{"id":30760,"date":"2019-01-18T10:12:10","date_gmt":"2019-01-18T15:12:10","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=30760"},"modified":"2019-01-18T10:12:19","modified_gmt":"2019-01-18T15:12:19","slug":"what-to-do-january-means-orchid-extravaganza-at-longwood","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=30760","title":{"rendered":"What To Do: January means Orchid Extravaganza at Longwood"},"content":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff,<\/strong> Entertainment Editor, The Times<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Orchids at Longwood Gardens<\/p><\/div>\n

If you ask Siri to name the largest family of flowering plants in the world, she\/he\/it would quickly come up with the answer.<\/p>\n

The largest family of flowering plants in the world is the orchid — 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

Every year when January arrives, Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, 610-388-1000, www.longwoodgardens.org<\/a>) celebrates the ultra-popular plant during \u201cOrchid Extravaganza\u201d — an annual event that opens this year on January 19 and continues through March 24.<\/p>\n

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

As one of the first plant collections at Longwood, orchids have held a place of distinction since 1922. The site\u2019s talented horticulturists celebrate the beauty and variety of orchids with an artful display that includes a towering 12-foot-tall archway, a spectacular orchid curtain, and hundreds of vibrant Vanda orchids adorning the Silver Garden.<\/p>\n

Approximately 5,000 colorful orchids hang from baskets, create inspiring arrangements and adorn unique forms throughout\u00a0\u201cOrchid Extravaganza.\u201d Those who visit the floral extravaganza in March will have the opportunity to see Longwood Gardens\u2019 rare sky-blue poppies in bloom in the Conservatory during Longwood\u2019s inaugural Winter Blues Festival<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Another attraction is \u201cOrKid Days,\u201d which are scheduled for January 21, February 18 and March 9. Each \u201cOrKid Day\u201d includes a kids\u2019 performance, craft sessions and orchid-related games.<\/p>\n

Video link for Orchid Extravaganza — https:\/\/youtu.be\/p-RHNIuf-Ts<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Admission to Longwood Gardens is $23 for adults, $20 for seniors and $12 for students.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Arctic BBQ<\/p><\/div>\n

On January 19, the Brandywine River Museum (Route 1, Chadds Ford 610-388-2700, www.brandywinemuseum.org<\/a>) is looking winter right in the eyes and responding with a festive outdoor event.<\/p>\n

From 1-3 p.m., the museum along the banks of Brandywine Creek is hosting an event called \u201cArctic BBQ.\u201d<\/p>\n

Visitors are invited to shake off the winter blues at this Saturday\u2019s \u201cArctic BBQ.\u201d<\/p>\n

Participants undaunted by the weather can roast marshmallows by the fire, have a snowball fight in the Museum Courtyard, search for snowmen along the River Trail and make-&-take a crafty winter creation.<\/p>\n

If a chill sets in, visitors will be able to warm up under the museum\u2019s heated tents where there will be delicious BBQ by the Millstone Caf\u00e9 available for purchase. There will also be a hot chocolate bar hosted by Chadds Caf\u00e9.<\/p>\n

The event is free and open to the public.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Winter Wine-derland<\/p><\/div>\n

On January 19 and 20, the Chaddsford Winery (632 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221, http:\/\/www.chaddsford.com<\/a>) is presenting \u201cWinter Wine-derland.\u201d<\/p>\n

The event, which runs from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. each day, is an outdoor winter festival featuring traditional cold-weather activities such as ice carving and fire pits.<\/p>\n

Visitors will be able to sample Chaddsford’s exclusive YAAIMH coffee blend produced by Herman’s Coffee<\/a> as well as the \u201c\u201cNiagara Falls Ice Luge,\u201d which is described as the best way to\u00a0enjoy an extra-cold shot of the winery\u2019s award-winning Niagara wine. \u201cSpecialty Cocktails\u201d will be \u201cMaple Bourbon Mulled Wine\u201d and \u201cAmaretto Sleigh Ride.\u201d<\/p>\n

