Two times the fun! East Passyunk Avenue Raises Glass to Craft Beer Day and Italian National Day Festival

East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District (EPABID) serves up a double dose of summertime fun with two festivals on Sunday, June 2, 2013.  Starting at 11:00 AM, Philly Beer Week kicks off with 15 hours of craft beer events during Craft Beer Day.  East Passyunk restaurants, bars and retailers will present opportunities to meet the brewers, try new craft beers, enjoy beer-infused and inspired foods, and shop for beer-related gifts.  Starting at Noon, Italian National Day Festival “La Festa Della Repubblica” will feature a full day of live music, Italian draft and bottled beer specials, Italian food vendors, kids’ activities and a spaghetti eating contest.  La Festa activities are held on East Passyunk Avenue, between Mifflin and Moore streets.  Events are held rain or shine.  Admission is free, unless otherwise noted. Food and drinks are pay-as-you-go.  For more information about Craft Beer Day and La Festa visitwww.visiteastpassyunk.com, follow @epassyunkave or call (215) 336-1455.

CRAFT BEER DAY – CHEERS!
East Passyunk Avenue kicks off Philly Beer Week with 15 hours of craft beer events. Try new brews and beer-infused and inspired eats, meet brewers, and quench your thirst for craft beer! The event is free, and rain or shine.

• Belle Cakery (1437 EPA) – Chocolate Stout Cake with Oat Crumble, Framboise and Vanilla Ice Cream
• Birra (1700 EPA) – All IPA, All Day! IPA tap takeover with Avery Maharaja Double, Bear Republic Racer 5, Bells Hopslam Double, Founders All Day, Great Lakes Burning River, New Holland White Hatter White, Oskar Blues Deviant Dales, Three Heads Too Kind Double, Weyerbacher Last Chance, Yards Trouble Double; 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
• The Bottle Shop (1837 EPA) – Craft beer tub outside with Italian draft specials; 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
• Era Atomica (1726 EPA) – 25% off all bar ware
• Le Virtu (1927 EPA) – Outdoor barbeque featuring grilled Abruzzesse fare with craft beer sampling and specials from Ommegang, Prism and Weyerbacher;  1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Lucky 13 (1820 S. 13th) – Victory Brunch with DJ;  11:30 AM to 4:00 PM
• Metro Men’s Clothing (1615 EPA) – 15% off entire store and complimentary Peach Mango & Vodka cocktails and beer while you shop
• Ms Goody Cupcake (1838 EPA) Beer infused cupcakes (Bx3: Blueberry Beer Belch, Double Chocolate Stout, Drunkin’ Elvis with Well’s Banana Bread Beer ), beer-infused truffles and Oatmeal Peanut Butter Beer Cookie Sandwiches infused with Wells Banana Bread Beer. All cupcakes will be fifty cents off; 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Noir Restaurant (1909 EPA) – Victory Helios Ale Mimosas, Homemade Berry-Infused Allagash White and Dollar Montreal-style Hot Dogs; 3:00 PM to 2:00 AM
• Occasionette (1825 EPA) – Free beer tote bag with $20 or more purchase while supplies last; 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• P.O.P.E. (1501 EPA) – Dogfish Head’s BBQ Cook Out; 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Phresh Printz & E’s Tees (1800 EPA) – Beer, Philly and East Passyunk-inspired tee-shirts
• Stateside (1536 EPA) – Pork belly and beer-braised baked bean happy hour with Evil Genius; 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• Stogie Joe’s (1801 EPA) – Craft beer specials including mixed bucket of Bells (6) for $15, meatball sandwich and craft bottle or draft for $10, and live music at 5pm; 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM

LA FESTA - FESTEGGIAMO!
Filitalia International and Foundation presents Italian National Day Festival “La Festa Della Repubblica,” on East Passyunk Avenue, between Mifflin and Moore streets.  Family-friendly festivities will include live music, raffles and prizes, Italian food vendors (including East Passyunk’s Mamma Maria), specialty cocktails, Italian draft and bottled beer specials, a spaghetti eating contest. Activities for the kids will include a moon bounce and face painting.  Confirmed sponsors and vendors includes Noir Restaurant, Mamma Maria’s, The Bottle Shop, Stogie Joes, Candy Rockz Jewelry,  Capo’s Coins and Memorabilia, Gozen Yogurt, Twin Shoppe, Lil Dan’s and more.  Ms Goody Cupcake will also feature an open house with fifty cents off cupcakes. Special Italian Day flavors will include Roche Roche, Holy Cannoli and Italian Funfetti. The event is free, and rain or shine.  The early schedule for entertainment is as follows:

