The Joan Bressler Set in Philadelphia Screenwriting Competition<\/p>\n
The Joan Bressler Set in Philadelphia 2027 Screenwriting Competition, which is presented by the Greater Philadelphia Film Office, is open to all screenwriters, world-wide, who submit a feature length screenplay or an original TV pilot length screenplay that can be shot in the Greater Philadelphia Metropolitan Area. Whether you\u2019re an experienced writer or fresh talent, we want to celebrate voices in storytelling while highlighting the opportunity and potential of Philadelphia locations by focusing on scripts that can be brought to life locally. And showcase the city and surrounding region as a viable and compelling setting for film and television. Your screenplay has the opportunity to carry forward a legacy of creative excellence, supported by the resources and partnerships of our city\u2019s film office community. All genres accepted. Writers do not need to be from Philadelphia, and scripts do not need to be explicitly set in Philadelphia. They must simply be feasible to shoot in the Philadelphia region. This year, the competition features over $20,000 in cash prizes, alongside direct industry exposure and detailed feedback opportunities for participating writers.<\/p>\n
When: deadline is Monday, Oct. 19<\/p>\n
Broadway Cabaret at Rittenhouse Grill<\/p>\n
Broadway Cabaret at Rittenhouse Grill proudly welcomes Tony Award winner Matt Doyle, bringing one of Broadway\u2019s most versatile performers to Philadelphia\u2019s only Broadway cabaret venue. An accomplished actor and vocalist, Matt has built a career spanning musical theater, concert performance, and the screen, distinguished by his exceptional musicality and wide-ranging body of work. He will be joined by his musical director, Evan Zavada, a rising talent in the Broadway music scene. Set inside the Warwick Hotel, Rittenhouse Grill evokes a classic 1940s supper club with plush armchairs, booths, and an elegant atmosphere that perfectly complements Broadway Cabaret\u2019s intimate performances.<\/p>\n
Where: Rittenhouse Grill, 1701 Locust St.<\/p>\n
Rivers Casino Philadelphia Job Fair<\/p>\n
Big things, including jobs, are coming to Rivers Casino Philadelphia. The Fishtown entertainment destination will be opening new venues soon and will be holding a job fair with a focus on food and beverage positions. No experience is needed, and full- and part-time positions are available. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Prospective Team Members will enjoy a taste of signature dishes from the casino\u2019s dining options, from both current popular restaurants like Sapore and those opening soon. Positions include sous chefs, cooks, runners, bartenders, servers, managers and greeters. Qualified candidates can receive on-the-spot job interviews, with the possibility of immediate job offers. Those hired at the job fair who complete six months of employment will also be entered into an exclusive drawing to win premium prizes, including sporting event tickets.<\/p>\n
When: Monday, Oct. 19 from 5-7 p.m. and Tuesday, Oct. 20 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.<\/p>\n
Where: Rivers Casino Philadelphia, 1001 N. Delaware Ave.<\/p>\n
\u201dThe Great Gatsby\u201d<\/p>\n
Set in the Roaring Twenties, the story follows eccentric and mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby, who will stop at nothing in the pursuit of the lost love of his youth, Daisy Buchanan. Through its fascinatingly nuanced characters \u2013 driven by complex inner lives, erupting with extravagance and longing \u2013 this epic tale has always been destined to sing. Now, it comes to life across North American stages, with a grand, Tony Award-winning production design befitting the 21st century. The production also carries a special connection to the Philadelphia region. The musical\u2019s Tony Award-nominated book was written by Kait Kerrigan, a Doylestown native and Muhlenberg College graduate whose work has been seen on stages across the country. Philadelphia audiences will have the opportunity to experience a Broadway phenomenon shaped in part by one of the region\u2019s own theatrical voices.<\/p>\n
When: Tuesday, Oct. 20-Nov. 1<\/p>\n
Where: Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.<\/p>\n
\u201dThe Magicians Table\u201d<\/p>\n
The Magicians Table\u2019s limited five-week engagement brings audiences into an intimate world where astonishing close-up magic, live music, handcrafted cocktails, immersive storytelling, and laugh-out-loud comedy combine to create an unforgettable adults-only night out. \u201cThe Magicians Table\u201d will feature touring magicians as well as a selection of artists from across the Philadelphia region.<\/p>\n
