A Wilder Future: Philadelphia Zoo Gala Lights Up the City
On September 30, 2025, the venerable grounds of the Philadelphia Zoo transformed into one of the city’s most elegant philanthropic gatherings of the fall: A Wilder Future. Under canopy of trees, dotted lanterns and the hum of conversation, guests arrived for Grazing Hour at 5:00 PM, followed by dinner and program at 7:00 PM, and a dessert reception at 8:45 PM. The evening started among the beasts who roam in the treetops above the walkways. It was a brisk fall night, perfect weather for mingling under the purr of the cats.
Phoebe Wetzel and Leslie Walker
Karen Knecht and Brian Stohecker
Chairs Shaina and Nathaniel P. Hamilton, Jr., and Jennifer and Steve Shea set the tone for the night, assisted by a deep roster of committee members who represent the heart of Philadelphia philanthropy and civic life.
Linda and Steve Korman
Jason and Rachel Cevera
Suzette and Sam Hamilton, Kat Stewart and Daphne Oz
Michael DiBerardinis, Zoo Board Member and Joan Reilly
Jo-Elle Morgerman and Jody Lewis
The event marked a first in several ways: the presentation of the Zoo’s very first Lifetime Achievement Award, and the spotlight on one of its most extraordinary conservation successes — the hatchlings of “Mommy,” the Galápagos tortoise whose young draw global attention.
For the city of Philadelphia this gala is more than a party: it is a signal that conservation, education and social connection are intertwined. Guests weren’t just dressed up—they were investing in the next generation of zoological scientists, in community education, and in a place (our Zoo) that continues to evolve and make headlines.
As the dessert plates cleared and the evening lingered under the glow of the zoo lights, one thing was clear: Philadelphia is ready for a wilder future—one that blends high society with high purpose like the Philadelphia Zoo’s mission of conservation.
Dr Mogerman greeted the guests with a pet rat on her shoulder. A first for a zoo director for me.
Save The Date: LumiNature is back with more breathtaking sights, sounds, and surprises! Open from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. on select nights, November 20 through January 3. INFO & TICKETS HERE, also ride the 100 foot Ferris Wheel, now through 2026!!
I’ll see you at the zoo. It’s not just for summer activities.
Inside the 2025 PAFA Gala: A Night of Art, Elegance, and Philanthropy on Broad Street
Saturday night Philadelphia’s arts and society worlds came together in grand style as Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts hosted its annual PAFA Bacchanal Gala, one of the city’s most beloved and visually stunning fundraisers. If you’ve been reading PhillyChitChat for a while, you know this gala always delivers drama, decadence, and a dazzling mix of art lovers, philanthropists, and civic leaders. This year was no exception.
Aaron Cohen, Aaron is the President of Arena Strategies. honoree: PAFA Fine Arts Certificate alumnus Vincent Desiderio and Donald R. Caldwell, chairman of the board of trustees of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
New parents Sean and Kelly Edwards stepped out for a night of fun with friends Rittenhouse’s favorite daughter Samantha Trasatti and stylist Charlie Potje
The moment you stepped through the doors of PAFA’s iconic Broad Street campus, you were met with that unmistakable blend of old-world architecture and contemporary glamour, home to masterpieces and the latest exhibitions: ‘Pictures of Belonging: Miki Hayakawa, Hisako Hibi, and Miné Okubo’ as well as A showcase of artwork by instructors across PAFA Fine Arts programs, both showing until early January 2026.
which shimmered under soft lighting, lush floral arrangements, and beautifully staged wine-tasting stations.
Lisa Willis, Amanda Kaiserman and Tosi Nicholas
Guests arrived in sleek black-tie fashion, gliding up the marble staircases or took the elevator, like I did. I am always amazed and in awe when people climb the majestic steps. The ambiance struck the perfect balance: sophisticated but not stiff, celebratory without being over the top.
Katherine Link, Linda O’Mally and Jim Link
Larry and Barbara Coia of co-owners of Bellview Winery
This year’s theme, “Toast the Good Life,” set the tone for the night. The wines — many of them boutique, Italian, or small-batch selections — paired beautifully with a dinner designed specifically for the event.