There will be live music each day from 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. with Phase 2 on Saturday and Colin and Drew on Sunday.Participating food trucks are I Don\u2019t Give a Fork and Milk+Sugar.<\/p>\n

Every Friday and Saturday in January, the Chaddsford Winery will present \u201cMurder Mystery Night \u2013 Pirates Revenge\u201d from 6:30-9 p.m. each night.<\/p>\n

Here is the scenario as posted by the winery \u2013 \u201cThere\u2019s been a swashbuckling murder aboard The Presage.\u00a0We\u2019re settin\u2019 out to find that scallywags, and when we do \u2013 they\u2019re gonna walk the plank!<\/p>\n

\u201cThere are two ways you can help us crack the case \u2014 uncover clues to pinpoint the murderer and motive or\u00a0locate the hidden treasure. Along with a salty evening of mystery and suspense, you\u2019ll enjoy heavy hors d\u2019oeuvres and, of course, a booty of Pennsylvania wine. Share this killer experience with your best mates \u2013 and don\u2019t forget to dress the part in your torn and tattered pirate threads.\u201d<\/p>\n

Along with an exciting evening of mystery and suspense, visitors can enjoy heavy hors d\u2019oeuvres and an array of Chaddsford Winery wines.<\/p>\n

The \u201cMenu and Pairing Lineup\u201d features Captain Hook\u2019s Charcuterie Board with Specialty Meats and Cheeses with \u201917 Sauvignon Blanc, \u201916 Harbinger, and Sangri-la Sangria; Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings with \u201916 The Red Standard and Sunset Blush; Red Beard\u2019s Risotto Rice Balls with Roasted Red Pepper, Asiago, and Fresh Basil with \u201916 Pinot Grigio and \u201916 Traminette; Caribbean Coconut Shrimp Tacos topped with Coconut Chili Aioli and Caribbean Salsa with \u201917 Presage and Chaddsford White; Main Deck Crabby Mac & Cheese with Fresh Lump Crab Meat with \u201915 Artisan Series \u2018sur lie\u2019 Chardonnay; and Toasted Coconut Cream Parfait\u00a0& Chocolate Cake with White Chocolate Ganache and Rum-Soaked Raspberries with Warm Spiced Apple.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $60, and reservations are required.<\/p>\n

The \u201cWine, Cheese & Honey Pairings at Penns Woods\u201d at Penns Wood Winery (124 Beaver Valley Road, Chadds Ford, 610-459-0808, http:\/\/www.pennswoodsevents.com<\/a>) provide a nice way for visitors to enjoy a winter weekend day.<\/p>\n

Penns Woods Winery is joining forces with local cheese makers and local honey artisans to present exclusive pairings of wine, cheese and honey. The tastings will feature five premium Penns Woods wines, each paired with various cheeses and honey from local farms.<\/p>\n

The mouth-watering tastings will be held every weekend in January from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturdays and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sundays. As an added attraction, live music will be featured on January 19, 20, 26 and 27 from 2-5 p.m. each day.<\/p>\n

Tickets cost $28 per person in advance and reservations are required. Cancellations must be made within 72 hours or ticket holders will be charged the full amount of the tasting. Reservations are made and kept on the hour.<\/p>\n

\u201cGrim Philly\u2019s Nightmare Before Christmas Tavern Tour (856-829-3100, http:\/\/www.grimphilly.com<\/a>) will be held January 18, 19, 25 and 26.<\/p>\n

Participants will have the opportunity to toast with\u00a0the ghosts of Christmas past while drinking in the yuletide spirits of grog and nog on this entertaining fact-filled tour.<\/p>\n

The evening\u2019s activities include trivia and\u00a0drinking games for chances to win free beer, drink and\/or food samples for all at each stop and a variety of drink specials.<\/p>\n

Participants can relax in warmth enjoying\u00a0authentic handmade Christmas beverages, snacks and prizes\u00a0(included) as they learn a full range of the surprising histories of Yule, and Viking lore and Saturnalia \u2014 all which have worked their way in to our modern Christian celebrations including ideas of magick, gift giving\u2026and origins in even infanticide and human sacrifice.<\/p>\n

