{"id":36584,"date":"2021-02-12T09:13:14","date_gmt":"2021-02-12T14:13:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=36584"},"modified":"2021-02-12T09:13:25","modified_gmt":"2021-02-12T14:13:25","slug":"what-to-do-local-wine-and-chocolate-pairings-are-perfect","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=36584","title":{"rendered":"What To Do: Local wine and chocolate pairings are perfect"},"content":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff<\/strong>, Entertainment Editor, The Times\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Galer Estate<\/p><\/div>\n

Celebrating Valentine\u2019s Day is always a good way to break up the doldrums of a grey winter and make you forget about snow.<\/p>\n

Here are a few suggestions on how to celebrate the occasion with your sweetheart.<\/p>\n

Valentine\u2019s Day and chocolates have been a match made in heaven for a long time. Not surprisingly, Valentine\u2019s Day is in the top four for holiday candy sales.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re wondering how the top four fare against each other, you might be surprised at the answer. Easter is first with Christmas not far behind. Valentine\u2019s Day is back a little in third with Halloween a close fourth.<\/p>\n

Valentine\u2019s Day is just a few days away and wine-loving chocoholics have been \u2013 and will be \u2014 celebrating all month. <\/p>\n

Now through February 14, Galer Estate Vineyard & Winery (700 Folly Hill Rd., Kennett Square, www.galerestate.com<\/a>) is hosting a special \u201cValentine\u2019s Day Wine and Chocolate Pairing.\u201d<\/p>\n

At the event, which runs from noon-6 p.m. each day, visitors will be able to enjoy a flight of four Galer Estate Wines which will be perfectly paired with four Bon Bons from Good Good Chocolate.<\/p>\n

Reservations are required for this self-guided pairing.<\/p>\n

The \u201cValentine\u2019s Day Wine & Chocolate Flight\u201d has a cost of $35 per person.<\/p>\n

The \u201cWine and Chocolate Pairings\u201d at Penns Wood Winery (124 Beaver Valley Road, Chadds Ford, 610-459-0808,\u00a0http:\/\/www.pennswoodsevents.com<\/a>) will be held every Saturday and Sunday in February from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.<\/p>\n

The event features a perfectly paired wine flight and locally made chocolates. This pairing can be enjoyed in the winery\u2019s tastings room (reservations only – limited seating available) or virtually (advance purchase).<\/p>\n

Virtual pairings include self-guided tasting portfolio, four two-ounce wine tasters and custom-made local chocolates from\u00a0Good Good Chocolates<\/a>. They are available for curbside pick-up or local delivery.<\/p>\n

\u201cIn Person\u201d pairings in the on-site tasting room) include self-guided tasting menu, a flight of five 1.5-ounce wine samples and and custom-made local chocolates from\u00a0Good Good Chocolates<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Reservations are required.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>Black Walnut Winery (3000 Lincoln Highway, Sadsburyville, 610-857-5566,\u00a0www.blackwalnutwinery.com<\/a>) will have \u201cWine and Chocolate Pairings\u201d on February 13, 14, 20 and 21.<\/p>\n

The pairings feature six of Black Walnut\u2019s wines paired with gourmet chocolates from Bridge Street Chocolates of Phoenixville.<\/p>\n

Wine and chocolate pairings will take place at the top of the hour at 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person and include a Black Walnut logo wine glass.<\/p>\n

Tasting will be held inside therefore seating will be limited for each time slot to ensure appropriate distancing. Reservations are required.<\/p>\n

The Chadds Ford Winery (632 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221,\u00a0http:\/\/www.chaddsford.com<\/a>) is one that will be celebrating all month.<\/p>\n

Every Saturday and Sunday through February 28, the Chaddsford Winery will present \u201cWine & Chocolate Pairings.\u201d<\/p>\n

Participants can visit the winery for an intimate and educational 90-minute experience in the newly renovated Barrel Room and treat themselves to a guided tasting of\u00a0five Pennsylvania-made artisan pairings.<\/p>\n

The winery will be partnering with three local businesses including\u00a0\u00c9<\/a>clat Chocolate,\u00a0Birchrun Hills\u00a0and\u00a0Herman’s Coffee\u00a0to provide an unparalleled experience highlighting some of the area’s best sweet and savory selections.<\/p>\n