Eric, Meredith, and Georgiana Noll
David O’Neil, Virgina Baltzell, the women’s committee for PAFA and Eileen Rosenau at 92, continues to light up Philadelphia’s social scene, all while remaining one of its most devoted and generous benefactors.
Brian Freedman served as the emcee for the Bacchanal Gala and Auction. A perfect choice as a veteran wine, spirits, food, and travel writer, as well as a restaurant and beverage consultant, drinks educator, event host and speaker. He was very good.
“Wine isn’t just something we pour — it’s something we share. Nights like this deepen the connection between art, community, and the stories we tell together.” — Brian Freedman, Emcee
You could feel the energy shift as guests made their way from the bustling cocktail hour into the seated program, ready to raise their paddles and support PAFA’s mission.
Beyond the glamour, this event symbolizes the strength and resilience of the city’s arts community. PAFA one of the oldest art museums in the United States, a place where tradition and innovation coexist daily. Nights like this help ensure that PAFA can continue supporting emerging artists, preserving its historic campus, and offering public programming that inspires new generations.
For Philly’s cultural scene, the PAFA Gala isn’t just another night out — it’s a cornerstone. A celebration of creativity, community, and the power of art to bring people together.
I’m excited for their new building and spring awakenings….
BUT before that head to their holiday sale coming in just a few short weeks. INFO HERE.
Look for addition photos at CBSPhilly, and Philly Style Magazine in February 2026: Socially yours, HughE
The 23rd Annual World Trade Centers Day Celebration was held last Thursday, October 30, at Live Casino. Hosted by World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia (WTCGP), the event celebrates leaders in business, government, and the international community who advance global connections and economic growth.
Jovan Goldstein, JTGoldstein ,Accountants and Business Advisors, Steven Scott Bradley as Chairman of the Board WTCGP and Todd Brown, President/CEO, On Point Enforcement Unit, Inc.
Sheila Hess, Greg Caron, Daecia-jamè Borgia, Jasmine Armstrong and Susan Mills
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker was recognized with the Global Leadership Award, while Harold T. Epps received the Global Equity Award, Karen Dougherty Buchholz, was the recipient of our Walt D’Alessio Legacy Award! and Allen Iverson, was honored with the Global Icon Award.
Karen Dougherty Buchholz, the recipient of our Walt D’Alessio Legacy Award! and Thomas Young is President & CEO of the World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia
Karen has played a pivotal role in shaping Philadelphia’s future. She spearheaded the development of the Comcast headquarters campus, championed impact and inclusion through the Joint Diversity Advisory Council and Employee Resource Groups, and continues to inspire the next generation of leaders through the Committee of Seventy Buchholz Fellowship.
Denzell Wallace and Douglas Wallace
Now in its 23rd year, World Trade Centers Day is celebrated by WTCs across the globe as a symbol of peace, prosperity, and collaboration through international trade. The Philadelphia event also serves as WTCGP’s premier fundraiser, supporting its mission to expand international access for businesses and promote inclusive economic growth throughout the region.
Freeway, Allen Iverson, and Thomas Young is President & CEO of the World Trade Center
One of the greatest to ever wear the No. 3, Allen Iverson was honored with the inaugural Global Icon Award from the World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia
Philly’s own Freeway introduced The Answer as a true cultural icon whose influence has resonated around the world.
In his heartfelt remarks, Iverson said he doesn’t see himself as an icon—just someone who hopes to inspire others. He expressed deep gratitude for his family, friends, and everyone who has supported him along the way, adding that even those no longer in his life helped shape the man he is today.
Erin Colgan, Shavonnia Corbin-Johnson and Charlene Vickers
Allen Iverson was the star of the first NBA game I ever saw (I still remember that game in detail) and also a fellow George Town University alumni. Shavonnia posted. Plus the last time they saw each other they of course did a quick #HoyaSaxa chant👌🏾.
Another honoree David Navazio, President of Gentell (Gentell is the largest vertically-integrated wound care company in the world.) with Thomas Young is President & CEO of the World Trade Center
Rhonda and David Cohen; David was on hand to speak on behalf of Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker who was recognized with the Global Leadership Award.
