{"id":27831,"date":"2018-03-16T08:31:22","date_gmt":"2018-03-16T12:31:22","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=27831"},"modified":"2018-03-16T08:31:29","modified_gmt":"2018-03-16T12:31:29","slug":"what-to-do-st-patricks-day-and-a-day-to-get-happy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=27831","title":{"rendered":"What To Do: St. Patrick&#8217;s Day and a day to get happy"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><strong>By Denny Dyroff<\/strong>, <em>Entertainment Editor, The Times<\/em><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/StPatricksday.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-6701\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/StPatricksday-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/><\/a>Many St. Patrick\u2019s Day activities were held last weekend and there are more slated for this weekend \u2013 including the mandatory pub crawls in Wilmington and many Philadelphia neighborhoods.<\/p>\n<p>Drinking and dining play a big role in Patty\u2019s Day celebrations.<\/p>\n<p>On March 17, the New Castle County Irish Society (1301 South Rodney Street, Wilmington, Delaware,\u00a0 302-658-8288, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.nccirishsociety.org\/\">www.nccirishsociety.org<\/a>) will hold its \u201cSt. Patrick\u2019s Day Ham &amp; Cabbage Meal\u201d from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. The adult platter is $10 and includes coffee or tea and dessert. The platter for children (ages 8 and under) is $5 and includes dessert but not coffee or tea. The society will also have corn beef sandwiches and ham sandwiches for $4 apiece.<!--more--><\/p>\n<p>As an added attraction at the holiday meal event, there will be an Irish Dance Program performed by the McAleer School of Dance at 4:30 p.m.<\/p>\n<p>On March 17, the Hay Creek Valley Historical Association is hosting a special \u201cIrish Breakfast Buffet\u201d from 7 a.m.-noon at Joanna Furnace (1250 Furnace Road, Geigertown, 610-286-0388,<a href=\"http:\/\/www.haycreek.org\/\">www.haycreek.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_6702\" style=\"width: 251px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/hay-creek-phyllis-hummel.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6702\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-6702\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/hay-creek-phyllis-hummel-241x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"241\" height=\"300\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-6702\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Phyllis Hummel<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The buffet event will also feature live music performed by Phyllis Hummel. She will be singing Irish and Scottish songs &#8212; many of which would have been familiar to the Scotch-Irish workers at Joanna Furnace and their families in the local community.<\/p>\n<p>The meal will feature a traditional Irish buffet of pancakes, french toast, county sausage, homemade corned beef hash, bacon, scrapple, creamed chipped beef, scrambled eggs, country-style potatoes, baked oatmeal, fruit, coffee and juice. Tickets are $9.50 for adults and $4.50 for children (ages 5-11).<\/p>\n<p>The Please Touch Museum (Memorial Hall, Fairmount Park, 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, 215-581-3181,\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.pleasetouchmuseum.org\/\">www.pleasetouchmuseum.org<\/a>) is celebrating St Patrick\u2019s Day on March 17.<\/p>\n<p>The museum will explore Ireland, step-dancing, folklore and why green is the color to wear on Saint Patrick\u2019s Day.<\/p>\n<p>At a program from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. called \u201cShades of Green Collage,\u201d guests will be able to create works of art inspired by their visit to the museum. Younger kids can participate in \u201cTot Spot: G is for Green\u201d in the Fairytale Garden with activities and songs. \u201cStorytime\u201d in Wordsworth Cottage lets visitors listen and travel to Ireland through stories and songs.<\/p>\n<p>The Coyle School of Irish Dance will have performances at noon and 1:30 p.m. The festivities will conclude with \u201cMusic and Movement: End of the Day Party\u201d at 4:30 p.m. in Hamilton Hall.<\/p>\n<p>The St. Patrick\u2019s Day activities are included in the price of museum admission which is $19 for children and adults.<\/p>\n<p>Another area museum geared for children will also focus on an imaginary trip to an island location.<\/p>\n<p>The Garden State Discovery Museum: (2040 Springdale Road, Cherry Hill, New Jersey, 856-424-1233, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.discoverymuseum.com\/\">www.discoverymuseum.com<\/a>) is presenting a special program called \u201cPassport to Discovery\u201d on selected weekends now through the end of March.<\/p>\n<p>On March 17, the program will be \u201cPassport to Discovery: Polynesia.\u201d The showcase event will be South Pacific Island Dancers in the museum\u2019s theater at 1 p.m.