• Food, drink and kids’ activities, 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• DJ Johnny Looch, 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• Pasquale D’oro and Band, 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• Spaghetti Eating Contest, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Raffle Drawings, 6:00 PM

BONUS: PHILLY BEER WEEK ON EAST PASSYUNK
Select East Passyunk restaurant and bars will also present special craft beer-related events in honor of Philly Beer Week. A partial list of events is below:

P.O.P.E. (1501 EPA)

• Monday, June 3 – Saucony Creek Brewing BMX Bike Show on Dickinson St (between 10th & EPA) from 11am-4pm. Owner of Saucony Creek Brewing (retired X-game Athlete) & friends will be putting on a bike show and performing tricks; 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Tuesday, June 4 – Founders Brewing Night with the owners of the distinguished brewery in-house; 7:00 PM to close
• Wednesday, June 5 – New Holland Brewing Freak Show with local performers mystifying with tricks like sword swallowing, walking on glass, etc.; 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM
• Friday, June 7 – Thirsty Dog Brewing Tap Takeover; 7:00 PM to close
• Sunday, June 9 – Bell’s Brewing Brunch with Laura Bell; 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Stogie Joe’s (1801 EPA)

• May 31 thru June 9 – Meatball sandwich and draft/bottle craft beer for $10 + bucket of Bells (six) for $15
• Monday, June 3 – Craft Beer Quizzo with $100 cash prize for 1st place, case of Southern Tier & $25 Stogie Joe’s Gift Certificate for 2nd place and case of Bells & $10 gift certificate for 3rd place; 7:00 PM

For more information and event updates, visit East Passyunk Avenue on Facebook, follow @epassyunkave on Twitter, pin East Passyunk Avenue on Pinterest and visitwww.visiteastpassyunk.com.

 

And They’re Off… Preakness at the Piazza Horse Races to Top of Spring Party List!

Fashion, charity, sports, oh my! Springtime is horse racing season and what a better way to experience the famous Preakness Stakes but with a party at Piazza at Schmidt’s (1050 North Hancock Street, Philadelphia, PA); while supporting a good cause of course. Mark your calendars for the “Preakness at the Piazza” on May 18, 2013 from 5pm-9pm to raise money and awareness in the fight against MS!

This Philadelphia Young Professional’s event will surely be one of the top “Parties of the Spring!” Proceeds from ticket sales and a silent auction will be donated to this amazing cause that continually help 2.1 million people affected with this disease. Philly’s own DJ Royale with be spinning before and after the race while you enjoy the all-you-can-eat and drink at the bar and buffet.

Everyone is encouraged to dress to impress with race-day hats for women and preppy bow ties for men. The hosts with the most, FOX29’s Mike Jerrick and special surprise guest will be acting as the fashion police, giving the ‘exacta’ on who’s attire is winner’s circle worthy. They will also be narrating the race from the Piazza’s forty-foot screen.

Tickets for Preakness at the Piazza can be purchased for $70, which include open bar and buffet for four hours. Couples tickets can be purchased for $65 each, and discounted group tickets are available for $55 each. Grab a group of friends and support this fantastic cause while having a blast. Please visit http://www.preaknessatthepiazza.com for more information and stay informed about the event by following the Twitter and liking the Facebook Page.

Support a Great Cause…

The Greater Delaware Valley Chapter of the National MS Society serves 14,000 local people living with MS. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50. MS is a chronic, unpredictable disease of the central nervous system with no known cause or cure. There is a wide range of symptoms, including tingling, numbness, tremors, loss of vision, cognitive issues and more. The National MS Society mobilizes people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges of everyone affected by MS. For more information visit their website.

Disclaimer: No compensation was received in exchange for this blog post. Two complimentary tickets were provided for PLF to attend the event.  Facebook, Twitter and Google are not affiliated with this giveaway. Event is not sponsored by Philly Loves Fun.

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• Preakness at the Piazza + All Things Preakness (gigglesgobblesandgulps.com)
• SS Calendar [5.18.13]: Preakness at the Piazza (sincerelysyreeta.com)
• Preakness Fun and Fashion at the Piazza (phl17.com)
• Preakness Stakes Tickets: Epic Nation Tickets Releases Huge Supply of Premium Preakness Stakes Horse Racing Tickets (prweb.com)
• Preakness Stakes : Orb Pursues Part Two Of The Triple Crown (seattle.cbslocal.com)

White Alert! Diner en Blanc to Return to Philadelphia in Summer of 2013, Wait List Now Open!

