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Everyone is celebrating New Year’s Eve in style this year. Are you spending the night out in the city or celebrating with close friends at an intimate party? Check out these looks to style yourself for your New Year’s Eve plans.
Insider tip: Catch some of the boutiques goods at the Season Finale party Wednesday, December 29, from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. at Boutique 77 located at 777 South Broad Street. They’ll be highlighting designers and selling last minute NYE dresses.
The rosette detailing of this piece creates a romantic twist on the classic “little black dress” for the fashionista hitting the New Year's Eve parties.
Get this look at:
4251 Main Street (Manayunk neighborhood)
For the fun-loving girl partying with friends at the bars, choose this bright flowing vintage get up to stand out in the crowd.
Get this look at:
If you are hosting a cocktail party or attending a celebration with friends, this timeless piece sparkles perfectly for New Year’s Eve.
Get this look at:
205 West Girard Avenue
This sophisticated dress puts a spin on the traditional outfit for celebrations, adding brilliant and ornate details to the shoulders to make this piece ideal for any New Year’s Eve plans.
Get this look at:
153 North 3rd Street
It’s not every day that a multi-platinum artist is in town looking to experience Philadelphia in a whole new way. So, when the opportunity comes knockin’, Philly 360⁰ is front and center! We spent an incredible day with R&B star Avant and showed him a side of Philly like no other—the Avenue of the Arts. While in town promoting the release of his new album entitled The Letter, we took Avant on what we call a Philly 360⁰ Music Legacy Tour to give him a taste of some of the prominent sites that are a part of Philly’s incomparable music legacy.
The first stop on the tour was the Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz and Performing Arts—a home to legends such as John Coltrane and Nina Simone. We walked through the performance space and Avant was fascinated by its history.
The next stop on the tour was the executive offices of Philadelphia International Records/Gamble-Huff Music, where Avant was completely in awe of the legendary gold records and original photos of artists such as Teddy Pendergrass, Patti Labelle, and The Intruders. Avant told us all about how much he loves the “Philly Sound,” and stated, “These songs mean something to people.” We couldn’t agree with him more.
Our last trip with Avant was a walk along the Philadelphia Music Alliance’s Walk of Fame on the Avenue of the Arts. We passed the bronze plaques for Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff, Teddy Pendergrass and many more. A perfect way to end our legacy tour!
But, it didn’t stop there. Philly 360⁰ hosted an exclusive album listening party at Gamble & Huff's new performance venue, TSOP Experience, where fans were able to hear clips of Avant’s new album. He told us some entertaining stories behind his songs, and gave an intimate performance of his new single, Kiss Goodbye. Check out our video to see what you missed. And don’t forget to pick up Avant’s new album!
From daring hair-do’s to stunning stilettos, the La Vie En Rose fashion show and cocktail reception was fabulous from head to toe. If you’re under the impression that it was simply another ordinary fashion show—think again. La Vie En Rose brought together some of today’s hottest stylists and designers to deliver a night of fashion-forward glamour.
La Vie En Rose gathered people from all walks of life for a common cause—to address the need to nurture and motivate young African American girls. Sarah Dash of the trio Labelle, The Honorable Dame Jennifer Smith (former Premiere of Bermuda) and noted designer Loris Diran were all fashionably present to show their support for The Evoluer House. In the spirit of giving, Cheryl Ann Wadlington, Executive Director of The Evoluer House, gave out several fun gifts at the close of the show to thank guests for showing their support. It doesn’t get much better than glitz and gifts.
In case you missed this incredible night, Philly 360⁰ is here to provide you with another exclusive experience. Check out the video below for a taste of the La Vie En Rose fashion show.
P.S. To learn more or to make a donation to The Evoluer House, visit www.evoluerhouse.org.
Philly loves an excuse to throw a party and have some fireworks, and it never drops the ball when it comes to New Year’s Eve and Day. So book your New Year’s hotel package, get on your best outfit, pop some bubbly and get ready to ring in the New Year, Philly 360-style!
SugarHouse Casino presents Twice the Fireworks! Twice the Fun!
Friday, December 31
6 p.m. and 12 midnight
Philly is going all out again for New Year’s Eve with fireworks lighting up the Delaware River and Philly skyline not once, but twice!
New Year’s Eve with DJ Jazzy Jeff
Friday, December 31
8:00 p.m.