To provide a safe and comfortable event, only three sessions with a limited number of guests will be offered throughout the day at noon, 2 and 4 p.m. The winery\u2019s masked staff will implement an enhanced cleaning schedule between sessions to ensure a sanitized facility and to provide seating that is spaced at least 6 feet apart from other customers.<\/p>\n

The \u201cPairing Line Up\u201d features 2018 Sparkling White, \u00c9clat Lavender Truffle with\u00a02019 Dry Ros\u00e9: Redux<\/a>, \u00c9clat Pear Caramel with\u00a02019 Traminette<\/a>, Birchrun Hills Blue Cheese and \u00c9clat Dutch Pretzel Bar with\u00a02017 Cabernet Sauvignon<\/a>, and Hermans Coffee YAAIMH Blend<\/a>\u00a0and Chocolate Beignet.<\/p>\n

Tastings are $35 per person and offered only on Saturdays and Sundays.\u00a0Advanced reservations are required\u00a0and are non-refundable. Children and guests under 21 years old are\u00a0not permitted\u00a0to attend this program. Pairings are subject to change.<\/p>\n

A great way for chocoholics to satisfy their chocolate cravings is to take a trip to Hershey during the month of February. This month, it\u2019s time for \u201cChocolate-Covered February in Hershey\u201d (various locations around Hershey, 800-HERSHEY, www.chocolatecoveredfebruary.com<\/a>).<\/p>\n

It is only natural that Hershey, the town that bills itself as \u201cThe Sweetest Place on Earth,\u201d hosts a month-long celebration in honor of all things chocolate. Hershey has decadent chocolate events planned throughout the month of February.<\/p>\n

Devon Seafood and Steak\u00a0and\u00a0Houlihan’s Restaurant Bar\u00a0in downtown Hershey,\u00a0Cocoa Beanery\u00a0on Research Boulevard, and restaurants at\u00a0Hershey Lodge\u00a0and\u00a0The Hotel Hershey\u00a0will feature chocolate martinis, decadent desserts, sweet treats and cocoa-infused savory dishes.<\/p>\n

Adults are invited to join the experts at\u00a0Hershey Lodge\u00a0for\u00a0Martini Mixology\u00a0events on February 13 and 27. If wine is your preference, sign up for the\u00a0Hershey Lodge\u00a0Chocolate and Wine\u00a0Demo\u00a0on February 20.<\/p>\n

The Hotel Hershey\u00a0will host two wine and chocolate dinners at\u00a0Harvest\u00a0in February — February 18: 90+ Point-rated Wines and February 25:\u00a0Michael David Winery.<\/p>\n

ZooAmerica\u00a0North American Wildlife Park\u00a0will offer\u00a050 per cent off\u00a0admission every Friday in February as part of its Fantastic Fridays promotion. As an added attraction, many of the zoo\u2019s animals are\u00a0more active during the winter months.<\/p>\n

Families will love visiting\u00a0Hershey’s Chocolate World\u00a0Attraction\u00a0on weekends in February for\u00a0Hershey\u00a0Character appearances, double sample days and Hershey’s Workshop events.<\/p>\n

The Chocolate Lab at\u00a0The Hershey Story Museum\u00a0will host its popular\u00a0hands-on classes,\u00a0both in the Lab and virtually.<\/p>\n

The Butterfly Atrium at\u00a0Hershey Gardens\u00a0will feature the Chocolate Malachite butterfly, and kids can have fun searching for cocoa clues to identify chocolate-named garden elements in the Children’s Garden and Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>If you\u2019re looking for another out-of-the-ordinary way to celebrate Valentine\u2019s Day, you might want to consider taking part in the \u201cSweetheart Skate\u201d at the Blue Cross RiverRink (Market Street at the Delaware River, Philadelphia, 215-923-6533,\u00a0www.riverrink.com<\/a>).<\/p>\n

\u201cSweetheart Skate\u201d is slated for February 14 at the outdoor rink. The event\u2019s focus is providing a suitable atmosphere for guests to skate with their special someone and RiverRink features one of the most romantic settings in the city.<\/p>\n