Dîner en Blanc announced today that the 2012 “Party of the Year” will return to Philadelphia this summer! The wait list officially opened and from Twitter reports, it already has nearly 1,500 people that signed up for another evening of magic, food, fun and fashion. Memorial Day isn’t even here, and we’ve already got our outfit pressed and ready to go. Who’s excited!?

Organizers of the pop-up picnic in white will announce the official date in mid-to-late May. In anticipation, the wait list is now open at philadelphia.dinerenblanc.info. As of 8:30 PM, nearly 1,500 people have already flooded the website and added their names to receive an official invitation. The wait list does not guarantee a spot to Dîner Blanc Philadelphia. It does ensure that wait list members will be notified when slots for the event go on sale in early summer.

Last year, 1,300 people attended the debut of Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia, with 650 slots sold (which included registration for two people) and 4,000 people on the wait list. The event went on to be called Philadelphia’s “Party of the Year” — and won a Pepperpot
Public Relations Award from the Public Relations Society of America, Philadelphia Chapter.

The official event date for the 2013 Diner en Blanc will be announced later in May, along with details of a special preview party on Wednesday, June 5, 2013 at Williams-Sonoma at the Bellevue Hyatt. We know we’ll be watching for info and be the first in line to preview the pop-up fun! Join us.. stay tuned for Diner en Blanc reports all summer long!

For more information, follow Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia on Facebook and on Twitter (@debphl).

Related articles

• Diner En Blanc To Return To Philadelphia In Summer 2013 (philadelphia.cbslocal.com)

Manscape Mania Benefits City of Hope: Have What It Takes to Be the Furriest Philadelphian?

Beach season is around the corner! Finding yourself ill-prepared could put you into a “hairy” situation. Join us on Sunday, May 19, 2013, from 10am to 4pm, as we hit up Jay Michael Salon and Spa (at the Phoenix, 1600 Arch Street) for Manscape Mania. The folks at Jay Michael are volunteering their time and donating 100% of monies collected to our favorite charity, City of Hope. Lose the fur and help fight prostate cancer during this unique grooming event.

Manscape Mania turns the mundane task of men’s grooming on its ear by adding fun and flair to buffing, coiffing and styling. Special packages have been developed to help save you dollars but let you leave looking like a rock-star  Before, during and after your services, enjoy beer tastings, complimentary nibbles from Tirnanog, free Matrix boxed gift set (value $40), free ride from Uber (up to $20) and a chance to win a $1,000 overnight prize package for two in the “Most Dramatic Makeover” contest.  Gifts in the package include Tiffany necklace and an Atlantic City Weekend Hotel Package. Who’s feeling lucky?

In advance of Manscape Mania, City of Hope and Jay Michael is looking to crown one lucky male “Furriest Philadelphian.” The winner will receive a makeover during  the day’s festivities, plus a year of free styling products (approximate value $400) and a year of complementary haircuts (approximate value $2,000). Interested applicants can apply by sending a current photo (headshot and full body) to jami@jaymichael.com by May 12, 2013.  Friends and family can also nominate a winner. Entries must include name, age and email address. Must be 21 and older to participate. Certain restrictions apply.

If you don’t have a need to tame your hairy beast, then feel free to nominate a friend and come watch their transformation.

Call 267-514-8000 to book one of the following spa packages on May 19th:

• The Scapegoat – Manly manicure, Pedicure, Chest and Back Wax ($100.00)
• The Cityscape – Manly manicure, eyebrow wax, fifteen minute chair massage, cut and style  ($100.00)
• The Beachscape – Thirty minute relaxation massage, thirty minute facial or bacial, manly manicure, cut and style ($200.00)
• The Sexyscape – Back or chest wax, thirty minute facial or bacial, manly manicure, cut and style and hint of color treatment ($200.00)

A la carte services are also available for cut and style, manly mani and waxing services at a discounted price (one-day only).  All pricing is available for one-day only, with appointments available on a first-come, first-served basis. Special pricing can’t be combined with other discounts. One hundred percent of proceeds will go to City of Hope as staff are generously donating their wages from the day to pay it forward  or “Live a Beautiful Life” (the company’s tagline/mission statement).

Make sure to come out and support our charity of the year — and come say hi! We’ll be getting our own transformation around 1pm. If we’re not feeling bashful we’ll tweet about it!  In the meantime, make your own appointment by calling (267) 514-8000 or visiting jaymichael.com. Entries for Furriest Philadelphian are also now being taken via email to jami@jaymichael.com. Deadline is May 12, 2013.

