{"id":32264,"date":"2019-08-02T09:25:12","date_gmt":"2019-08-02T13:25:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=32264"},"modified":"2019-08-02T09:25:33","modified_gmt":"2019-08-02T13:25:33","slug":"what-to-do-first-friday-fun-for-everyone-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=32264","title":{"rendered":"What To Do: First Friday fun for everyone"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span lang=\"EN\"><strong>By Denny Dyroff<\/strong>, <\/span><em><span lang=\"EN\">Entertainment Editor, The Times<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/AugFleaPromo-1-1024x1024.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-9941\" src=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/AugFleaPromo-1-1024x1024-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/><\/a>If it\u2019s a Friday and the date is 7 or below, you know what that means. It means that it is First Friday<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The first Friday of the month is a good time to spend an evening in Kennett Square, West Chester or Lancaster \u2013 a time to enjoy special First Friday activities.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a><span lang=\"EN\">Kennett Square will celebrate First Friday with<\/span><\/a><span lang=\"EN\"> its First Friday Flea Market (downtown Kennett Square, <a href=\"http:\/\/historickennettsquare.com\/\">http:\/\/historickennettsquare.com<\/a>) from 6-9 p.m. on August 2.<\/span><!--more--><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Historic Kennett Square is hosting a Flea &amp; Artisan Market featuring vintage collectors selling clothing, housewares, paper products &amp; more.\u00a0 It will also showcase a selection of artists and crafters who create handmade, original work.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Many of the town\u2019s businesses and galleries will stay open late for First Friday.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Kennett Square will also celebrate First Friday with<\/span><span lang=\"EN\"> a Murder Mystery Art Stroll in downtown Kennett Square featuring the Brandywine Valley\u2019s favorite murder mystery \u2013 \u201cThe Mystery of Snow White\u2019s family Reunion.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Participants will meet the detective at the scene of the crime in Sycamore Alley to gather clues, question murder suspects in participating downtown locations, and attempt to identify the murderer and solve the mystery.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Suspects, denoted by costumes and potential murder weapons, will be stationed at various participating locations in downtown Kennett Square. Additional suspicious characters will walk around town with clues available for purchase (proceeds benefit Kennett Amateur Theatrical Society).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Winners will be randomly selected and awarded prizes at the end of the evening. Participants do not have to be present at the 6:45 p.m. improvisation to participate in the mystery. Participation is free, and all ages are welcome.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/First20Friday20July202019.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9942 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/First20Friday20July202019-350x133.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"133\" \/><\/a>Also, on Friday evening, West Chester hosts its version of First Friday (downtown West Chester, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.downtownwestchester.com\/\">http:\/\/www.downtownwestchester.com<\/a>). The First Friday event for this month will be held in downtown West Chester on August 2.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">First Friday activities, which are held on the inaugural Friday each month, feature great shopping opportunities and delicious food offerings. Stores are open late and many of them feature free refreshments and shopping specials.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Some of the First Friday participants are The G Spot Thrift, The 5 Senses, Compendium Boutique, Old Soul D\u00e9cor, Malena\u2019s Vintage Boutique and Blink.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">As an added attraction, there will be free on-street parking after 5 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_9943\" style=\"width: 360px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/phoenixville-first-friday.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9943\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9943\" src=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/phoenixville-first-friday-350x233.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"233\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9943\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">First Friday, Phoenixville<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Phoenixville First Fridays (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.phoenixvillefirst.org\/firstfridays\">http:\/\/www.phoenixvillefirst.org\/firstfridays<\/a> ) are an exhilarating celebration.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Every month Phoenixville First showcases the eclectic feel of Phoenixville with live music, theatrical performances, local artists,\u00a0and fun surprises.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">On August 2, visitors will be able to walk around and explore some of Phoenixville\u2019s arts venues, small shops , unique boutiques and outstanding restaurants.