{"id":40012,"date":"2022-10-07T10:34:02","date_gmt":"2022-10-07T14:34:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=40012"},"modified":"2022-10-07T10:34:08","modified_gmt":"2022-10-07T14:34:08","slug":"what-to-do-20th-anniversary-of-w-chester-chili-cookoff","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/?p=40012","title":{"rendered":"What To Do: 20th anniversary of W. Chester Chili Cookoff"},"content":{"rendered":"

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

\"\"Now that crisp autumn weather has arrived, it\u2019s a great time to enjoy outdoor events such fall festivals, historical celebrations, hayrides, wine festivals, mazes and scenic train rides.<\/p>\n

On October 9, West Chester will be the site of a special event to determine who can make \u201cThe Best Darn Chili in Chester County!\u201d \u2014 the site of the West Chester Rotary\u2019s 20th Annual Chili Cookoff (Gay and High streets, Downtown West Chester,\u00a0www.westchesterchilicookoff.com<\/em><\/strong><\/a>).<\/p>\n

There will be approximately 50 \u201cChili Teams\u201d competing for the top prize in the following divisions \u2014 \u201cPeople\u2019s Choice,\u201d \u201cBusiness,\u201d \u201cRestaurant,\u201d \u201cNon-Profit\u201d and \u201cHometown\/Volunteer Cook.\u201d Each team will prepare its best chili and submit a sample to a panel of local \u201ccelebrity\u201d judges who name Best Chili in each category. <\/p>\n

The family-oriented event, which runs from 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., will also feature a \u201cJust 4 Kids\u201d area on East Gay Street (with kids\u2019 bounces, slides and other games), live entertainment and an array of food vendors.<\/p>\n

Vendors will be selling ice cream, kettle corn, as well as art, jewelry and other interesting merchandise.<\/p>\n

All-you-can-eat wristbands are $15.<\/p>\n

One hundred percent of the cook-off proceeds go to the good work of the Rotary Club.<\/p>\n

\"\"The Friends Fall Festival at the Downingtown Friends Meeting (Downingtown Friends Meeting, 800 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown, 610-269-4223, www.downingtownfriendsmeeting.org<\/a>) is scheduled for October 8 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.<\/p>\n

One of the most popular fall festivals in the region, the Friends Fall Festival has been offering families a day of wholesome fun and value for more than 30 years. A special supervised area includes children\u2019s crafts and games.<\/p>\n

Some of the free festival\u2019s many attractions are plant, craft and white elephant sales, the Friends Mercantile for the sale of books, housewares, jewelry and children\u2019s toys and the Quaker Heritage Exhibit, which features antique Quaker clothing and memorabilia.<\/p>\n

The festival, which also offers free parking, will feature live folk and rock music along with demonstrations and community exhibits.<\/p>\n

There will also be a variety of tasty food items available for purchase. The Wooden Ladle will offer homemade vegetarian chili, hearty vegetable soup, juicy grilled hot dogs, funnel cake and hot apple cider, coffee, or cold drinks.<\/p>\n

The Friends Mercantile, a not-to-be-missed stop for serious garage-sale shoppers, opens its doors at 9 a.m. and attracts a loyal following of shoppers with everything from fine gifts to children\u2019s toys, books, housewares, jewelry, electronics, and more. The festival\u2019s craft vendors offer everything from handcrafted needlework to woodcraft, leather, ceramics and more.<\/p>\n

The Silent Auction will feature services provided by your neighbors.<\/p>\n

This event is free admission with free parking, and it will be held rain or shine.<\/p>\n

\"\"The Chester County History Center (225 North High Street, West Chester,\u00a0http:\/\/www.chestercohistorical.org\/<\/em><\/strong><\/a>) debuted its \u201cChilling\u00a0West Chester\u201d walking tour in the fall of 2020, and this year it\u2019s back with a sequel featuring all new stops.<\/p>\n

Beginning at the Chester County History Center on October 7 at 6 p.m. and October 8 at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., the tour is approximately 1.5 miles. Guests will hear macabre stories from West Chester\u2019s history while visiting some notable downtown landmarks. These are not ghost stories — these are true tales of terror pulled from our own archives.<\/p>\n

Each tour will be held entirely outdoors.<\/p>\n

Participants should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.<\/p>\n

Tours will take place rain or shine and tickets, which are $18, are nonrefundable.<\/p>\n

You can get a look back at another era by attending an event called \u201cMilling Demonstration Days\u201d which will take place on October 8 at Mill at\u00a0Anselma\u00a0(1730 Conestoga Road, Chester Springs, 610-827-1906,\u00a0http:\/\/<\/em><\/strong>anselmamill.org<\/em><\/strong><\/a>).<\/p>\n

The Mill will be fully operational from\u00a010 a.m.-4 p.m. on the second Saturday of each month.<\/p>\n

Visitors to the Mill will be able to meet\u00a0Anselma\u2019s miller and hear him talk about how the gears work and what they do. There will also be interesting technology tours that focus on how different parts of the mill work.<\/p>\n

Additionally, there will be special interactive activities for the children — including learning how to sift flour. Kids will also have the opportunity to operate a pump on a smaller water wheel.<\/p>\n

Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors (60 and older) and children (ages 4-14). Active Military and children (under 4) will be admitted free.<\/p>\n

The Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen offers a number of craft fairs throughout the state each year. One of the most popular fairs is scheduled for this weekend. Now through October 9, the Guild will present the Fine Craft Fair (Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, 717-431-8706, www.pacrafts.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Through a partnership with the\u00a0Friends of Rittenhouse Square\u00a0and in conjunction with the Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen will bring its signature premier Fine Craft Fair to the scenic park in Center City Philadelphia.<\/p>\n

Founded in 1944 at the recommendation of Eleanor Roosevelt, the Pennsylvania Guild is one of the nation\u2019s largest and most recognized craft guilds, specializing in the advocacy and support of more than 1,400 members whose handwork is known for its unparalleled skill and artistry.<\/p>\n

Fine craft is often defined as the hand and mind transformation of raw materials into inspired works of art.\u00a0The finished products may be either traditional or contemporary in style and design. This weekend\u2019s event will feature more than 145 of the Guild\u2019s finest craft artists.<\/p>\n

The Fine Craft Fair, which is free and open to the public, will focus on hand-crafted jewelry, contemporary furniture, functional and decorative pottery, designer clothing, fine porcelain, blown glass, limited edition photography, sculpture, paintings, watercolors, oils, graphite and pastels.<\/p>\n