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBrunch with the Bunny\u201d will be held on March 18 and the \u201cDiscovery Easter Egg Hunt\u201d is set to take place on April 1<\/p>\n<p>Admission to the museum is $13.95 for adults and children (12 months and over) and $12.95 for seniors. Children visiting the museum must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.<\/p>\n<p>On March 18, the Schuylkill Canal Association will host the \u201cSt. Patrick\u2019s Day Hike and Treasure Hunt\u201d in and around Lock 60 (Mont Clare, 610-917-0021,\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.schuylkillcanal.org\/\">http:\/\/www.schuylkillcanal.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>Hikers are instructed to meet in the parking lot behind the\u00a0Pickering Creek Inn at 1p.m. and then walk across the\u00a0bridge over the Schuylkill River and down the towpath to Lock 60.<\/p>\n<p>In the Lock 60 picnic grove and surrounding area, there will be \u201cgold coins\u201d that have been scattered throughout the field for children to gather and turn in for prizes at the Locktender\u2019s house (weather permitting).<\/p>\n<p>Children of all ages can join in with a treasure and scavenger hunt with adult supervision. The hunt is expected to start around 1:40 p.m. To register youngsters for the \u201cTreasure Hunt,\u201d call (610) 917-0021.<\/p>\n<p>Live music will be presented by local musicians with a program featuring both folk songs and Irish tunes. Admission is free. However, donations will gladly be accepted. The hike will be canceled if there is a steady rain.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_6703\" style=\"width: 360px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/St_Pat_-colebrookdale-rr.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6703\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-6703\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/St_Pat_-colebrookdale-rr-350x232.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"232\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-6703\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Colebrookdale Railroad<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The Colebrookdale Railroad (Washington and Third Streets, Boyertown, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.colebrookdalerailroad.com\/\">www.colebrookdalerailroad.com<\/a>) is running special \u201cSt. Patrick\u2019s Day Excursion Trains\u201d on March 16 and 17.<\/p>\n<p>The tourist rail line is serving \u201cCorned Beef and Cabbage\u201d in the dining car.\u00a0Coffee, hot tea and water is included. Green Beer, Irish Beer, Irish Spirits and Irish Coffee will be available. Trains depart at 6:30 p.m. on March 16 and 2:30 p.m. on March 17.<\/p>\n<p>On March 17 at 10 a.m., there will be a special \u201cSt. Patrick\u2019s Day Brunch Excursion Train.\u201d All three excursion rides will last just under two hours.<\/p>\n<p>Tickets are $30 for adults, $23 for children (ages 2-12), $25 for seniors (65 and older) and $5 for toddlers (under 2).<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_6704\" style=\"width: 360px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/cf-art-show-Pair-by-Jacalyn-Beam.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6704\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-6704\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/cf-art-show-Pair-by-Jacalyn-Beam-350x233.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"233\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-6704\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Chadds Ford Art Sale &amp; Show<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The 69th Annual Chadds Ford Art Sale &amp; Show (<a href=\"http:\/\/cfes.ucfsd.org\/artshow\/\">http:\/\/cfes.ucfsd.org\/artshow\/<\/a>) will be held March 16 and 17 at the Chadds Ford Elementary School. Founded in 1949 by Betsy Wyeth, the popular Chadds Ford\u00a0Art\u00a0Sale &amp;\u00a0Show\u00a0features works by more than 65 professional artists from the Brandywine Valley and beyond.<\/p>\n<p>Artists showcase a variety of works to satisfy every taste and budget. The \u201cFeatured Artist\u201d is Jaclyn Beam and the \u201cDonating Artist\u201d is Kathy Ruck.<\/p>\n<p>The \u201cOpening Night Complimentary Reception &amp; Sale\u201d will be held on March 16 from 7-10 p.m. and feature live music and complimentary hors d\u2019oeuvres from prominent local restaurants and food service businesses. Many of the participating artists will be available to sign or personalize their work.<\/p>\n<p>The \u201cArt Exhibit &amp; Sale\u201d will run from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on March 17. Special attractions include live music and a raffle drawing at 3 pm. All proceeds support educational enrichment programs at Chadds Ford Elementary School.<\/p>\n<p>Once spring has officially arrived in the Delaware Valley, the area\u2019s event calendar begins come alive with a variety of antiques shows, craft shows and home shows. This weekend, one of the earliest antiques shows in the 2017 season will take place in Chester County.