Guests can safely celebrate Valentine\u2019s Day on Sunday 14 with premium ice skating at Sweetheart Skate. They also will be able to enjoy flowers, music by Deejay007, Ferris wheel rides, boardwalk games, and catch some of their favorite romantic films in the open-air Lodge, all in an enchanting setting on the Philadelphia Waterfront.<\/p>\n

Ice skating tickets\u00a0are $20 per person. Premium skate sessions are available starting at 5 p.m. The ticket price includes skating admission, skate rental, and a single rose. Food, drink, and\u00a0amusements<\/a>\u00a0are pay-as-you-go.<\/p>\n

This weekend, Elmwood Park Zoo (\u00a0www.elmwoodparkzoo.org<\/a>) is hosting its annual \u201cValentine\u2019s Day Brunch\u201d on February 13 and 14.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Valentine\u2019s Brunch<\/p><\/div>\n

Visitors can share a romantic Valentine\u2019s Brunch with their significant others or enjoy the event with the entire loving family.<\/p>\n

The brunches will take place in the zoo\u2019s socially spaced\u00a0Canopy Gardens Pavilion and will be followed by an animal meet-and-greet. Guests with children who would prefer some quality alone time while they enjoy their brunch can send their kids (ages 4+) to the zoo\u2019s fun and educational animal workshop.<\/p>\n

There are three brunch sessions each day \u2013 10 and 11:15 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.<\/p>\n

Tickets include brunch, admission to the zoo, and an animal greet. The following fees apply: Table for Two, $79.95; Table for Four,\u00a0$129.95; Each Additional Guest, $39.95; Baby (ages 0-2), $10.95.<\/p>\n

The Colebrookdale Railroad (South Washington Street, Boyertown,\u00a0www.colebrookdalerailroad.com<\/a>)\u00a0 is running a special excursion called \u201cRomance on the Rails: Valentine\u2019s Trains.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Edwardian splendor of the Secret Valley Expedition\u00a0will provide a romantic atmosphere for riders. Couples can sit back, relax, and let the world fade away as they focus on each other and enjoy dinner aboard the railroad\u2019s 1920\u2019s era train.<\/p>\n

The dinner menu includes a salad, a choice of Chicken Marsala paired with asparagus and twice baked potato or Tortellini served with fresh vegetables in a blush marinara cream sauce, and a slice of delicious cheesecake paired with seasonal fruit and chocolate sauce.<\/p>\n

Another excursion option is riding in first class accommodations in the Parlor and Lounge cars which include a complimentary adult beverage, light hors d’oeuvres, and dessert.<\/p>\n

All ticketed passengers will receive\u00a0a box of chocolate and a rose as a thank you for spending their Valentine’s Day with the Colebrookdale Railroad.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $95 for Dining Car and $70 for First Class Parlor.<\/p>\n

The New Hope & Ivyland Railroad (32 Bridge Street, New Hope, 215-862-2332,\u00a0www.newhoperailroad.com<\/a>) is operating a \u201cRomantic Valentine\u2019s Excursion\u201d on February 13 at 11 a.m., 1, 3 and 5 p.m.<\/p>\n

Billed as \u201cAn intimate excursion through beautiful Bucks County,\u201d the event allows riders to take a step back in time to experience the romantic luxury of America\u2019s railroads. Passengers will ride in the line\u2019s premium turn-of-the-century Parlor cars for an intimate 60-minute excursion through the foothills of beautiful Bucks County.<\/p>\n

During the trip, riders will enjoy repose in table-seated comfort while sampling light fare served by the railroad\u2019s knowledgeable Parlor Car attendants. Each couple will receive an assortment of crudit\u00e9s, a lush charcuterie board, a long-stemmed red rose, and a sweet treat to wrap up the experience. In addition, each guest over 21 years of age will receive their choice of beer, a selection of red and white wines, or a whiskey flight from the Bucks County region.<\/p>\n

Tickets start at $86.99.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

The Strasburg Rail Road<\/p><\/div>\n

The Strasburg Rail Road (Route 741, Strasburg, 717-687-7522, www.strasburgrailroad.com<\/a>) is running a special train on February 13 at 6 p.m.<\/p>\n

According to the rail line\u2019s website, \u201cPassengers are invited to don their long johns and winter attire, brave the weather aboard our Open Air Car, and enjoy complimentary Long John donut and coffee.\u201d<\/p>\n