There will be 150 white tent canopies lining the sidewalks of Rittenhouse Square\u2019s park when the Guild returns to Philadelphia with its sixth\u00a0juried Fine Craft Market. This year will also include\u00a0an \u201cEmerging Artist\u201d section and a hands-on activity free for all ages, sponsored by the Guild workshop program.<\/p>\n

Fair hours are 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free. Street and garage parking is readily available.<\/p>\n

On October 8, the 13th Annual Fall Wine Festival (Skippack Pike, Skippack, 610- 584-1155, http:\/\/winetober.com<\/a>) will be held from noon-6 p.m. along the main street of the scenic village near the Skippack Creek in Montgomery County.<\/p>\n

The popular annual event, which is also known as Winetober\u00a0Fest,\u00a0will feature vendors with a tasty array of wine and food samples along with live music. Tickets for the event, which include food and wine sampling, are $25.<\/p>\n

The intriguing new production Paranormal\u00a0Cirque, which is intended for a mature audience, is running now through October 9 at Oxford Valley Mall (2300 Lincoln Highway, Langhorne, https:\/\/<\/a>paranormal<\/a>cirque.com<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Paranormal\u00a0Cirque\u00a0will expose audiences to a unique creation of combined theatre, circus, and cabaret with a new European style flare.<\/p>\n

This innovative horror story, which is presented in true circus style under a Big Top tent, features different shades of sexy and an incomparable storyline. Audiences likely will find it difficult to separate reality from illusion at this show as they fall into a parallel world and end up surrounded by monstrous creatures with hidden talents.<\/p>\n

Currently,\u00a0Paranormal\u00a0Cirque\u00a0has four tours running \u2013 Silver Tour, Gold Tour, Black Tour and Silver Tour. The tour visiting our area is the Black Tour.<\/p>\n

Paranormal\u00a0Cirque\u2019s \u201cClown Castle\u201d (also known as the Big Top) presents a mesmerizing effect while hosting a two-hour hypnotizing and enchanted show.<\/p>\n

A careful casting selection has united the best artists from all over the world.<\/p>\n

Under this Clown Castle, the black and red big top tent, there are aerial acrobats, illusionists, freaks, mysterious creatures and all the elements that make one think of a \u201cnormal\u201d circus \u2013 but this one is not \u201cnormal.\u201d<\/p>\n

A new show with breathtaking implications always poised between fun and the most uninhibited fear that will transport you to a dark world inhabited by creatures with incredible circus art abilities.<\/p>\n

A crazy yet fun fusion between circus, theatre, and cabaret in perfect harmony with the evolution of a show that brings you back to when we dream … and when we had nightmares and fantasies.<\/p>\n

Scare, encompass, amuse and surprise are the ingredients for a mixture of emotions impossible to forget.
\nThis is truly a\u00a0Paranormal\u00a0experience like no other.<\/p>\n

Video link for\u00a0Paranormal\u00a0Cirque\u00a0— https:\/\/youtu.be\/locxFnh5UR8<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Ticket prices start at $10.<\/p>\n

The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire (Mount Hope Estate and Winery grounds, Route 72, Cornwall, 717-665-7021, www.parenfaire.com<\/a>) is in full swing.<\/p>\n

This year\u2019s 43rd annual staging of the event, which bills itself as \u201cthe most wondrous event in all the Knowne World\u201d, is running now through October 30. The festive annual event features authentic Elizabethan food and drink, traditional crafts from the guildsmen of yore and old-time games of skill \u2014 and a cast of hundreds of colorfully costumed re-enactors.<\/p>\n

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. This year\u2019s Faire will take you back in time to the year 1558.<\/p>\n

More than 70 shows are scheduled throughout each day on the Faire\u2019s numerous stages.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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 \u2014 all offering for sale and demonstrating their ancient wares.<\/p>\n

And there are more than 20 Royal Kitchens located around the faire with menus featuring a wide variety of food and beverage.<\/p>\n

Single-day tickets are available at the gate for $31.95. For children (age 5-11) single-day tickets are available at the gate and online for $16.95.<\/p>\n

\"\"On October 8, visitors to the Brandywine Zoo (1001 North Park Drive, Brandywine Park, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-571-7747,\u00a0www.brandywinezoo.org<\/a>)\u00a0are invited to come dressed in back and orange attire as the Zoo celebrates \u201cMighty Monarch Day.\u201d<\/p>\n

The colorful butterflies have spent their summer in the Brandywine Valley and are now fluttering their way to Mexico.<\/p>\n

Visitors to the Zoo can learn about the journey and other interesting facts of this amazing insect that is now officially endangered.<\/p>\n

The event, which runs from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., will feature Master Naturalists and Gardeners, story book readings, BBQ and ice cream.<\/p>\n

As an added attraction, members of the Lenape Tribe of Delaware will be at the Zoo to teach guests how monarch butterflies and all aspects of nature should be a notable part of our daily lives.<\/p>\n

Admission is $9 for adults, $7 for youth and free for under 3.<\/p>\n

The Philadelphia Zoo (3400 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, www.philadelphiazoo.org<\/a>) is featuring a \u201cGiraffe Feeding Encounter.\u201d<\/p>\n

Now guests can get up close to the zoo\u2019s giraffe trio in this all-new feeding experience. \u201cGiraffe Encounter\u201d is scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to noon and 1-4 p.m. daily.<\/p>\n

General admission for the Giraffe Encounter is $6; Individual, Dual, Family, and Family Plus members is $5; and Family Deluxe and above is $4. Each guest gets one piece of browse to feed. Browse is vegetation, such as twigs and young shoots, eaten by animals. Depending on the day, guests can feed our giraffes acacia browse (which is what giraffes eat in the wild) or another variety like mulberry or honeysuckle.<\/p>\n

Considered the tallest land animals in the world, male giraffes can reach up to 18 feet tall and weigh close to 3,000 lbs. Listed as \u201cvulnerable\u201d by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with scientists estimating there are fewer than 100,000 surviving in the wild, giraffe are affected by poaching and habitat destruction, with populations decreasing more than 40 per cent over the last three decades.<\/p>\n

\u201cElmwood\u00a0Park Zoo\u201d (1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown, www.elmwoodparkzoo.org<\/em><\/strong><\/a>) is presenting several of its ultra-popular \u201cDog Days\u201d over the next week.<\/p>\n