Guests will be able to revel in little known facts of our holiday past including the season\u2019s pagan roots in Roman, Celtic & German traditions, while learning of medieval, and New World additions in mumming and mistletoe.<\/p>\n

The tour price of $45 includes guided historic tour of \u201cGrim\u201d Philly, tavern admissions and two \u201cChristmas Drinks.\u201d The tours, which start at 6:30 p.m. on Fridays and 5 p.m., on Saturdays, will depart from\u00a0599 Market Street, Philadelphia.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Invention Convention<\/p><\/div>\n

There is a great event this weekend that will get kids\u2019 creative juices flowing — Hagley Museum\u2019s annual Invention Convention. This year, the popular family event will be held on January 20 and 21 at Hagley Museum (Route 141, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-658-2400, www.hagley.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Visitors to the Hagley Museum, a 230-acre historical village on the site of the original du Pont Company gunpowder mills in northern Delaware, will be able to learn about a different kind of survival.<\/p>\n

Participants in Invention Convention will learn how to survive in outer space \u2013 what to wear, what to eat and drink, and how to keep fit in microgravity. They will be able to enjoy hands-on activities and learn fun facts about space travel.<\/p>\n

Other activities include an interactive science fair, Tinkering Tables, and \u201cCreate-an-Invention\u201d where creative participants can earn a Hagley Patent. To celebrate a job well done, a Hagley \u201cpatent\u201d will be issued for every invention.<\/p>\n

Invention Convention is being held in Hagley\u2019s\u00a0Soda House and Library, so visitors are instructed to use the Buck Road East entrance off Route 100. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children (ages 4-14).<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>The Delaware Museum of Natural History (4840 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, Delaware, www.dmnh.org<\/a>) is hosting a \u201cTotal Lunar Eclipse\u201d presentation on January 20.<\/p>\n

Visitors to the museum will be able to view the total lunar eclipse occurring the night of January 20. Delaware Astronomical Society members will be on site with telescopes for maximum viewing of this phenomenal event.<\/p>\n

The evening begins with activities inside the Museum followed by timed presentations about the lunar eclipse. Afterwards, everyone will head outdoors to await first contact of the eclipse at 10:33 p.m. Totality, when the moon is completely blocked, begins at 11:41 p.m.<\/p>\n

Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather. Telescopes and binoculars are strongly encouraged as there are a limited number of telescopes available for all participants.
\nDoors open at 8:30 p.m. DAS presentations begin at 9 and 9:45 p.m. followed by viewing the lunar eclipse in the Museum\u2019s backyard.<\/p>\n

Admission is $10 \u2013 free for children (two and under).<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Full Moon Tour<\/p><\/div>\n

If you find yourself being affected by a full moon, you should consider attending a \u201cFull Moon Tour\u201d\u00a0at the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania (465 Speedwell Forge Road,\u00a0Lititz,\u00a0717-626-4617,\u00a0http:\/\/wolfsanctuarypa.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

The Sanctuary offers this tour once a month on the closest Saturday to the full moon. This month, the date is January 19 and the full moon is known as the Wolf Moon. This is an event in which participants are invited to create their own experiences.<\/p>\n

Instead of following a tour guide from pack to pack at a regulated pace that fits within a 45-minute time line, you get to go at your own pace from pack to pack. There is also the option of talking to a tour guide who is stationed at each pack. You can listen to what they have to say about the wolves when stopping at a station or you can ask questions.<\/p>\n

With this tour, you move at whatever speed you find comfortable. If you get tired, you can go over and sit next to a roaring bond fire (weather permitting) and just relax. Visitors are requested to bring a blanket, a flashlight, a chair and maybe some hot dogs and marshmallows.<\/p>\n

The tour starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20, and no reservations are required.\u00a0The next \u201cFull Moon Tours\u201d this year will be Snow Moon on February 16.<\/p>\n