3801 Chestnut Street
Get excited, because DJ Jazzy Jeff is ringing in the New Year in his hometown! For only $85, partygoers get to jam with one of the world’s best DJs and producers, enjoy a top-shelf open bar from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. and a complimentary buffet from 8:30 – 10:30 p.m. Buy your tickets here! And, make sure you check out his new holiday release here!
Insider tip: Groups of ten or more can get specially priced tickets at just $75 a piece.
The 6th Annual “Celebrity Style” Super-Inclusive New Year’s Eve Caribbean Gala
Friday, December 31
9:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Hyatt Regency at Penn's Landing Philadelphia
201 South Columbus Boulevard
If you’re looking for a party in style with a Caribbean flare that’s right by the fireworks, then this is the gala for you. DJs will be spinning a mix of reggae, hip hop, R&B and more. Tickets are $140.
New Years Eve with Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
Friday, December 31
Doors open at 8:30 p.m., show at 10:00 p.m.
3025 Walnut Street
Philly is getting a little taste of New Orleans on New Year’s Eve with Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue bringing their self-described “supafunkrock” sound which is mix of rock, funk, jazz, hip-hop and soul. Tickets range from $50 Loge (Reserved Seating): $80 ($75 ticket + $5 processing fee) Mezzanine (Reserved Seating/Free appetizers & champagne toast): $115 ($100 + $15 premium service*/processing fee)*priority seating and VIP amenities/service.
Two Liberty Place, 16th Street between Market & Chestnut Streets, 37th floor
The ultra-swanky R2L offers two ways to ring in 2011. Five hundred feet above the city, diners feast on a multi-course meal, with reservations available from 6:00-7:00 p.m. Then beginning at 10:00 p.m., part-lounge-part-bar Bar2L hosts a bash with a premium open bar, dessert lounge, hors d’oeuvres and a DJ.
Saturday, January 1
9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Broad Street, Oregon Avenue to City Hall
Philadelphia is the only city in America where New Year’s Day is more of a party than the night before. Don’t miss seeing the famous Mummers strut down Broad Street.
Insider tip: The intersection of Broad and Washington is the only spot where you can view all the Fancy Brigades without a ticket, making it a good location if you want to see it all.
Philly Overnight® Hotel Package has a must-not-be-missed two-night offer (Friday and Saturday nights), with extra perks like tickets to the Blue Cross RiverRink at Penn’s Landing, a buy-one-get-one cheesesteak deal and a late check-out of 3:00 p.m. The package also comes with a gift at check-in and free hotel parking (valued up to $75). Other New Year’s hotel specials around the Philadelphia region feature parties, champagne, breakfast and exceptional views of the two New Year’s Eve fireworks displays and the Mummers Parade. Check out the hotel packages here and book your New Year's weekend in Philly.
Looking to make a weekend of it? With the hotel package, we don't blame you. So, grab your hunny and get ready to make a weekend of it as you ring in the New Year in style.
LOCATION: Center City, Penn’s Landing
TRANSPORTATION: Foot, taxi or SEPTA
DURATION: Three days and two nights
3:00 p.m. – The whole city is aglow with holiday sparkle. Stroll hand-in-hand through Rittenhouse Square, which is all decked out in holiday style. Or, cozy up together at the Comcast Center to see The Comcast Holiday Spectacular, featuring festive images of the season set to the lush sounds of a 64-piece orchestra and shown on the 2,000-square-foot, 10 million-pixel LED wall in the building’s lobby.
5:00 p.m. – The festivities start early. Gear up for the big night at the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s after-hours New Year’s Eve Pre-Party, where you can explore the galleries while also enjoying live music and entertainment. Or bundle up, lace up and show off you triple axle during the Blue Cross RiverRink’s New Year’s Eve Party on Ice.
6:00 p.m. – Cocoa for two and a dazzling display of fireworks over the Delaware River sets a romantic scene—even if you aren’t skating—when SugarHouse Casino presents Twice the Fireworks! Twice the Fun! at 6:00 p.m. (If you’re a night owl, plan to see the second show at midnight.) Watch from the viewing areas at the Great Plaza, or join the party at the Independence Seaport Museum or aboard the Battleship New Jersey.
8:00 p.m. – Prefer to ring in 2011 on a cultural note? You have plenty of options: the Blue Man Group at Merriam Theater; Peter Nero and the Philly Pops’ Swinging in the New Year at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts; or White Christmas at the Walnut Street Theatre.