The Zoo\u2019s \u201cDog Days\u201d event will be held on 7, 9, 12 and 14 from noon-4 p.m. each day.<\/p>\n

All guests visiting the zoo with a furry friend must complete an\u00a0online waiver\u00a0and submit required documents before visiting the zoo. You must upload a copy of your most recent veterinary visit, including proof of vaccine and heartworm test here. All items will be required for you to attend\u00a0\u201cDog Days.\u201d<\/p>\n

Pricing is $10.95 per dog with each additional dog at $9.95. Regular zoo admission is required for all humans.<\/p>\n

On October 8, Laurel Hill Cemetery (3822\u00a0Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, 215-228-8200,\u00a0www.thelaurelhillcemetery.org<\/a>) will present \u201cHot Spots and\u00a0Storied\u00a0Plots\u201d walking tour at 10 a.m.<\/p>\n

In life and in death, we all have stories to tell, and what better place to hear tales of wonder than Philadelphia\u2019s most famous home of the dead?<\/p>\n

This tour provides an informative overview of Laurel Hill\u2019s long history, which includes many of the marble masterpieces, stunning views, and legendary stories about Laurel Hill.<\/p>\n

\u201cHot Spots and\u00a0Storied\u00a0Plots\u201d is the perfect introduction for anyone who enjoys beautiful art, scenic nature, and fascinating history. An experienced graveyard guide will offer a unique perspective. No two \u201cHot Spots and\u00a0Storied\u00a0Plots\u201d are alike.<\/p>\n

The tour will take place on\u00a0August 26\u00a0at 10 a.m. —\u00a0departing from Laurel Hill Cemetery\u2019s Gatehouse entrance at\u00a03822\u00a0Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia.<\/p>\n

The Tour Guide will be\u00a0Guenevere Eckert.<\/p>\n

The Brandywine Valley has quite a few museums and tourist sites that provide residents and tourists ideal opportunities to spend leisure time — and you can maximize your effort if you take advantage of the 2022 Brandywine Treasure Trail Passport.<\/p>\n

The cost is $49 for an individual pass and $99 for a family pass (for up to five family members).<\/p>\n

The Brandywine Treasure Trail Passport is good for one-time admission to Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley\u2019s top attractions now through October 31.<\/p>\n

A family pass, which includes one-day admission to each of 12 sites, can bring a savings of more than $200 for the holders — especially since many of the participating institutions have regular admission fees in double figures.<\/p>\n

The list of locations covered by the Brandywine Treasure Trail Passport includes Longwood Gardens, Delaware Museum of Nature and Science, Brandywine River Museum, Delaware Art Museum, Delaware History Museum, Hagley Museum and Library, Delaware Center for Contemporary Arts, Nemours Mansion & Gardens, Read House and Garden, Mt. Cuba Center, Rockwood Museum and Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library.<\/p>\n

For more information, call (800) 489-6664 or visit www.visitwilmingtonde.com\/bmga\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, 610-388-1000, www.longwoodgardens.org<\/a>) is a great place to visit any time in the year and always has special attractions to add to the experience.<\/p>\n

Longwood\u2019s Chrysanthemum Festival begins on October 1 and runs through November 13. I<\/em>nnovative plant-growing techniques and displays take center stage by way of thousands of trained chrysanthemums throughout our Conservatory.<\/p>\n

Big, bold colors and thousands of carefully nurtured and trained chrysanthemums abound during this imaginative display serving as the largest and oldest of its kind in North America.<\/p>\n

Throughout our Conservatory, specialty chrysanthemum forms from fanciful clouds to sculptural spirals not only showcase our horticultural savvy but help preserve an ancient Asian artform that we are beyond proud to perpetuate.<\/p>\n

This season is even more special because of light. More specifically because of \u201cLight: Installations by Bruce Munro,\u201d which is artist Bruce Munro\u2019s illuminating new installation at Longwood Gardens.<\/p>\n

The exhibit had its debut two weeks ago and will be on view Thursday through Sunday evenings until\u00a0October 30.<\/p>\n

\u201cLight\u201d is an extravagant exhibit that includes eight installations comprising\u00a0more than 18,000 glowing lightbulbs across Longwood\u2019s outdoor areas and indoor conservatory.<\/p>\n

From the luminous\u00a0\u201cField of Light\u201d<\/em>\u00a0stretching across the Large and Small Lake landscape … to a flamboyance of 1,000 flamingoes wading near the Chimes Tower … to an immersive sensory environment inspired by the Waterlily Display in the Exhibition Hall, the exhibit showcases eight installations spanning Longwood Gardens\u2019 indoor spaces and outdoor vistas.<\/p>\n

Daily performances in the Main Fountain Garden will feature more than 1,700 spinning jets that spin dance to various music programs. These are no little jets as some shoot up as high as 175 feet in the air.<\/p>\n

The 30-minute show is slated for Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 9:15 p.m.<\/p>\n

The Main Fountain Garden Show fountain performance that begins with a touch of narrated history and concludes with dynamic choreography marrying music and the site\u2019s newest fountain features.<\/p>\n

These displays will be presented daily at 1:15 a.m., 1:15, 3:15 p.m. and 5:15. There will also be performances on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 6:15, 7:15 and 8:15 p.m.<\/p>\n

The \u201cIlluminated Fountain Performance\u201d will be staged Thursdays through Sundays at 9:15 p.m.<\/p>\n

Admission to Longwood Gardens is $35 for adults, $32 for seniors (ages 62 and older) and college students, $27 for active military and veterans and $19 for youth (ages 5-18).<\/p>\n

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library (5105 Kennett Pike, Route 52, Wilmington, Delaware, 800-448-3883,\u00a0http:\/\/www.winterthur.org<\/a>) is featuring a Guided Exhibition Tour \u2013 \u201cJacqueline Kennedy and Henry Francis du Pont: From Winterthur to the White\u00a0House\u201d \u2013 now through January 8,\u00a02023.<\/p>\n

Visitors can explore the friendship between the First Lady and H. F. du Pont and their work to restore the White House in this guided tour of the special exhibition.<\/p>\n

In 1961, an unusual partnership was formed when the youngest First Lady in American history, Jacqueline Kennedy, appointed a reserved octogenarian collector from Delaware, Henry Francis du Pont, to lead her project to restore the White House interiors. Du Pont brought credibility to Kennedy\u2019s efforts and vision, and her enormous popularity lifted him onto the national stage and validated his life\u2019s work.<\/p>\n