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The free family event in downtown Phoenixville will run from 6-10 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Lancaster also has a lively First Friday celebration very month. This month\u2019s edition of First Friday Lancaster (<a href=\"https:\/\/visitlancastercity.com\/first-friday\">https:\/\/visitlancastercity.com\/first-friday<\/a>) will run from 5-9 p.m. on August 2 in downtown Lancaster.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The event will feature attractive exhibitions at art galleries, artisan studios and museums. There will also be live performances presented in a variety of genres \u2014 professional theater, symphony orchestra and performing groups.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/connective-festival.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9944 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/connective-festival-350x182.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"182\" \/><\/a>On August 3, the Second Annual Connective Music &amp; Art Festival (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.connectivefestival.org\/\">www.connectivefestival.org<\/a>) will be held in downtown Oxford starting at 10 a.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The Main Stage line-up features <\/span><span lang=\"EN\">Trout Fishing in America, Ali Awan, The National Reserve, Swift Technique and Blind Melon.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Awan has been involved in music most of his life.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">\u201cI always loved music,\u201d said Awan, during a recent phone interview from his home in Abington.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">\u201cMy mom always listened to good music classic divas like Aretha Franklin and Beyonce and good rock-and-roll like early Aerosmith. When I got a little older, I was exposed to other music by my uncle Mahmut, who was a Deadhead and a fan of Lou Reed.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">\u201cWe had a guitar at the house, and it had a little amp. I took guitar lessons for a couple years. After that, I was just learning songs off of records and watching live footage. I started taking seriously when I was 16 and started a punk band called Ballistik.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Things kept progressing at a steady rate.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">\u201cI was always writing songs,\u201d said Awan, an Abington High grad who is now 26. \u201cI decided to get my own band and be the main songwriter about eight years ago. I had been writing songs and didn\u2019t want to be just a guitar player in a band. Over the last two years, I\u2019ve been writing music under my own name.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">On 2017, Awan, whose family\u2019s roots are in Turkey, released his first two singles \u2013 \u201cCitadel Blues\u201d and \u201cLast Resort.\u201d He followed with another pair of singles in 2018 \u2013 \u201cBeyond the Valley\u201d and \u201cBe a Light.\u201d Awan\u00a0released \u201cButterfly\u201d\u00a0on February 22.\u00a0 The seven songs on the EP were written and produced by\u00a0Awan\u00a0(who also plays guitar).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Trout Fishing in America is a duo \u2014 Keith Grimwood (upright bass, Clevinger bass, bass guitar, vocals) and Ezra Idlet (acoustic guitar, electric guitar, banjo, vocals) \u2013 that has been around since 1979 and is known for performing folk rock and children\u2019s music.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The Northwest Arkansas duo has received four Grammy Nominations and a host of other national music awards. They have also been called \u201cthe Lennon and McCartney of kids\u2019 music.\u201d The two musicians took their name from the novel \u201cTrout Fishing in America\u201d by Richard Brautigan.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">In 2017, Trout Fishing in America released its most recent studio \u201cThe Strangest Times\u201d \u2013 the latest in a catalog that spans more than four decades and 25 albums. The new disc features 11 brand-new original songs played as a duo and a cover version of BW Stevenson\u2019s \u201cOn My Own.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Trout Fishing in America was in the first wave of artist owned labels (Trout Records) to successfully record and market its own music. In 2008, Performing Songwriter Magazine chose Trout as one of the top 100 most influential independent artists in the past 15 years.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The band\u2019s recordings have garnered three National Indie Awards, multiple Parents Choice and NAPPA Gold awards, the American Library Award, as well as four Grammy nominations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">\u201cWe never got picked up by a major record company, so Ezra and I decided to form our own company,\u201d said Grimwood. \u201cWe started our own label and learned how to record at the same time.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">\u201cWe started playing together in 1976 as members of St. Elmo\u2019s Fire (a Houston-based eclectic folk\/rock band). After a while, we left the band and moved to Santa Cruz, California where we worked as a duo. We told people the name was Trout Fishing in America as early as 1977.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The roster for the World Stage includes Poor Man\u2019s Gambit, Eva Salina and Peter Stan, PhillyBloco, David Wax Museum (Duo) and Jah People.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Acts slated to play on the Americana Stage are Morgan Pinkstone, Colebrook Road, Rylan Brooks, Gooch and the Motion and David Wax Museum (Duo).