About Jay Michael Salon and Spa

Jay Michael Salon and Spa has been providing exceptional salon experiences since 1985. For decades, Philadelphia’s elite have flocked to Jay’s gorgeously appointed salons. Jay has partnered with Sarah Keating, owner of the former Phoenix Salon and Spa, and now has two warm and welcoming beauty establishments, one at Center City’s The Phoenix, the other at The Radnor Hotel. Jay Michael employs only the most seasoned, sensational staff members, extending incredible services to his clients. From coloring and cutting to breathtaking up dos, from indulgent massages and facials to waxing, make-up applications and manicures, Jay Michael Salon and Spa does it all. Each salon visit is guaranteed to exceed your most discriminating expectations, all the while making you look and feel fabulous. Visit jaymichael.com for more info.

About City of Hope

City of Hope is recognized worldwide for its compassionate patient care, innovative science and translational research, which rapidly turns laboratory breakthroughs into promising new therapies. For 100 years, City of Hope’s pioneering research has brought the world closer to cures for many life-threatening diseases, from cancer to diabetes. Compassion drives our innovation. Every discovery we make and new treatment we develop gives patients the chance to live longer, better and more fully. As an independent medical and research institution, we can break through the barriers that traditionally stand between scientists and physicians, accelerating the application of laboratory findings to more effective treatments. We work with urgency because time matters. Patients with cancer need better options today, not next week or next year. For many people, City of Hope is where hope begins. Visit cityofhope.org for more information.

Disclaimer: This post and contest is brought to you with support of the City of Hope. Facebook, Twitter and Google are not affiliated with any giveaway.  Data collected through this giveaway will not be shared without your consent.

East Passyunk’s Flavors of Avenue Serves Up America’s Best Eats Under One Tent

Usually mid-April is the time when everyone starts to think about the beach, dieting and swimsuits.  Over at Philly Loves Fun, that is actually the last thing on our minds as we lick our lips in anticipation of Philadelphia’s food fest scene. While City of Hope’s Let Them Eat Cake whet our appetite with some dessert before dinner, its Flavors of the Avenue that moves us over to the main course.

Get your napkins out and get ready to drool! 

East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District hit a home run at this year’s Flavors festival. Hot on the heels of being named to the “Top 10 Best Foodie Streets in America” list by Food and Wine Magazine, East Passyunk presented its largest outdoor food festival with amazing cuisine from 25 award-winning restaurants, bars and pubs.  Chefs brought out classic signature dishes to introduce to foodies in the making, while testing new dishes for the more experienced Flavors eater. Tickets went so fast this year that we actually attended the special media preview but didn’t even have time to post. It was also the first time that Flavors sold out every single VIP ticket.

What’s all the fuss about? Take a look at our food shots below and answer for yourself…

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After the food frenzy ended, we stopped down the road for a shopping spree around the Singing Fountain with the Crafty Balboa April Showers artisan fair.  Apparently everything that East Passyunk touches turns to gold these days, as the fair was also reported as selling out nearly instantly with 45 amazing vendors peddling everything from dog fashion to jewelry to baby gear to home decor. While we browsed the goods, we shook paws with paws with the huge turnout of pooches that came out to enjoy the beautiful day.  On our way out of Crafty Balboa we stopped by a small little pop-up flea market and watched our friends buy a piece of carpet the Pope had walked on. This treasure was only twenty-five cents. Talk about a bargain… Only in South Philly!  ;)

Our album for everything outside the Flavors tent is below… Enjoy! If you don’t want to miss the “next big thing” on East Passyunk make sure to like them on Facebook.

Disclaimer: No compensation was received in exchange for this blog post. Two complimentary tickets were provided as a giveaway. Facebook, Twitter and Google are not affiliated with this giveaway. Event is not sponsored by Philly Loves Fun.

Related articles

• Reminder: East Passyunk Avenue’s Flavors Of The Avenue And Crafty Balboa Arts And Crafts Sale This Saturday, April 27 (uwishunu.com)
• Food And Wine Magazine Awards East Passyunk Avenue A Spot On Its List Of 10 Best Foodie Streets In America (uwishunu.com)
• flavors of the avenue (reallyrisa.com)
• Flavors of East Passyunk: Slideshow (bizjournals.com)
• What’s Cooking on 1060: East Passyunk, Women In Food, and Wedding Cakes (philadelphia.cbslocal.com)
• best eats on east passyunk ave (reallyrisa.com)

City of Hope Dishes Up Sweetest Party of the Year: Let Them Eat Cake

City of Hope put the sweet cherry on top of 2013 with another benefit to raise funds for cancer research and treatment. “Let Them Eat Cake: A Night at the Movies” brought 40 of the region’s best pastry chefs, bakers and students to the Merion in South Jersey for a celebration unlike any other. Nearly 1,000 guests, sponsors and media spent the night being dazzled by unique, colorful and flavorful cakes that competed for the ‘golden statue.’  Philly Loves Fun was on hand to personally work our way through each and every cake – trying to find the fairest of them all. While we can’t say we got through each one, the crumbs on our shirt can attest we certainly tried our best!