Together, they transformed the White House from a mere public residence into a museum, and along the way, they engaged with some of the most celebrated interior designers of the 20th century.<\/p>\n

For the first time, the story of this historic partnership will be told at Winterthur, the inspiration for Mrs. Kennedy\u2019s project. Through artifacts, archives, and images, this exhibition will invite visitors to experience the behind-the-scenes collaboration between the two during this captivating period in American history.<\/p>\n

Their partnership culminated in a televised tour of the White House, led by Jacqueline Kennedy, which became the most watched program in American history. The former First Lady will forever be remembered as the person who restored history and beauty to the White House.<\/p>\n

Their \u201crestoration\u201d of America\u2019s most famous house became a history lesson for the country and awakened an interest in preservation and interior design that is still felt today.<\/p>\n

Admission to Winterthur is $22 for adults, $20 for seniors and students and $8 for children.<\/p>\n

Nemours Estate (850 Alapocas Drive, Wilmington, Delaware, www.nemoursestate.org<\/a>) is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Reservations are not required and there is no timed entry.<\/p>\n

Nemours Estate comprises an exquisite, 77-room Mansion, the largest formal French gardens in North America, a Chauffeur’s Garage housing a collection of vintage automobiles, and 200 acres of scenic woodlands, meadows and lawns.<\/p>\n

Nemours was the estate of Alfred I. duPont.<\/p>\n

Alfred named the estate Nemours, after the French town that his great-great-grandfather represented in the French Estates General. While looking to the past and his ancestors for inspiration, Alfred also ensured that his new home was thoroughly modern by incorporating the latest technology and many of his own inventions.<\/p>\n

The Gardens is one of the estate\u2019s prime attractions.<\/p>\n

The two elk at the top of the Vista are the work of French sculptor Prosper Lecourtier (1855\u20131924), a specialist in animal figures. Lined with Japanese\u00a0cryptomeria, pink flowering horse chestnuts and pin oaks, the Long Walk extends from the Mansion to the Reflecting Pool.<\/p>\n

The 157 jets at the center of the one-acre pool shoot water 12 feet into the air; when they are turned off, the entire \u2018Long Walk\u201d is reflected in the pool. The pool, five and a half feet deep in its deepest section, holds 800,000 gallons of water and takes three days to fill. The Art Nouveau-style, classical mythology-based \u201cFour Seasons\u201d around the pool are by French-born American sculptor Henri Crenier (1873\u20131948).<\/p>\n

Admission to Nemours is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and $10 for children.<\/p>\n

Hagley Museum and Library (Buck Road East entrance via Route 100, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-658-2400, www.hagley.org<\/a>) is hosting another of its popular monthly events this weekend.<\/p>\n

On October 8, \u201cScience Saturday \u2013 Colorful Chromatography,\u201d which will run from noon-4 p.m. in the Visitor Center.<\/p>\n

Participants can learn about pigments and diffusion and experiment with different tree leaves to discover their hidden colors using chromatography.<\/p>\n

Visitors of all ages are invited to discover solutions to science and engineering challenges. This is a drop-in activity and people can join the fun at any time from 1-4 p.m.<\/p>\n

Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors (age 62 and up), and $4 for children (ages 6-14).<\/p>\n

The Historic Odessa Foundation (Main Street, Odessa, Delaware, 302-378-4119, http:\/\/www.historicodessa.org<\/a>) will present an event this weekend that is sure to treat your tastebuds.<\/p>\n

On October 9, the historic site will host \u201cSaturdays at the Hearth: Fall\u2019s Bounty.\u201d<\/p>\n

Families are invited to explore the role of children in the colonial kitchen and garden.<\/p>\n

Visitors can explore the Collins-Sharp House as Odessa\u2019s costumed interpreters capture the flavors of authentic 18th century cooking.<\/p>\n

Guests will have the opportunity to savor the sights and aromas of spring dishes cooked over an open fire using the tools, recipes and techniques common in colonial Odessa.<\/p>\n

The event will run from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.<\/p>\n

On weekends now through October 22, the Kalmar Nyckel will be offering public sails from the Kalmar Nyckel Shipyard (Copeland Maritime Center, 1124 E. 7th St. Wilmington, Delaware, http:\/\/kalmarnyckel.org<\/a>).<\/p>\n

For two decades, the Kalmar Nyckel, which has its home base in Wilmington, has been hosting riders all over the world \u2013 especially in Delaware.<\/p>\n

A ride on the Kalmar Nyckel is a totally different from most tourist water rides.<\/p>\n

The ship is a beautiful recreation of the original Kalmar Nyckel, which was built in Holland in the 1620s. Her mainmast is taller than a 10-story building and she carries 7,600 square feet of sail area and six miles of rigging.<\/p>\n

The original Kalmar Nyckel was a Swedish-owned, three-masted armed pinnace that sailed from Goteborg, Sweden in November of 1637 and brought the first permanent European settlers to the Delaware Valley.<\/p>\n

Carrying 24 settlers from four countries (Sweden, Finland, Holland, and Germany), she landed on the banks of the Christina River. The site, which became known as \u201cThe Rocks\u201d, can be visited at Fort Christina Park off Wilmington’s East Seventh Street.<\/p>\n

The Kalmar Nyckel made four documented round-trip crossings of the Atlantic, more than any other \u201csettlers’ ship\u201d of the era. The original ship was lost in the late 1600s.<\/p>\n

In 1986 a group of citizens established the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation to design, build and launch a replica of the Kalmar Nyckel at a shipyard adjacent to the original landing site.<\/p>\n

The new Kalmar Nyckel was constructed there and was launched on September 28, 1997. She was commissioned on May 9, 1998, and now serves as Delaware’s sea-going Ambassador of Good Will. She is a fully functional sail training vessel and has represented Delaware all over the country.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $40 for adults and $25 for youth (ages 17 and under).<\/p>\n

For the next few months, the\u00a0American Swedish Historical Museum\u00a0(1900 Pattison Avenue,\u00a0Philadelphia, 215-389-1776, www.americanswedish.org<\/a>) is presenting an exhibit \u201cArt for All: The Swedish Experience in Mid-America,\u201d which just opened and will run through February 19, 2023.<\/p>\n

\u201cArt for All: The Swedish Experience in Mid-America\u201d is\u00a0an exhibition of paintings and sculptures by Swedish-American artists\u00a0in the late-19th and early-20th centuries.<\/p>\n