Not to be confused with the long undergarment worn on cold days, Long Johns are rectangular, yeasted doughnuts that are either filled or unfilled and topped with a variety of icing flavors.
\nStrasburg Rail Road\u2019s Long Johns will be provided by Achenbach\u2019s Pastries Inc and available while supplies last to those customers purchasing a ticket for the Open-Air car. They can pick up their Long John donut and coffee at the Station before boarding the Open Air Car.<\/p>\n

The rail line\u2019s website also posts this advisory:<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease note: Passengers assume full responsibility for dressing warmly enough for the weather conditions presented the day of the event. Due to the potentially frigid temperatures, this ride is not recommended for very young children, though tickets for all ages are available for purchase in the event of unseasonably mild conditions the day of. During the train ride, any passengers needing a respite from the cold may retreat to a heated Coach directly adjacent the Open Air Car.)\u201d<\/p>\n

Tickets for either train ride are $18.50 for adults and $11.50 for children (ages 2-11).<\/p>\n

The \u201cBrandywine Railroad\u201d display at the Brandywine River Museum (Route 1, Chadds Ford 610-388-2700,\u00a0www.brandywinemuseum.org<\/a>), is an annual event that is fun for the entire family, has been extended through February 28<\/p>\n

\u201cBrandywine Railroad\u201d features an extensive O-gauge model.\u00a0Five moving trains operate at all times and include a 60-car freight train winding past a village, stone quarry, oil refinery, mountains, Herr Foods plant, running waterfall and animated skating scene.<\/p>\n

In addition to the Brandywine Railroad, the exhibition, \u201cBetsy James Wyeth: A Tribute,\u201d will also be on display through February 28.<\/p>\n

The Brandywine River Museum of Art pays tribute to Betsy James Wyeth (1921-2020) with a display of drawings and paintings of and about her in the Andrew Wyeth Gallery, and with a biography of her remarkable life presented in the first-floor lobby of the Museum.<\/p>\n

Betsy Wyeth was her husband Andrew Wyeth\u2019s business manager and curator, with great precision recording the details of every work completed by the artist and encouraging and propelling him to achieve throughout his career. The artist painted his wife many times over the course of their almost seven-decade marriage. The selection of 20 works shown here are both intimate and enigmatic, capturing her elegance while also communicating a sense of elusiveness that the artist was so adept at conveying.<\/p>\n

Admission is $18 for adults, $15 for seniors (65 and older) and $6 for children.<\/p>\n

The Chadds Ford Historical Society is not hosting its annual Winter Plein Air Event at its Barn Visitors Center (1736 Creek Road, Chadds Ford, 610-388-7376,\u00a0www.chaddsfordhistory.org<\/a>) this year.<\/p>\n

Instead, it will host a \u201cDrive Thru \u2018Valentine\u2019s\u2019 Bread Sale\u201d on February 13 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.<\/p>\n

The following message was posted on the Society\u2019s website:<\/p>\n

\u201cEvery year we bake bread in the Beehive Oven of our historic John Chads House. This year, we are having a drive thru bread sale for a great way to stay safe, get delicious bread, and support the Chadds Ford Historical Society. The bread has been frozen to maintain freshness in preparation for our Bread Sale event. It is first come, first served so get the bread while supplies last!\u201d<\/p>\n

A visit to Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, 610-388-1000, www.longwoodgardens.org<\/a>) always offers welcome respite to the grey brutality of the winter season. This year\u2019s special event is called \u201cWinter Wonder.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWinter Wonder,\u201d which runs now through March 21, celebrates the beauty of winter. It\u2019s all about outdoor spacious, indoor oasis, and the power of story.<\/p>\n

Outside, visitors can find a sense of peace and tranquility as they walk past textural grasses, seed heads and the dramatic silhouettes of trees that stretch up into the sky.<\/p>\n

Inside, they can bask in a world of warmth that features an overhead garden of hanging baskets adorned with such vibrant beauties as jasmine, cape-primrose, and lipstick-plant.<\/p>\n

Visitors will be able to enjoy a paradise of flowers and foliage, bursting with color — all in a beautiful indoor winter wonderland with a tropical twist.<\/p>\n