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Connective Festival First Friday Opener on August 2 will be a Battle of the Bands on the Main Stage from 4-7 p.m. followewd by performances by Blues Reincarnation Project, Rick Waterhouse and Derrick Noel.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Time is running out, but you still have a chance to check out the annual Goshen Country Fair (Goshen Fairgrounds, Park Avenue, East Goshen, 610- 430-1554,<a href=\"http:\/\/www.goshencountryfair.org\/\">www.goshencountryfair.org<\/a>). Be advised \u2013 you need to hurry. August 3 is the last day.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The free family-oriented event is held each year as a benefit for the Goshen Fire Company. It will open at 6 p.m. Friday and at 5 p.m. on Saturday.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">This is an authentic down-home country fair with all the agricultural events found at most traditional country fairs, including competitions each night at 6 p.m. \u2013 cattle on August 2 and sheep on August 3.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The fair will also feature competitions for pies, vegetables, jams and jellies, specimen flowers, bread, cookies, flowering houseplants, cakes, flower arrangements, and candy. Nightly attractions include live music performances, tug-of-war competitions and pie-eating contests.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The schedule for live music Chester County Lawmen Band on August 2 and Southern Edge Band on August 3.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_9945\" style=\"width: 360px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/reading-fair.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9945\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9945\" src=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/reading-fair-350x233.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"233\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9945\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Reading Fair<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The 165th edition of the Reading Fair (1216 Hilltop Rd,\u00a0Leesport, 610 372-2649, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.thereadingfair.org\/\">http:\/\/www.thereadingfair.org<\/a>) will open on August 6 and continue through August 9.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The Midway will feature \u201cThe Fearless Flores Thrill Show.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Traditional festival activities include a \u201cCorn Cobb Toss,\u201d a \u201cPie Eating Contest,\u201d \u201cRaw Egg Toss,\u201d \u201cHay Bale Throwing,\u201d a \u201cRound Ball Bale Contest,\u201d a \u201cWater Balloon Toss\u201d and a \u201cPedal Power Tractor Pull.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">There will also be the always-popular Beer Garden from 5-10 p.m. each night.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">General admission is $5 &#8212; $4 for senior citizens and military.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Chaddsford Winery (Route 1, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.chaddsford.com\/\">www.chaddsford.com<\/a>) will present \u201cWine Slushie Weekend\u201d on August 3 and 4.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The event\u2019s live music schedule will feature Matt Spitko from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and Sam and Bruce from 3:30-6:30 p.m. on August 3 and Hake and Jarema from 2:30-5:30 p.m. on August 4.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The special weekend activity, which will run from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sunday, will showcase a variety of\u00a0\u201cChaddsford Wine Slushies\u201d \u2013 four unique frozen libations made with delicious seasonal ingredients and Chaddsford wines.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Featured Slushie flavors are Dreamcicle with Chaddsford White, Blushing Berry with Sunset Blush, Cherry Bomb with Chaddsford Red and Strawberry Mojito Spring Wine Popsicle.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The \u201cWine Slushie Weekend\u201d will have Barkley\u2019 BBQ Food Truck + Mama Mia Continental Fusion as its featured food trucks both days.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">This event is rain or shine. Slushies will be available while supplies last. Admission for children is free if accompanied by an adult (21 or over). Chaddsford Winery reserves the right to refuse entry to any individual not accompanied by an adult.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Seating at the Winery is available on a first-come, first-served basis.\u00a0 Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or folding chairs to guarantee comfortable seating on the grounds. No outside alcohol permitted.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Admission to \u201cWine Slushie Weekend\u201d is free and all wine and food purchases are pay-as-you-go.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">If you want to laugh uncontrollably at one of Mel Brooks\u2019 all-time classic comedies, plan on visiting Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, 610-388-1000,<a href=\"http:\/\/www.longwoodgardens.org\/\">www.longwoodgardens.org<\/a>) this weekend or next weekend because Brandywiners, Ltd. is performing the award-winning musical \u201cThe Producers\u201d in Longwood\u2019s beautiful Open Air Theatre.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Every summer, the company presents a large-scale musical production at Longwood Gardens and contributes the proceeds to cultural, educational and civic causes throughout the Delaware Valley.