In December, the former ambassador to Canada, David L. Cohen has been named the 2025 Gold Medal for Distinguished Achievement recipient by The Pennsylvania Society. The honor recognizes his extraordinary leadership and lifelong contributions to public service, business, and civic life in Pennsylvania and beyond. The award will be presented during The Pennsylvania Society’s 127th Annual Dinner on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the Waldorf Astoria New York, a tradition celebrating those who exemplify the Commonwealth’s spirit of excellence and service. I’m definitely going this year, who else will be there?
Jeremiah Dolph, Lisa and Richard Roffman
As the premier fundraiser for the World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia (WTCGP), this event directly supports our mission to expand international access for businesses of all sizes and to promote inclusive economic growth across the region. Head HERE for more information on the organization. 2026 is going to be a big year for Philly as well as the World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia!!
And as always, thanks to the sponsors who make all of these great events happen!!
Michael Platt, Director of the Wharton Neuroscience Initiative, Jessamy Almquist, Sam Whitaker, Melina Uncapher, Dr. Melina Uncapher is the founder and CEO of SETA-ED and Alexandria Chalonec, Director of Impact at The Writing Revolution
The University of Pennsylvania recently hosted the StudyFetch Enduring Literacy Symposium, a forward-thinking gathering that brought together some of the brightest minds in learning sciences, technology, and education policy. The focus: how artificial intelligence is reshaping literacy—and how innovation can ensure that no student gets left behind.
Students at U of Penn Ethan Pickup, and Makhi Joseph
At the center of the event was StudyFetch’s debut of its new AI-powered literacy platform, a zero-cost tool designed to make high-quality reading support available to every student and teacher in America. The platform uses advanced AI models to create personalized, level-appropriate literacy experiences, adapting in real time to each learner’s needs.
The event wasn’t just about ideas—it was about action. Members of the StudyFetch development team joined live via remote connection to demonstrate how the platform works and answer questions from educators and researchers. Their goal is clear: to transform how students engage with reading comprehension and to empower teachers with actionable data and tools that support individualized learning paths.
Sam Whitaker, Michael Platt, and Melina Uncapher
Also in attendance were representatives from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, whose foundational Evaluator Framework helps power the platform’s ability to assess and adjust to students’ reading levels. Together, these innovations create an ecosystem that is smart, scalable, and equitable—bringing personalized literacy education to classrooms across the nation.
Michele Iapicco, Allison Brady, and Kim Douglas
In an era when AI is often discussed in terms of potential risks, the StudyFetch Enduring Literacy Symposium stood out as a celebration of AI’s promise to serve humanity—specifically, to open doors of opportunity for millions of young readers.
Thanks to Andre Flewellen for photographing this very interesting event.
The Rittenhouse Grill has expanded their quarterly cabaret series, to monthly…
Garth Weldon, owner Rittenhouse Grill, Adam Pascal from Rent Fame and Randy Swartz, producer of the Broadway Cabaret
In 2024, the Rittenhouse Grill introduced its own cabaret series, “An Evening with Me,” produced by Randy Swartz. Inspired by the legendary performances at New York’s Café Carlyle, the series brings cabaret and Broadway stars to an intimate stage for unforgettable nights of live music. The celebrated experience has returned in 2025 with an exciting, star-studded lineup, happening monthly now.
Adam Pascal from Rent Fame
In September I attended where Adam Pascal performed two sold out shows on Monday September 29 and Tuesday September 30.
During these evenings at the Rittenhouse Grill, a three-course prix fixe dinner is also included in the VIP and standard tickets before the performance. The menu offers patrons a choice of roast prime rib, 1⁄2 rack of lamb, Iberico pork chops, a fillet of salmon, and an appetizer (spanning clams casino, roasted tomato soup or two salad options). The dining experience is then complete with one of the four house-made desserts (tax and gratuity are included in the price of each ticket).
Bill Osman and John Wind
It was the 2nd time the nearly married a year duo attended, and they told me they already have tickets for next weeks show with Darius de Haas on October 20.