This year’s fondant food fest included everything from the whimsical (Mouse Ate the Cheese cake), to the magical (Beauty and the Beast), to the unique (Rocky Horror) to even the scary (Nightmare on Elm Street). Cakes took inspiration from the movie theme in more ways than just one. In addition to fondant shapes, unique accessories and even some creative iPad placements, cakes flavors were inspired by everyone’s favorite drive-in snack: popcorn!  Popcorn seemed to be the new “black” as it was paired with chocolates, caramels and even vanilla.  Believe it or not, popcorn even served as a ‘body double’ and impersonated blue cheese. The mice on that display weren’t the only ones tempted to take a nibble!

The night’s big winners for the cake competition included:

• Audience Choice – The Master’s Baker (Chad and Christie)
• Most Artistic – Truly Custom Cakery (Stacey)
• Best Use of Theme – Sweet T’s Bakeshop (Toni and Chrissy)
• Best of Show – Sweet T’s Bakeshop
• Best Tasting – The Master’s Baker
• Best Student - Art Institute (Chef Rebecca Craig and assistant Corinne Jones)

Full list of bakers:

• Granny Schmidt’s
• The Merion
• Piece ‘a Cake
• Classic Cake
• The Master’s Baker
• Adelaides Cakes
• Artisserie Bakery
• The Sweet Life Bakery
• Good Foods to Go
• Art Institute of Philadelphia (Eric Boerner)
• Sweet T’s Bakeshop
• The Ambler Bake Shop LLC
• Davio’s Restaurant
• Truly Custom Cakery
• Restaurant School of Walnut Hill
• Art Institute of Philadelphia (Eric Boerner)
• Restaurant School of Walnut Hill
• Diane’s La Patisserie

In between bites of cake and meeting the amazing chefs, we also enjoyed live music, wedding and event party vendors, wine and champagne, mixing/mingling with celeb judges and an amazing VIP reception.  Stay tuned for a second story from “Let Them Eat Cake,” with a special celebrity interview! Now for the moment you’ve been waiting for – bring on the cake pics! 

About City of Hope

City of Hope is a leading research and treatment center for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. Designated as a Comprehensive Cancer Center, the highest honor bestowed by the National Cancer Institute, and a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, City of Hope’s research and treatment protocols advance care throughout the nation. City of Hope is located in Duarte, Calif., just northeast of Los Angeles, and is ranked as one of “America’s Best Hospitals” in cancer and urology by U.S.News & World Report. Founded in 1913, City of Hope is a pioneer in the fields of bone marrow transplantation and genetics.

Let Them Eat Cake is just one of many amazing fundraising drives and events that funds City of Hope’s work. Support them year-round! Visit their website for their upcoming events calendar and to make a personal or corporate donation.

Disclaimer: This post and contest is brought to you with support of the City of Hope - special thanks to them for the free tickets too! Facebook, Twitter and Google are not affiliated with any giveaway.  Data collected through this giveaway will not be shared without your consent.

Related articles

• Forty Cakes Set to Steal Spotlight at ‘Let Them Eat Cake’ Fondant Food Fest by City of Hope (phillylovesfun.wordpress.com)

Fly School Circus Arts Brings PIFA to New Heights with Tonight’s Trapeze Shows

Ladies and gentleman and children of all ages! It’s last call for the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts (PIFA). The month-long celebration of arts and culture ends this Saturday. There’s still plenty of time to enjoy the fun. Our first highlight is for a show tonight. Catch trapeze performers flying OFF their safety lines 25 feet above Broad Street. We’ll be there with bells on – come join the circus fun!

Fly School Circus Arts presents a high-flying grand finale to their participation in the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts (PIFA). Tonight and tomorrow night, Fly School presents two first ever flying trapeze shows within the boundaries of Center City. “Daringly High” performances will take place on Thursday, April 25 and Friday, April 26, 2013 at 8:00 PM in the University of the Arts Parking Lot on Broad Street (between Spruce and Pine streets, across from the Kimmel Center). Professional faculty and advanced students will present works that celebrate a moment in time dating back to 1965 when model Jean Shrimpton helped change the face of women’s fashion and challenged female roles in society. Announced performers include Fly School Director Mary Kelly Rayel, Caitlyn Larsson, Donovan Chandler and Christine Landon. All professional performers will do tricks and exhibit skills without a safety harness as they fly 25 feet in the air. Admission is $10.00 at the gate for a spot inside the parking lot. Best viewing spots are expected to go early, and tickets are first come, first served until they sell out. Trapeze shows come hot on the heels of dozens of sold-out classes during the 2013 PIFA. As of today, all trapeze classes are sold out through closing day. Over 750 adults and children have come to enjoy trapeze lessons that celebrate empowerment, confidence and freedom found in doing the unexpected.

