10 DIY Centerpiece Ideas for Diner En Blanc Philadelphia

This year is the 6th edition of Diner En Blanc Philadelphia and each year the people, food, and tables are getting more and more elaborate. You don’t have to be a craft-master to make your table stand out! Here are ten, affordable and simple Pinterest inspired DIY centerpiece options that are sure to catch eyes.

Diner En Blanc is an exclusive world-wide premiere pop-up party and feast. Diner En Blanc now takes place in over 70 cities across the world. The all-white affair is returning to Philadelphia on August 17th to an undisclosed location. Guests will find out the location of the event only moments before the event begins! Past locations have included The Art Museum, Logan Circle, JFK Bridge, Avenue of the Arts and The Navy Yard.

Guests will bring their own gourmet feast, table, chairs and table setting. Over the course of the evening, they will eat and enjoy amid music, entertainment and dancing.

In order to maintain the uniqueness of the event, as well as staying true to the long-standing traditions, guests must observe the following:

• Guests must dress from all in elegant and stylish white.
• Table settings must be white.
• Guests should meet at their assigned departure location and be escorted to the final destination by Dîner en Blanc volunteers.
• Guests should be prepared to attend the event rain or shine.
• All guests must leave the event location and neighborhood as clean as when they arrived. Guests are required to leave with their belongings, including leftovers and litter.

Guests must bring:

• A table, two white chairs, a white tablecloth, stemware and dinnerware.
• A picnic basket with fine food and drink. Food should be brought in reusable and/or recycled containers.
• Champagne or wine (optional).

With all of these rules it might sound like there is little room for creativity, but that is hardly the case. Spruce up your table with some of these easy-to-make centerpieces.

Mason Jar Luminaries/Vase in Four Easy Steps

Image url: https://domesticatedengineer.com/products/hanging-mason-jar-vases-set-of-8-wedding-aisle-decor-rustic-wedding-mason-jar?variant=16876725574

Photo Credit: @TheDomesticEngineer

Mason jars can be used in so many different ways to spice up a table! Here is how to easily transform your mason jar into a vase or a luminary.

You’ll need:

• Mason Jars
• Epsom Salt
• Votive Candles
• Twine
• Lace

Instructions:

1) Cover the rim of each jar with lace

2) Secure lace with Twine. You can wrap the entire rim with twine or just tie twine around the top.

3) Fill Mason jar about ⅓ of the way full with Epsom salt

4) Insert Votive candle or flowers.

Pretty Pineapple

Image url : http://www.stylemepretty.com/2016/05/21/registry-essentials-outdoor-entertaining/

Image Credit: StyleMePretty

Use everyday objects to make your table standout with the help of a little spray paint. Pineapples are gorgeous so why not add them!

You’ll Need:

• A Pineapple
• White Spray paint
• White Acrylic Paint

Instructions:

1. Being by spraying the top leaves of the pineapple then allow them to dry completely.
2. Once you’ve sprayed enough coats to get your desired color, wrap the leaves in a plastic bag and spray paint the base of the pineapple.
3. Allow the pineapple to dry, then add the finishing touches by using a paintbrush and acrylic paint to touch up the crevasses of the pineapple that were missed during the spray painting. Let it dry (out of the sun) and you’re all done!

White Lace Garland

Image url: https://www.etsy.com/listing/233651980/white-lace-garland-lace-bunting-silver?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_query=shabby+chic+party+decor&ga_search_type=all&ref=sr_gallery_13&ga_view_type=gallery

Image Credit: Amy Ryan

Stand out! This lace garland strand is so simple to make and can easily spruce up your table or chairs.

You’ll Need:

• Twine
• Various types of white lace
• White ribbons in various lengths and materials

Instructions:

1. To make the garland, cut yourself a piece of twine to the length you want your garland strand to be.
2. Then loop the ribbon and lace over the branch alternating widths, patterns, and textures until you have filled up the twine!

Light-up Sparkle Ball

Image url: http://www.diyncrafts.com/9988/decor/build-amazing-sparkle-balls-plastic-cups

Image Credit: Vanessa Beaty

This ball may be made of plastic cups, but it looks like a decoration straight out of a Gatsby party!

You’ll Need:

• 50 Plastic Cups
• 50 Bulb LED Battery Operated Light Strand
• Heavy Duty Stapler
• 3 Clothespins

Instructions:

1. Very simple video tutorial here! http://www.diyncrafts.com/9988/decor/build-amazing-sparkle-balls-plastic-cups

Tissue Paper Pom-Poms

Image url: https://www.walmart.com/ip/16-White-Tissue-Paper-Pom-Pom/35775060

Image Credit: Unique Industries

A tissue paper pom-pom ball will definitely turn heads at Diner En Blanc. If you are worried about transporting the pom-pom- complete the instructions up to step four at home, then fluff the pom-pom once you arrive!

You’ll Need:

• 10 Sheets of Tissue Paper (preferably 20×26 inches)
• Scissors
• 10 inch piece of floral wire
• Needle Nose Pliers

Instructions:

1. Set stack of tissue paper facing away from you lengthwise and fold stack of paper accordion style the whole length. (Each fold should be about 1 inch.)
2. Once accordion folding is complete, hold the stack of paper taught at the center. Using the floral wire, tie the stack together as tightly as you can.
3. Use needle nose pliers to finish the the tie, alleviating any sharp edges
4. Cut each end of the paper stack to desired shape.  Round, pointed etc.
5. Begin fluffing each layer of tissue by pulling layers up and toward the center, where the floral wire was tied.
6. Once half of the paper has been fluffed, flip the pom over so the fluffed side is gently resting on a flat surface.
7. Again, bring each layer of tissue up and toward the center.
8. Once all layers have been fluffed, you are ready to display your pom!

White Rose Box Centerpiece

Image url: https://www.pinterest.com/yourweddingco/boxed-wedding-centerpieces/

Image Credit: Style Me Pretty

This simple flower box is the perfect touch for anyone looking to add a little class to their table!

You’ll Need:

Flower Box (of desired size)

• Flower Foam (to fit along bottom of box)
• White Paint and paintbrush (if box is not white already)
• White Roses/Flower of Choice

Instructions:

1. First you will begin by painting the outside of flower box white.
2. Place flower foam on the bottom of the box.
3. Cut flower stems down so that they are just long enough to fill the foam but not go above the edge of the box.
4. Push stems into the foam in desired arrangement!