On January 20, there will be a \u201cNearly Full Moon Hike\u201d from 1-4 p.m. at Norristown Farm Park (West Germantown Pike and Barley Sheaf Drive, 2500 Upper Farm Road,
\nNorristown, 610-270-0215, www.montcopa.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Norristown Farm Park has a variety of buildings and open fields that represent a diverse history of farming, manufacturing and institutional associations. The buildings date from the mid-18th century through the early 20th century and at various times were part of mills, a tannery, farms and the Norristown State Hospital.<\/p>\n

The event, which starts at 5 p.m., provides visitors with an opportunity to be in the park past sunset. Participants will be able to view the winter landscape by the light of a nearly full moon on this evening hike.<\/p>\n

Non-slip footwear is recommended. The hike will be about two miles. Participants in the eveny, which is free and open to the public, are instructed to meet in parking lot #5.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>In 2017, the inaugural \u201cWomen\u2019s March on Philadelphia\u201d (http:\/\/www.womensmarchphl.com\/<\/a>) was staged with great results. The event is being celebrated for the third time this year with a theme of \u201cWe Shall Be Heard!\u201d<\/p>\n

The event will get underway at 10 a.m. at Eakins Oval with participants gathering to march down the Ben Franklin Parkway to the Philadelphia Art Museum.<\/p>\n

At the conclusion of the march, there will be rally with a variety of speakers that represent all that the movement is fighting for.<\/p>\n

Some of the topics that \u201cWe Shall Be Heard!\u201d lists are — We shall be heard in our neighborhoods as we organize for action against gun violence, racism, antisemitism and Islamophobia. We shall be heard in the workplace where we expect equal pay for equal work and say #timesup to sexual harassment and assault. We shall be heard by the politicians who represent us on women’s reproductive rights including safe and legal abortion, low cost healthcare for all, free college tuition, lgbtq rights and anti-discrimination policies, a pathway to citizenship and immigration reform, protection for the right and the ability for all citizens to vote and climate change policy.<\/p>\n

Anyone wishing to donate to the cause can do so at https:\/\/donorbox.org\/women-s-march-on-philadelphia<\/a>.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking for a fun family activity \u2013 an indoor activity unaffected by the weather — Linvilla Orchards (137 West Knowlton Road, Media, 610-876-7116, www.linvilla.com<\/a>) has something just for you — the\u00a0miniature golf course \u201cFore! the Planet.\u201d<\/p>\n

Linvilla Orchard\u2019s\u00a0\u201cFore! The Planet\u201d\u00a0is a highly interactive and playful museum exhibit created by the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia. This exhibition pairs important environmental issues with the fun of miniature golf.<\/p>\n

It features 18 unique educational holes on a variety of topics — butterfly metamorphosis, a tropical rainforest, evolution, dinosaur extinction, food chains and more. Kids of all ages can enjoy playing miniature golf while learning about our environment on every hole.<\/p>\n

The first hole is \u201cButterfly Life Cycle\u201d and players must putt through each stage of the colorful insect\u2019s metamorphosis. The next five holes are titled \u201cSeed Dispersal,\u201d \u201cBat Sonar,\u201d \u201cFood Chain,\u201d \u201cEvolution of a Golfer\u201d and \u201cBackyard Explorer\u201d followed by \u201cNatural Selection\u201d and \u201cPredators and Prey.\u201d<\/p>\n

On the \u201cDinosaur Extinction\u201d hole, players get to hit their balls toward the scientific theory of dinosaur extinction they find most plausible. The remainder of the thought-provoking holes are \u201cRecycling,\u201d \u201cWater Pollution,\u201d \u201cLandfills,\u201d \u201cWild Corridors,\u201d \u201cBird Migration,\u201d \u201cSpawning Salmon,\u201d\u00a0\u201cAlien Species,\u201d \u201cPopulation Threats\u201d and \u201cRainforest Threats.\u201d<\/p>\n

The mini-course is open daily from 9 a.m. -5 p.m. through March 31. Tickets are $6.95 (ages 11 and over) and $5.95 (ages 10 and under).<\/p>\n

