Editor’s note: This article was initially published in The Daily Gazette, Swarthmore’s online, daily newspaper founded in Fall 1996. As of Fall 2018, the DG has merged with The Phoenix. See the about page to read more about the DG.
The start of spring in Philadelphia means many things: free Rita’s, flowers and the flower show, and (gradually) better weather. Enjoy your first weekend of spring whether you stay on or go off campus by checking out some of arts venues and events.
Friday night has several options for those staying on campus. Starting at 5, the Kitao will be hosting the “Recycled Runway Show,” in which teams can put together creative new fashion statements using recycled materials. Later on Friday evening, stop by the Boy Meets Tractor and Vertigo-go “Comedy Blast Off.” The event is a unique opportunity to see Swat’s two comedy groups together, hosting Haverford’s “Lighted Fools.”
In the city, the Bach Festival of Philadelphia is coming to a close this weekend. The Kimmel Center will be hosting Vox Ama Deus on Friday night at 8. All of Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos will be played on Saturday evening at Haverford. If you can get a car, you can catch the final ceremonies of the week, the Copeland String Quartet at Longwood Gardens on Sunday afternoon.
Dance enthusiasts can see the St. Petersburg Ballet this weekend at the Grand Opera House in Philadelphia. One of the most famous ballet groups in Europe, the company will be performing two classics: “Carmen” on Friday night and “Romeo and Juliet” on Saturday.
While you’re in the city, you can also get in the mood for springtime by stopping at the Academy of the Natural Sciences for their ‘Butterfly Weekend.’ It’s also the perfect time to stop at the Reading Terminal Market for Easter desserts from Termini Bakery and Irish Potato candies, a St. Patrick’s Day favorite. If it’s sunny, stroll along Kelly Drive in front of the Art Museum and check out some of the statuary, boathouses, and Fairmount Park monuments.