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">This summer, the Brandywiners, Ltd. present the Tony award-winning musical \u201cThe Producers,\u201d the humorous tale of Max Bialystock\u2019s failure at being a failure.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">\u201cThe Producers\u201d is a musical adapted by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan from Brooks\u2019 1967 film of the same name, with lyrics written by Brooks and music composed by Brooks and arranged by Glen Kelly and Doug Besterman. As in the film, the story concerns two theatrical producers who scheme to get rich by overselling interests in a Broadway flop. Complications arise when the show unexpectedly turns out to be successful. The humor of the show draws on ridiculous accents, caricatures, and many show business in-jokes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">After 33 previews, the original Broadway production opened at the St. James Theatre on April 19, 2001, starring Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick, and ran for 2,502 performances, winning a record-breaking 12 Tony Awards. It spawned a successful London production running for just over two years, national tours in the US and UK, many productions worldwide and a 2005 film version.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Performances at Longwood Gardens are set for July 25-27 and August 1-3.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Tickets for the Brandywiners, Ltd. production include admission to Longwood Gardens beginning at 9 a.m. on the day of performance as well as a spectacular fountain display immediately following the show. Tickets are $35 for adults, $30 for students (ages 13-21) and $18 for children (ages 12 and under).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The biggest attraction at Longwood right now is the Festival of Fountains, which is running now through September 30.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_9946\" style=\"width: 360px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/longwood-gardens.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9946\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9946\" src=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/longwood-gardens-350x248.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"248\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9946\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Longwood Gardens<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">With fountains that jet as high as 175 feet, gardens filled with colorful summer blooms, shade-friendly trees, exotic day and night blooming waterlilies, and live music outdoors, Longwood gardens has something for everyone.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The fountain project took two years and $90 million in renovations. The fountain features more than 1,300 jets and streams, a similar number of LEDs, a variety of flame features and a wide array of plants from around the world.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Longwood\u2019s popular Main Fountain Garden has returned for a second season after attracting more than 600,000 guests last year with its 1,719 jets twirling and dancing to music. At night, Illuminated Fountain Performances return featuring a selection of dynamic new shows and past favorites.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">In addition to the Main Fountain Garden, Longwood is also home to a collection of other fountain gardens, including the enchanting Italian Water Garden and Open Air Theatre fountains, which also perform daily.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The ultra-popular Festival of Fountains features the gardens in their summer splendor. Flowering annuals and perennials abound, as well as the breathtaking Waterlily Display that showcases aquatic plants from all over the world.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Admission to Longwood Gardens is $23 for adults, $20 for seniors and $12 for youth (ages 5-18).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The West Chester Railroad (Market Street Station, West Chester, 610-430-2233,\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.westchesterrr.net\/\">www.westchesterrr.net<\/a>) is running its special \u201cSummer Picnic Special\u201d trains every Sunday now through September 22.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The round-trip train ride travels to the village of Glen Mills and back and lasts for 90 minutes. During the brief layover in Glen Mills, riders can explore the historic Pennsylvania Railroad station and have a snack in the railroad\u2019s picnic grove along the Chester Creek.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Riders can order a boxed lunch when they purchase their tickets online. Sandwich choices are ham and cheese hoagies, turkey and cheese hoagies, and PB&amp;J. All lunches, which are made fresh, come with chips, fruit, drink and cookies.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Additionally, the lunches are packed in a special reusable lunch bag emblazoned with the WCRR logo. Tickets for the train rides are $15 for adults, $13 for children ages 2-12 and free for kids under two.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">On August 3, Linvilla Orchards (137 W. Knowlton Road, Media, 610-876-7116, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.linvilla.com\/\">www.linvilla.com<\/a>) will host its annual Peach Festival from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Live entertainment will be provided by Silly Joe, Silly Goose &amp; Val and three bands from Rockdale Music School &#8212; Crimson Sun, Spectrum and wwwdot. The Juggling Jester of Justice will be strolling between noon and 4 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The festival\u2019s \u201cCostumed Characters\u201d this year will be Handyman Rob, Little Yellow One-Eyed Dude and Bouncing Tiger.