If dinner and drinks are more your thing, you’re in luck. The mood is festive at many Center City restaurants. Indulge in an elegant seven-course feast at Lacroix at The Rittenhouse Hotel, enjoy the casual sophistication of Adsum’s progressive bistro cuisine accompanied by a complementary glass of champagne or join the party at El Rey, offering a prix-fixe dinner and a tequila toast at midnight.
10:00 p.m. – World Cafe Live ushers in 2011 with the legendary Trombone Shorty performing his unique mix of jazz, rock, funk and soul. Get tickets for the show or turn it into a party with upgraded seating that includes a champagne toast. To get your groove on, head to The Blockley’s New Year’s Eve blowout, which includes a top-shelf open bar and the legendary DJ Jazzy Jeff spinning dance tunes.
10:00 a.m. – Ease into 2011 with a late breakfast in your hotel room, then pop into the National Constitution Center (yep, they’re open) to view the Art of the American Soldier exhibition, featuring artwork created by military personnel from World War I through today. If you’re feeling lucky, treat yourself to champagne brunch at SugarHouse Casino.
11:30 a.m. – Start the New Year like a native and join in the famous, feathered festivities of the Mummers Parade. The merriment begins with the Comics and Fancies stepping off at Broad Street
and Washington Avenue at 10:00 a.m., and the String Bands get started an hour later at Broad and
Shunk Streets.
1:00 p.m. – All that strutting can work up an appetite, so slip into a nearby restaurant for an indulgent lunch. Warm up by the cozy fireplace with a hot spiced cider and comfort food while sitting at McGillin’s Olde Ale House, or enjoy the tasty menu of contemporary cuisine and the tasteful atmosphere at Bliss.
2:30 p.m. – By now the String Bands are in full swing along Broad Street, so you can rejoin the fun, or swing by The Franklin Institute for your last chance to see Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt, which leaves town tomorrow.
5:00 p.m. – It’s time for the Fancy Brigade Finale at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. With elaborate scenery, professional choreography and costumes drenched in sequins and feathers, the Fancy Brigades give it their all as they vie for prizes and bragging rights.
7:00 p.m. – Find out what the buzz is about at Barbuzzo, where locally sourced Mediterranean-style cuisine keeps foodies coming back again and again. At Fork, the contemporary American menu is as stylish as the setting, and over at Bistrot La Minette, both the authentic menu and the charming setting are reminiscent of an evening in the French countryside.
9:30 a.m. – Feast on a menu featuring locally sourced home-cooked favorites at the recently renovated Down Home Diner in the Reading Terminal Market. Or, brunch at Sabrina’s Cafe in the Italian Market, where you’ll meet other locals who line up for hearty omelets, fruit-topped waffles and other homemade specials. Another option is Di Bruno Bros. in Rittenhouse Square, where the casual second-floor cafe features many of the gourmet items they sell in the upscale first-floor grocery.
11:00 a.m. – If you haven’t been to Historic Philadelphia lately, you haven’t been to Historic Philadelphia. Stop by the newly opened site of The President’s House: Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation, recounting the lives of the enslaved who resided in the home of President George Washington.
1:00 p.m. – Revelers who didn’t get enough clownery at the Mummers Parade can snag tickets for one of two spectacular Cirque du Soleil performances of Dralion at Temple University’s Liacouras Center. For art lovers, today is the last day of Narcissus in the Studio: Artist Portraits and Self-Portraits at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.
The countdown has begun! The holidays are 11 days away. Here are some last minute gift items that everyone will love.
1510 Sansom Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 545-2850
If you’re looking for a great pair of cuff links to compliment that stylish suit in your man’s closet, Distante features a variety of well-made and designed links. They are sure to give a man that extra flair for the holidays.
60 North 2nd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(310) 612-4636
Need a great gift for the ladybug in your life? Vivant Art Collection in Olde City has a hand painted espresso set done in a red and black lady bug pattern. Too cute! The gallery displays a cultural art exhibit of works from Africa and the Caribbean so if you are looking for a gift for the art connoisseur, look no further.
3502 Scotts Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19129
(267) 297-7636
Duafe Salon has come up with a holiday treat for all natural locked individuals. They offer a holiday hair care product kit, which includes shampoo, conditioner, slicker, and body oil—and it’s all wonderfully packaged into what they are calling a lock box! Treat the locked one that you love to this wonderful treat.