Rustic Candle Board

Image url: https://www.ideadesigncasa.org/bellissimi-centrotavola-natalizi-fai-da-te/?lang=en

Image Credit: Ideal Design Casa

This candle board is the perfect accessory your table. Pinecones can be purchased and used for those who wish to go for a more outdoorsy vibe, otherwise stones can be collected and used as well!

You’ll need:

• Shallow wood box from craft supplier
• White Spray paint
• Candles
• Hot Glue

Instructions:

1. First begin by spray painting wooden box, and pinecones/stones.
2. Allow to dry.
3. Then arrange candles and pinecones/rocks into desired layout.
4. Once you have found a layout that you are satisfied with, use the hot glue gun to secure the items onto the board. (You may choose to leave enough room for candles and not glue them on for easier transport.)

Floating Candle Centerpiece

Image url: http://gallery.weddingbee.com/photo/my-dollartree-centerpieses

Image Credit: HisNightOwl2014

Hard to believe that this beautiful floating candle centerpiece was made with items all purchased at the Dollar Store! This piece is inexpensive and so simple to make that you could even assemble it when you arrive!

You’ll Need:

• Fake white flowers (no stems)
• Glasses/vases of choice
• Floating tealight candles
• White/clear decorative glass pieces

Instructions:

1. First pour decorative glass pieces onto the bottom of the vase.
2. Place fake flower on the glass pieces.
3. Add water until vase is about halfway full.
4. Place floating candle on water and light!

Beach Vibes Lantern

Image url: http://betweennapsontheporch.net/beach-themed-table-setting-tablescape-with-lighthouse-lantern-and-shell-sailboat-dishware/

Image Credit: Susan @betweennapsontheporch

Decorate your table to match the season! Have any old lanterns lying around? Make some use of them by turning them into an awesome beach themed table piece! These lanterns can also be purchased at crafting stores.

You’ll Need:

• Lantern
• White Paint and paint brush
• Candle
• White sand
• Shells/decorative beach pieces

Instructions:

1. This project is very easy to put together! The first step is to paint the lantern, shells, and other decorative beach pieces white.
2. Once dry, pour the white sand evenly along the bottom of the lantern.
3. Put the candle in the middle of the lantern.
4. Add shells and decorative beach pieces around the candle.

Ostrich Feather Centerpiece

Image url: http://www.fromhousetohome.com/how-to-make-a-feather-centerpiece/3/

Image Credit: Wanda http://www.FromHouseToHome.com

Want all eyes on you? This show-stopping ostrich feather centerpiece will do just that!

You’ll Need:

• 20 12”-14” Ostrich feathers
• 16”-24” tall “Eiffel Tower” Vase
• Bouquet Holder

Instructions:

1. Put the stem on the bouquet holder into the top of the vase.
2. The holder is split into rows, separated by a plastic casing. Place one feather into every other section on the bottom row. The feathers should be facing in a downward position.
3. Move up to the 2nd to last row of the bouquet holder and place one feather into every section.
4. Move up to the next row and place one feather in each section. This time try to have them pointing at an upward angle. Try to space out the feathers so they are not hitting the ones below it.
5. Move up to the top row of the bouquet holder and add one feather in every other section like you did on the bottom row. These feathers should be pointing mostly more up and less out than the last row.
6. Finally, add 3 more feathers to the very top of the bouquet holder pointing up.
7. See if there are any spots that look empty and add a feather or reposition existing feathers!

For full details on the event’s rules and regulations, please visit the official website: philadelphia.dinerenblanc.info/about. To keep up to date on event announcements, follow Diner en Blanc –  Philadelphia on Facebook, dinerenblancphl on Instagram and @debphl on Twitter (hashtags #DEBPHL17 #dinerenblanc).

All White Dinner Recipes For Diner En Blanc

Diner En Blanc only comes once a year to Philadelphia, so why not go all out? To go along with the all white outfits and all white tables, this year try filling your picnic basket with these delicious all white menu options. What these recipes lack in color, they more than make up for in flavor!

Starters:

1. White Bean Dip with French Herbs

The french herbs in this dish goes great with a baguette and vegetables. It even pairs well with wine and cheese!

Recipe : https://food52.com/recipes/21757-white-bean-dip-with-fresh-herbs 

2. Joe Pizarro’s Brandade De Morue

This traditional Provencal dish may look like mashed potatoes… but it is so much more!

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/25096-brandade-de-morue

3. Salt Crusted Potatoes with Cilantro Mojo

Why not try a new spin on a classic dish? If you boil new potatoes just a little differently and add extra salt, you get a head-turning new appetizer. This recipe even features a spanish flare!  

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/22261-jose-pizarro-s-salt-crusted-potatoes-with-cilantro-mojo

4. White Asparagus a la Moutarde

Summer is the season for white asparagus, so what better time to use them than now for Diner En Blanc?

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/11512-white-asparagus-a-la-moutarde

5. Mushroom Mozzarella Appetizer

Who doesn’t love cheesy bread? These bite-sized squares with mozzarella and mushrooms are the perfect party starter.

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/11177-mushroom-mozzarella-appetizers

Soups/Sides:

1. Paul Bertolli’s Cauliflower Soup

Experienced chef and author Paul Bertolli knows exactly how to make a vegetable become the best it can be. Here is his tasty take on cauliflower soup.

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/15247-paul-bertolli-s-cauliflower-soup 

2. Yogurt Soup with Cucumbers and Walnuts

A refreshing yogurt soup that is served cold, perfect for a hot day outside!

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/18375-yogurt-soup-with-cucumbers-and-walnuts-tarator

3. White Gazpacho

White gazpacho is a delicious and refreshing variety of gazpacho, that can be served chilled or at room temperature. This dish is made by tossing all of the ingredients in a blender, it doesn’t get much easier than that!

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/19739-white-gazpacho

4. Roasted Baby Turnips with Dijon Vinaigrette and Tarragon-

This delicious side dish is easy to pull together at the last minute, but your guests will never know!