This colorful and emotive impressionist art reflects its own time, interprets nature and landscape, and is independent of artificial conventions while keeping Swedish folk traditions alive.<\/p>\n

The American Swedish Historical Museum is proud to present\u00a0Art for All: The Swedish Experience in Mid-America,\u00a0an exhibition of paintings and sculptures by Swedish American artists\u00a0in the late-19th and early-20th centuries. This colorful and emotive impressionist art reflects its own time, interprets nature and landscape, and is independent of artificial conventions while keeping Swedish folk traditions alive.<\/p>\n

This exhibition features many Swedish artists who studied and absorbed the democratic philosophies of \u201cart for all,\u201d espoused by Anders Zorn and the Artist\u2019s League. These young artists immigrated to America to forge new career paths.\u00a0\u201cArt for all\u201d became a catchphrase in Kansas by the 1930s, stemming from efforts of local artists to offer affordable paintings and prints so that every citizen could have original art in their own homes for a richly cultured way of life.<\/p>\n

\u201cArt for All: The Swedish Experience in Mid-America\u201d\u00a0was conceived and developed by the Birger Sandz\u00e9n Memorial Gallery and the Hillstrom Museum of Art.<\/p>\n

Wonderspaces\u00a0at the Fashion District (27 North 11th Street, Philadelphia,\u00a0philadelphia.wonderspaces.com<\/a>) is an experiential, interactive arts venue.<\/p>\n

Building on the success of annual pop-up shows in San Diego, and its first permanent location in Scottsdale, Arizona,\u00a0Wonderspaces\u00a0opened a 24,000 square foot gallery space in Philly a year ago.<\/p>\n

Wonderspaces\u00a0features 14 art installations that all play with the idea of perspective.\u00a0 The artwork ranges from award-winning virtual reality short film about a dinner party-turned-alien abduction, to a room where visitors digitally paint the walls with the movement of their bodies.<\/p>\n

New artworks rotate in every few months, creating an ever-evolving, year-round show.<\/p>\n

Tickets are for entry at a specific date and time. Visitors are welcome to stay as long as they please during operating hours.\u00a0The average time spent experiencing the show is 90 minutes.<\/p>\n

A few installations contain flashing lights, images, and patterns that may trigger seizures for people with photosensitive epilepsy. All visitors must sign a waiver prior to being admitted into the space. Adult supervision is required for visitors under 16.<\/p>\n

The Hay Creek Apple Festival (Historic Joanna Furnace, Route 10, Morgantown, 610-286-0388, www.haycreek.org<\/a>), which also has been around for more than 30 years, is scheduled for October 8 and 9.<\/p>\n

The festival is a celebration of autumn and especially autumn\u2019s favorite fruit — the apple — with a long list of special activities and an amazing variety of taste treats featuring apples.<\/p>\n

There will be more than 2,000 apple dumplings and over 800 apple pies ready for consumption this weekend at the festival. Also offered will be a variety of other treats such as fresh-pressed apple cider, apple waffles, apple crisp, Schnitz Un Knepp, apple fritters and the famous Hay Creek Apple Butter.<\/p>\n

The festival will have a variety of family fun events starting with the belly-filling \u201cAll-You-Can Eat Apple Pancake Breakfast\u201d from 7-11 a.m. Other family activities will be hayrides, scarecrow building, mini-tractor rides, pumpkin painting, Early American games, pony rides, an \u201cApple Dessert Contest\u201d, basket weaving, Early American craft demonstrations and rides on the \u201cApple Barrel Express.\u201d<\/p>\n

The festival, which runs from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sunday, will also feature a flea market with over 100 stands. Visitors can shop for crafts, flowers, fall items, antiques and other items related to Berks County history.<\/p>\n

Historic Rock Ford (Rockford Road, Lancaster, www.discoverlancaster.com<\/a>) is presenting a new exhibit \u201cLong Rifles of the American Revolution: How Lancaster Craftsmen Helped Win the War.\u201d The exhibit will remain open until October 30.<\/p>\n

Historic Rock Ford is collaborating with guest curator John Kolar on the exhibit which will showcase approximately 30 rifles.<\/p>\n

The rifles featured in the exhibit are being loaned by museums and private collectors from across the nation and will be used to describe the pivotal role played by the long rifle in winning American independence.<\/p>\n

Visitors will be able to examine different rifles while also engaging in the story of the war by highlighting their use in several key battles including the siege of Boston, the battle of New York, Trenton, Saratoga, Kings Mountain and the Miller Block House as well as on the Frontier.<\/p>\n

Admission to Rock Ford is $12 for adults, $11 for seniors and youth (ages 6-17).<\/p>\n

Hope Lodge (553 South Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington, 215-343-0965,\u00a0http:\/\/www.ushistory.org\/hope\/<\/a>) will be presenting a \u201cGuided Mansion Tours\u201d on October 2.<\/p>\n

Hope Lodge was built between 1743 and 1748 by Samuel Morris, a prosperous Quaker entrepreneur. Morris acted as a farmer, shipowner, miller, iron master, shop owner, and owner of the mill now known as\u00a0Mather\u00a0Mill. Hope Lodge is an excellent example of early Georgian architecture, and it is possible that Edmund Woolley, architect of Independence Hall, offered advice in building. Samuel Morris owned the estate until his death in 1770.<\/p>\n

The site opens at 12:30 p.m. with self-guided tours starting at 1 and 2:30 p.m. The\u00a0closes at 4 p.m.<\/p>\n

Tour admission is\u00a0$8 for adults, $5 for seniors (age 65+) and for youth ages 6-17, and fee for children under 5.<\/p>\n

Schuylkill Banks Riverboat Tour (www.schuylkillbanks.org\/events\/riverboat-tours-1<\/a>) presents \u201cSecrets of the Schuylkill<\/strong><\/a>\u201d now through late October.<\/p>\n

The boat ride is a one-hour family-friendly tour of Philly\u2019s second biggest river featuring sights such as Bartram\u2019s Garden and Fairmount Water Works.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Riders can discover the Hidden River on a fun and educational riverboat tour while seeing spectacular views of Philadelphia.<\/p>\n