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/antiques-at-kimberton.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-6705\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/antiques-at-kimberton-350x133.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"133\" \/><\/a>The Antiques at Kimberton Show will be held on March 17 and 18 at the Kimberton Fire Company Hall (2276 Kimberton Road, Kimberton, 717-431-7322,<a href=\"http:\/\/antiquesatkimberton.vpweb.com\/\">http:\/\/antiquesatkimberton.vpweb.com<\/a>) from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday.<\/p>\n<p>The show will feature more than 65 vetted dealers from all over the Mid-Atlantic region with exhibit booths filling over 10,000 sq. ft. of space. Every dealer is hand-selected to make sure that authentic, quality antiques are always showcased. Visitors will be able to browse and make selections from a wide array of top-quality antiques and collectibles.<\/p>\n<p>The long list of featured categories includes furniture, primitives, art, collectibles, textiles, pottery, glassware and a variety of other items from the past. The show, which has been in existence since the 1960s, is known for its diversity and the willingness of the dealers to discuss the items they are selling.<\/p>\n<p>Tickets are $7 and there is free parking. Additionally, there will be a variety of food available for purchase during show hours.<\/p>\n<p>Not far from where the antiques dealers are gathering this weekend, talented artisans will be setting up shop and selling their wares.<\/p>\n<p>For more than three decades, the nation\u2019s most-talented artisans have personally sold their contemporary crafts and fine art at Sugarloaf Craft Festivals. Rated as one of the top craft experiences in the country, approximately 300,000 visitors attended Sugarloaf Craft Festivals around the states and enjoyed the work of thousands of juried artisans.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_6706\" style=\"width: 235px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/sugarloaf-craft-show-1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6706\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-6706\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/sugarloaf-craft-show-1-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-6706\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Sugarloaf Crafts Festival<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The Sugarloaf Crafts Festival will visit the area this weekend for a three-day run at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center (100 Station Avenue, Oaks, 800-210-9900, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.sugarloafcrafts.com\/\">www.sugarloafcrafts.com<\/a>) from March 16-18.<\/p>\n<p>The well-attended annual event features an amazing array of top-caliber works in a wide variety of categories such as furniture, sculpture, photography, tapestry, musical instruments, jewelry, accessories, bells, quilts, glass, copperware, chair caning, enamels, boxes, pillows and clothing.<\/p>\n<p>The list of craft genres also includes brass items, woodwork, fused glass, hats, blown glass, painted silk, fine arts, weaving, pottery, mixed media, rugs, leather, wind chimes, woodturnings, forged iron, baskets, specialty foods and collectibles.<\/p>\n<p>A full slate of craft demonstrations will be featured at this weekend\u2019s event in categories such as wheel-thrown pottery, paper making, iron forging, broom making, copper spinning, stone sculpting and hand-carved wooden bowls and spoons.<\/p>\n<p>Additionally, the festival offers an ambitious schedule of live musical entertainment. Children\u2019s entertainment will feature costumed storytelling by Carl Odhner and the Middle Earth Studio.<\/p>\n<p>The Sugarloaf Crafts Festival will be open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $10 and are good all three days.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/New-Intl-Day-Happiness.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-6707\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/New-Intl-Day-Happiness-350x198.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"198\" \/><\/a>If you\u2019re looking for something fun to do on Tuesday, you have several good options &#8212; \u201cBe Happy\u201d on the holiday devoted to happiness, celebrate the first day of spring, get a free Dairy Queen cone or get a free Rita\u2019s water ice.<\/p>\n<p>The International Day of Happiness is March 20 &#8212; every year &#8212; forever.<\/p>\n<p>The International Day of Happiness\u00a0was introduced by the General Assembly of the United Nations during 2012 and was celebrated for the first time in 2013. Through seminars and educational tips and tools, the aim is to educate and increase public awareness of the benefits of happiness.