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Additionally, Roasty Toasty will be doing his thing from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. \u2013 serving up fresh-roasted corn on the cob brushed with butter and sprinkled with your choice of seven different seasonings.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The schedule features a full slate of family-oriented activities throughout the day including appearances by costumed characters, pony rides, face painting and a crafts area. And, visitors can pick their own peaches starting at 8 a.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Time travel can be easy \u2013 if you make a short drive to Lebanon County.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/pa-ren-faire.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-9947\" src=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/pa-ren-faire-350x123.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"123\" \/><\/a>If you want to take a trip deep in the past and travel back centuries, there is the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire (Mount Hope Estate and Winery grounds, Route 72, Cornwall, 717-665-7021, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.parenfaire.com\/\">www.parenfaire.com<\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">This year\u2019s 39th annual staging of the event, which bills itself as \u201cthe most wondrous event in all the Knowne World\u201d, runs from August 3 through October 27.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The festive annual event features authentic Elizabethan food and drink, traditional crafts from the guildsmen of yore and old-time games of skill &#8212; and a cast of hundreds of colorfully costumed re-enactors.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Every summer, the Faire, which takes place at Mount Hope Estate and Winery\u2019s authentic 35-acre recreation of a 16th-century village in Olde England, features a new story from a different year of England\u2019s past.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">This year\u2019s Faire will take you back in time to the year 1558 and tell this story \u2013 \u201cQueen Mary I of England has died, and while the people celebrate the end to her long reign of terror, the kingdom is left in a precarious state. A people torn apart by religious conflict. A royal treasury practically empty. And the ever-present threat of France and Spain across the channel, hoping to take advantage of an England left defenseless. The nation now looks to a young woman of barely 25 years for its salvation: Princess Elizabeth Tudor, who travels now to our own Shire of Mt. Hope for her Coronation.<\/span><span lang=\"EN\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Needless to say, the good people of the Shire are thrilled to welcome their aspiring monarch and are pulling out all the stops for her arrival. Mt. Hope&#8217;s brewers prepare their finest ales, the vintners select their choicest grapes, and even the lowly apprentice glovemaker, William Shakespeare, has submitted a play to be performed in the new queen&#8217;s honor. What&#8217;s more, Lord Robert Dudley, close companion to Elizabeth, has contributed a large sum to Mt. Hope&#8217;s Coronation Festival. Of course, our good Lady Mayor Pemburthy has wasted not a penny, scouring the land for the best food, best vendors, and best entertainment that England has to offer.<\/span><span lang=\"EN\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">But not all are eager to see Elizabeth take the throne. There are many who worry that Elizabeth lacks the experience necessary to rule. Even members of her own family, such as her cousin Henry Carey, have expressed doubts about whether she possesses a monarch&#8217;s temperament. And while Elizabeth does not shrink from the task set before her, even she wonders if she is up to the challenges that await.<\/span><span lang=\"EN\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">But no worries will dampen the spirits of the Shire folk for long, not when there is such revelry to be had on their Festival day! There will be feasting and carousing with jolly companions, entrancing entertainment to delight all ages, and, as always, jousting galore. The merriment will culminate at day&#8217;s end upon the Globe Stage, where all of Mt. Hope will bear witness as a valiant young princess sits herself upon the throne of England.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Indeed, a Princess will sit\u2026and a Queen will rise.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">More than 70 shows are scheduled throughout each day on the Faire\u2019s numerous stages.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Without a doubt, the most popular attraction is the Jousting Arena. Visitors to the Faire flock to Bosworth Field whenever it\u2019s 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.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">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\u2019s acrobatics, learning how to juggle, being the recipient of a gypsy woman\u2019s flirtations and watching the march of Beefeater Guards.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Guildsmen\u2019s 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 &#8212; all offering for sale and demonstrating their ancient wares. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">And, there are more than 20 Royal Kitchens located around the faire with menus featuring a wide variety of food and beverage.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Single-day tickets are available at the gate for $31.95 but can be purchased in advance online for $27.95. For children (age 5-11) single-day tickets are available at the gate and online for $12.95. Season Passes are also available at $125 for adult and $45 for children.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Another trip back in time this weekend is being presented by Pennypacker Mills (5 Haldeman Road, Schwenksville, 610-287-9349,<a href=\"http:\/\/www.montcopa.org\/pennypackermills\">http:\/\/www.montcopa.org\/pennypackermills<\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">\u201cIn the Good Old Summertime\u201d will be held on August 3 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at the historic site in Montgomery County.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Visitors to the event will be treated to an afternoon of vintage music on the porch, lawn games and a vintage car show.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">A highlight of the event will be demonstrations of antique bicycles by the Pennsylvania Wheelmen. This organization promotes the restoration and riding of early cycles and will offer demonstrations during the day wearing vintage clothing of the time period. The Wheelmen focus on all aspects of cycle history, including high wheelers, tricycles, and other early 1900s cycles as part of our American heritage.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Other activities include tour through interactive exhibits in the History Center, tour the air-conditioned mansion, Victorian dress-up for photos, garden tours and hands-on fun in the 1900\u2019s History Center.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Admission is free with a suggested donation of $2 per person.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_9948\" style=\"width: 360px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/pottsgrove-manor.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-9948\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9948\" src=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/pottsgrove-manor-350x172.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"172\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-9948\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Pottsgrove Manor<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">There will be another Montgomery County Park with a special event this weekend &#8212; Pottsgrove Manor (100 West King Street, Pottstown, 610-326-4014,<a href=\"http:\/\/montcopa.org\/index.aspx?nid=930\">http:\/\/montcopa.org\/index.aspx?nid=930<\/a>). \u201cLiving History Sundays\u201d will be presented on August 4 from 1-4 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Pottsgrove Manor\u2019s staff and living history volunteers will demonstrate 18th-century trades, crafts, and pastimes. Many of the audience-friendly events are interactive.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">This event also features free admission with a suggested donation of $2 per person.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">You can also take a trip back in time by attending Das Awkscht Fescht (Macungie Memorial Park, Main Street, Macungie, 610-967-2317, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.awkscht.com\/\">www.awkscht.com<\/a>). <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/das-awkscht-fescht.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-9949 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/das-awkscht-fescht-350x197.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"197\" \/><\/a>Das Awkscht Fescht, which is celebrating its 56th anniversary this year, runs from August 2-4 in Macungie, a small town just south of Allentown.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The event is billed as one of the largest antique and classic car shows in the country with more than 3,500 cars on display.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The popular annual event takes its name from \u201cDer Augscht\u201d, which is the Pennsylvania Dutch word for \u201cAugust.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Das Awkscht Fescht, which is held the first weekend of August each year, is a traditional summer festival with a full roster of family fun events.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">There is a completely different car show each day \u2013 the Variety Show with thousands of pre-1991 automobile models along with a variety of classic tractors, trucks and motorcycles; the Antique and Classic Car Show with over 1,200 antique cars, classic automobiles and sports cars; and the Special Interest Car Show featuring more than 30 car clubs with over 1,000 vintage autos.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Every year, the primary focus of the automobile side of Das Awkscht Fescht is on the impressive display of vintage autos &#8212; especially the featured car. This year\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/awkscht.com\/information\/featured-car\/\">featured car area will showcase Chryslers, Dodges, Plymouths and DeSotos from the 20s through the 80s.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">There will be a variety of kids\u2019 shows and activities including jugglers, magicians, ventriloquists, clowns and a special creative activity and display center.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Kids of all ages will enjoy the Antique Toy Show, which is held at Eyer Middle School, and Toy Town, which is staged outdoors.