\u201cWinter Wonder\u201d exists on two levels.<\/p>\n

Both outdoors and in, they can embark on a poignant journey with\u00a0\u201cVoices in the Landscape,\u201d a series of 10 stops throughout the Gardens which can also be accessed virtually from home. In this sensory experience, participants will follow along as storyteller Charlotte Blake Alston honors and celebrates the strength, resilience, and contributions of the African American community through the lens of horticulture and the power of story.<\/p>\n

Those taking the tour can hear an ancient Zulu creation myth paired with the oldest plant on Earth in the Conservatory; make their way to the Lookout Loft Treehouse and learn the story of the significance and symbolism of woods and meadows; and call out the name of an ancestor in remembrance at the Large Lake while a traditional spiritual soothes your soul.<\/p>\n

Voices in the Landscape is an Accessible Experience.<\/p>\n

The exhibition features a total of 10 audio experiences associated with specific locations throughout the Gardens, including seven outdoor stops and three stops in the Conservatory. The entire route is accessible without stairs and the length of the route, including the stops in the Conservatory, is about 1.5 miles.<\/p>\n

\u201cVoices in the Landscape\u201d signage is at each stop. Each audio recording ranges between three and eight minutes in length. The estimated time to experience the entire Voices in the Landscape exhibit is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.<\/p>\n

As always, admission by \u201cTimed Ticket\u201d — tickets issued for specific dates and times. Timed ticketing limits the number of people in the Gardens at any given time and allows guests to enjoy minimal lines and a better viewing experience.<\/p>\n

You may enter the Gardens up to 30 minutes prior and 30 minutes after your designated time. Make every effort to arrive at your designated reservation time. Earlier or later arrivals may not be accommodated.<\/p>\n

Admission to Longwood Gardens is $25 for adults, $22 for seniors (ages 62 and older) and college students, $18 for active military and veterans and $13 for youth (ages 5-18).<\/p>\n

Each year in mid-February, Valley Forge National Historical Park (1400 North Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia, www.nps.gov<\/a>) hosts \u201cGeorge Washington\u2019s Birthday Party.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>The first public celebration of Washington’s Birthday was at Valley Forge in 1778. Now in 2020, you can join in to celebrate His Excellency\u2019s 289th birthday.<\/p>\n

But, because of the pandemic, this year\u2019s celebration will be different.<\/p>\n

According to the park\u2019s website:<\/p>\n

\u201cDue to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Valley Forge National Historical Park is moving its President\u2019s Day celebrations online this year. After all, if there is a historic site familiar with the dangers of the spread of disease, it’s Valley Forge.<\/p>\n

In collaboration with a number of other parks and historic sites, including George Washington’s Birthplace National Monument, Morristown National Historical Park, and New York and New Jersey State Parks, we are featuring stories about George Washington’s birthday from many pivotal points in his life. We invite you to enjoy the online programming listed below and hope that you and yours remain safe and healthy this winter.\u201d<\/p>\n

Participants can wish Washington a Happy Birthday in a novel way.<\/p>\n

Here’s how to participate:<\/p>\n

Create your birthday card or other artwork at home.<\/p>\n

Take a picture of your work with a digital camera or smartphone.<\/p>\n

Send the photograph in an email attachment to\u00a0va************<\/span>@***<\/span>il.com<\/span><\/a>\u00a0with subject line “Happy Birthday – [Your Last Name]”
\n– OR –
\npost your photo on Facebook or Instagram with the hashtag\u00a0#WashingtonsBirthdayVAFO<\/p>\n

All submissions will be collected and posted on the park website in the\u00a0Washington’s Birthday Art Gallery<\/a>. Please keep an eye on our social media channels as well, as we highlight submitted cards and artwork.
\nThis activity is recommended for children and adults of all ages.<\/p>\n

Fort Mifflin (Fort Mifflin and Hog Island roads, Philadelphia, 215-685-4167,\u00a0www.fortmifflin.us<\/a>) is hosting a \u201cFamily Fire Pit Festival\u201d on February 13 starting at 10 a.m.<\/p>\n