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/27094-roasted-baby-turnips-with-dijon-shallot-vinaigrette-and-tarragon

5. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Potatoes are every food-lovers weakness! What white dinner would be complete without homemade mashed potatoes?

Recipe:  https://food52.com/recipes/12361-roasted-garlic-mashed-potatoes

Main Dish:

1. White Lasagna with Chicken and Mushrooms

A succulent white lasagna with olive oil white sauce, chicken and portobello and shitake mushrooms sauteed with fresh rosemary. Be sure to pack this one in your basket!

Recipe:https://food52.com/recipes/38298-chicken-and-mushrooms-white-lasagna

2. James Peterson’s Baked Fish Filets with Butter and Sherry

A 5-ingredient, 20-minute technique to make any white fish shine – bonus: it makes its own buttery, boozy sauce, without deglazing or reducing. This is the perfect last-minute recipe to be made right before Diner En Blanc begins!

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/27575-james-peterson-s-baked-fish-fillets-with-butter-and-sherry

3. White Risotto

Risotto is one the more challenging white dishes on this menu, but those who succeed will enjoy a rich, creamy, light delicate dish.

Recipe: https://food52.com/blog/16616-how-to-make-risotto-like-a-chef-and-without-a-recipe

4. Roasted Curried Cauliflower Steaks

This roasted cauliflower recipe is satisfying and delicious. These steaks are easy to make and a great vegetarian option too!

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/71297-roasted-curried-cauliflower-steaks

5. White Clam Pizza

Of course a white pizza was going to make this menu. Plain bread and cheese can be a bit boring, so experiment with white garnishes to add to your pie! If you like clams, and you like pizza, you just might enjoy this combo.

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/15488-white-clam-pizza

Dessert:

1. White Cake with Maple Syrup Frosting

A classic cake is always a winner for dessert. Try this homemade white cake with maple syrup frosting.

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/24634-grandma-s-white-cake-with-maple-syrup-frosting

2. Lemon Meringue

If you’re going to spend a long time making a cake, you want the result to make it all worthwhile. This towering cake balances the flavors and textures of tangy yogurt, tart lemon curd, and crunchy pistachios in a dessert that will make your table give you a standing ovation.

Recipe:  https://food52.com/recipes/32218-lemon-meringue

3. Peanut Butter Pavlova

Pavlova is a meringue dessert with a crisp crust and a soft, light inside. Here is a sweet, crunchy, gooey, peanutty spin on the classic pavlova.

Recipe: https://food52.com/blog/10308-peanut-butter-pavlova

4. Coconut Layer Cake

Try this coconut layer cake with an island flare! This recipe features cake soaked with coconut and rum syrup, filled with Swiss buttercream, and coated with a generous amount of crisp and nutty toasted coconut flakes.

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/46436-coconut-layer-cake

5. Poached Pears with Lime Sabayon

This unique dessert is light enough to be the perfect ending to any heavy meal! Plus it is easy to make and can be mostly done ahead of time!

Recipe: https://food52.com/recipes/14352-poached-pears-with-lime-sabayon

Florida Keys and Key West Cook-Off and Cocktail Contest Washes Ashore in Philadelphia at Walnut Hill College

There’s nothing better than enjoying a nice meal and a cocktail in a tropical locale. This Monday night, The Florida Keys and Key West Cook-Off and Florida Keys Cocktail Competition is bringing a taste of the Keys to Philadelphia. Walnut Hill College will serve as the backdrop for a special cook-off that will feature 24 local food and travel influencers and writers. Instead of snapping, tweeting and blogging they will get on the other side of the stove and cook up two Florida Keys dishes under the direction of World Famous Keys’ Chef Bobby Stoky. In conjunction with the cook-off, four Philadelphia bartenders will mix up Keys-inspired cocktails. A winner from each competition wins a trip to the Florida Keys and Key West.

Key lime pie maker Kermit Carpenter displays one of his signature pies Friday, Nov. 8, 2013, outside his shop and bakery in Key West, Fla. Key lime pie, believed to have originated in Key West, is the Florida Keys’ most famous dessert and utilizes the juice of the tiny yellow Key lime. FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY (Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau/HO)

As part of the Florida Keys and Key West Cook-Off at Walnut Hill College, one lucky bartender will walk away with a vacation! Four of Philly’s most talented bartenders are getting a chance to get away from it all for a two night three day trip to the Florida Keys. Participants are from the just-opened Dim Sum House in University City, South Street Headhouse’s Whetstone Tavern, and Rittenhouse Row’s Fine Palate and Vesper.

While tickets for the event are sold out, you can still help pick the cocktail winner. Besides the trip, the winning bartender’s cocktail will be featured on the menu at Pat Croce’s Florida Keys restaurant for a week. Click here to cast your vote for your favorite Keys-inspired cocktail. When you arrive on the Facebook page for Half Shell Raw Bar, then click like on the photo for your favorite cocktail. 

Your votes, along with the votes of the guests at the event, will help Philly-favorite Pat Croce (who owns several bars in the Keys!) crown a winner. 

Florida Keys-inspired Cocktail Competition including newly opened Dim Sum House

For more information about the Cook-Off click here. For more about planning your own trip to Florida Keys and Key West click here. Keep up with all of the action by following by using #FLKeysCookOff

 

5 Reasons To Turn Up At 2017’s Hair O’ the Dog – Party Season Starts Now!

No back to work blues this week! Party season starts early in 2017 in Philadelphia and we’ve got the info hot off the wire. Hair O’ the Dog has been voted one of the best events in Philadelphia for the past few years and this year promises not to disappoint. With an impressive entertainment line-up, a celebrity caterer and new venue, The Fillmore will host one of the biggest parties that Philadelphia has ever known on Saturday, January 7, 2017. The festivities begin at 8pm and you definitely don’t want to miss a moment of what promises to be an epic event. Here are the top five reasons why you don’t want to miss this year’s Hair O’ the Dog…

1.) Hair O’ the Dog is like prom… but for adults and with an open bar!!! How often do you get a chance to put on that fancy dress or don that dapper suit that’s been in the back of your closet since you bought it? Hair O’ the Dog is the perfect excuse to glam it up in your finest as you party like a rockstar. Plus the four hour top shelf open bar doesn’t hurt!