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Other attractions include daily bingo sessions, picnics in the park, a playground, a huge public swimming pool, an arts and crafts show featuring more than 120 artisans and an \u201cAntique Auto Flea Market.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Admission to the festival is $9 for adults and free for children (15 and under).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">On August 4, the Great Plaza at Penn\u2019s Landing (201 South Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia,<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\"><a href=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/acana-african-festival.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-9950\" src=\"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/acana-african-festival-350x215.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"350\" height=\"215\" \/><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.delawareriverwaterfront.com\/events\/great-plaza-at-penn-s-landing\/acana-festival-2014\">www.delawareriverwaterfront.com<\/a>) will be the site of the African Cultural Alliance of North America Inc. (ACANA) African Festival.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The annual outdoor concert brings artists, groups, and dance troupes from around the African continent to perform in a free event.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The festival provides a wide range of African entertainment, from traditional dance performances to modern Afropop and reggae musical performances.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The family-oriented event also features African food vendors, as well as sales booths with traditional and modern clothing, arts and crafts.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Sunday\u2019s event, which is part of the PECO Multicultural Series, is scheduled to run from noon-8 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">On August 2, the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation\u2019s series of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.delawareriverwaterfront.com\/events\/smooth-jazz-summer-nights5\">free jazz concerts<\/a> kicks off at Great Plaza at Penn\u2019s Landing.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">\u201cSmooth Jazz Summer Nights Series,\u201d which is the longest-running free event produced by the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation, is back for its 23rd season at the Great Plaza.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Every Friday in August, there will be performances by\u00a0nationally renowned jazz and blues\u00a0talent. Attendees are requested to arrive by 7 p.m. because the concerts start promptly at 7:30 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The series will begin with a concert by Bilal on August 3. The series line-up also includes Vivian Green on August 9, Jessy J on August 16: Michael Manson\u2019s \u201cGeorge Duke Tribute\u201d on August 23, and Damien Escobar on August 30.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">On August 2, Bartram\u2019s Garden (5400 Lindbergh Boulevard , Philadelphia, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.bartramsgarden.org\/\">www.bartramsgarden.org<\/a>) will host a special event called \u201cLighthouse Parade &amp; Glow Party.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Visitors are encouraged to dress in neon or white attire for this kid-friendly, black light community party. The party gets underway at 7 p.m. with a promenade through the garden.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The West Powelton Steppers &amp; Drum Line along with Moko.Motion stilt walkers will lead a procession through the neighborhood and into the garden for an evening of dancing and glow-in-the-dark fun.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">There will be face painting, giveaways, activities, and the opportunity to observe some nighttime pollinators for National Moth Night.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The event will feature complimentary refreshments while supplies last and the Jerk Chicken Man will be on site with delicious Jamaican food available for purchase.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">India will be celebrated at a special festival on August 3 &#8212; \u201cIndia Fest 2019\u201d (Father Tucker Memorial Park, Ninth and Lincoln streets, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-494-1255,\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.iaadelaware.org\/\">www.iaadelaware.org<\/a>). The festive annual event is scheduled to run from noon until 8 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">It will feature classical and modern Indian dance performances, cultural exhibitions, vendors with a large array of Indian items and mouth-watering Indian food items such as tandoori chicken, nan (bread) and an assortment of curry dishes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Special workshops will be presented throughout the day featuring a variety of topics. Other activities include a beauty pageant, karaoke singing, a special evening cultural program, demonstrations on the use of spices, and live music throughout the day.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Admission to the festival, which is presented by the Indo American Association of Delaware, is $5 with children (6 and under) admitted free.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">On August 3, the Delaware Art Museum (2301 Kentmere Parkway, Wilmington, Delaware, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.delart.org\/\">www.delart.org<\/a>) is hosting an \u201cAfrican and Caribbean Festival.