adventure park full of fun challenges for outdoor adventurers of all ages.
Participants can experience the rush of TreeTrails Adventures as they swing through the trees of the new adventure park. They will be able to discover the excitement of climbing and zip lining above the forest floor with family, friends, co-workers, or teammates.
The park, which is based at Phoenix Sport Club in Bucks County, offers two ways to experience climbing – TreeTrails Adventure Park and KidTrails Park. Young explorers can enjoy miniaturized courses in the adjacent KidTrails Park.
General Park Admission price is $69.
On September 20, it will be time for “Play Without Boundaries” at the Please Touch Museum (4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, www.pleasetouchmuseum.org).
Play Without Boundaries is the Museum’s sensory-friendly event series. During Play Without Boundaries, the Museum is adapted to provide a relaxed environment for individuals with autism, learning disabilities, and other sensory or communication needs.
The Museum is closed to the general public for two hours and turns down lighting and sound to provide a quieter experience for families. This program is reserved for guests with pre-registered tickets only; the Museum will open to guests with general admission and member tickets at 11 a.m.
“Play Without Boundaries” is made possible by a generous grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Hamilton Family Charitable Trust, with additional funding from the Wawa Foundation, and the Ladies Aid Society of the Penn Presbyterian Medical Center.
The Binky Lee Preserve (1445 Pikeland Road, Chester Springs, https://natlands.org) will host Beats and Brews on September 19 from 6-9 p.m.
The event will be a late summer evening filled with live music and craft beer in support for the Binky Lee Preserve.
Entertainment will be provided by Zendog, a Grateful Dead style jam band.
Local favorites available for purchase include craft beer from East Branch Brewing Company, local cider and wine from family-owned Dressler Estate and delicious food truck fare from Buddy’s Burgers, Breasts & Fries, Delco Steaks, and KOI on the Go.
Proceeds from Beats and Brews are an important part of community fundraising to preserve nearby Bryn Coed Farms, Natural Lands’ newest property, as well as restoration projects and improved amenities at Binky Lee.
Cherry Crest Adventure Farm in Ronks (150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks, 717-687-6843, www.cherrycrestfarm.com) is hosting a “Hometown Heroes Festival” on September 19.
The event is all about celebrating these heroes who selflessly serve our communities by keeping us safe. Visitors are invited to come out and show them support.
A portion of ticket sales for this day will be donated to local volunteer Fire Departments.
The festivities will kick off at noon with a candy drop followed by Touch-a-Truck and Meet & Greet Event with local EMS, Fire Departments, and Police until 6 p.m.
A heroes’ parade will take place at 6:30 p.m. followed by a patriotic fireworks show at 8:30 p.m.
The farm is open from 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Festival activities are included with farm admission, which starts at $32.95.
The new Paranormal Cirque production, which is intended for a mature audience, is touching down at two area locations this year – earlier this month at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center and now through September 21 at the York Exposition Center (334 Carlisle Avenue, York).
Paranormal Cirque will expose audiences to a unique creation of combined theatre, circus, and cabaret with a new European style flare.
This innovative horror story, which is presented in true circus style under a Big Top tent, features different shades of sexy and an incomparable storyline.
Audiences likely will find it difficult to separate reality from illusion at this show as they fall into a parallel world and end up surrounded by monstrous creatures with hidden talents.
There are contortionists, illusionists, freaks, lyra, burlesque dancing and mysterious creatures — all the elements that make one think of a “paranormal” circus…a circus unlike anything you’ve seen before.
Video link for Paranormal Cirque — https://youtu.be/UxVYV1WZCk4.
Ticket prices start at $30.
Grim Philly’s “Dark Philly History Tour” (www.grimphilly.com) will be held every evening throughout the summer.
Participants can walk with tour guides from the grounds of America’s first White House, Congress, and Liberty Bell to homes and sites of Hamilton, Washington, Franklin, Adams, Jefferson, Madison, Monroe, and more than 10 other Founding-Fathers. The surprising dirt of espionage, murder, sexual license and blackmail highlight the secrets of 1776 with a ghost story or two along the way. This tour is highly researched. And your guide is a historian.
Ticket prices start at $38.
Ghost Tour of Philadelphia (215-413-1997, www.ghosttour.com), Ghost Tour of Lancaster (717-687-6687, www.ghosttour.com), Ghost Tour of Brinton Lodge and Ghost Tour of Strasburg (717-687-6687, www.ghosttour.com) operate throughout the year and offer an eerily entertaining evening of true ghost stories and real haunted houses.