They’ll also be attending the Christine Ebersole Two-time Tony winner, Drama Desk Award“War Paint” (with Patti LuPone),” Brigadoon” with Billy Stritch show. He is a Grammy Award-winning composer and Musical Director for Liza Minnelli for 25 years. This is one not to miss!!
Amy and Gary Weldon, Paul and Sharon Noetel
Garth’s family traveled to Philly to have dinner with him and enjoy the show.
Remy Fox and Wendy Trow-Fox with Joan Pileggi and Joan Spain
Last night I ran into the Joan’s at the PMA Women’s Craft Shopping experience, they were headed to Rittenhouse Grill for dinner.
Linda Krick and April McKernen
Neal Zoren, Damien Downer and Chase Chevron
Madison Militello and Jesse Cute
Larry and Harriett Weiss, John Tichon and Stephanie Stahl
It’s always nice to catch up with these four on cabaret night.
Sheila Watko and her sister Celine Watko
Cabaret is for folks of all ages. Hope to see you at one of the upcoming events. Sheila and her sister sat on the “stage” for the concert only, and are $75
Welcome to all the new subscribers (198) who heard my plea on IG to come on over. Appreciate it. On my blog/newsletter I cover events, and chitchat about goings on in town, in long form, usually with more information.
I am so full today. I finally made it to @borromini_ristorante land it lived up to the buzz — lobster spaghetti might be the best dish in Philly, the Oso Buco de Tallo is next-level, and, the squash blossoms hit (I hope they’re in season all). So juicy. My photography on the other hand is questionable. The lighting in there is not runway compatible, as you can see by the Biden’s postings, but that’s a good thing in case someone is trying to get a sneaky sneaky photo of the many notables who will be dining there.
Speaking of dinner, and bad photos, thanks to Nicole Cashman and Nigel Richards for their End of Summer Soiree at Steak 48. I mistakenly called it the Cashman 25th Anniversary Party, and it wasn’t. That is next year. I was never good with English/reading, just ask my readers….
Just 9 days to go until America’s first Jordan Brand World of Flight store officially opens at 1617 Walnut Street!
Tuesday, Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts stopped by the soon-to-open flagship for a round of promo photos, but true to form, he also carved out time to meet with kids from kbfmentorship. Over the years, Hurts and the @jalenhurtsfoundation have been strong supporters of the program, consistently partnering with local leaders Kirk Berry, Founder/President and Justin Fishman, the Vice President of Operations and Programming for the KB Foundation. to inspire and uplift the next generation.
Philadelphia will get its first look inside when the doors open on 10/10/25—mark your calendars. This one promises to be more than just a store; it’s a cultural moment.
Get to know the the KB Foundation on October 15. For info and registration to the free event. HERE Lots of notables are involved mentoring the young adults, giving them life skills and help reaching the next level of success.
The Rodin has a new sign, it’s big, and you can see it easily across the Parkway to the new Calder Gardens, which i suspect was one of the reasons they created such a sign. Also they took the word Museum off. No one really called it the Rodin Museum anyway.
Just like no one really ever called the PMA, the Philadelphia Museum of Art. We usually just called it PMA or Philadelphia Art Museum, which is now it’s new name, or will be announced on October 8. I am just observant as I live across the street and noticed the new signage, which was definitely done by the same people who did the Rodin sign. I like the new name, and am wondering if they are going to nickname it PAM, although I have heard it’s going to be PhAM, which might be confusing as we have a group called Phambassadors.
The Phambassadors just signed up their 5000 Pham to the volunteer program. These folks will help tourists find their way when they come to events over the years. AS well as will promote Philly in the smallest of terms, on their socials, in their everyday life sharing their joy and love for Philadelphia. #JoinThePham
Thanks for tuning in today. See you on the socials.
Imagine strolling down Chestnut Hill’s Germantown Avenue on a leafy fall evening as storefront windows glow with vibrant images of the past, historic films flicker against brick walls, and the architecture around you comes alive in light. That’s the magic of Chestnut Hill Conservancy’s Night of Lights, returning October 3–6, 2025 with another dazzling celebration of history, art, and community.