2.) It’s a party with a purpose. This year, a portion of the proceeds will benefit Bianca’s Kids. Established in 2010, Bianca’s Kids grants wishes to foster, sick and needy children. If a child has been displaced by the foster system, struck by tragedy, or affected by disability, then he or she is one of Bianca’s Kids.To date, Bianca’s Kids has served over 13,000 children in New Jersey and around the U.S.

3.) Eat like a celebrity! Each year hundreds of Hollywood’s elite are treated to an Oscar after-party catered by world-renowned Chef Wolfgang Puck, luckily you don’t have to travel to Hollywood to be treated like a star. This year’s Hair O’ the Dog guests will enjoy a gourmet buffet from Wolfgang Puck Catering.

4.) You can get low with the King of Crunk himself. Grammy-winning artist Lil Jon will get the crowd rockin’ with his cool beats and hot party anthems. The “Turn Down For What” and “Get Low” singer loves that Philadelphians know how to party. “Philly always has a great crowd, get ready to get lit at Hair O’ The Dog” says Lil Jon.

5.) The music and performances are guaranteed to get you dancing. In addition to Lil Jon, there will be performances from Electronic dance music sensation Dillon Francis, Australian Native VASSY and Philly’s own Rozes, known for her number one hit “Roses” featuring The Chainsmokers. Plus, some of the nation’s top DJs will be on hand spinning. Dance the night away with beats by local mainstage thrillers Clef & Canberra while TV personality and DJ Mr. Hollywood will be spinning in the “Foundry”, the exclusive VIP hide-a-way of the Fillmore, plus turntable temptress DJ Freezie will greet guests with her sensual style in the Ajax Hall.

For more the full rundown of events or to purchase tickets, visit http://hairothedog.com

Fall Festival Pick: 50 Reasons Go to Greenfest Philly on South Street

Clean Air Council’s Greenfest Philly presented by Toyota Hybrids returns to South Street on Sunday, September 11th 2016 with more eco fun than ever before! The full day of free family fun has something for everyone, with live music, free cooking demos, an outdoor beer garden, organic food and drinks, handmade and green shopping, MOM’s Organic Market Kids’ Corner, a twenty-five foot rock wall, and even edible bugs. Here’s our top 50 reasons Greenfest Philly is our top pick for the start of fall festival season. 

1) Join a biker gang. Be a part of Go Philly Go and Kiddical Mass’ organized bike ride from Fitler Square.

2) Feel what it’s like to drive a hybrid. Head to the Toyota Hybrids on-site showroom to test drive the new 2017 Prius Prime before it’s even available to the public.

3) Rock Climb from 10:00am to 4:00pm – Kids and adults can catch climbing fever and try their hand at scaling a 25 foot rock wall.

4) Do you sun salutations in the sun at outdoor yoga with Three Queens Yoga led by Adriana Akintobi from 10:00am to 11:00am at 2nd and South streets stage.

5) Try a green colored eye shadow that is actually green. Shop for eco-friendly fashion, beauty, and home goods – including Neal’s Organic Yard Remedies body products and Philadelphia Independents locally crafted one-of-a-kind gifts.

6) Prove that everything old is new again and purchase upcycled jewelry handmade art and crafts from eco-artisans such as Beaucycled and Modern Hex. Shop for eco-friendly fashion, beauty, and home goods – including Neal’s Organic Yard Remedies body products and Philadelphia Independents locally crafted one-of-a-kind gifts.

7) Stop by the Beer Garden and enjoy sustainably brewed beer from Weyerbacher brewery.

8) Leave your ‘wheels’ with the complimentary bike valet courtesy of Philadelphia Insurance Companies.

9) Clean out your closets and bring your clothing, accessories, toys, books and more to the Philly Swap at Greenfest Philly.  Bring gently used clothing, toys and books for free entry into the swap area, or make a $5 donation (includes a free Philly Swap bag). Upon entry in the swap, you are free to roam and take what you’d like. Philly AIDS Thrift will be on hand with item from their store to get the swap started.

10) Enjoy a rest and recharge station with refurbished chairs and furniture, free iced tea, coffee and solar powered chargers.

11) Release your inner artist and try your hand at painting with the gang from A Taste of Artistry.

12) Pretend you are on an episode of Top Chef, while watching live vegan and vegetarian cooking demos from some of Philadelphia’s top restaurants like Revolution Taco, P’unk Burger and Miss Rachel’s Pantry.

13) Conquer your fears while sampling edible bugs from Bug Yum including crickets on crackers and chocolate brownies made with flour made from ground bugs.

14) Showcase your green thumb and make an upcycled succulent arrangement to display in your home with Beaucycled or seed bombs to plant in your garden with Green Philly.

MUSIC (11:00am to 2:30pm) Local music is more sustainable than music that has to be shipped thousands of miles to your ears.

15) Little Strike – “Little Strike” is the alias of Middle Eastern-born but now Philadelphia based musician Tamar Dart. Her Indie Electronic Pop sound will surely get you moving.

16) The Mysteries –  If you’re a fan of The Doors, you’ll love the psychedelic sounds of The Mysteries. Let their bluesy guitar rhythms transport you to an era of peace and love.

17) Ceramic Animal –  The guitar heavy sounds of Ceramic Animal may remind you of iconic acts like Pink Floyd but don’t be fooled. These Bucks County natives are not afraid to give psychedelic rock a new spin.

18) Ill Fated Natives – It may be hard to put Ill Fated Strangers into a category since their sound is a blend of blues, rock, and smooth jazz but the Philadelphia based group will have you swaying to their tribal rhythms in no time.

FOOD AND DRINK

Sample delicious, healthy, local and organic food from popular food trucks and local eateries.

19) Nomad Pizza

20) Weckerley’s Ice Cream

21) Kung Fu Hoagies

22) Mompop’s

23) Soy Cafe

24) Follow Your Heart

25) The Twisted Tail

FAMILY FUN

MOM’S Organic Market Kids’ Corner will feature fun for all ages!

26) MOM’s Organic Market’s booth will have free samples and healthy snacks. Show kids that good for you food can also taste good.

27) Let the kids give arts and crafts a spin –while making pinwheels with the gang from Mom’s Clean Air Force.

28) Meet your new best friend and share a kiss at New Leash on Life’s Puppy Kissing Booth. Help a dog find a fur-ever home.