When: Wednesday, Oct. 21-Nov. 22<\/p>\n
Where: SEI Innovation Studio, inside the Kimmel Center, 300 S. Broad St.<\/p>\n
Linked Family Services Ribbon Cutting, Open House & Community Giveaway<\/p>\n
On Thursday, Linked Family Services will unveil a new mobile resource van designed to deliver essential baby supplies and family support directly into Philadelphia neighborhoods. The unveiling will take place during a ribbon cutting and community Open House at The Link in West Philadelphia, featuring free food, essential supplies and resources for families. Through the Tiny Essentials Relief Hub Mobile Care Delivery Service, eligible families can receive diapers, wipes, formula when available, hygiene products and other baby essentials through monthly home delivery. The program also supports participating childcare centers and provides ongoing care coordination. The event coincides with Children\u2019s Health Month and will bring together families, community leaders, partners and supporters around one goal: helping children and families thrive before challenges become crises.<\/p>\n
When: Thursday, Oct. 22 from 9:30 a.m.- 1 p.m.<\/p>\n
Where: The Link, 4244 Lancaster Ave.<\/p>\n
\u201dSurvivor\u201d casting call<\/p>\n
Have what it takes to be the ultimate \u201cSurvivor\u201d? Rivers Casino Philadelphia will host an in-person casting call for \u201cSurvivor,\u201d CBS\u2019 iconic reality TV show. The casting call will take place at The Event Center in Fishtown on Thursday. The day will be filled with \u201cSurvivor\u201d trivia and giveaways, plus casino perks. \u201cSurvivor\u201d legend Cirie Fields will participate in a panel discussion and be on-site for two meet-and-greet sessions.<\/p>\n
When: Thursday, Oct. 22 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.<\/p>\n
Where: Rivers Casino Philadelphia, 1001 N. Delaware Ave.<\/p>\n
Lakecia Benjamin comes to Philly<\/p>\n
As part of the 2026\u201327 Jazz Series, Benjamin brings her electrifying live performance to Philadelphia, showcasing the bold artistry that has established her as one of the defining voices in contemporary jazz.<\/p>\n
When: Thursday, October 22 at 7:30 p.m.<\/p>\n
Where: Perelman Theater, inside the Kimmel Center, 300 S. Broad St.<\/p>\n
Opera Philadelphia presents Philly-premiere of \u201cSuddenly Last Summer\u201d<\/p>\n
Following its world premiere at the Fisher Center at Bard this summer, Opera Philadelphia presents the Philadelphia premiere of \u201cSuddenly Last Summer,\u201d the first opera by 2023 MacArthur Fellow Courtney Bryan. Based on Tennessee Williams\u2019 searing Southern Gothic drama, the new work brings together Bryan, Tony Award-winning director Daniel Fish and Gideon Lester, Artistic Director and Chief Executive of the Fisher Center at Bard, in a hybrid work of music and theater that probes the dangerous intersection of truth, power, wealth, sexuality and memory. Set between the Garden District of New Orleans and the Mediterranean coast, Suddenly Last Summer centers on the mysterious death of the poet Sebastian Venable. Sebastian\u2019s cousin, Catherine (soprano Mikaela Bennett), witnessed his final moments and returned to New Orleans consumed by the need to tell what she saw. But Sebastian\u2019s wealthy and powerful mother, Mrs. Venable (actress Stephanie Roth Haberle), is determined to suppress Catherine\u2019s account \u2014 going so far as to attempt to have her lobotomized so that the story can be erased from her memory. Tickets are required.<\/p>\n
When: Thursday, Oct. 22, 23 and 25<\/p>\n
Where: Forrest Theatre, 1114 Walnut St.<\/p>\n
The Philly True Crime Tour<\/p>\n
The Philly True Crime Tour is a 21+ BYOB trolley tour exploreing the history and sites of true crime in Philadelphia. Guests will hear stories of some of the most heinous murders committed in the city, delivered by an expert guide. Live musical performances from some of Philadelphia\u2019s most talented artists will also take place on the trolley throughout the experience. Please note: this tour contains graphic and disturbing content and is recommended for adult audiences only.<\/p>\n
When: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.<\/p>\n
Where: meeting point at 901 N. Delaware Ave.<\/p>\n
Beyond the Binary Workshop<\/p>\n
Beyond the Binary: Redressing Gender, Rethinking the Closet. A \u201cMethodology of the Closet\u201d workshop with Dr. M. Peregrine Balmat invites participants to explore personal identity through their wardrobes. A clothing swap will offer an opportunity to exchange items.<\/p>\n