They can also learn about the past, present, and future of the tidal Schuylkill River and its impact on Philadelphia on a one-hour\u00a0Secrets of the Schuylkill\u00a0tour which costs $25 for adults and $15 for children (age 12 and under). \u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Tours depart from the Walnut Street Dock, under the Walnut Street Bridge, east bank of the Schuylkill River.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Treetop Quest Philly (51 Chamounix Drive, Philadelphia, www.treetopquest.com<\/a>) is an aerial adventure park that will challenge you physically and mentally as you maneuver from tree to tree through obstacles and zip-lines. Once you\u2019re equipped, they will teach you how to operate your equipment and you\u2019ll be able to swing through each course as many times as you want for 2.5 hours.<\/p>\n

Each participant is outfitted with a harness and gloves. Each course has a continuous belay system — a lifeline that is impossible to detach without a staff member. The activity is self-guided, and the staff is ready to assist when needed.<\/p>\n

Gloves are required for our activity.\u00a0During this time, we encourage participants to\u00a0bring their own gloves\u00a0to use while up in the trees, gardening gloves are perfect for this activity.<\/p>\n

Ticket prices are $55, adults; $48, ages 12-17; $38, ages 7-11.<\/p>\n

\u201cTreeTrails Adventures Trevose\u201d (301 West Bristol Pike, Trevose, treetrails.com\/trevose-pa<\/a>) is an adventure park\u00a0full of fun challenges for outdoor adventurers of all ages.<\/p>\n

Participants can experience the rush of TreeTrails Adventures<\/strong>\u00a0as they swing through the trees of the new adventure park.<\/strong>\u00a0They will be able to discover the\u00a0excitement of climbing and zip lining above the forest floor<\/strong>\u00a0with family, friends, co-workers, or teammates.<\/p>\n

The park, which is based at Phoenix Sport Club in Bucks County, offers two ways to experience climbing \u2013 TreeTrails Adventure Park and KidTrails Park. Young explorers can enjoy miniaturized courses in the adjacent KidTrails Park.<\/p>\n

General Park Admission prices are: Main Park Adult Tickets (Ages 12+), $59; Main Park Youth Tickets (Ages 7\u201311), $51; KidTrails Tickets (Ages 4\u20137), $12.<\/p>\n

One of the best ways for everyone involved to appreciate the beauty of autumn\u2019s annual color explosion is to ride a special excursion on an area tourist railroad.<\/p>\n

The West Chester Railroad (Market Street Station, West Chester, 610-430-2233, www.westchesterrr.net<\/a>) is running its special \u201c<\/strong>Fall Foliage Express\u201d trains on <\/b>October 9, 16 and November 6. Trains depart at noon and 2 p.m.<\/em>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for children ages 2-12 and free for kids under two.<\/p>\n

The Wilmington & Western Railroad <\/em>(2201 Newport Gap Pike, Wilmington, DE, 302-998-1930, www.wwrr.com<\/a>) is running its \u201cAutumn Leaf Special\u201d with trains on October 8 and 9 and every Saturday and Sunday through November 5.<\/p>\n

Trips are either a one-and-one-half hour roundtrips to the Mt. Cuba Picnic Grove or two-and-one-half hour roundtrips to Hockessin.<\/p>\n

Tickets for the \u201cAutumn Leaf Special\u201d start at $18.<\/p>\n

The W&WRR also is running its \u201cHayride Express\u201d on October 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 7 and 8:30 p.m. each night. Visitors can experience a one-hour evening ride through the Red Clay Valley on an original railroad flatcar converted especially for hayrides.<\/p>\n

Tickets for the \u201cHayride Express\u201d are $16 for adults, $15 for seniors (60 and older) and $13 for children (ages 2-12).<\/p>\n

The Reading Blue Mountain and Northern Railroad (Reading Outer Station, Reading, www.rbmnrr-passenger.com<\/a>) is running its <\/em>2022 Autumn Leaf Train Excursions on October 8, 9, 29 and 30.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Pa<\/strong>ssengers can enjoy a train ride to experience the fantastic fall colors that Pennsylvania has to offer.<\/p>\n

They will travel over the rails to Historic Jim Thorpe for the town\u2019s annual fall festival after boarding the train at Reading Outer Station or Port Clinton Station.<\/p>\n

Passengers will have time to explore historic Downtown Jim Thorpe during the layover.<\/p>\n

Tickets for the all-day excursion are $49.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

The New Hope Railroad (32 Bridge Street, New Hope, www.newhoperailroad.com<\/a>) is running its \u201cGrapevine Express,\u201d which features \u201cWine & Cheese Tasting\u201d on October 7 and 8 at 4 p.m. each night.<\/p>\n

Riders are invited to take part in a romantic \u201cWine and Cheese Excursion\u201d and enjoy fine gourmet cheese, artisan crackers, meats, fruit, and our featured local wines. Additional Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic beverages are also available onboard.<\/p>\n

Wine and cheese will be served to passengers as they travel along the same railroad line passengers did when it was built in 1891 connecting New Hope with Philadelphia. The journey travels through the beautiful hills and valleys of Bucks County, along once vital waterways and streams and across numerous trestle bridges.<\/p>\n

The excursions will take place aboard one of the railroads lavishly appointed early 1900\u2019s first-class parlor cars.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $102.58 (ages 21 and older only).<\/p>\n

The Strasburg Railroad (Route 741, Strasburg, www.strasburgrailroad.com<\/a>) is running its \u201cWine & Cheese Train\u201d on October 7 and 8 at 6 p.m.<\/p>\n

Passengers can enjoy the luxurious, climate-controlled first-class accommodations and a tasting of select wine, cheese, and crackers as they travel in style down the tracks from Strasburg to Paradise and back. The train departs at 7 p.m. and the total trip time is 45 minutes.<\/p>\n

\u201cWine & Cheese Train\u201d boarding is 30 minutes before the scheduled departure. Riders must be 21 or older and have their photo ID ready when they board.<\/p>\n

Featured wines are carefully selected from Waltz Vineyards, and cheeses are paired accordingly. Beer and select non-alcoholic beverages are also available for purchase upon request. Riders can purchase a souvenir wine glass on board the train if desired. Glasses are $7 each.<\/p>\n

In accordance with Pennsylvania law, alcohol is only served during the train ride. The rail line is not permitted to serve alcoholic beverages while the train is berthed in the station.<\/p>\n

This popular train is available on select Friday and Saturday evenings throughout the season. Tickets are $65.<\/p>\n

The weekly calendars are beginning to fill up with Halloween events — \u201cspooky\u201d and \u201cnot so spooky.\u201d<\/p>\n