Now in its ninth year, Night of Lights transforms Chestnut Hill’s main street into a free, open-air exhibition. Six themed projection sites will feature archival images, historic films, and neighborhood stories drawn from the Conservancy’s rich collections and community partners. Paired with architectural lighting, the effect is nothing short of enchanting — a walkable gallery that invites you to “look up” and rediscover the legacy of Northwest Philadelphia.
The festivities begin on Friday, October 3 at 6:30 PM, when the Conservancy hosts its “Flip the Switch” ceremony at 8708 Germantown Avenue. From there, the lights shine nightly from 7:00–9:00 PM, bathing the corridor in color and memory.
Following the opening ceremony, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, kickoff festivities will include music from various acts, including local jazz group Limited Time Only (LTO), Flute of the Spirit, Rich Rudin and Lynn Riley from Maplewood Music Studio, Matteo Bofinger, Ralph Salerno, Second Story Walkup, and Students of Yes! And…Collaborative Arts.
Highlights This Year
After opening night, the exhibition continues nightly from 7 pm to 9 pm.
A chance to connect with local shops and restaurants, many offering extended hours and specials to pair with your evening stroll.
Six themed projection windows exploring local history and design.
Elbrun Kimmelman, Thea Little, Helen Little, Peter Kimmelman, and Barbara Walkowski
On September 19, Opera Philadelphia raised the curtain on its 2025/26 season with a night of glamour, bold artistry, and a touch of tech magic. Opera Philadelphia’s 50th anniversary, highlighted by Vox Ex Machina, a singular event that married music and visual art through groundbreaking technology.
Phillisa Cooper and Robert Cooper
John Wind, Bill Osman, Jerry Wind and Barbara Eberlein
Katherine Niven
Youngmoo Kim and Charlene Bierl, with Lucy Clemens in the background
Makiya Dehove, Kathryn McGovern and Tara Monte
Jo Tiongson-Perez, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at the Penn Museum
John DiGiulio and Cookie D’Orio
VIP guests headed upstairs for a pre concert reception, before the opening night.
Tickets for the performance embraced the company’s new “Pick Your Price” model—starting at just $11—continuing the vision of General Director and President Anthony Roth Costanzo to expand access to opera in Philadelphia. The Gala tickets were a different price level.
After the show, guests went on their way, while the Gala guests made their way to the Reading Terminal for the party. They were taken by shuttles in their glittery gowns and black tie.
I spy Henri David in the upper right corner. He told me that indeed the Henri David Halloween Ball will be taking place on October 31 at the Kimmel Center again this year.
The celebration didn’t end at the final bow. Gala guests strolled to the Reading Terminal Market for a festive dinner among Philadelphia’s most iconic food stalls. They feasted on market fare, bid on the one-of-a-kind artworks created during the performance, and mingled in an atmosphere that was part elegant soirée, part neighborhood party. From traditional tables for Gold Sponsors to casual lounge seating, the experience perfectly reflected Opera Philadelphia’s spirit: daring, democratic, and joyfully untraditional.
Charles Fryer, Chairman of the Board Philadelphia Opera and Judith Freyer
Thi Phan wearing a beautiful head piece
Several vendors were open on gala night, and guests chose from them for their dinner.
Brett Frankel, Dave Ferguson and Abby Weissman
The evening’s schedule flowed seamlessly—from a cocktail reception in the Academy’s ballroom, to the performance at 6:00 p.m., to the grand finale at Reading Terminal Market. And with a dress code calling for “high drama—your operatic finest,” guests rose to the occasion in full style.
Singer Laurin Talese, Anthony Roth Costanzo , Opera Philadelphia as General Director & President and Ramón Jones, Executive Director, Philadelphia Chapter of The Recording Academy
Anthony auctions off artwork which was created onstage earlier in the night. Each piece sold for at least $500. Plus he sold two dinners, where he would perform, $12ks each.
The art work was created by the Vox Ex Machina which translate singing into live art with vibrations. Developed in partnership with Drexel University’s ExCITe Center and artist/technologist Daniel Belquer, the specially designed machine transformed pitch and volume into visual works of art, created live onstage as opera luminaries performed beloved arias alongside new music. Audiences watched in awe as sound became color, a fitting tribute to five decades of innovation in opera.