Visitors are invited to gather around a fire pit and enjoy a wintertime adventure. They also will have the opportunity to explore the site to discover unique activities at each of the fort\u2019s special fire pits \u2013 maybe hear a ghost story or meet a Revolutionary War or Civil War soldier. Guests can also check out the 2020 Eagle Scout projects bringing bat and bird boxes to enhance the site.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s BYO for camp chairs and refreshments — if desired. If visitors get cold outside despite the fires, they can head into the Soldier\u2019s Barracks to enjoy the \u201cAffectionately Yours: Four Centuries of Military Love Letters\u201d pop-up exhibit.<\/p>\n

Guided tours, which are scheduled for 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., will focus on the contributions of African Americans to the Fort\u2019s history from the 18th\u00a0to the 20th\u00a0century.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors (62 and older), $6 for youth (12 and under) and veterans (with ID), Masks and social distancing required.<\/p>\n

This is the time each year that the town of Lititz (https:\/\/lititzpa.com\/<\/a>) hosts its annual Fire & Ice Festival but COVID-19 has thrown a wrench in the works.<\/p>\n

On Sunday and Monday, visitors are invited to walk around downtown Lititz and enjoy the ice sculptures, dine at local restaurants, and shop at the local stores.<\/p>\n

Lititz has responded by making some alterations to the annual celebration.<\/p>\n

According to the event website:<\/p>\n

\u201cWhile the pandemic has canceled Lititz Fire & Ice, it cannot cancel our spirit!\u00a0Venture Lititz will host the 2021 Lititz Ice Walk from February 12-20. This event will kick off the same weekend as our traditional Lititz Fire & Ice event but run through the following Sunday.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe will put out additional ice sculptures every few days over the nine days of the event — lots of chances to stop back and see what is new. This event is just an ice event \u2013 no fire, no entertainment, just ice sculptures.\u201d<\/p>\n

February is African American History Month and the National Constitution Center National Constitution Center (525 Arch Street, Independence Mall, Philadelphia, 215-409-6700,www.constitutioncenter.org<\/a>), which is re-opening on February 12,<\/p>\n

This month, National Constitution Center audiences can commemorate African American History Month by taking part in live classes, booking a live exhibit tour, or exploring the Center\u2019s resources.<\/p>\n

This February, visitors to the Center can commemorate African American History Month by viewing\u00a0\u201cCivil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality,\u201d\u00a0the first exhibit in America devoted to exploring how constitutional clashes over slavery set the stage for the Civil War, and how the nation transformed the Constitution after the war to more fully embrace the Declaration of Independence\u2019s promise of liberty and equality.<\/p>\n

Through remarkable artifacts and rare documents from one of the largest private Civil War collections in America\u2014the Civil War Museum of Philadelphia\u2014and other partners, the 3,000 square foot exhibit brings to life the stories of Frederick Douglass, Abraham Lincoln, Harriet Tubman, and other figures central to the conflict over slavery.<\/p>\n

The exhibit also features the inspiring stories of lesser-known individuals to help shed light on the American experience under slavery, the battle for freedom during the Civil War, and the fight for equality during Reconstruction, which many call the nation\u2019s \u201cSecond Founding.\u201d In doing so, visitors will learn the history of three constitutional amendments added between 1865 and 1870, which ended slavery, required states to respect individual rights, promised equal protection to all people, and expanded the right to vote to African American men.<\/p>\n

The National Constitution Center will resume operations on a modified schedule and will be open\u00a0Fridays through Sundays from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., in addition to being open Presidents Day, Monday, February 15.<\/p>\n

During Presidents Day Weekend, the Center\u2019s popular Presidential Portrait Gallery, will transform into an informational headquarters where visitors can learn about Article II of the Constitution. Participants can explore the ins and outs of the Electoral College, delve into the duties and requirements of the executive office, and take part in presidential role-play scenarios.<\/p>\n

Visitors are also invited to showcase their knowledge of past U.S. presidents, as our interactive trivia game challenges them to find all of the presidents from Ohio, the only president from Pennsylvania, the last president born before the revolution, the first president born in a hospital, and more. This is a non-contact experience is located in the Center\u2019s Grand Hall Lobby, which allows ample space for social distancing.<\/p>\n

Plus, visitors can view the Center\u2019s exhibits, including\u00a0Signers\u2019 Hall, which features life-sized statues of presidents Washington and Madiso and \u201cThe 19th Amendment: How Women Won the\u00a0Vote,\u201d\u00a0which explores how the right to participate in elections has expanded and become more inclusive throughout history.<\/p>\n