29) Kid’s Yoga, Yoga Friends will be leading a yoga class just for kids! Creative thinking, flexibility, better health, inner focus, greater concentration, improved social skills and physical strength are just some of the benefits of yoga for kids. Through interactive games and exercises, kids learn yoga postures, breathing techniques and lots more! And it’s all just plain fun!

30) Head on down to Climate City, to learn about the local impacts of climate change and learn from CUSP, a network of local organizations who engage the public on climate change issueswhat you can do to change things.

ECO ARTISANS AND SHOPPING

Purchase one of a kind handmade art and crafts from eco-artisans. Shop for farm fresh produce at Headhouse Square Farmers’ Market, featuring dozens of vendors featuring fruit, veggies, artisanal cheese, baked goods, chocolates and more. Shop for eco-friendly fashion, beauty, and home goods.

31) ACRE Replacement Windows – Home and garden

32) Baby Bat Beauty – Health and beauty

33) Beaucycled – Eco artistan

34) Bennett Compost – Home and garden

35) Blue Conservations – Home and garden

36) Eviama Life Green Spa & Boutique – Health and beauty

37) Philly Aids Thrift – Clothing and accessories

38) Yoga Friends – Health and beauty

39) Tintco Window Tinting – Home and garden

40) Urban Work Textiles – Eco artistan

41) Yoga Living – Health and beauty

ADVOCACY ORGANIZATIONS

Become educated and take action on critical environmental issues from leading advocacy groups.

42) NextGen Climate

43) Clean Air Council

44) 350 Philadelphia

45) The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia

46) Eastern Service Workers

47) The Franklin Institute

48) Penn Environment

49) Sierra Club

50) US Forest Service

Admission is free.Go to www.greenfestphilly.org or more information, you can also call 215-567-4004, and follow @greenfestphilly on Twitter. Look for our lives tweets from the event at @phillylovesfun. See you this weekend!

Ultimate Summer Cookout Heats Up Piazza at Schmidt’s Commons

The Piazza at Schmidt’s Commons (1001 N 2nd St) celebrates a new chapter with The Ultimate Summer Cookout in Northern Liberties on Sunday, August 21, 2016 from 12:00pm to 5:00pm. Get ready for the grand finale of summer with a brand new, all-day, backyard party featuring summer eats and sips, live music, DJs, sand pits, lawn games, hand-made shopping, end-of-summer sales and more. Plus, look for surprises in the water and up in the air with a slip n slide, water slide and zip line. All ages are welcome for this family friendly event. Twenty-one and up to drink, with identification only. Admission is free, with food and drink pay as you go. Rain or shine. For information, call 267-246-0618 or visit http://www.theschmidtscommons.com.

The Ultimate Summer Cookout aims to be a new annual tradition where neighbors and visitors can come together to celebrate the end of summer in the city. The party is part of the new events schedule, managed by the property’s first full-time events coordinator, designed to celebrate our vibrant community of local residents and business owners. This summer, the Schmidt’s Commons also announced new tenants including WeWork and debuted a renovated courtyard featuring modular furniture.

Sample the best flavors of the Piazza and Liberties Walk with outside food and drink from Apricot Stone, Crabby Cafe & Sports Bar, Bar Ferdinand, El Camino Real Philadelphia, Gunners Run, Samwich NoLibs and Wahlburgers Philly (just opened). Plus, look for tasty treats from food trucks Johnny Bravo’s Seafood, Sweet Lavender and D’Emilio’s Old World Ice Treats.

Menu highlights will include:

* Samwich by Suppa – Exclusive for this event – Monster Brisket Samwich featuring house smoked brisket, mac n cheese, jalapeño slaw, peach SoCo bbq sauce, Hudson Bread’s onion brioche roll. (Photo available)
* Wahlburgers – Invincible Burger – 1/2 lb beef burger, caramelized onions, bacon, provolone, balsamic glazes, pretzel bun. (Photo available)
* Apricot Stone – Grilled chicken and lamb kebabs on grill. (Photo available)
* Bar Ferdinand and El Camino Real – Seasonal selections including Watermelon Lemonade and Tropical Rum Punch.
* Sweet Lavender – Lavender infused cupcakes, pastry and lemonade.

Food and drink can be enjoyed on brand new seating installed this month in the center of the courtyard. Additional outside seating will be available outside Crabby Cafe & Sports Bar, Bar Ferdinand, El Camino Real Philadelphia and Gunners Run.

Get your groove on with music from the West Philadelphia Orchestra, plus DJs from Creep Records Store. Vendors from around the city will offer hand-made and unique items. ThePiazza and Liberties Walk retailers will be open for end-of-summer sales and specials.

Bring your bathing suit and beat the heat in the 30 foot water slide and 30 foott slip ‘n slide. Take to the air as you enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Piazza on a 40 foot high zip line that spans 200 feet across. This will be the first time a zip line has been installed in the Piazza – giving you the very best view of the action all around you.

The Ultimate Summer Cookout joins Salsa Night and Movies Under the Stars as part of new programming from the Schmidt’s Commons’ new Events and Programming Coordinator Krystal Souvanlasy. Souvanlasy brings many years of experience in event coordination, community engagement, graphic design and neighborhood development. She was part of the team that developed and coordinated South Street Spring Festival, which now annually attracts over 55,000 people to South Street and Headhouse Square every spring.

The Ultimate Summer Cookout is free and open to the public. Families are invited and the event is all ages. Rain or shine. Food and drink is pay as you go. For information, call 267-246-0618 or visit http://www.theschmidtscommons.com.

Photos: Diner en Blanc Philadelphia at Philadelphia Museum of Art

Photo by Kory Aversa

Diner en Blanc Philadelphia revealed its biggest surprise yet when it popped up in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art for an evening of food, music, art and friendship. On Thursday, August 18, 2016, the Parisian pop-up picnic made a surprise appearance with 5,000 guests all wearing white attire. Guests met at locations around the city and had no idea where the night would take them. Within an hour they filed, one by one, onto Benjamin Franklin Parkway as dinner “as an artform” unfolded like a painting appearing on canvas. This was the largest number of event participants, in honor of the events 5th edition.