<\/p>\n<p>The original idea came from the Kingdom of Bhutan in the Himalayan region of Asia. There, the population is thought by many to be among the happiest in the world due to the holistic approach to life and the amount of importance which is placed on the well-being of people and communities, as much as material wealth.<\/p>\n<p>For everyone, the day is a useful reminder that in general happiness does not necessarily come from buying and consuming, or from being famous or glamorous \u2013 but often from friends, family and emotional well-being. Internationally, there are many events and websites in which people may participate.<\/p>\n<p>March 20 has been established as the annual International Day of Happiness and all 193 United Nations member states have adopted a resolution calling for happiness to be given greater priority.\u00a0It is coordinated by Action for Happiness, a non-profit movement of people from 160 countries,\u00a0supported by a partnership of like-minded organizations.<\/p>\n<p>So, when March 20 arrives, smile, share, eat healthily, exercise, be grateful, give back, think positively, spend some time with friends and family, spend some time alone, be mindful, dream, listen to music, say \u201cthank you\u201d and mean it, compete, be charitable. Do what makes you happy \u2013 especially if it involves a cool dessert treat.<\/p>\n<p>March 20 is the first day of spring and the day of one of the area\u2019s annual traditions \u2013 \u201cCelebrate the First Day of Spring with Free Ice.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s right \u2013 a day of free water ice at Rita\u2019s.<\/p>\n<p>On this special day each year, Rita\u2019s is offering every guest a free Italian ice to celebrate arrival the arrival of spring \u2013 and the warm \u201cwater ice weather\u201d it brings with it to the area.<\/p>\n<p>Also, on March 20, Dairy Queen locations are celebrating the \u201cFourth Annual Free Cone Day.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>In recognition of the first day of spring, Dairy Queen is offering a free small vanilla soft-serve cone to customers \u2013 while supplies last. There is a limit of one cone per customer.<\/p>\n<p>The Afternoon Music Club of Phoenixville (610-933-8696, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.afternoonmusicclub.com\/\">http:\/\/www.afternoonmusicclub.com<\/a>) is presenting another concert in its 2016-2017 season on March 20 at 1 p.m.<\/p>\n<p>The concert features flautist Cindy Durrell and pianist Silvia Atmajda. The performance will be held at the First United Methodist Church, which is located at 865 South Main Street in Phoenixville.<\/p>\n<p>A brief business meeting of the club follows each program and then refreshments follow the meeting. New members are welcome and will pay half the yearly dues at this season midpoint for the three remaining concerts.<\/p>\n<p>Visitors are always welcome and are requested to pay $8 at the door. A \u201cVisitor\u201d is anyone who is not an invited guest of a member.<\/p>\n<p>Other concerts this season will feature coloratura soprano Alessandra Gabbiannelli and baritone Thaddeus Shirey on April 17 and jazz vocalist Phyllis Chappell on May 15.<\/p>\n<p>Have you ever been to a birthday party for a hippopotamus?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/ButtonBirthday_1366x380.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-6708 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/ButtonBirthday_1366x380-350x115.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"115\" \/><\/a>You will be able to answer yes to the question if you visit the Adventure Aquarium (1 Riverside Drive, Camden, New Jersey, 856-365-3300, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.adventureaquarium.com\/\">www.adventureaquarium.com<\/a>) this weekend.<\/p>\n<p>From March 16-18, the Aquarium is offering an invitation to \u201cButton\u2019s 21st Birthday Weekend.\u201d Visitors are welcome to take part in Button\u2019s St. Patrick\u2019s Day-themed, family-friendly birthday bash. Hippo Haven will turn into hippo party central with decorations and fanfare, and revelers joining in the fun surrounding the birthday girl\u2019s big day.<\/p>\n<p>Button, born at Parque Zoological de Leon in Mexico on March 22, 1997, is the smaller of the aquarium\u2019s two hippos weighing in at just over 3,000 pounds. Her gal pal, 17-year-old Genny, weighing in at over 4,000 pounds, will join in the festivities and celebrate her exhibit mate\u2019s special day right along with her.<\/p>\n<p>Button and Genny will enjoy special, fruit and veggie hippo-friendly birthday cakes each morning to kick off party time.<\/p>\n<p>All weekend, visitors will have the opportunity to watch a variety of enrichment activities, hippo talks, green hippo treats and special hippo birthday wishes \u2013 all with a St. Patrick\u2019s Day flair. As the party comes to a close each day, guests can wish happy birthday to Button and a good night to both the girls during Hippo Bedtime.<\/p>\n<p>Admission to the Adventure Aquarium is $29 for adults and $21 for children (ages 2-12). Children under two are admitted free with a paying adult.