Fly School celebrates the “If You Had a Time Machine…” theme by jetting back to October 30th, 1965, when model Jean Shrimpton shocked the Australian  establishment by attending Derby Day, a significant horse racing event in Melbourne, wearing a mini dress with a considerably higher hemline than was acceptable in Australian society. In doing so, she brought global attention to the fashion revolution already underway in Europe, one that was changing the landscape of women’s fashion from one of maternal imitation to one of individuality, empowerment, and youthful domination.

Each performance will showcase both the incredible talent and skills of the Fly School staff and the hard earned accomplishments of their students. The student performance will present a variety of skill levels and achievements, demonstrating how Flying Trapeze can enrich and empower the lives of all people. Fly School staff will take it to the next level with a traditional flying trapeze performance where they will astound audiences with professional skill, style, grace, and beauty!

For more information on Fly School, visit http://www.flyschoolcircusarts.com and follow @flyschoolcircus. With tickets only $10 how could you miss this high flying adventure!? We’re also excited to follow Fly School back home during your regular season. Watch for a giveaway coming in the summer! See you tonight!

Disclaimer: No compensation was received in exchange for this blog post. Philly Loves Fun is an official blogger for PIFA 2013.  Two complimentary tickets were provided as a giveaway. Facebook, Twitter and Google are not affiliated with this giveaway. Event is not sponsored by Philly Loves Fun.

Forty Cakes Set to Steal Spotlight at ‘Let Them Eat Cake’ Fondant Food Fest by City of Hope

Spring is in the air for Philly foodies as eating season is upon us! On Monday, April 15, 2013, City of Hope kick-starts the food festival season with one of our favorite parties of the year. “Let Them Eat Cake: A Night at the Movies” returns in its 9th edition with an amazing line-up of 40+ bakers, pastry chefs, cooking enthusiasts and students. The red carpet fun goes down at the Merion (1301 Route 130 South, Cinnaminson, NJ) – a gorgeous and elegant catering facility only five minutes away in South Jersey. VIP tickets are already sold out (congrats, City of Hope), but general admission tickets are available. Tickets are only $40 in advance (until Noon Monday, April 15) or $50 at the door. Get your forks out, napkins ready and come eat with us as we work our way through ALL 40+ cakes!

Dessert lovers, food fanatics, brides/grooms to be and spectators will converge at the Merion for a night filled with fondant as they sample their way through 40+ cakes in the country’s premiere wedding cake competition. Cakes this year will whisk guests away to the magic of Hollywood with movie-inspired cakes. A partial list of bakeries and chefs signed up for 2013’s “Cake” event include:

• Granny Schmidt’s
• The Merion
• Piece ‘a Cake
• Classic Cake
• The Master’s Baker
• Adelaides Cakes
• Artisserie Bakery
• The Sweet Life Bakery
• Good Foods to Go
• Art Institute of Philadelphia (Eric Boerner)
• Sweet T’s Bakeshop
• The Ambler Bake Shop LLC
• Davio’s Restaurant
• Truly Custom Cakery
• Restaurant School of Walnut Hill
• Art Institute of Philadelphia (Eric Boerner)
• Restaurant School of Walnut Hill
• Diane’s La Patisserie

At the end of the night, the envelopes will be out with awards for Best of Show, Most Artistic, Best Tasting and Best Themed. This year, guests can even join the fun by voting on a people’s choice winner.  The “Academy” will be compsed of an esteemed panel of judges headlined by celebrity judge Ron Ben-Israel, host of cooking competition TV show Sweet Genius.  Other VIP judges from the culinary arts and wedding industries include:

• Anne-Michelle Alberston, Chef Alberstons Cooking School
• Charlotte Albertson, Chef Alberstons Cooking School
• Mary Bigham, Town Dish and What’s Cooking with Mary on WCHE
• Laura Burkhardt, Where Magazine
• Natanya DiBona, Co-CHair Diner en Blanc Philadelphia
• Tracey DeShaine, Chef/ Owner of Dixie Picnic
• Kathy Gold, President of Les Dames D’Escoffier & Chef/ Owner of In the Kitchen Cooking Company &
• George Kryatas, Owner/TV Chef Sweetwater Grille
• Lari Robling, Food Journalist/ Producer WHYY (nominated for James
• Beard Award)
• Marilyn Russell, BENFM