Every year, the Garden State Discovery Museum (2040 Springdale Road, Cherry Hill, New Jersey, 856-424-1233, www.discoverymuseum.com<\/a>) presents<\/p>\n

special programs geared to inquisitive youngsters.<\/p>\n

From January 19-21, the museum will host a program titled \u201cSounds of Science\u201d from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. each day.<\/p>\n

At this event, which is included in museum admission, the museum staff offers this invitation \u2013 \u201cCome explore the sounds of science as we pop, pow, and fizz through how science is made!\u201d<\/p>\n

Next weekend\u2019s feature event will be \u201cCommunity Rocks!\u201d on January 26. The kids rock band Community Rocks! Will perform a special show beginning at 1 p.m.<\/p>\n

Other upcoming events at the Garden State Discovery Museum are a performance by the Universal African Dance and Drum Ensemble on February 2 and the \u201cPJ Masquerade Ball\u201d on February 8.<\/p>\n

Admission to the Garden State Discovery Museum is $14.95 for adults and children 12 months and over and $13.95 for seniors.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re into hot cars, then cold days probably won\u2019t slow you down and keep you from your date with all things motorsports this weekend.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Motorsports Race Car & Trade Show<\/p><\/div>\n

The 33rd Annual Motorsports Race Car & Trade Show will run from January 18-20 at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center (100 Station Road, Oaks, 609-888-3618, www.aarn.com<\/a>).<\/p>\n

The name of hits weekend\u2019s show in Oaks is officially Pioneer Pole Buildings Motorsports 2019 Fueled by Sunoco Race Fuels and Distributed by Insinger Performance Race Car and Trade Show.<\/p>\n

The huge annual event will feature close to 300,000 square feet of exhibition space devoted to auto racing, street rods and everything else related to motorsports. There will be hundreds of exhibits, a full schedule of informative seminars and personal appearances by a wide array of racing legends.<\/p>\n

There will be more than 200 motorsports vehicles of all types on exhibit. Several area speedways will have displays at the show and offer a great opportunity for fans to meet some of their standout performers and pick up a schedule of motorsports events for the 2018 season.<\/p>\n

More than 600 exhibit booths featuring 400-plus racing dealers, hardcore manufacturers of racing equipment and more will be part of the huge show, which is billed as the biggest and best of its type in the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states.<\/p>\n

Show attendees will have the opportunity to meet and collect autographs from well-known figures in motorsports, including dirt Modified standouts Craig Von Dohren, Billy Pauch Jr. & Sr., Kevin Hirthler, Brian Hirthler and Davey Sammons.<\/p>\n

Another annual fan favorite at the annual show is the Ms. Motorsports Pageant, which is scheduled for Saturday evening at7:30 p.m. As an added attraction, there will be autograph sessions with many of the contestants from recent years.<\/p>\n

Show hours are 2-8 p.m. on January 18, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. on January 19 and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on January 20. Tickets for adults are $15 daily or $30 for three-day pass. Tickets for children (ages 6-12) are $5 daily or $10 for three-day pass.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>If you\u2019re the type of person who likes working on small projects around the house and devoting time to home improvement, you should plan on attending the 38th Annual Philadelphia Home Show. The event is running January 18-20 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center (12th and Arch streets, Philadelphia, 215- 418-2003, www.phillyhomeshow.com<\/a>).<\/p>\n

The well-attended annual show features a large number of exhibits representing the home renovation and decorating industry. Showcased products and services include roofing, windows, flooring, decking, landscaping, spas, contractors, designers, water, swimming pools, doors, gutters security systems, cabinetry, entertainment systems, appliances, furniture, vacuums and more.<\/p>\n

The Main Stage showcases the latest furniture trends for 2019. Top designers like Matt Blashaw of HGTV\u2019s \u201cYard Crashers\u201d and Clint Harp, resident contractor on HGTV\u2019s \u201cFixer Upper\u2019s,\u201d will take the stage to share insider secrets and expert advice for every home improvement project<\/p>\n