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_6709\" style=\"width: 235px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/norristown-farm-park.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6709\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-6709\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/norristown-farm-park-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-6709\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Norristown Farm Park<\/p><\/div>\n<p>An indoor\/outdoor event scheduled for March 20 is \u201cFirst Day of Spring,\u201d which will start at 1 p.m. at Norristown Farm Park (West Germantown Pike and Barley Sheaf Drive, 2500 Upper Farm Road, Norristown, 610-270-0215, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.montcopa.org\/874\/Norristown-Farm-Park\">http:\/\/www.montcopa.org\/874\/Norristown-Farm-Park<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>Activities begin with a slide show that will feature \u201cSigns of Spring\u201d in both the plant and animal kingdoms. After the indoor portion of the program, park guides will lead visitors on a walk outside to experience the unfolding of a new season in the park<\/p>\n<p>Pre-registration required. Participants are instructed to meet in the salt wing of the barn. The event, which is open to adults and children (age 6 and older), is free.<\/p>\n<p>Now through March 25, Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, 610-388-1000, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.longwoodgardens.org\/\">www.longwoodgardens.org<\/a>). is presenting its \u201cWinter Blues Festival.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Blue is one of the rarest colors in the plant world and Longwood Gardens honors blue flowers with a special celebration.<\/p>\n<p>The site\u2019s horticulturists have researched, acquired, and grown hundreds of blue-hued blossoms and foliage to adorn the Orangery and Exhibition Hall.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_6710\" style=\"width: 360px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Longwood.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-6710\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-6710\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Longwood-350x254.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"254\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-6710\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Longwood Gardens<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Longwood Gardens is not just celebrating the blues visually. Every Saturday, visitors to Longwood can hear the sounds of the blues when the venue presents a series of blues artists performing live in the Conservatory.<\/p>\n<p>Free concerts will be performed by Stevie &amp; the Bluescasters on March 17 and 24 (2-5 p.m., both days). The schedule of ticketed live entertainment features Rory Block on March 29.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for a brief break from winter, remember that it is always spring in Longwood\u2019s conservatory.<\/p>\n<p>Every year in February and March, Longwood celebrates the one of the world\u2019s most popular plants \u2013 the orchid. The festive celebration of the ultra-popular plant is called \u201cOrchid Extravaganza\u201d &#8212; an annual event that is running now through March 25.<\/p>\n<p>The largest family of flowering plants in the world is the orchid &#8212; a flower that is acclaimed as one of the most beautiful, delicate and graceful flowers in the world. The Royal Botanical Gardens of Kew list over 20,000 accepted species with about 800 new species added each year. Additionally, horticulturists have more than 100,000 hybrids and cultivars.<\/p>\n<p>The celebration of the orchid species features thousands of orchid blooms along with a variety of displays and special exhibits throughout its four-acre conservatory. \u201cOrchid Extravaganza\u201d will also feature stunning displays of orchids in planting beds, containers and innovative exhibits.<\/p>\n<p>Approximately 5,000 colorful orchids hang from baskets, create inspiring arrangements and adorn unique forms throughout\u00a0\u201cOrchid Extravaganza.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Another attraction is \u201cOrKid Day,\u201d which is scheduled for March 17. Each \u201cOrKid Day\u201d includes a kids\u2019 performance, craft sessions and the \u201cOrchid Sorting Game.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Admission to Longwood Gardens is $23 for adults, $20 for seniors and $12 for students.<\/p>\n<p>On March 18, the Hindu Temple of Delaware (760 Yorklyn Road, Hockessin, Delaware, 302-235-7020, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.hindutemplede.com\/\">www.hindutemplede.com<\/a>) is celebrating \u201cChandramana Ugadi\u201d beginning at 8:30 a.m. The event is billed as \u201cAuthentic Ugadi Pachadi Prasadam.