Chaddsford Winery (Route 1, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221, www.chaddsford.com<\/a>) is presenting its \u201cAdult Trick or Treat\u201d event every Saturday and Sunday through October 30. Tour Times Available at noon, 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m.<\/p>\n

Visitors will be able to \u201cTrick or Treat\u201d for wine and seasonal snacks at Chaddsford’s wildly popular, adults-only Halloween program as they v<\/strong>isit a variety of Halloween-themed pairing stations located throughout the Winery grounds.<\/p>\n

The \u201cPairing Menu\u201d features Corpse Bride:\u00a0’21 Sparkling White with Wedding White Cake Pop; Dragons Trove: ’21 Dry Ros\u00e9: Redux with Aleppo Chili Truffle from\u00a0\u00c9clat Chocolate; Ghost Boos: ’19 The Red Standard with Bacon Cheddar and Caramel Popcorn from\u00a0Kernel Clark; Witches Den:\u00a0Warm Spiced Apple with\u00a0Spiced Cake Cookie from\u00a0OsoSweet Bakery; and Vampire Lair:\u00a0Immortal Drink Slushie\u00a0with vampire fangs.<\/p>\n

Advanced tickets include the food and beverage pairings, as well as a\u00a0Halloween-themed keepsake wine glass.<\/p>\n

Each September, \u201cPumpkinland\u201d returns to Linvilla Orchards (137 West Knowlton Road, Media, 610-876-7116,\u00a0www.linvilla.com<\/a>). \u201cPumpkinland,\u201d which runs through November 6, features fairy tale characters from nursery rhymes along with a huge scarecrow and a really tall storybook.<\/p>\n

There will be a special event this weekend.<\/p>\n

Linvilla Orchards\u2019 Apple Festival honors apples every autumn. One of the festival\u2019s highlights is the annual apple pie eating contest.<\/p>\n

Other activities include train rides, a straw bale maze, hayrides, pick-your-own apples and pony rides.<\/p>\n

There will also be \u201cHarvest Hayrides\u201d and \u201cAutumn Moon Hayrides\u201d starting later in September along with \u201cStraw Bale Maze,\u201d \u201cTrain Rides,\u201d \u201cCorn Maze\u201d and \u201cPony Rides.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPumpkinland\u201d is open from mid-September through early November and takes center stage at Linvilla Orchards. Larger than life figures and scarecrows illustrate the legends and lore of the harvest season, featuring local history and some of the many stories of pumpkins and apples.<\/p>\n

Visitors will see Linvilla\u2019s piles of pumpkins in all colors, shapes and sizes \u2013 more than 100 tons on display.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s time to welcome autumn and one of the best ways to do this is by checking out the corn mazes at Ramsey\u2019s Farm (Ramsey Road, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-477-1499,www.ramseysfarm.com<\/a>). The farm\u2019s event season lists September 25 as 2022\u2019s \u201cOpening Day.\u201d<\/p>\n

Corn mazes, along with hayrides, a pumpkin patch and scarecrows, will be featured at Ramsey\u2019s Farm, which is located in northern Delaware on Route 92 just south of the Pennsylvania-Delaware state line. The new season runs on weekends now through October.<\/p>\n

Ramsey\u2019s \u201cPumpkin Patch\u201d has been in operation since 1995 and the farm\u2019s varied mazes have been delighting and baffling visitors who return each year for the popular annual event. The owners of Ramsey\u2019s Farm raise pumpkins, gourds, ornamental corn, popcorn, feed corn and hay.<\/p>\n

The farm\u2019s pumpkin field stretches over 12 acres and yields approximately 20,000 pumpkins each season. Hayrides around the farm will be offered from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. each day. Visitors will be able to shop for pumpkins and other items at the farm store. There will also be hot food and beverages available for purchase.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $8 for the corn maze, $5 for the sorghum maze, $3 for the hay maze, $3 for pumpkin painting and $3 for a hayride.<\/p>\n

This is the time of the year when farms in the area become a bustle activity \u2014 a time for harvest. But it is not harvest matters that are causing a bustle of activity at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm in Ronks (150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks, 717-687-6843, www.cherrycrestfarm.com<\/a>).<\/p>\n

The farm\u2019s popular annual \u201cFlashlight Maze\u201d is now underway and will continue every Friday and Saturday night through November 4. Cherry Crest Adventure Farm has reserved several weekends during the autumn months for Flashlight Maze.<\/p>\n

This special activity allows visitors to experience the Amazing Maize Maze in total darkness. All you need are flashlights and a few friends.<\/p>\n

The Flashlight Maze is a nice, non-scary, Halloween alternative that has appeal for people of all ages. The Flashlight Maze, which has a $12 admission fee, is open from 6:30-10 p.m. with the last entrance into the Maze at 9 p.m.<\/p>\n

The main attraction is Cherry Crest\u2019s \u201cAmazing Maize Maze,\u201d which is billed as \u201cthe world\u2019s most dynamic and interactive corn maze.\u201d It is a five-acre corn maze with over two-and-one-half miles of paths, scenic bridges, and clues.<\/p>\n

Participants can walk at their own pace as they encounter the \u201cKernels of Knowledge\u201d along with a variety of clues, tunnel slides, and watering stations. They can also check out a bird\u2019s eye view from the two bridges and watch everyone\u2019s flags waving high above the corn.<\/p>\n

The average time to complete the \u201cAmazing Maize Maze\u201d course is one hour. Ticket prices start at $19.<\/p>\n

Elmwood\u00a0Park Zoo\u201d (1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown, www.elmwoodparkzoo.org<\/em><\/strong><\/a>) is presenting \u201cBoo at the Zoo on October 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 and 30.<\/p>\n

Parents are invited to bring their little ghouls and ghosts to the site\u2019s annual Halloween haunt, where the entire zoo is transformed for a kooky, spooky Halloween celebration.<\/p>\n

Visitors are encouraged to come dressed in their most creative costumes and march in our costume parade (2:30 p.m. at the Bison stage). Adults are encouraged to dress up, too.<\/p>\n

And everyone should bring a trick-or-treat bag, as treat and activity stations will be located throughout the zoo.<\/p>\n

On Saturdays and Sundays now through October 31, Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania (100 E. Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, www.morrisarboretum.org<\/a>) is hosting its annual Scarecrow Walk.<\/p>\n

Visitors will be able to make their own scarecrows, paint a pumpkin and sample different varieties of apples. Weaver\u2019s Way Coop will be on hand with the season\u2019s best local apple varieties.<\/p>\n