The night featured live entertainment including a roving French circus from Philadelphia School of Circus Arts and Airplay Entertainment, live tunes from Hot Club Philly, The Soul of Philly featuring Tiffany Jones, DJ Sean Smoove and Mad Beatz drumline.

Guests brought their food, or enjoyed delicious morsels from 33rd Street Hospitality Catering, Luke Palladino Catering or Reading Terminal Market.

Over 35,000 people added their name to the wait list for a chance to attend the event – which moves to a new secret location every year. Here’s some of our favorite memories of the night. Enjoy!

Emcee Studio Photographie

Paris comes to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway as event comes full circle from Logan Circle in 2012 to around Eakins Oval in 2016.

Photo by Kory Aversa

Beautiful blooms and masterpieces await the press in the media area.

Georgi Anastasov Photography

Diner en Blanc  International sponsor Apothic prepares their place setting.

Emcee Studio Photographie

Philadelphia never looked so stunning from the top of the Art Museum steps.

Photo by Kory Aversa

Even the Donkeys from the Democratic National Convention got in the spirit of the event.

Emcee Studio Photographie

Guests learn the surprise location for the night!

Emcee Studio Photographie

Guests met at departure points around the city and arrived by the hundreds onto the Parkway.

Emcee Studio Photographie

Philadelphia School of Circus Arts and Airplay Entertainment brought the circus en blanc.

Georgi Anastasov Photography

Diners enjoyed stunning views of both the city and the Art Museum.

Photo by Johanna Austin

5,000 guests begin setting up their tables in rows perfectly mapped out before the event ever begins.

Photo by Kory Aversa

The waving of napkins signifies the end of set-up and the start of dinner.

Photo by Kory Aversa

Dinner is served as 5,000 guests enjoy delicious eats from their picnic baskets.

Photo by Johanna Austin

Georgi Anastasov Photography

As the sun sets the glow of candles begins to fill these famous steps. If only Rocky were around to join us for dinner!

Photo by Kory Aversa

Photo by Kory Aversa

 

Georgi Anastasov Photography

After dinner, guests took to the street for the city’s largest open-air dance party.

Photo by Kory Aversa

Photo by Kory Aversa

 

Georgi Anastasov Photography

Photo by Kory Aversa

Photo by Kory Aversa

Photo by Kory Aversa

Now that is one way to light up the dance floor!

Georgi Anastasov Photography

Sparklers light up the night as 5,000 points of light unfolded across the Parkway.

Photo by Kory Aversa

Photo by Kory Aversa

Georgi Anastasov Photography

Rocky impersonator ran up the steps to the lighting of the sparklers on top.

Photo from Diner en Blanc Philadelphia

Diner en Blanc is organized in Philadelphia by Kayli Moran and Natanya DiBona. Public relations provided by Kory Aversa from Aversa PR (middle).

Congrats to co-hosts and the entire planning team – as well as the dozens of volunteers. We already have started the guessing game for next year’s event. Where will they go for year 6? Only time will tell!

Hillary Clinton Gets Own Ice Cream Sandwich in Philadelphia for DNC

Revolution Taco throws their name onto the ballot for Philadelphia’s best DNC-themed food during the upcoming convention with an ice cream sandwich partnership with Weckerly’s Ice Cream.

Coalition building is the hallmark of any good political convention. With the Democratic National Convention taking over Philadelphia this month, two unlikely names will collaborate for the greater good of the delegates during the hottest time of the year. Cool down? Like a little heat? This choice offers a politically correct alternative for everyone!

As a nod to the DNC, and the Democratic nominee, Revolution Taco (2015 Walnut St) and Weckerly’s Ice Cream will partner on the Donkey Kick, the ultimate ice cream sandwich with a spicy kick inspired by Hillary Clinton’s love of chocolate, brownies and heat!

The Donkey Kick will feature Revolution Taco’s homemade salted chocolate fudge brownies (from Chef Michael Sultan), surrounded by chipotle cinnamon spiced chocolate ice cream, sandwiched between two house-made cinnamon cookies. The special summer treat will go on sale at Revolution Taco starting Friday July 22, 2016 through Sunday, July 31, 2016 – or while supplies last. The Donkey Kick will be $5.00 when you mention #DNCDeals

This will mark the first time Revolution Taco has collaborated with another local business – but it certainly won’t be the last! Watch for other collaborations coming later this election, er fall, season. #DNCDeals

19th Century Ann Bartram Carr Garden Opens to Public at Bartram’s Garden

Visit Bartram’s Garden (5400 Lindbergh Blvd.) this summer to see a new feature: the Ann Bartram Carr Garden, the only 19th-century flower garden in Philadelphia. The Ann Bartram Carr Garden is the result of a transformative $2.7-million project and marks the first major garden restoration at Bartram’s Garden in nearly a century. Bartram’s Garden, including the new Ann Bartram Carr Garden, is free to those who wish to explore on their own from dawn to dusk. Bartram’s Garden is open year-round, with the exception of City-observed holidays.

The Ann Bartram Carr Garden creates a welcoming new entrance as Bartram’s Garden takes its place as a premier river destination in the city. The arrival of the Bartram’s Mile trail, a project led by the City of Philadelphia Department of Parks and Recreation and the Schuylkill River Development Corporation, and the Garden’s growing presence as a destination for the Southwest Philadelphia community, provides more than 50,000 Philadelphians with access to nature and recreation each year.

ABOUT THE ANN BARTRAM CARR GARDEN

Located to the west of the historic 1731 John Bartram House, the Ann Bartram Carr Garden was established as an exhibition garden by Ann and her husband, Colonel Robert Carr. It was also the first public green space at Bartram’s Garden, showcasing fashionable exotics that the Carrs imported from Asia as well as Ann’s own hybrid dahlias and camellias. In the new garden, visitors will also be able to enjoy latticed cross vine and passionflower, boxwood-edged beds, roses, peonies, nicotiana, and bright bedding annuals to provide color all summer long.

Says Bartram’s Garden Executive Director Maitreyi Roy, “To me, Ann Bartram Carr remains important because she opened Bartram’s Garden up to the general public and spread the importance of horticulture and open spaces—ideals that are still dear to us 200 years later. She was also one of the first women to run a gardening business in our young nation, carrying on until 1850. Ann taught her visitors and customers about the need for beautiful plants and open spaces in their lives, paralleling a time when heavy industry was blossoming in the Philadelphia area.”

