Philadelphia Fall Festivals 101

Do you find yourself looking in the mirror, mourning the fade of your summer tan, desperate for one last hurrah before the dread of winter? Luckily, you chose to enroll in a school that’s smack-dab in the middle of Philadelphia’s busiest season for festivals and other outdoor affairs. From in-town to our neighboring suburbs, you can be assured there’ll be something to spark your imagination—or taste buds—before heading home for Turkey Day. So here are just a few options for holding onto that last piece of summer adventure.

Independence Beer Garden – Old City

Located in the heart of Old City and overlooking Independence National Historical Park, this indoor-outdoor wrap-around porch set up is the perfect meeting spot to get the evening started (or afternoon… depending on your style). Serving up traditional American comfort food, including pretzel-crumb-topped mac and cheese, in addition to TWENTY different beers on tap, this fall beer garden is guaranteed to please all 21+ collegiettes.

Clover Market – Ardmore

If you’re not particularly in the mood for the downtown crowd, try spending the day perusing art, antiques, artisan treats, and handmade jewelry. Located just steps away from the Ardmore train station, this is an easy go-to for students without their cars. The live music and vintage crafts will surely help you forget about your end-of-summer blues and you might even score that perfect addition for your fall wardrobe. On select Sunday’s from 10-5 PM, the Clover Market is a perfect place to stop by with friends for an unforgettable Sunday Funday.

Terror Behind the Walls – Eastern State Penitentiary

Seeking an alternative to the typical fall festival? Try taking a tour of a one-of-kind prison in the heart of Fairmount, Terror Behind the Walls. Ranked as one of the nation’s top haunted attractions, the experience is anything but typical. Prices vary depending on the time of the week and season you go, but the doors of the penitentiary are open through November 8th for your entertainment. If you’re seeking a little more thrill in your night, this is just for you.

Fringe Festival/Feastival – Fairmount

Showcasing progressive performances from artists across the globe, this 17 day festival spans a variety of genres, sure to please everyone in the group. Read up on specific shows before buying your tickets and plan a night around a spectacular display of live art. Coupled with the support of Feastival, an extravagant festival-style featuring 75 of the city’s top chefs and live music, it’s a great way to explore one of the more underrated sections of the city. At the very least—it’s the perfect excuse to break out those fancy-pants just one last time.

With all the hubbub right at the start of the new semester, you may find yourself overwhelmed, and certainly not ready to take on an adventure in the city. But with the beauty of the season all around you, it’s important to take time to appreciate the beautiful city you call home. The trail along Kelly Drive is easily accessible from City Ave and Manayunk alike and is the ideal landscape for a morning run, afternoon stroll, or picnic. Renting bikes is quick and easy at Fairmount Waterworks, the site at the start of the trail, and also a great place to pick up lunch or a smoothie. You could even spice things up by switching the backdrop of your latest Instagram from Barbelin to the colorful leaves along the Schuylkill River.

Try any of these options and you’ll be sure to make the most of your last days of sunshine…

– HCXO