For those who find themselves needing a brief break from the baked bliss, there’s also free Korbel champagne, wedding vendors, sponsor tables, and fabulous sounds from Back 2 Life by Brandywine Valley Talent. Philly Loves Fun will rock the ‘red carpet’ at this year’s cake by bringing you live updates on Twitter, interviews with the judges, and photos of the stars of the show — the cakes, of course!  Swim suit season is not for a few months, so get ready to bring your appetite. Our tip: It’s a marathon not a spring. Pace yourselves, scope out the cakes you want to try, and don’t forget you can leave with a take-home container. (Yes, we said it: a take-home container. You’re welcome!)

All proceeds benefit cancer research & treatment at City of Hope. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door. A special shuttle is also available leaving Center City. Parking is free. For tickets and shuttle info, contact Harry Giordano at 215-985-0869.

Tickets are also available online at:
http://www.cityofhope.org/giving/regional-fundraising-offices/philadelphia/let-them-eat-cake/Pages/default.aspx

About City of Hope:
City of Hope is a leading research and treatment center for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. Designated as a Comprehensive Cancer Center, the highest honor bestowed by the National Cancer Institute, and a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, City of Hope’s research and treatment protocols advance care throughout the nation. City of Hope is located in Duarte, Calif., just northeast of Los Angeles, and is ranked as one of “America’s Best Hospitals” in cancer and urology by U.S.News & World Report. Founded in 1913, City of Hope is a pioneer in the fields of bone marrow transplantation and genetics. For more in

Disclaimer: This post and contest is brought to you with support of the City of Hope - special thanks to them for the free tickets too! Facebook, Twitter and Google are not affiliated with any giveaway.  Data collected through this giveaway will not be shared without your consent.

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Contest: Win a Chance to Fly “Daringly High” On Trapeze During PIFA

Fly School Circus Arts heads back to Philadelphia for 30 days of flying trapeze lessons right on Broad Street.  Soar “Daringly High” above Center City during the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts. Philly Loves Fun partners with Fly School to give away two free lessons – valued at $55.00. Join us! 

In 2011, during the first PIFA, Philly Loves Fun stepped up to the platform and took flight right over Broad Street. The experience is one that we can barely describe in words. While we might have hesitated at first due to the height, the sense of freedom and empowerment had us going back up the ladder over and over again.  Fly School director/founder Mary Kelly Rayel and her amazing staff walked us though the process every step of the away.  By our second visit to Fly School later in 2011, we already were looking to expand our skills and perfect our technique. Join us as we head back to Fly School and PIFA for another amazing adventure!

FLY ABOVE BROAD STREET!

Flying trapeze lessons run daily from Thursday, March 28 through Saturday, April 27, 2013, at 9:00am, 11:30am, 4:30pm and 7:00pm. Outdoor rigging, reaching 25 feet in the air, will be set up in the University of the Arts empty parking lot between Spruce and Pine streets (across from the Kimmel Center). Each two hour class is geared to the individual, the first time student or the seasoned returning flyer. Fly School will end the festival on a high note with performances on Thursday, April 25 and Friday, April 26, 2013, at 8:00pm. Flying trapeze lessons are $55 for a two-hour lesson.  Reservations are available at the Kimmel Center Box Office, by calling (215) 546-PIFA or by visiting www.pifa.org. Pricing and details for flying trapeze performances will be announced in early April at www.flyschoolcircusarts.com and on Twitter by following @flyschoolcircus.

Adults and children (ages 6 and up) are invited to celebrate the empowerment, confidence and freedom found in doing the unexpected.  Fly School harnesses the “If You Had a Time Machine…” theme by jetting back to October 30th, 1965, when model Jean Shrimpton shocked the Australian establishment by attending Derby Day, a significant horse racing event in Melbourne, wearing a mini dress with a considerably higher hemline than was acceptable in Australian society.
In doing so, she brought global attention to the fashion revolution already underway in Europe, one that was changing the landscape of women’s fashion from one of maternal imitation to one of individuality, empowerment, and youthful domination.

PHILLY LOVES FUN FLIES AWAY!

Check out video footage from our very first lesson during PIFA 2011.