Tickets are $13 for adults and $3 for children (ages 6-12).<\/p>\n

The Philadelphia Comic-Con, which is scheduled to run from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on January 20 at the Clarion Hotel Conference Center (76 Industrial Highway, Essington, 856-217-5737,www.philadelphiacomic-con.com<\/a>), features comic books, trading cards and other collectibles \u2014 both modern and vintage.<\/p>\n

The event, which has an admission fee of $3, also features a number of special autograph guests.<\/p>\n

This Sunday, the guest artists are Bob Petrecca, a D.C. and Marvel artist and inker, and Paris Cullins, who is the artist for \u201cBlue Beetle\u201d and \u201cBlue Devil.\u201d<\/p>\n

The popular collectibles event, which is the area\u2019s longest running comic convention, will host dealers from all over the Northeast with sales booths featuring Gold & Silver Age comics, action figures, non-sport cards (including Topps \u201cJourney to Star Wars: The Force Awakens\u201d).<\/p>\n

Also featured will be Japanese Manga, gaming cards such as Pokemon and Magic the Gathering, original artwork and all the latest issues of today\u2019s popular comic book series.<\/p>\n

The roster of top-flight vendors includes veteran dealers and relative newcomers. As an added attraction, there will be hourly door prizes beginning at 11 a.m.<\/p>\n

Martin Luther King Weekend will be celebrated from January 19-21 at the Eastern State Penitentiary (2027 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, 215-236-3300, www.easternstate.org<\/a>) from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day.<\/p>\n

Eastern State Penitentiary commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his 1963 Letter from Birmingham Jail with special readings from the landmark text and opportunities for visitors to respond to its relevance today.<\/p>\n

The event examines the following questions — Why did the civil rights leaders of the 1960s choose jail time to demonstrate their plight? How did Dr. King\u2019s letter, written in the margins of a newspaper and smuggled out of Birmingham Jail, create a pivotal moment in the American civil rights movement? If Dr. King were alive today, what issues would his letter address?<\/p>\n

Professional actors will read excerpts from King\u2019s letter three times a day on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday at 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 3:30 pm. An informal Q&A moderated by a civil rights scholar follows each reading, giving visitors an opportunity to respond to the letter\u2019s relevance today. The readings are free and open to the public, subject to availability.
\nIn partnership with Art Sanctuary, children ages 7-12 and their families can create art in response to themes found in the letter and read stories about Dr. King\u2019s life and legacy. Family activities are available on Monday, January 21, free and open to the public. No reservations required.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Ben\u2019s Birthday Bash<\/p><\/div>\n

On January 19, the Franklin Institute (271 North 21st Street, Philadelphia<\/a>, 215-448-1200, www.fi.edu<\/a>) is celebrating the birthday of its namesake.<\/p>\n

From 10 a.m.-3 p.m., the museum in hosting \u201cBen\u2019s Birthday Bash\u201d in celebration of Ben Franklin\u2019s 313th birthday.<\/p>\n

The Franklin Institute\u2019s birthday bash for Ben promises to be a festive event featuring hands-on programming, science demos, and the debut of three Franklin-related artifacts from the Institute\u2019s collections, that have never before been on public display.<\/p>\n

Visitors to the Franklin Institute will be able to snap a selfie in front of the 20-foot Benjamin Franklin National Memorial, take part in hair-raising electricity experiments, and listen to the ethereal sounds of Franklin\u2019s favorite musical instrument\u2014the glass armonica.<\/p>\n

Activities for The Franklin Institute\u2019s birthday bash are free with general museum admission, which is $23 for adults and $19 for children (ages 3-11).<\/p>\n

\u201cBenjamin Franklin Tippler\u2019s Tour\u201d (Historic Philadelphia Center, 6th and Chestnut streets, Philadelphia, 215-629-5801, http:\/\/historicphiladelphia.org\/tipplers-tour<\/a>) will be held on January\u00a018 and 19 and 20 starting at 5:30 p.m. each night.<\/p>\n

The over-21 set joins a Colonial guide for the Tippler\u2019s Tour with Ben Franklin. It is a rollicking pub crawl with stops for drinks and snacks at several Old City establishments.<\/p>\n