Looking ahead, the season continues with Opera Overtures: Il viaggio a Reims this week and Vivaldi’s The Season’s in December, promising more unforgettable nights that blend Philadelphia’s rich cultural heritage with bold new visions for the future.
2100 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy in a 2009 photo I took after it was announced the Calder would be built on this location
I’ve been a huge fan of the Calder family ever since the 1990s, when my friend Greta Greenberger, the former tour director of Philadelphia City Hall, introduced me to their work. She even encouraged me to take the classes that led to my becoming an official tour guide. My beat was City Hall, home to 250 Calder sculptures.
When I gave these tours with the Philadelphia Foundation of Architecture, I would highlight the Calder dynasty of artists whose works are embedded in Philadelphia’s landscape. From Alexander Milne Calder’s William Penn crowning City Hall,
to Alexander Stirling Calder’s Swann Memorial Fountain in Logan Circle, to Alexander “Sandy” Calder’s Ghost suspended in the Grand Stair Hall of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, he was best known for his paintings and mobiles which utilized carefully orchestrated weighting to balance, move and suspend each piece in the air.
The newly opened Calder Gardens
Last week, a long-held dream came to life with the official opening of Calder Gardens on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The new sanctuary celebrates the legacy of sculptor Alexander “Sandy” Calder, uniting the visionary architecture of Herzog & de Meuron with the masterful landscapes of Piet Oudolf.
The 1.8-acre site is unlike a traditional museum—its low-slung, curved structure blends into sweeping meadows and gardens filled with more than 250 varieties of perennials and grasses that shift with the seasons, making nature as much a part of the experience as the art itself.
Elan Gentry, guest. Sandy Rower, grandson of Alexander Calder and president and founding director of the foundation, artist Maria Robledo and Holton Rower, grandson of Alexander Calder,
When the Barnes Foundation approached Alexander “Sandy” Rower, Calder’s grandson and president of the Calder Foundation, about creating a museum, his vision was something different: not a museum, but a sanctuary. That idea became Calder Gardens, a one-and-a-half-acre oasis of reflection along Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Pierre and Dominique de Meuron and Jason and Amanda Frantzen – The architects and their wives. I had a nice chat with Jason and Amanda. Jason answered a lot of questions I had about the building and inspiration. Originally it was going to be above ground, but seemed to compete too much with the surrounding area, and hence it was built underground.
Designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, the building itself sinks into the earth, while the surrounding gardens are the work of Piet Oudolf, the celebrated Dutch plantsman behind the High Line and Lurie Garden. At 80, Oudolf remains passionate about the restorative power of nature, noting, “Beauty is what we need in life next to war and all this craziness.” – From Elle Magazine
Ilana Dean, James Claiborne, Nico Hartzell, all of the Barnes Foundation, with Ann Temkin, formerly with the Phila Art Museum, now with Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York and Wayne Hendrickson, biophysicist at Columbia University
Calder Gardens represents a distinctive partnership: the Calder Foundation provides the curatorial vision, while the Barnes Foundation contributes administrative and operational expertise through an innovative resource-sharing model.
The building—a gently curved structure with a softly shimmering metal-clad north facade and an understated wood south facade reminiscent of Calder’s own bohemian home in Connecticut—was designed by Pritzker Prize–winning firm Herzog & de Meuron.
In this setting where architecture and nature commune, visitors will find a wide range of works by Calder both inside and outside. The artworks on display will change over time and include rarely seen masterpieces, some on public view for the first time.
Andee Friedrich and Suzanne Deal Booth is a philanthropist, vintner, and an advocate for the preservation of cultural heritage
Interesting, in a departure from the traditional museum approach, wherein didactic information is presented alongside works on view, Calder’s mobiles, stabiles, paintings, and drawings will be presented without labels that provide titles, dates, and texts explaining how best to understand and interpret them. By allowing the artworks to speak for themselves, Calder Gardens proposes an open-ended experience that encourages visitors to take their time and react to Calder’s art in their own way and at their own pace.