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The event, which will run from 2-10 p.m., will celebrate African and Caribbean culture through music, food, fashion, and art in the Copeland Sculpture Garden.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Visitors can also head inside for a tour of the museum\u2019s new Caribbean-themed exhibition.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Another interesting event in Delaware this weekend is \u201cSteamin\u2019 Days\u201d on August 4 at Auburn Heights Preserve (3000 Creek Road, Yorklyn, Delaware, 302-239-2385,\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/auburnheights.org\/\">http:\/\/auburnheights.org<\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">\u201cSteamin\u2019 Days,\u201d which is held on the first Sunday of the month through November, focuses on steam power. During \u201cSteamin\u2019\u00a0Days\u00a0at Auburn Heights,\u201d the site is bustling with activity.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Visitors are encouraged to climb into an antique automobile or board one of the trains and experience what it was like to travel at the turn of the 20th century. They can also tour the magnificent 1897 mansion that was home to three generations of the Marshall family.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Also included is entry to the Marshall Steam Museum, which features the world\u2019s largest operating collection of Stanley steam cars along with a 1930s working Lionel electric train display, a hands-on engine display, kids\u2019 activities and exhibits and the\u00a0Museum Gift Shop.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Activities run from 12:30-4:30 p.m. each time.\u00a0Combo Tickets, which\u00a0cover all rides and building tours, are $19 (13 and older) and $16 (age 12 and under).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Bethlehem\u2019s Musikfest (downtown Bethlehem, 610-332-1300, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.musikfest.org\/\">www.musikfest.org<\/a>) is a special event \u2014 an event that is more than just another popular summertime festival in the Lehigh Valley.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Over the years, Musikfest has established itself as one of America\u2019s top annual music festivals an event that offers big name headliners as well as a wide variety of folk, rock, pop and ethnic music acts.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">It also sports some impressive numbers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The festival, which is celebrating its 34th anniversary this year, features free music performances on most of its indoor and outdoor stages.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Musikfest, which is running now through August11, presents more than 300 live musical performances and draws over one million people to the Lehigh Valley every August.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The main concert stage at Musikfest is the Wind Creek Steel Stage<\/span><span lang=\"EN\"> which features national touring acts with tickets are required for all shows.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">The following is this year\u2019s main stage schedule: <\/span><span lang=\"EN\">Aug. 2: The Chainsmokers; Aug. 3: Steve Miller Band + Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives; Aug. 4: Lady Antebellum; Aug. 5: Weezer; Aug. 6: Train &amp; The Goo Goo Dolls; Aug. 7: Incubus; Aug. 8: The Revivalists; Aug. 9: Godsmack; Aug. 10: Phillip Phillips; and Aug. 11: Brad Paisley.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">There will also be a multitude of free concerts with acts such as Steal Your Peach, Ruby Dear, Red Baraat, MIPSO, Kate Mills, Fusion Jazz Trio and Brianna Nelson.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span lang=\"EN\">Musikfest is much more than just festival offering a wealth of music. It also features interactive arts and theater activities for children along with a large number of concessions offering a wide array of food and beverage treats.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times If it\u2019s a Friday and the date is 7 or below, you know what that means. It means that it is First Friday The first Friday of the month is a good time to spend an evening in Kennett Square, West Chester or Lancaster \u2013 a time to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":32266,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[25],"tags":[11388,11386,5006,6518,462,16,4226,84,5007,5708,11387,7790,385],"class_list":["post-32264","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","tag-african-cultural-alliance-of-north-america-inc-acana-african-festival","tag-connective-festival","tag-das-awkscht-fescht","tag-featured","tag-first-friday","tag-kennett-square","tag-lancaster","tag-longwood-gardens","tag-pennsylvania-renaissance-faire","tag-phoenixville","tag-pottsgrove-manor","tag-reading-fair","tag-west-chester"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32264","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=32264"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32264\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":32265,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32264\/revisions\/32265"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/32266"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=32264"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=32264"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=32264"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}