When: Friday, Oct. 23 from 4-6 p.m.<\/p>\n
Where: Philly Pride Visitor Center, 1139 Locust St.<\/p>\n
October Twilight in the Gardens<\/p>\n
Celebrate the year\u2019s final Twilight in the Gardens at Philadelphia\u2019s Magic Gardens with a BYOB evening featuring live music by Mixed People, a new age funk band led by Paulette Branson, in the museum\u2019s glittering courtyard. Join teaching artist Avery Demarest to create playful \u201cbug taxidermy\u201d using decorated plastic insects, with no prior experience needed. Guests can also explore the rarely seen mosaicked basement on self-guided tours and view \u201cViviendo a trav\u00e9s de la muerte\/Living Through Death: Works by Ivette Chaires\u201d in the galleries.<\/p>\n
When: Friday, Oct. 23 from 7-10 p.m.<\/p>\n
Where: Philadelphia\u2019s Magic Gardens, 1020 South St.<\/p>\n
Ballets Jazz Montr\u00e9al: Dance Me \u2013 The Music of Leonard Cohen<\/p>\n
Ballets Jazz Montr\u00e9al returns to Philadelphia in its final tour of Dance Me, an homage to famed poet and singer\/songwriter Leonard Cohen. With \u201cvirtuoso dancing and an unbeatable soundtrack\u201d (Broad Street Review) of Cohen\u2019s iconic songs, choreographers Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, Andonis Foniadakis and Ihsan Rustem evoke the cycles of human existence explored in his insightful music and poems. \u201cLeonard Cohen\u2019s art and soul shine on in this stirring tribute\u201d (The Telegraph) that reveals new meaning in favorites like \u201cHallelujah\u201d and \u201cSuzanne.\u201d<\/p>\n
When: Friday, October 23-24<\/p>\n
Where: Annenberg Center, 3680 Walnut St.<\/p>\n
Earthquake comes to Philly<\/p>\n
Comedian Earthquake will bring his bold humor, sharp wit and unforgettable storytelling to Rivers Casino Philadelphia\u2019s Event Center on Friday. With nearly 30 years of experience performing for audiences around the world, Earthquake \u2014 born Nathaniel Stroman \u2014 has become a celebrated comedian, actor and radio personality known for his observational humor and relatable perspective. He gained national recognition in the 1990s through appearances on HBO\u2019s \u201cDef Comedy Jam\u201d and BET\u2019s \u201cComicView,\u201d helping establish his reputation as one of stand-up\u2019s most distinctive voices. Since his Netflix debut in 2022, Earthquake has continued to expand his entertainment career with appearances on CBS\u2019 \u201cThe Neighborhood,\u201d Jerry Seinfeld\u2019s Netflix comedy film \u201cUnfrosted\u201d and the indie comedy film \u201cThe Gutter.\u201d He also hosts \u201cQuake\u2019s House\u201d on Kevin Hart\u2019s Laugh Out Loud Radio on SiriusXM. Earthquake\u2019s Netflix special \u201cChappelle\u2019s Home Team \u2014 Earthquake: Legendary\u201d was produced by Dave Chappelle and his Magic Lemonade production company.<\/p>\n
When: Friday, Oct. 23 at 8 p.m.<\/p>\n
Where: Rivers Casino Philadelphia, 1001 N. Delaware Ave.<\/p>\n
Philly Chef Showdown: Taste, Competition & Philly Flavor<\/p>\n
Philadelphia\u2019s chefs are ready to battle! Join the first-ever Philly Chef Showdown, an afternoon celebrating great food, local culinary talent, entrepreneurship and a little friendly competition. Come hungry and experience Philly chefs bringing their creativity and flavor to the table as they compete for bragging rights. Hosted by Tanya T. Morris, the event will bring together food lovers, entrepreneurs and the community for an experience designed to celebrate Philadelphia\u2019s culinary scene.<\/p>\n
When: Saturday, Oct. 24 from 12-5 p.m.<\/p>\n
Where: North Philly Welcome Center, 1501 N. Broad St.<\/p>\n
Comic Relied brings Neighborhood Festivals to Philly<\/p>\n
Comic Relief is bringing its new national Neighborhood Festivals series to Philadelphia for a free, family-friendly community event built to connect neighbors, support local kids, and show accessible ways to help end childhood poverty. Designed as an open-format neighborhood party, the event brings together live comedy, food, giant lawn games, and hands-on giveback experiences alongside local nonprofits. Attendance is free, but advance registration is required at comicrelief.org\/PhillyFest<\/a>.<\/p>\n When: Saturday, Oct. 24 from 1\u20134 p.m.<\/p>\n Where: Village of Industry & Art, 320 S. Broad St.