Joe Neubauer, Sam and Elizabeth Warshawer
“Calder Gardens is a vision born from passion, persistence, and the belief that Philadelphia deserves this cultural treasure,” says Joe Neubauer, founding board member of the Trustees of Calder Gardens and one of Calder Gardens’ greatest supporters. “In a time of global uncertainty, we came together to create a place where art and nature offer healing, inspiration, and connection—brought to life by three world-class artists: Alexander Calder, Herzog & de Meuron, and Piet Oudolf. I’m deeply proud to have helped bring this to our city for generations to come.”
Ali Perelman, Amaya Capellan, and Marsha Perelman, Calder Gardens Board Chair
Calder Gardens comes alive throughout the year with programs inspired by Calder’s experimental spirit.
Jeanette and Joseph Neubauer Philanthropist, do gooders, we’re lucky to have them in Philadelphia.
From artist-led audio walks and live performances to screenings, readings, and community gatherings, each experience transforms the gardens into a space for exchange and renewal—where culture, nature, and imagination meet.
Tucked within Calder Gardens is a quiet nook that pays homage to the Calder lineage, celebrating Alexander Calder alongside his father, Alexander Stirling Calder and grandfather, Alexander Milne Calder, who each left their own artistic mark.
Susan Braeuer Dam, Director of Research and Publications at Calder Foundation and Director of Archives at Calder Foundation
At ground level, visitors can step into an outdoor space where a porous wall invites nature to take over. Over the next five years, it will slowly transform, becoming a living wall of vibrant greenery.
Artist Holton Rower, grandson of Alexander Calder and his artist wife Maria Robledo walk through the newly opened Calder Gardens
Thank you. Walk, don’t run to experience Calder Gardens. If Philadelphia wasn’t already firmly on the map for its world-class art museums, Calder Gardens (and yes, forgive me if I call it a museum) will secure its place as a premier art destination. The building and grounds alone are breathtaking, but inside, the Calder works themselves are nothing short of spectacular. With pieces rotating in and out on loan from the foundation, private collections, and museums around the globe every visit offers something new to discover. Deep gratitude to everyone who shepherded this masterpiece from vision to reality.
The bike Race Is Back!! And I think it’s safe to say: Made in America is now history (it’s been dormant for 3 years, and missed the deadline to file for the 2026 permit); Plus other things to ChitChat, let’s get into it…
It was a good ride 🚴♀️ – it put Philly on the map and gave us unforgettable moments. Fittingly, former Mayor Michael Nutter, who helped bring MIA here, is also behind the return of the Philadelphia Cycling Classic. 🚴♂️
On August 30, 2026, a few days before Made In America would normally be held, we ride into the future — from beats to bikes, Philly keeps showing the world how we do big events. 💙✨
There will be both a 62-mile women’s race and a 120-mile men’s race on the event’s original 14.4-mile circuit.
The race is sponsored by AmeriGas Propane and owned by Race Street Partners, whose organization which not only includes former Mayor Michael Nutter, financier Eric Robbins and business owner Carlos Rogers, with veteran race organizer and pro team manager Robin Morton, principal of g4 Productions, returns as race director. (Press Release)
Did you know that the former First Lady of Philadelphia, Lisa Nutter is an amateur competitive cyclist. She’s the 2024 ICI Masters Track Cycling Worlds Silver Medalist !! 🏆
Another Return: 🐦✨ The chimney swifts are swirling at 19th & Wood around sunset (one street north of Vine Street, near the Free Library), before diving into the old school chimney for the night 🌆🔥 Pro tip: don’t stand right under them… I caught a couple “lucky” 💩 drops last night 😂🍀This phenomenal will continue for at least a week during bird migration.
Speaking of the Free Library, congratulations to former Councilwomen Blondell Reynolds Brown on her autobiography officially being launched tomorrow night at the Philadelphia Free Library at 6:15pm. Get your tickets
Social season has begun, it’s barely been a week but so many fun events have happened. Photos have been distributed to Philly Style Magazine and Main Line Today, but don’t fret this season I will be publishing here as well. Tonight I have the Calder Museum opening, and a very special dinner with friends. Tomorrow. The Salvation Army Luncheon, the Mayor’s Reception, and KYW’s 60th Anniversary Party.