Ben Franklin, the \u201cBirthday Boy,\u201d will join the tour along the way. He will hang around to chat with guests at City Tavern, the final stop, and to enjoy a Yards Brewing Company Franklin Spruce Ale.<\/p>\n

The Chinese zodiac is a rotating cycle of 12 years in which each year is represented by a specific animal and its characteristics \u2014 rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig.<\/p>\n

2019 is the \u201cYear of the\u00a0Pig\u201d according to Chinese zodiac.<\/p>\n

On January 19, there will be a special event in Philadelphia to welcome in the \u201cYear of the Pig\u201d when the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (33rd and Spruce streets, Philadelphia, 215-898-4000, www.penn.museum<\/a>) hosts its 38th Annual Chinese New Year Celebration from 11 a.m.-8 p.m.<\/p>\n

The popular annual event in Philadelphia will feature celebrations of Chinese culture and New Year traditions throughout the day with programs and activities for all ages, including children\u2019s workshops, storytelling, cooking demonstrations, arts and crafts exhibitions and martial and healing arts demonstrations.<\/p>\n

There will be dance performances, Chinese music demonstrations, a Falun Gong presentation, a Tai Chi workshop, a Kung Fu demonstration, a Family Zodiac tour and a Tangram Workshop.<\/p>\n

The annual celebration will, as always, feature the \u201cLion Dance.\u201d Liondancers and drummers begin inside at 4 p.m. and, weather permitting, wind their way outside for a firecracker finale.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for senior citizens, $10 for students and free for children (under 6).<\/p>\n

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest, which is running now through February at RiverRink (Delaware Avenue at Walnut Street, Philadelphia, 215-925-RINK, www.riverrink.com<\/a>), is featuring a special event this weekend — the Fifth Annual Brewfest.<\/p>\n

\u201cBrewfest,\u201d which is scheduled for January 19 and 20, features a variety of free events, including beer talks, instruction on home brewing and screenings of films and television shows that are considered \u201cbeer-centric.\u201d<\/p>\n

Unquestionably, the biggest draw will be generated by a number of regional\u00a0breweries that will be giving out samples of some of their best beers \u2013 including Downingtown\u2019s Victory Brewing Company.<\/p>\n

The first session will feature Conshohocken Brewing Company, Victory Brewing Company, Yards Brewing Company and Evil Genius Beer Company on Saturday from 1-4 p.m. followed by Brotherton Brewing Company, Tr\u00f6egs Independent Brewing, Cape May Brewing Co. and Conshohocken Brewing Company from 5-8 p.m.<\/p>\n

There will be just one session on Sunday from 1-4 p.m. The featured brew manufacturers will be Dock Street Brewery, Wyndridge Farm, Twin Lakes Brewing Company and Sly Fox Beer.<\/p>\n

Open seven days a week, the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest is an immersive winter-themed experience with a popular bar and restaurant called The Lodge, winter beer garden-style landscaping, a brand-new light show, and a retail shopping experience from Art Star Gallery & Boutique.<\/p>\n

The outdoor rink\u2019s hours are 1-10:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 1 p.m.-12:30 a.m. on Fridays, 11 a.m.-12:30 a.m. on Saturdays and 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. on Sundays. Skating admission price is $3 and skate rental costs $10.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re a fan of the cold-weather season, there\u2019s a special event coming up that you\u2019re bound to enjoy — the 2019 Lambertville-New Hope Winter Festival (Various locations around New Hope, Pennsylvania and Lambertville, New Jersey, 215-862-5067, www.Winterfestival.net<\/a>).<\/p>\n

The popular annual event is running from January 19-27 in the two towns which straddle the Delaware River in Upper Bucks County — New Hope in Pennsylvania and Lambertville in New Jersey. The festival\u2019s organizers list two main goals — to provide a healthy cold-weather experience in their river town communities and to demonstrate that their diverse communities are alive and well in the winter.<\/p>\n