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Ugadi is celebrated as the first day of the year by people of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Ugadi is New Year\u2019s Day for the people of the Telugu and Kannada communities in India.<\/p>\n<p>On this day new Samvatsara, which is cycle of sixty years, starts. All sixty Samvatsara are identified by unique name. Ugadi is celebrated as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/festivals\/gudi-padwa\/gudi-padwa-date-time.html\">Gudi Padwa<\/a> by the people of Maharashtra. Both Ugadi and Gudi Padwa are celebrated on the same day.<br \/>\nUgadi is New Year according to Luni-Solar calendar. Luni-Solar calendars consider the position of the Moon and the position of the Sun to divide the year into months and days. The counter-part of Luni-Solar calendar is Solar calendar which considers only position of the Sun to divide the year into months and days.<\/p>\n<p>Because of that Hindu New Year is celebrated twice in the year with different names and at two different times of the year. The Hindu New Year based on Solar calendar is known as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/festivals\/puthandu\/tamil-newyear-date-time.html\">Puthandu<\/a>in Tamil Nadu, Bihu in Assam, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/festivals\/vaisakhi\/vaisakhi-date-time.html\">Vaisakhi<\/a> in Punjab, Pana Sankranti in Orissa and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drikpanchang.com\/festivals\/pohela-boishakh\/pohela-boishakh-date-time.html\">Naba Barsha<\/a> in West Bengal.<\/p>\n<p>At 1 p.m., there will be an \u201cUgadi Cultural Program\u201d with more than 300 adults and children showcasing their talents as a tribute to Late Sridevi. At 7:30 p.m., the event closes with \u201cPanchanga Sravanam,\u201d which features an astrological look ahead to the upcoming year.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/cf-winery-adult-easter-egg-hunt.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-6711\" src=\"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/cf-winery-adult-easter-egg-hunt-350x170.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"170\" \/><\/a>On March 17, 18, 24, 25, and 31, Chaddsford Winery (632 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.chaddsford.com\/\">www.chaddsford.com<\/a>) is holding its annual \u201cAdult Easter Egg Hunt.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Based on the premise that kids shouldn\u2019t be the only ones to have fun at Easter, the winery is inviting visitors to embrace their \u201cinner child\u201d and partake in an exciting \u201cAdults Only\u201d Easter Egg Hunt.<\/p>\n<p>Participants will scour the Winery grounds in search of hidden Easter eggs containing a wide array of treats such as Easter candy, bottles of wine, tickets to future Chaddsford Winery events, free wine tastings, gifts, coupons towards wine purchases, vouchers for Chaddsford gear (scarves, tee shirts), and glasses of wine.<\/p>\n<p>The hunts will be held at 10 a.m., noon, 2 and 4 p.m. and all participants are guaranteed to win at least one prize.<\/p>\n<p>On March 18 and 25, the Delaware Museum of Natural History (4840 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-658-9111, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.delmnh.org\/\">www.delmnh.org<\/a>) is hosting its annual \u201cEGGstravaganza Breakfast &amp; Egg Hunt.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The museum offers this invitation &#8212; Enjoy a morning at the Museum and we\u2019ll fix a pancake breakfast for the whole family. After a wonderful meal, watch your children delight as they hunt for treat-filled eggs in our egg hunt through our gardens.<\/p>\n<p>Visitors to the museum are advised to dress accordingly for an outdoor egg hunt. In the event of inclement weather, the egg hunt will be moved inside.<\/p>\n<p>Tickets are $14 and pre-registration is required.<\/p>\n<p>There are times when the Easter Bunny wants to chill a little bit. So, instead of hopping around, he rides a train. This weekend, the big holiday rabbit will be riding trains all around the area.<\/p>\n<p>The New Hope and Ivyland Railroad (32 West Bridge Street, New Hope, 215-862-2332, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.newhoperailroad.com\/\">www.newhoperailroad.com<\/a>) is running its annual Easter Bunny Express from March 17-April 1 with departures at 11 a.m., noon, 1,2,3 and 4 p.m. each day.<\/p>\n<p>The Easter Bunny is going to ride onboard the train where he will visit with each child, hand out special treats and pose for pictures. Coach tickets are $33.99 for adults, $31.99 for children (ages 12-plus) and $9.99 for toddlers (under 2).<\/p>\n<p>The train ride departs from and returns to the New Hope Train Station. Riders can take in the sights of early spring as the Easter Bunny visits with all of the children handing out special candy treats and posing for photos taken by the railroad staff.<\/p>\n<p>The West Chester Railroad (610-430-2233, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.westchesterrr.net\/\">www.westchesterrr.net<\/a>) is running its Easter Bunny Express on March 24 and 25with trains at noon and 2 p.m. each day.