General admission is $14.50 for adults, $13 for Seniors (age 65 and older) and College Students (with ID), $11 for Youth (ages 6-18) and free for children (five and under) and active military.<\/p>\n

On February 13, the\u00a0Greater Philadelphia Expo Center (Station Avenue, Oaks, 800-677-4677,\u00a0 is hosting the East Coast Reptile Super Expo featuring hundreds of live snakes and reptiles.<\/p>\n

A wide array of reptiles will be on display as part of the popular exhibition. One of the show\u2019s main attractions is a sales exhibit area featuring a large number of vendors with live reptiles, amphibians and arachnids as well as food items, supplies, books, cages, and related accessories.<\/p>\n

The roster of very diverse vendors includes AZO Reptiles, Rose\u2019s Reptiles, Blake\u2019s Exotic Reptiles, Reptile Kingdom, DHA\u00a0Pythons, Gecko Haven, Hunger Reptiles, Jungle Emporium,\u00a0Blackheart Reptiles, Delaware Turtle,\u00a0Just Lizards and Outback Reptiles.<\/p>\n

The list also includes\u00a0RKZ Rodents. Monstar Reptiles,\u00a0Turtle to Turtle,\u00a0Delaware Valley Herpetarium,\u00a0Newville Dragons, PM Herps,\u00a0Jay Jacoby Serpent Propagation, Black Jungle Terrarium Supply,\u00a0VSCV Ventures LLC, Dachiu Dragons,\u00a0Tom Rogan Reptiles,\u00a0Native Exotics.<\/p>\n

Other featured vendors will be\u00a0Heath\u2019s Frog Farm, Corralus Creations,\u00a0Rogue Reptiles LLC, Jason R Bartolett Captive Bred Reptiles, Fowler Reptiles,\u00a0Dragon Fortress,\u00a0Turtle Towns, Garden State Tortoise LLC, Reptile Addicts, MCO Reptiles. A.M. Snakes, Charm City Glam Charms, Dragontown Reptiles and J&R Constrictors.<\/p>\n

The East Coast Reptile Super Expo, which is always a well-attended event, will run from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. this Saturday. Tickets are $10 with children (under five) admitted free.<\/p>\n

Sesame Place (100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, www.sesameplace.com<\/a>) is a festive, family-friendly celebration with everyone\u2019s favorite Sesame Street friends live and in-person at the amusement park in Langhorne.<\/p>\n

Now through February 24, Sesame Place is presenting its all-new 40th Birthday Drive-Thru.<\/p>\n

Visitors will feel like the guest of honor as they make their way through the bright and colorful birthday scenes, listen to energetic tracks from the popular Neighborhood Birthday Party Parade, and wave to Sesame Street friends dressed in their birthday best.<\/p>\n

Anticipation builds as visitors make their way through a maze of whimsical birthday lights and venture through an illuminated cake of frosted fun. As guests make their way into the park, they will be greeted by even more Sesame Street friends in festive attire atop their birthday-themed floats.<\/p>\n

Tickets for Sesame Place\u2019s \u201c40th Birthday Drive-Thru\u201d are $35 per carload.<\/p>\n

Elmo’s Furry Fun Fest is running through March 21.<\/p>\n

This new event series will offer guests brand new, limited capacity special events where they can celebrate everyone\u2019s favorite red monster during\u00a0Elmo\u2019s Rockin\u2019 Birthday Bash, treat little loves to a fun day during the\u00a0My Fuzzy Valentine\u2019s Celebration, let the good times roll during the park\u2019s family-friendly\u00a0Mardi Gras Celebration, grab cozy jammies to celebrate our favorite feathered friend\u2019s birthday at\u00a0Big Bird\u2019s Pajama Party<\/p>\n

Guests can enjoy these fun-filled, safe, and family-friendly events with everyone\u2019s favorite Sesame Street\u00ae friends. Guests can ride the Count’s Fly By, Count’s Cruisers, and the Sunny Day Carousel during the event plus enjoy fun activities including Elmo\u2019s Balloon Scavenger Hunt, a Furry Friends Dance Party, and a different themed character dining experience each weekend (additional charge and reservations are required). Plus, everyone\u2019s favorite Neighborhood Birthday Party Parade will have everyone dancing and singing along with Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, Count von Count, Bert, Ernie, Zoe, Rosita and Big Bird!<\/p>\n