265 South Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107-5659
(215) 893-9456
This holiday seasom, buy tickets to BalletX’s spring series 2011. BalletX’s performances feature a multimedia dance production that incorporates ballet, spoken text, video, and originally composed music. Treat the whole family to a great performance for the holidays.
1040 N. 2nd Street, # 301
Philadelphia, PA 19123
(215) 829-1009
Treat the special lady in your life to a relaxing sensation such as a paraffin wax treatment and minx manicure in Northern Liberties. Spa East will leave you pampered and waxed for the New Year. Don’t be the last to know about this great holiday dea! Why not treat yourself while you’re at it?
Nino Brand Sample Sale
December 16
6 – 9 p.m.
1639 Fitzwater Street
Keep warm in the freezing cold with a cape coat made by Nino Brand by designer Bela Shehu this holiday. This stylish cape coat is more than just a gift—it’s a lux gift of style. Give the gift of lux wear and also catch this gem at their sample sale for 70% on Thursday, December 16 from 6-9 at 1639 Fitzwater Street. You’ll surely be the envy of all females this season.
537 North 10th Street
(215) 232-8090
Give the gift of beauty! Salon Tenshi is offering a complimentary full-face makeover and pack of makeup removal wipes as well as brush cleaning wipes if you purchase gifts over $100. Stop in to peruse the locally made makeup line. Every piece is sure treat!
151 N. 3rd Street
(215) 829-0606
‘Tis the season for giving, so don’t forget to visit Matthew Izzo Boutique and experience peace and tranquility while splurging on your most favorite winter fashions. Custom made candles adorn the quaint boutique, which manage to alter the feel of your shopping trip while still arranging to lighten up your holiday. Plus, check out one of my favorite lines, Duke + Winston!
270 South 11th Street
(215) 925-3505
Be sure your man is trimmed and ready for 2011. Give your guy the gift of a straight razor shave at 2 B Groomed Barbering Studios. He will enjoy a relaxing shave and hot towel treatment with stimulating jazz music playing in the background. Don’t hesitate on helping your guy look and feel like a new man for the New Year!
713 Walnut Street
Make sure you visit Lolli Lolli Boutique this holiday season to treat your children to fun and charming get-ups like tutus for her and vintage tees for him—and don’t forget to pick up a toy or two to place under the tree on your way out!
Philadelphia does everything with style and flare, and this includes the holidays. Whether you’re looking for a holiday light show or Philly exclusive shopping experiences for the perfect holiday gifts, the city will keep you busy the entire holiday season. So, grab some hot chocolate from one of our cafes and explore Philly in the holidays.
Philadelphia was recently declared the 'Best City to Celebrate Holiday Spirit' in the world!
Christmas Light Show at Macy’s Center City
Through December 31, 2010
1300 Market Street – Macy’s Grand Court
The Christmas Light Show at Macy’s Center City is an annual, old school Philly tradition that keeps the floors of Macy’s filled with spectators all season long. Using over 100,000 LED lights and the sounds of the legendary Wanamaker organ in the heart of the older Wanamaker’s building, the Grand Court atrium lights up with holiday stories and songs told through lights, music and narration.
Insider tip: This is a free show.
Comcast Holiday Spectacular
Through January 2, 2011
1701 John F. Kennedy Boulevard
If you’re looking for some state-of-the-art holiday entertainment and you have 15 minutes to spare, this is a must stop holiday attraction. The Comcast Holiday Spectacular returns for the third year and is fast becoming a new holiday tradition in Philadelphia. Check out the Comcast Experience Video Wall (the largest LED screen in the world) at The Comcast Center, for the holiday show. It runs every hour on the hour from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., with the exception of 5 p.m. on weekdays.
Insider tip: This is a free show.
The Holidays at Franklin Square
Through December 31, 2010
6th and Race Streets
All December-long, Franklin Square will be lit with thousands of holiday lights making the charming square even more quaint and colorful. Through New Year’s Eve, the park will be aglow, setting the perfect mood for the season.
Insider tip: Stop by The African American Museum in Philadelphia before taking a stroll through the square.
Holiday Lights in Rittenhouse Square
18th and Walnut Streets
Rittenhouse Square transforms into a holiday wonderland with the flip of a switch, as the park and Philadelphia’s largest Christmas tree (over 30 feet tall!) become illuminated with 5,000 brilliant, multi-colored globes and lights.