“This new garden reconnects us to the Bartram spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation,” adds Maitreyi (pronounced my-tray). “It further complements recent improvements to the National Historic Landmark Bartram House, which received a new roof, geothermal climate control systems, and historic features this past winter.”

To celebrate the opening of the Ann Bartram Carr Garden, new guided tours of the house and garden will highlight critical conservation work as well the Bartram’s Mile project that will eventually connect Bartram’s Garden with the Schuylkill River Trail and revolutionize access between Southwest Philadelphia and Center City. Tours are offered Thursdays through Sundays from noon to 4 pm until December.

Financial assistance provided by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Honorable Tom Wolf; City of Philadelphia Department of Parks and Recreation; Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority; Philadelphia Department of Commerce; Pennsylvania Coastal Zone Management Program; Dorrance H. Hamilton; The McLean Contributionship; Jane G. Pepper; and anonymous donors.

ABOUT BARTRAM’S GARDEN: WHAT WILL YOU SEE?

Bartram’s Garden is a 45-acre National Historic Landmark, operated by the John Bartram Association in cooperation with Philadelphia Parks and Recreation. It is a destination and an outdoor classroom, living laboratory, and membership organization for ever-expanding audiences—over 50,000 visitors each year and counting. We invite you to come here to learn, connect, celebrate, and discover a shared, greener future.

Bartram’s Garden offers hands-on activities for all ages, children’s classes, urban farming and community gardening, and family recreation. We have a calendar filled with community celebrations and special events, from outdoor movies and concerts to horticulture lessons and paddling on the river. There are so many things to see and do at Bartram’s Garden. Your passports are curiosity and a passion for nature and fun.

The John Bartram Association’s mission is to protect and enhance the landmark Bartram’s Garden and House; advance the Bartram legacy of discovery, gardening, and art; and inspire audiences of all ages to care for the natural world.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE BARTRAM FAMILY

John Bartram (1699-1777) was a third-generation Pennsylvania Quaker, born in nearby Darby and imbued with a curiosity and reverence for nature, as well as a passion for scientific inquiry. Bartram purchased 102 acres from Swedish settlers in 1728, and systematically began gathering the most varied collection of North American plants in the world.

His travels—by boat, on horseback, and on foot—took him to New England, as far south as Florida, and west to Lake Ontario. He collected seeds and plant specimens, and established a trans-Atlantic hub of plant exploration through his exchanges with London merchant Peter Collinson. In 1765, Bartram was appointed as “Royal Botanist” by England’s king, George III.

Following in his father’s footsteps, William Bartram (1739-1823) continued to explore and discover native American plants. An important naturalist, artist, and author in his own right, William traveled the American South from 1773 to 1776 under the patronage of Dr. John Fothergill. William’s landmark book, Travels, first published in 1791, found an eager audience in Europeans seeking more information about the untamed American landscapes. His drawings and meticulous observations about people and plants made Travels an instant classic of naturalist literature.

From 1810 onward, Ann Bartram Carr (1779-1858), a daughter of John Bartram, Jr., continued the family garden. Ann was educated by her uncle William and inherited his skill for illustration and the family passion for plants. With her husband, Colonel Robert Carr (1778-1866), the international trade in seeds and plants continued.

During the Carr era, the garden was enlarged and, at its peak, featured ten greenhouses and a collection of over 1,400 native plant species and as many as 1,000 exotics. Financial difficulties led to the sale of the family garden by the Carrs in 1850. The property was purchased by industrial Andrew Eastwick and preserved it, until the City of Philadelphia took over the property and the nonprofit John Bartram Association was formed in 1893—a partnership that thrives to this day.

VISITOR INFORMATION

Bartram’s Garden welcomes everyone to explore, connect to nature, participate in programs, celebrate personal journeys, relax, reflect, and experience something new.

The grounds are free and open to the public year-round, dawn to dusk, except on City-observed holidays. Please call 215-729-5281 with questions.

The garden is accessible by the #36 trolley. Parking is free and bicycle racks are also available. Detailed driving directions are available here, or type “5400 Lindbergh Boulevard Philadelphia” into your GPS.

During warmer weather, you can also take a Schuylkill River cruise to Bartram’s Garden, to and from Center City, aboard Patriot Harbor Lines, LLC. Click here for ticket information.

For a more in-depth experience, guided tours are offered Thursday through Sunday of both the National Historic Landmark Bartram House and Garden. Click here for our guided tour schedule.

When you arrive, make the Welcome Center your first stop to pick up a map and purchase your guided tour tickets. Refreshments, souvenirs, plants and Bartram books are also available for purchase at the Welcome Center.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Bartram’s Garden, 5400 Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19143. MAP
Phone: 215-729-5281www.bartramsgarden.org

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https://www.facebook.com/BartramsGarden/

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Diner en Blanc Philadelphia Returns for 5th Year on Thursday, August 18, 2016

From global phenomenon to highly sought-after “secret,” Dîner en Blanc returns to Philadelphia on Thursday, August 18, 2016 for an unforgettable evening filled with food, wine, fashion, culture and music. In honor of the event’s fifth year, the très chic picnic will expand to 5,000 guests in 2016, tying New York City as the largest in America. Dressed in white from head to toe, attendees will celebrate and re-purpose an unexpected public space that is revealed only moments before the event begins. Past locations have included Logan Circle, JFK Bridge, Avenue of the Arts and The Navy Yard. Where will Diner en Blanc Philadelphia pop-up in 2016? Stay tuned for the biggest secret of the summer!

Part mystery tour, part pop-up feast and part je ne sais quoi, Dîner en Blanc is a magical evening that celebrates and re-purposes public space. Bystanders will witness groups of guests all dressed in white gathering at specific rallying points all across the city. Guided by volunteers, these groups will then converge on a unique and unexpected setting, travelling by foot, bus and/or public transportation. Guests will bring their own gourmet feast, table, chairs and table setting. Over the course of the evening, they will eat and celebrate amid music, entertainment and dancing.