Morris Arboretum\u2019s Scarecrow Walk is back for its 15th year, and in recognition of those who show courage and care when faced with fright, this year\u2019s theme is \u201cSpooky Scarecrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

Visitors will be able to wander through the Arboretum and see scarecrows in honor of a beloved superhero characters, essential workers, or best friend heroes.<\/p>\n

Throughout the month of October, more than 30 scarecrows will be on display throughout the Arboretum. Visitors will\u00a0vote\u00a0for their favorite scarecrow online to determine the winners.\u00a0The top three scarecrows win a cash prize with a top prize of $250.<\/p>\n

Admission to Morris Arboretum is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and $10 for youth (ages 3-17).<\/p>\n

For \u201cCount\u2019s Halloween\u00a0Spooktacular\u00a0at Sesame Place\u201d (100 Sesame Place, Langhorne, 215-752-7070,\u00a0www.sesameplace.com<\/a>), which runs now through November 6, the popular amusement park has been converted into a Halloween-themed safe venue for kids with trick or treating, pumpkin decorating, hayrides and a hay maze.<\/p>\n

Guests will enjoy trick-or-treating around the park,\u00a0Halloween-themed shows, participating in our interactive Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt, and unique photo opportunities with everyone\u2019s favorite furry friends dressed up in costume on their Halloween-themed floats!<\/p>\n

Featured attractions, which will continue for the next six weeks, are \u201cNeighborhood Street Party Halloween Parade,\u201d \u201cHalloween Light Show,\u201d and \u201cThe Not-Too-Spooky Howl-O-ween Radio Show.\u201d<\/p>\n

Admission to the park starts at $42.99.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s time once again for the Annual Scarecrow Festival at Peddler\u2019s Village (Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, 215-794-4000,\u00a0www.peddlersvillage.com<\/a>). The festival, which is celebrating its 43rd anniversary this year, will run now through October 31.<\/p>\n

It is the perfect time to visit and take in the bright, brilliant hues of fall and admire the more than 100 spectacular scarecrows on display. These larger-than-life, colorful, creative scarecrows will line the red brick paths throughout the village\u2019s 42 picturesque acres.<\/p>\n

Visitors can vote for their favorites in seven categories: Traditional 1960s Style, Quite the Character, Once Upon a Time, Fright Night, Funny Bones and Kids Only! Ballots can be cast through the Peddler\u2019s Village Mobile app.<\/p>\n

The annual \u201cHaunted Hayride, Bates Motel and Haunted Corn Maze at Arasapha Farm\u201d (1835 N. Middletown Rd., Gradyville, 610-459-0647, www.thebatesmotel.com<\/a>) will be scaring visitors through October 31.<\/p>\n

The haunted hayride through the woods features monsters, special effects and actors. The Bates Motel has haunted rooms with special effects and computerized lighting.<\/p>\n

Another attraction is the \u201cRevenge of the Scarecrow Haunted Trail.\u201d A haunted trail is cut through a cornfield inhabited by monsters.<\/p>\n

A new attraction this year is \u201cDouble Edge Axe Throwing.\u201d<\/p>\n

Admission prices are $40 on weeknights, $45 on Friday nights and $50 on Saturday nights.<\/p>\n

Pennhurst Asylum (100 Commonwealth Drive, Spring City, 484-866-8964, www.pennhurstasylum.com<\/a>), which is open through November 5, is on the site of a former mental asylum which has been shuttered for over a quarter of a century.<\/p>\n

It has been transformed into a haunted attraction with huge sets, detailed rooms and live actors. Visitors can also explore the labyrinth of underground tunnels.<\/p>\n

Tickets are $50 for a combo pass valid for all three Haunted Attractions at Pennhurst: Pennhurst Asylum, The Morgue & The Tunnels.<\/p>\n

\u201cHalloween Haunt at Dorney Park\u201d (3830 Dorney Park Road, Allentown, 610-395-3724, www.dorneypark.com<\/a>) is running now through October 29.<\/p>\n

The event features scary creatures roaming the park and scarecrows lining line the walkways while frightening activities take place at the following attractions — \u201cFrightFeast,\u201d \u201cPort of Call,\u201d \u201cNecropolis,\u201d \u201cBlood on the Bayou,\u201d \u201cBlack Out\u201d and \u201cCarnEvil\u201d along with a variety of mazes and \u201cCreepy Scare Zones.\u201d Admission prices start at $34.99.<\/p>\n

The \u201c30th Annual Fright By Night\u201d (Six Flags Great Adventure, Route 537, Jackson, NJ, 732-928-2000, www.sixflags.com<\/a>), which is running now through October 31, features family-oriented activities during the day and much scarier attractions after dark for teens and adults.<\/p>\n

The attractions include \u201cBig Top Terror,\u201d \u201cBlood Shed,\u201d \u201cAftermath,\u201d \u201cHell Fest,\u201d \u201cThe Manor,\u201d \u201cFears,\u201d and \u201cReflections of the Dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tickets start at $49.99.<\/p>\n

Grim\u00a0Philly\u2019s \u201cDark Philly History Tour\u201d (www.grimphilly.com<\/a>) will be held every evening throughout the summer.<\/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

Tickets are $35.<\/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 $20.<\/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 $20.<\/p>\n

\u201cCandlelight Ghost Tours\u201d (Fort Mifflin, Fort Mifflin and Hog Island roads, Philadelphia, 215-685-4167, http:\/\/fortmifflin.us<\/a>) are scheduled for October 8, 14, 15, 21, 28, 29 and 30.<\/p>\n

Visitors can tour historic (and haunted) Fort Mifflin by candlelight from 7-10 p.m. each night and hear true stories of ghostly encounters. This event is billed as an \u201cauthentic experience.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children (12 and under).<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times Now that crisp autumn weather has arrived, it\u2019s a great time to enjoy outdoor events such fall festivals, historical celebrations, hayrides, wine festivals, mazes and scenic train rides. On October 9, West Chester will be the site of a special event to determine who can make \u201cThe Best […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":40014,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[25],"tags":[4739,13868,6518,13867,5328],"class_list":["post-40012","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","tag-brandywine-zoo","tag-chilling-west-chester","tag-featured","tag-friends-fall-festival","tag-west-chester-chili-cookoff"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40012","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=40012"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40012\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":40013,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/40012\/revisions\/40013"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/40014"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=40012"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=40012"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/kennetttimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=40012"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}