Insider tip: Before enjoying the beautiful glow of the park, sneak in some holiday shopping at the shops and boutiques along the trendy and stylish Rittenhouse Row and enjoy a warm, delicious meal or a much-deserved drink at one of the many restaurants and bars in the area.
1 Boathouse Row
With the boathouses lit up for the holidays, Boathouse Row is a beautiful spot to enjoy some holiday lights.
Insider tip: Get some culture in at the Philadelphia Museum of Art while you are in the area.
Christmas in Peddler’s Village
Peddler’s Village
41 Peddler’s Village Road (Routes 2020 and 263), Lahaska, PA
Prepare to be dazzled when you venture to the countryside to see the one million holiday lights at Peddler’s Village. While you’re in a festive mood, explore more than 70 specialty shops—perfect for your holiday shopping.
Longwood Gardens Christmas
Through January 9, 2011
Longwood Gardens
1101 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA
If you're looking for a charming winter wonderland, then Longwood Gardens is a must-stop holiday attraction. With nearly half a million sparkling lights and spectacular fountain shows, Longwood Gardens will have you oohing and ahhing, and it is sure to get you into the holiday spirit. Stroll through the decorated and lit Gardens before warming up in heated conservatory with twenty “rooms” all decked out in their holiday bests.
Check out uwishunu.com for more holiday picks.
City Hall Christmas Village
November 25-December 24, 2010
West side of Dilworth Plaza (City Hall at 15th Street and JFK Boulevard)
This European tradition comes to the plaza outside of City Hall for the third year. Around 80 holiday vendors made up of local artists and German vendors fill the plaza daily with all sorts of cool holiday items--like traditional German ornaments, jewelry and hand blown glass. Be sure to check out the newest edition at Christmas Village--a carousel.
Insider tip: Bring your appetite. The food tent offers many yummy treats including bratwursts and assorted pastries and desserts.
A Christmas Night Market at the Piazza
December 17 from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.
December 18 from 4:00 - 9:00 p.m.
December 19 from 1:00 - 7:00 p.m
Speaking of European Christmas markets, head over to the always trendy and cool Piazza at Schmidts in the Northern Liberties neighborhood for three evenings of holiday shopping, food and art. Over 50 local vendors will be bringing holiday cheer for passersby.
Insider tip: There will be a gift wrapping station, so make this a stop during your holiday shopping!
Manayunk’s Classic Holiday on Main Festival
Saturdays and Sundays leading up to Christmas Day
Main Street in Manayunk
Main Street in Manayunk is filled with charming boutiques and artist shops, and during the holidays, the festive lights and decorations are sure to make your shopping season much brighter. Venture out to the trendy neighborhood for its Holiday on Main Festival to explore all of the quaint boutiques, gift shops and upscale chains, plus seasonal arts and crafts vendors, and get ready to do some major shopping! You'll be able to shop for everyone on your list here.
Christmas in Peddler's Village
November 19, 2010 through January 1, 2011
Peddler’s Village, Lahaska, PA
Peddler’s Village goes all out for the holidays, with gingerbread displays, miles of twinkling lights and so many festive shopping opportunities, with over 70 shops to choose from.
Main Street Boutiques and Shops of the Philadelphia Countryside
If you're looking for a shopping experience of the suburban kind, head out to some of Philly's charming main streets in neighboring towns, like New Hope, Phoenixville and Ardmore.
Insider tip: Plan ahead and do a little research to make sure that you get the best deals!
Holidays on the Hill
November 19, 2010 through January 1, 2011
Chestnut Hill, PA
Take a trip out to Chestnut Hill for their annual Holidays on the Hill celebration. With the twinkling lights decorating the trees, carolers singing holiday music and shops decorated for the season, you are sure to have a charming holiday shopping experience.
Insider tips: On Wednesday nights (6 - 9 p.m.) thru December 22, stop by Chestnut Hill for Stag and Doe nights, where the shops stay open for the evening with snacks and warm beverages. Also, stop by Diamond Spa to get their Stag & Doe Nights offer--10% off on Gift Certificate purchase over $30.00.
Looking for more boutique shopping options? Check some of the boutique picks by Fashion Insider Rakia here.
Kwanzaa Celebration at African American Museum in Philadelphia
December 26, 29 and 30, 2010
Noon - 4 p.m.