CONTEST

Tell us your story about a time in your life when you flew “Daringly High.” We want to hear how you overcame obstacles, faced your challenges and/or did the unexpected with amazing results.  There are four ways to share your story.  VISIT OUR CONTEST PAGE FOR DETAILS!  The deadline to enter is Tuesday, April 2, 2013 at 5:00pm.  The winner will be notified  in our comments section no later than 12:00pm on Wednesday, April 3, 2013.  We will post the winner’s name in our comment sections, on Twitter and on Facebook. Winners have 24 hours to reply. At that time we will move on to an alternate winner.

STAY TUNED!

When we’re done with our “Daringly High” adventure we have an exciting ticket giveaway to see the Bearded Ladies present “Wide Awake: A Civil War Cabaret.” Stay tuned to our website, Twitter feed and Facebook page.

Disclaimer: No compensation was received in exchange for this blog post. Philly Loves Fun is an official blogger for PIFA 2013.  Two complimentary tickets were provided as a giveaway. Facebook, Twitter and Google are not affiliated with this giveaway. Event is not sponsored by Philly Loves Fun.

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• PIFA Started Installing A Time Machine In The Kimmel Center (philebrity.com)
• REVIEW: P!nk in Philly is circus, cinema and spectacle — but good singing and songs, too (blogs.mcall.com)
• Time machine being built in Philadelphia for arts festival (nj.com)
• Coming Attraction: PIFA - The Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts – Is Set To Return March 28-April 27 With More Than 50 Events And Performances; Tickets On Sale Now (uwishunu.com)

Easter Bunny Hops Over to East Passyunk for Egg-citing Family Fun

Hop on down to East Passyunk Avenue for a day of ‘egg-citing’ Easter festivities! On Saturday, March 23, 2013, East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District (EPABID) presents its annual Easter Egg Hunt from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on the lawn of the South Philadelphia Older Adult Center (1430 East Passyunk).  This new location will have children leaping, hopping and jumping for joy as they find eggs in one of Passyunk’s  grassiest pastures.

Children are invited to decorate egg collecting bags, hunt for prize-filled eggs and meet the Easter Bunny.  Every egg will be filled with candy and Zitner’s Fine Confections.  Special golden ticket eggs will feature certificates for Belle Cakery, Favors and Flavors, Ms Goody Cupcake and prize-size Zitner’s eggs. Egg Hunt times are staggered by age group, with four and under at 11:00 AM, five to seven at 12:00 PM and eight to ten at at 1:00 PM.  After the festivities, families are invited to enjoy special brunch menus and bakery discounts at participating East Passyunk eateries.  The Egg Hunt is free and open to the public. For more information, go to www.visiteastpassyunk.com or call 215-336-1455.

Brunch and bakery specials for the annual Egg Hunt will include:

• Belle Cakery (1437 EPA) – Delicious selection of muffins, cinnamon buns, granola bars, hot chocolate, coffee, and other desserts, cookies and Easter treats. Special hours: Opens at 11:00 AM.
• Black N Brew (1523 EPA) – Zara’s Breakfast (one egg, one pancake bacon and sausage) for $5.00, Pigs in a Blanket (two pancakes two sausages) $5.00, Kids Grilled Cheese $2.95 and Kids PBJ $2.95.
• Cantina (1651 EPA) – Fire Roasted Salsa Mac ‘n’ Cheese, Hard Shell Tacos (with ground beef or vegan ground beef) and Blue Corn Meal Chicken Tenders.
• Favors and Flavors (1827 EPA) – $1.00 off children’s ice cream cones.
• Fuel (1917 EPA) – $1.00 pancakes for the kids and FREE Coffee with brunch for the adults.
• Ms Goody Cupcake (1838 EPA) – $2.00 spring + Easter cupcakes including Gigi’s famous Peeps cupcakes, free samples of Mommy’s Rice Ricotta Cheese Pie, and cake truffles on sale for buy two get one free.

In past years, the annual Egg Hunt attracted more than 350 children that searched for 1,000+ Easter Eggs. In 2013, EPABID expects record turnout and is busy preparing eggs to meet growing demand.  This free event is held rain or shine. In case of inclement weather, bags of candy will be handed out at 11:00 AM in front of the South Philadelphia Older Adult Center (1430 East Passyunk).

Join the crew from Philly Loves Fun until 1:00 Pm as we help give away candy. Dress to impress with your brightest Easter bonnets as we’ll also be taking photos. For weather updates, visit East Passyunk Avenue on Facebook or @epassyunkave on Twitter. For additional information, visit  www.visiteastpassyunk.com or call 215-336-1455.

Disclaimer: Events are not sponsored or endorsed by Philly Loves Fun. No compensation was received in exchange for this post.