<\/p>\n<p>On the 90-minute round trip along the beautiful Chester Creek from West Chester to the historic Glen Mills village, the Easter Bunny will be on board handing out treats to all passengers.<\/p>\n<p>During the 20-minute stop at the historic Glen Mills station there will be plenty of opportunities for riders to take photos with the Easter Bunny. Additionally, Greg Wright and Friends will be playing live music and singing favorite Easter songs.<\/p>\n<p>Tickets are $25 for adults, $18 for children (ages 2-12) and $8 for toddlers.<\/p>\n<p>The Easter Bunny will also be down in Delaware for trips on the Wilmington and Western Railroad (Greenbank Station, 2201 Newport-Gap Pike, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-998-1930,<a href=\"http:\/\/www.wwrr.com\/\">www.wwrr.com<\/a>) on March 24, 25, 30 and 31.<\/p>\n<p>On the special trains, the big bunny with the big ears will visit with all passengers and pose for pictures. Departure times are 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. and fares are $19 for adults, $18 for seniors (ages 60 and older) and $17 for children (ages 2-12).<\/p>\n<p>As an added attraction, every child on the excursion trains will receive a special treat from the Easter Bunny.<\/p>\n<p>At the Strasburg Rail Road (Rt. 741 East, Strasburg, 717-687-7522, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.strasburgrailroad.com\/\">www.strasburgrailroad.com<\/a>), the special Easter Bunny Train will be chugging down the tracks on March 30 and 31 and April 1 with departures starting at 11 a.m. each day.<\/p>\n<p>The Easter Bunny will meet and greet all the kids on each train and have a special treat for all of them. Coach fares are $19 for adults and $13 for children (ages 2-11).<\/p>\n<p>The Colebrookdale Railroad (Washington and Third Streets, Boyertown, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.colebrookdalerailroad.com\/\">www.colebrookdalerailroad.com<\/a>) is running its \u201cEaster Bunny Train\u201d on March 18, 24, 25, 30 and 31 and April 1.<\/p>\n<p>The Bunny will be bringing gifts for all children. There will also be an Easter Egg Hunt right on board the train for all children up to\u00a012 years of age.<\/p>\n<p>Trains depart at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. each day. Tickets are $35 for adults, $28 for children (ages 2-12), $30 for seniors (65 and older) and $5 for toddlers (under 2).<\/p>\n<p>The Middletown &amp; Hummelstown Railroad (717-944-4435, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.mhrailroad.com\/\">www.mhrailroad.com<\/a>) will be running its Easter Bunny Express on March 24, 25, 30 and 31 at 1:30 p.m. each day.<\/p>\n<p>Fares for the ride are $17 (ages 12 and older), $13 (ages 2-11) and $4 (under age 2 and on lap). The Easter Bunny will have a special present for all kid riders.<\/p>\n<p>Highland Orchards (1000 Marshallton-Thorndale Road, West Chester, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.highlandorchards.net\/\">www.highlandorchards.net<\/a>) is presenting \u201cHayrides to Easter Bunny\u201d on March 24, 25, 28, 29, 30 and 31 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. each day.<\/p>\n<p>Participants can enjoy a leisurely hayride to visit the Easter Bunny, hear a story about spring and receive an egg with a coupon for a treat to be redeemed back in the Market.<\/p>\n<p>The event takes about half an hour and wagons leave about every half hour. No reservation is required, and tickets can be purchased in the Farm Market on the day or in advance. The cost is $7 per person.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times Many St. Patrick\u2019s Day activities were held last weekend and there are more slated for this weekend \u2013 including the mandatory pub crawls in Wilmington and many Philadelphia neighborhoods. Drinking and dining play a big role in Patty\u2019s Day celebrations. On March 17, the New Castle County Irish [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":27833,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[25],"tags":[8228,4240,2153,6518,5972,2029,10065],"class_list":["post-27831","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","tag-antiques-at-kimberton","tag-chadds-ford-art-show","tag-easter","tag-featured","tag-international-day-of-happiness","tag-st-patricks-day","tag-sugarloaf-craft-fair"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27831","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=27831"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27831\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":27832,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27831\/revisions\/27832"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/27833"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=27831"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=27831"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=27831"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}