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
701 Arch Street
The African American Museum in Philadelphia is gearing up for their annual Kwanzaa celebration. Check out their program schedule below.
December 26, 2010
Umoja (Unity)
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
12 p.m. – 1 p.m. (Auditorium) – Kwanzaa Nguzo Saba Candle Lighting Ceremony and Dance with Amma
1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. (Gallery 3) – Kwanzaa Krafts: Bookbinding with Martina Johnson Allen
1 p.m. – 2 p.m. (Auditorium) – Face painting by Mlanjeni’s Magical Theater
2 p.m. – 3 p.m. (Auditorium) – Kwanzaa presentation by Mlanjeni’s Magical Theater
3 p.m. – 4 p.m. (Auditorium) – Kwanzaa Stories with Keepers of the Culture
2:30 p.m. (Gallery 3) – Film Screening: The Black Candle (71 min.)
Free Admission
December 29, 2010
Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)
The Gallery at Market East
Plaza Area, 9th and Market
12 p.m. – 1 p.m. – Kwanzaa Nguzo Saba Candle Lighting Ceremony and Dance with Amma
1 p.m. – 2 p.m. – Kwanzaa Krafts: Bookbinding with Martina Johnson Allen
1 p.m. – 2 p.m. – Face painting by Mlanjeni’s Magical Theater
2 p.m. – 3 p.m. – Kwanzaa presentation by Mlanjeni’s Magical Theater
3 p.m. – 4 p.m. – Kwanzaa Stories with Ron Carter
Free Admission
December 30, 2010
Nia (Purpose)
The Gallery at Market East
Plaza Area, 9th and Market
12 p.m. – 1 p.m. – Kwanzaa Nguzo Saba Candle Lighting Ceremony and Dance with Amma
1 p.m. – 2 p.m. – Kwanzaa Krafts: Bookbinding with Martina Johnson Allen
1 p.m. – 2 p.m. – Face painting by Mlanjeni’s Magical Theater
2 p.m. – 3 p.m. – Kwanzaa presentation by Mlanjeni’s Magical Theater
3 p.m. – 4 p.m. – Kwanzaa Stories with Carla Wiley
Free Admission
December 28 – 31, 2010
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
1 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. – Film Screening: The Black Candle (71 min.)
Free with Museum Admission
DJ Jazzy Jeff and Ayah Bring Holiday Cheer with a New Song!
We're getting into the holiday spirit with this new song from DJ Jazzy Jeff and Ayah. They've been busy getting their debut album ready, but they found time to deliver this holiday treat.
This soulful tune is entitle Xmas Time. So grab some eggnog, sit back and enjoy!
Check out the song here!
Hundreds stopped by Independence Mall on Wednesday, December 15, to witness history unfold at the ribbon cutting opening of the
President’s House: Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation.
With the opening at Independence National Historical Park (INHP), which has over 3 million visitors annually, INHP becomes one of the nation’s most important sites to address the issue of slavery and to commemorate the lives of the enslaved. What makes the site all the more compelling is the juxtaposition of the site just steps from the Liberty Bell, the nation’s iconic symbol of liberty and freedom.
The site, ten years in the making, is a testament to the power of public voice to create change. It was the African American community, historians, public officials, journalists and others who kept the pressure on and the cause alive.
Be one of the first to experience this important and powerful site. For context, also check out the African American Museum in Philadelphia’s Audacious Freedom exhibition. Also, pick up a Philly 360° Legacy brochure in the Independence Visitor Center to learn more about African American legacy sites in Philadelphia.
Watch the following video for more on the President's House site's past, present and future:
About the President's House site:
The President’s House site deals with the paradox of slavery and freedom. Visitors will be able to see structural fragments of the home where Presidents Washington and Adams lived during their terms and where nine enslaved people served the first president. At the open-air Independence National Historical Park site, located just steps from the Liberty Bell Center, visitors will learn about the events that transpired at the President’s House through illustrated glass panels, timelines and video re-enactments. They’ll also have a place to partake in silent reflection at the 24-hour site.
Philly 360° Legacy is your guide to African-American history in Philadelphia with a contemporary twist—from the President’s House and Mother Bethel, which highlight Philadelphia as a birthplace of human rights, to the music landmarks that make Philly the home of R&B and soul.
We will feature some of Philly’s most significant African-American legacy sites and stories. Plus, our insider tips and facts will allow you to experience history in a whole new light.