The list of ticketed events includes \u201cFire & Ice Ball,\u201d \u201cBlues, BBQ & NFL Playoffs,\u201d \u201cWinter Festival Jersey Shore,\u201d \u201cWinter Festival Pub Crawl\u00a0and\/or After Party,\u201d \u201cTaste of Winter Fest<\/a>,\u201d \u201cConcert\u00a0& VIP Reception,\u201d \u201cBeef ‘n’ Brew,\u201d \u201cA Capella Extravaganza,\u201d \u201cChili Cook-off,\u201d \u201cWinter Walking Food & Shop Tour,\u201d and \u201c\u200bInn to Inn Dinner & House Tour.\u201d<\/p>\n

The featured concert will be the \u201cBritish Invasion\u201d on January 25 at New Hope Winery (6123 Lower York Road, New Hope) featuring Peter Asher of Peter & Gordon along with Jeremy Clyde of Chad & Jeremy.<\/p>\n

Artists will be presenting live sculpting demonstrations at three locations — Triumph Brewing Company\u00a0(400 Union Square Drive, New Hope) on January 26, and Suez Water (11 Bridge Street, Lambertville) and River Cat Caf\u00e9 (142 South Main Street, New Hope) on January 27.<\/p>\n

\u201cReading Fire + Ice Fest\u201d (http:\/\/www.readingfireandicefest.com<\/a>), which is the flagship winter festival of Berks County, will return to downtown Reading for its fifth year in 2019.<\/p>\n

Produced and organized by the Reading Downtown Improvement District, the festival will take place January 18 and 19. Festivities will kick off on January 18 in the 500 block of Penn Street at 5:30 p.m.<\/p>\n

\u201cReading Fire + Ice Fest\u201d will feature a variety of both indoor and outdoor activities<\/a>, including a chili cook-off, Snowfall Ball, professional ice-carving competitions, fire performances, live music, pancake breakfast presented by Genesius Theatre, and concession stands. All outdoor activities will again be free, and the chili cook-off, Snowfall Ball, and pancake breakfast will have nominal entry fees.<\/p>\n

The fire performers will be Madeleine Bell and Flame Nouveau.<\/p>\n

The annual Ambler Restaurant Week is running from January 21-28. Ambler area restaurants will be offering enticing specials and prix-fix menus at 16 participating restaurants throughout the town.<\/p>\n

The list of restaurants participating in Ambler Restaurant Week (www.amblermainstreet.org<\/a>) include Cantina Feliz, Dettera Restaurant and Wine Bar, Bridget\u2019s Steakhouse, Zakes Caf\u00e9, From The Boot, The Lucky Well, Saffron, KC\u2019s Alley, Sweet Briar Caf\u00e9, Gypsy Blu, Costa Deli, Vida & Comida, and Pie and Plate Caf\u00e9.<\/p>\n

Another culinary attraction is the Center City District Restaurant Week (http:\/\/www.centercityphila.org\/life\/RestaurantWeek.php<\/a>) which runs fnow through January 25.<\/p>\n

More than 120 restaurants in Rittenhouse, Midtown Village and Old City will be participating in this year\u2019s event with discounted three-course meals during lunch and\/or dinner. Lunchtime offerings featuring three courses cost $20 and three-course dinner meals will cost $35. These prices do not include alcoholic beverages, tax or gratuity.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times If you ask Siri to name the largest family of flowering plants in the world, she\/he\/it would quickly come up with the answer. The largest family of flowering plants in the world is the orchid — a flower that is acclaimed as one of the most beautiful, delicate […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":30762,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[25],"tags":[10908,10913,6518,10912,10910,5792,9973,10911,10909,8457],"class_list":["post-30760","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","tag-arctic-bbq","tag-bens-birthday-bash","tag-featured","tag-full-moon-tour","tag-invention-convention","tag-motorsports-race-car-trade-show","tag-orchid-extravaganza","tag-total-lunar-eclipse","tag-winter-wine-derland","tag-womens-march"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30760","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=30760"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30760\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":30761,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30760\/revisions\/30761"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/30762"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=30760"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=30760"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=30760"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}