The Ghost Tour of Philadelphia, which is based on the book, “Ghost Stories of Philadelphia, PA.,” is a candlelight walking tour along the back streets and secret gardens of Independence Park, Society Hill, and Old City, where ghostly spirits, haunted houses, and eerie graveyards abound.
Participants can discover the ghost lore of America’s most historic and most haunted city with stories from the founding of William Penn’s colony to present-day hauntings.
The activity is open year-round – weekends, December-February; every night, March-November. Tickets are $24.
The Ghost Tour of Lancaster and the Ghost Tour of Strasburg are based on the book, “Ghost Stories of Lancaster, PA.”
Participants in the Ghost Tour of Lancaster explore the long-forgotten mysteries of one of America’s oldest cities, with haunting tales of otherworldly vigils, fatal curses, and star-crossed lovers. The tour provides the opportunity to experience 300 years of haunted history from the Red Rose City’s thorny past. Tickets are $20.
The Ghost Tour of Brinton Lodge takes place at a 300-year-old landmark in Douglassville, Berks County. The site’s unusual architecture, eccentric history, and local legends are now being preserved for the community to enjoy.
Nestled along a country road in Berks County, Pennsylvania, just west of Pottstown, Brinton Lodge has a storied history beginning in the 1700s. The original structure, now enveloped by the current building, was a small farmhouse built by the Millards, one of the area’s earliest families who purchased the land from William Penn.
Until recently, the Lodge operated as Covatta’s Brinton Lodge Restaurant. It is now home to a craft brewery and brewpub, Hidden River Brewing Co.
Tickets for the Ghost Tour of Brinton Lodge are $25.
The Ghost Tour of Strasburg is a candlelight walking tour of the quaint and historic town of Strasburg in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Visitors will experience an entertaining evening with a costumed tour guide spinning tales of haunted mansions, eerie graveyards, and spirits that roam the night … in a town lost in time. Tickets are $20.
This summer, giraffes at area zoos will have a variety of dining partners joining them for meals.
“Elmwood Park Zoo” (1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown, www.elmwoodparkzoo.org) is presenting “Drive-In Zoovies: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” on September 18 at 8 p.m.
The drive-in screenings are held in the former softball field section of the Zoo’s parking lot. Concessions will be available for purchase during the film.
In the event of inclement weather, all ticket holders will be notified if a screening is canceled or rescheduled.
The radio station frequency that will be broadcasting the film’s audio to cars will be provided to ticket holders in advance of the event.
Tickets are $15 per person.
This weekend, it’s time once again for the Annual Scarecrow Festival at Peddler’s Village (Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, 215-794-4000, www.peddlersvillage.com). The festival, which is celebrating its 47th anniversary this year, will be held on September 19 and 20.
It is the perfect time to visit and take in the bright, brilliant hues of fall and admire the more than 100 spectacular scarecrows on display. These larger-than-life, colorful, creative scarecrows will line the red brick paths throughout the village’s 42 picturesque acres.
Peddler’s Village’s Scarecrow Making Workshops on the Street Road Green have been a family favorite for decades. The workshops will be held on September 19 and 20 at 10 a.m., noon, 2 and 4 p.m. and September 26 at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
The workshop fee of $40 (maximum group of 4 people) includes step-by-step instructions and building materials.
Participants can choose from a variety of clothing decorations and use plenty of straw to construct their very own life-size scarecrow to take home.
For “Count’s Halloween Spooktacular at Sesame Place” (100 Sesame Place, Langhorne, 215-752-7070, www.sesameplace.com), which runs now through November 1, the popular amusement park has been converted into a Halloween-themed safe venue for kids with trick or treating, pumpkin decorating, hayrides and a hay maze.
Guests will enjoy trick-or-treating around the park, Halloween-themed shows, participating in our interactive Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt, and unique photo opportunities with everyone’s favorite furry friends dressed up in costume on their Halloween-themed floats!
Featured attractions, which will continue until November, are
“Trick Or Treat Trail,” “Sesame Street Character Photo Opportunities,” “Spookley’s Pumpkin Patch,” “Pumpkin Decorating with Abby Cadabby,” “Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt,” “The Count-Along Crew” and “Snuffy Meet & Greets.”
Admission to the park starts at $47.99.