The event schedule is My Fuzzy Valentine’s Celebration from February 13-15, Mardi Gras Celebration on\u00a0February 20, 21, 27 and 28, and Big Bird’s Pajama Party on\u00a0March 13, 14, 20, and 21.<\/p>\n

Grim\u00a0Philly\u2019s \u201cDark Philly History Tour\u201d (www.grimphilly.com<\/a>) will be held every Friday and Saturday night in February and March at 8 p.m. each evening. Beginning in April, the tour will be presented every evening.<\/p>\n

Participants can walk with tour guides from the grounds of America’s first White House, Congress, and Liberty Bell to homes and sites of Hamilton, Washington, Franklin, Adams, Jefferson, Madison, Monroe, and more than 10 other Founding-Fathers. The surprising dirt of espionage, murder, sexual license and blackmail highlight the secrets of 1776 with a ghost story or two along the way. This tour is highly researched. And your guide is a historian.<\/p>\n

Grim Philly will also be presenting \u201cSerial Killers & Cemetery Tour\u201d every Saturday at 2 p.m.<\/p>\n

Participants will have the opportunity to experience unconventional sightseeing off the beaten path. They can enjoy Betsy Ross House, Christ Church, Elfreth\u2019s Alley, and Benjamin Franklin\u2019s Grave, together with tales of serial slayings and psychopathic killers like the Corpse Collector, Frankfort Slasher, and H.H. Holmes.<\/p>\n

Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Philadelphia (215-413-1997,\u00a0www.ghosttour.com<\/a>),\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Lancaster (717-687-6687,\u00a0www.ghosttour.com<\/a>) and\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Strasburg (717-687-6687,\u00a0www.ghosttour.com<\/a>) operate throughout the winter and offer an eerily entertaining evening of true\u00a0ghost\u00a0stories and real haunted houses.<\/p>\n

The Ghost Tour of Philadelphia, which is based on the book, \u201cGhost Stories of Philadelphia, PA.,\u201d is a candlelight walking\u00a0tour\u00a0along the back streets and secret gardens of Independence Park, Society Hill, and Old City, where\u00a0ghostly spirits, haunted houses, and eerie graveyards abound.<\/p>\n

Participants can discover the ghost lore of America\u2019s most historic and most haunted city with stories from the founding of William Penn\u2019s colony to present-day hauntings.<\/p>\n

The activity is open year-round \u2013 weekends, December-February; every night, March-November. Tickets are $24.<\/p>\n

The Ghost Tour of Lancaster and the Ghost Tour of Strasburg are based on the book, \u201cGhost Stories of Lancaster, PA.\u201d<\/p>\n

Participants in the\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Lancaster explore the long-forgotten mysteries of one of America\u2019s oldest cities, with haunting tales of otherworldly vigils, fatal curses, and star-crossed lovers. The\u00a0tour\u00a0provides the opportunity to experience 300 years of haunted history from the Red Rose City\u2019s thorny past. Tickets are $18.<\/p>\n

The\u00a0Ghost\u00a0Tour\u00a0of Strasburg is a candlelight walking\u00a0tour\u00a0of the quaint and historic town of Strasburg in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Visitors will experience an entertaining evening with a costumed\u00a0tour\u00a0guide spinning tales of haunted mansions, eerie graveyards, and spirits that roam the night \u2026 in a town lost in time. Tickets are $18.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times\u00a0 Celebrating Valentine\u2019s Day is always a good way to break up the doldrums of a grey winter and make you forget about snow. Here are a few suggestions on how to celebrate the occasion with your sweetheart. Valentine\u2019s Day and chocolates have been a match made in heaven […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":36578,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[25],"tags":[11876,8069,6518,3274,445],"class_list":["post-36584","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","tag-black-walnut-winery","tag-elmwood-park-zoo","tag-featured","tag-galer-estate-winery","tag-valentines-day"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36584","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=36584"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36584\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":36585,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36584\/revisions\/36585"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/36578"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=36584"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=36584"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=36584"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}