The evening is filled with visually breathtaking moments including the waving of a cloth napkin to mark the beginning of the dinner and the lighting of sparklers to let guests know they are now free to mingle and dance. When at the end of the evening the trumpet sounds, guests pack up all of their belongings, pick up all their litter and head back into the night, leaving behind no sign of their elegant revelry.

Diner en Blanc was brought to Philadelphia by co-hosts Natanya DiBona and Kayli Moran. Each year they coordinate the event with a team of volunteers which this year will top 160 (including the annual planning team, table leaders and on-site event support). Past surprise locations for Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia have included 2012’s Logan Circle, 2013’s JFK Bridge, 2014’s Avenue of the Arts and 2015’s The Navy Yards, Marine Parade Grounds. The event has grown from 1,200 in 2012, to 2,550 in 2013, to 3,500 in 2014, and 4,500 in 2015. For 2016, DiBona and Moran have big plans for the biggest year yet, with 5,000 guests.

“This year’s 5th Annivesary Dîner en Blanc will celebrate Philadelphia and the Parisian roots of the event, while offering a bit of nostalgia with entertainment and other elements that participants have enjoyed in the last four years,” said co-host Natanya DiBona. “The first year it was critical that in one aerial shot someone could look at it and instantly recognize Philadelphia.  With Logan Circle not only were we able to show off a 360 degree view of some of the most beloved cultural institutions in Philadelphia, but we were able to have a nod to the french heritage of our event with a spot that was designed by a french architect on the ‘Champs Elysee of America.’ In the years since, we have picked locations that show off spaces in new and unexpected ways while highlighting their history and significance to the City of Philadelphia and reflecting the growth and development of the city. What’s in store for this milestone year? Our lips are sealed!”

Potential guests interested in attending the 2016 event for the first time can sign up on the waiting list at philadelphia.dinerenblanc.info/register. The final day to add yourself to the waiting list in time for the 2016 lottery is July 11, 2016 at 11:59PM. As of today, more than 3,000 interested parties have added themselves to the waiting list since last year’s event. The full registration schedule is as follows:

** Phase 1 (starts July 5, 2016) – Registration opens for last year’s registered members

** Phase 2 (starts July 12, 2016) – Registration opens for friends sponsored by Phase 1 members

** Lottery/Phase 3 (starts July 14, 2016) – Lottery software selects names from waiting list in random order; new participants selected by lottery can register using a code they are emailed within 36 hours; after 36 hours the code will expire and other names will be selected by the software

“The lottery system gives all wait list members in Phase 3 an equal chance to secure a registration slot,” added DiBona.

In order to maintain the uniqueness of the event, as well as staying true to the long-standing traditions, guests must observe the following:

** Guests must dress from all in elegant and stylish white.

** Table settings must be white.

** Guests should meet at their assigned departure location and be escorted to the final destination by Dîner en Blanc volunteers.

** Guests should be prepared to attend the event rain or shine.

** All guests must leave the event location and neighorbood as clean as when they arrived. Guests are required to leave with their belongings, including leftovers and litter.

Guests must bring:

** A table, two white chairs, a white tablecloth, stemware and dinnerware.

** A picnic basket with fine food and drink. Food should be brought in reusable and/or recycled containers.

** Champagne or wine (optional).

A catered picnic option, which can be picked up at the site, will be also available for those who do not wish to pack their own. Guests wishing to do so must reserve online through Dîner en Blanc website during the initial ticket registration. This year’s official caterers are 33rd Street Hospitality Catering, Reading Terminal Market and Luke Palladino Catering. Apothic Wines is proud to be the official wine sponsor of the 2016 US Diner en Blanc series, including Philadelphia.

For full details on the event’s rules and regulations, please visit the official website: philadelphia.dinerenblanc.info/about. To keep up to date on event announcements, follow Diner en Blanc –  Philadelphia on Facebook, dinerenblancphl on Instagram and @debphl on Twitter (hashtags #DEBPHL16 #dinerenblanc).

For all official videos of Dîner en Blanc around the world, visit http://www.youtube.com/user/DinerEnBlanc.

DINER EN BLANC PHILADELPHIA

Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia debuted in the City of Brotherly Love on Thursday, August 23, 2012. Co-hosts Natanya DiBona and Kayli Moran worked with a six person volunteer planning team from April to August to make the first event happen. 30 Table hosts and on-site volunteers led 1,300 guests to the surprise location, Swann Fountain at Logan Circle.

Four events later, Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia grew to 4,500 attendees, the second largest in the US and the fourth largest in the world. 130 volunteers were necessary to bring participants to the 2015 location, the Marine Parade Grounds at Philadelphia Navy Yard. Guests traveled by a variety methods including by foot, subway and 50 chartered buses.

While Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia has been the recipient of “best foodie event” and “best pop-up” awards from publications such as Philadelphia Magazine and Main Line Today, the event’s greatest distinction is having the highest guest return rate of all the DEB events in the United States. The 2016 team is passionate about the experience they create for our guests and they look forward to delivering another great event in the summer of 2016.

ABOUT DÎNER EN BLANC

Launched in Paris in 1988 by François Pasquier and a handful of friends, Le Dîner en Blanc has become a worldwide epicurean phenomenon. Dîner en Blanc- Paris now attracts nearly 15,000 people each year. What was a “friends and word-of-mouth only” event has grown into an international sensation celebrated on five continents. While the technology behind the event may have changed over the years, the principles fueling this fantastic event have not: guests continue to gather at a secret location for the sole purpose of sharing a gourmet meal with good friends in one of their city’s most beautiful public spaces.  Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Montreal, Canada, Dîner en Blanc International is responsible for developing this secret posh picnic in over 50 cities in more than 20 countries around the world. Each event is headed by passionate local organizers who fell in love with the concept and wanted to bring it to their city, giving this rendezvous a local flair.

ABOUT APOTHIC

Embrace the intrigue of the unexpected.  Apothic® White, the official wine of Dîner en Blanc, blends Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Grigio to create a refreshing, medium-bodied wine with flavors of peach and apricot, that leads to a crisp, balanced finish.  Named from the 13th century European Apotheca, where wine was blended and stored, the wines of Apothic fuse Old World intrigue with modern sophistication.  Our winemaker, Debbie Juergenson, crafts unique, captivating blends that create layers of complexity.  Taste a White with Darker Motives and revel in the intrigue of Dîner en Blanc.