<\/p>\n Pennsylvania Chocolate & Coffee Festival<\/p>\n Chocolate, coffee, culture, and history come together this fall as the third annual Pennsylvania Chocolate & Coffee Festival returns to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks. For one weekend, festival guests can take a journey around the world with their senses sampling chocolates made from cacao grown in Ecuador, Venezuela, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond, while discovering coffees sourced from growing regions including Ethiopia, Kenya, Costa Rica, Honduras, and beyond. But this year, the journey goes well beyond tasting. From live coffee roasting and hands-on educational experiences to a four-foot chocolate sculpture celebrating America\u2019s 250th anniversary, the 2026 festival will offer guests more ways than ever to experience the stories, techniques, cultures, and people behind chocolate and coffee. More than 150 vendors will fill the festival floor with artisan chocolates, specialty coffees, baked goods, gourmet foods, handcrafted products, and unique finds from Pennsylvania and beyond. Beyond chocolate and coffee, attendees can sample and shop specialty foods including olive oils, seasonings, sauces, honey, tea, baked goods, and gourmet treats, while browsing handcrafted items such as pottery, candles, soaps, jewelry, and more. The festival is designed to give guests the chance to discover new flavors, meet the makers behind the products, and take home something they may not find in a traditional grocery store. Tickets are required.<\/p>\n When: Saturday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 25 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.<\/p>\n Where: The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center & Fairgrounds, 100 Station Ave., Oaks, PA 19456<\/p>\n Fourth Annual Philly Flannel Fest<\/p>\n What started as an idea from Philadelphia entrepreneur and returning citizen Robbie Long has grown into a fall experience that welcomed more than 1,300 guests last year. Now, Long is bringing Philly Flannel Fest back for its fourth year and continuing to build a brand centered on Philadelphia culture, entrepreneurship and community. Attendees can expect DJs, music and performances throughout the afternoon; seasonal cocktails, cocoa, local wines and Philly favorites; fall-inspired installations and backdrops built for sharing; guests showing off everything from classic plaid to head-to-toe fall looks; and Philadelphia makers, entrepreneurs and small businesses. This event is rain or shine; tickets are required.<\/p>\n When: Sunday, Oct. 25 from 12-5 p.m.<\/p>\n Where: The Braid Mill, 441 E. High St.<\/p>\n Halloween on the Hill: Trick-or-Treat Stroll<\/p>\n Join the Chestnut Hill District for autumn fun and spooky Halloween spiritl! The historic village feels extra magical this time of year \u2014 whether you\u2019re enjoying a cozy fall dinner outdoors or visiting for one of our Halloween happenings. On Sunday, families are invited to walk Germantown Avenue and Bethlehem Pike in costume. Participating shops and restaurants with a \u201cTreats Here\u201d sign will be handing out candy and non-food goodies.<\/p>\n When: Sunday, Oct. 25 from 1-3 p.m.<\/p>\n Where: along Germantown Avenue and Bethlehem Pike<\/p>\n Singing City\u2019s Philadelphia Icons Concert<\/p>\n his fall, Singing City invites Philadelphia audiences to experience the stories of five extraordinary change agents whose lives challenged injustice, expanded possibilities, and helped shape the cultural and civic landscape of the city and nation. This concert will feature music that highlights the lives of five Philadelphia change agents who challenged injustice and fought for social change, Lucretia Mott, Harriet Tubman, Charles Albert Tindley, Marian Anderson, Paul Robeson. Five figures whose work reflects Philadelphia\u2019s longstanding tradition of artistic expression, social conscience, and civic engagement. The program will feature \u201cStand Up,\u201d from the film Harriet, alongside selections from Felix Mendelssohn\u2019s Elijah, performed with internationally renowned mezzo-soprano and Philadelphia native Marietta Simpson. The concert will also feature the Philadelphia premiere of Here I Stand by composer Carlos Simon, a work based on the life of legendary bass-baritone, actor, activist, and Philadelphia native Paul Robeson. From abolition and the fight for racial justice to sacred music, performance, and cultural activism, the concert illuminates the ways these five individuals used their voices and their platforms to challenge the status quo and create change.<\/p>\n When: Sunday, Oct. 25 at 3 p.m.<\/p>\n Where: Race Street Meetinghouse at Friends Center, 1501 Cherry St.<\/p>\n 35th Philadelphia Film Festival<\/p>\n