Philly Chit Chat

Kicks of tomorrow night with a preview party, then the show begins Friday.

Now celebrating its 49th year, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show showcases extraordinary, one-of-a-kind works by talented artists from across the United States.

Experience the work of 195 exceptional artists from across the country at the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show, held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center from November 7–9, with an exclusive Preview Party on November 6

In October Boyd’s hosted a gathering to bring PMA Craft enthusiasts together for a night of chitchatting, with a portion of the proceeds from purchases going towards the PMA Craft Show Mission.

Joan Pileggi and Joan Spain

Over the past 48 years, thanks to generous community support, the Craft Show has contributed more than $15 million to the Philadelphia Museum of Art —funding exhibitions, publications, acquisitions, and a variety of educational programs that keep the arts thriving in Philadelphia.

For More Info on the 49th year, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show CLICK HERE, and I’ll see you there!!

One caveat to know, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show, didn’t change their name when the Philadelphia Art Museum had their rebrand. It is a registered Pennsylvania not-for-profit corporation under the name of Philadelphia Museum of Art; I was told it would be a long process to change the wording.

The J Spot opened earlier this month at 501 S 22nd St.

The J Spot is a sleek new boutique wellness and aesthetic studio nestled in the leafy, residential-meets-urban neighborhood of Fitler Square. It occupies the former corner space of a long-vacant commercial property (previously a convenience store), and reflects a major adaptive-reuse project in the neighborhood.

Jacqueline Clarizio, says the J Spot was born from her desire to create a serene, community-centered space far removed from the hustle of traditional urban clinics. Clarizio affectionately calls it a “speakeasy med-spa”—tucked behind a wellness café—offering an inviting, approachable take on modern luxury.

Services provided:

Comprehensive wellness + aesthetics: Services span from IV therapy, vitamin injections, cold plunge/sauna, functional-medicine testing to advanced aesthetic treatments such as injectables, dermal fillers, microneedling and lasers.

Some of the standout services include:

• Cold plunge + sauna: For wellness recovery, metabolism, and “bio-hacking” style care. (on my bucket list for 2026)
• Weight-loss management: Personalized plans rather than “one-size-fits‐all.”
• Injectables & filler work: Carried out by licensed providers, focusing on natural and refined results.

Inside J Spot is the wellness cafe: Nourish your body, fuel your glow ✨Jax Cafe for all your coffee, fresh juices, light bites and baked goods. Everything on our menu is crafted to help you feel your best, from the inside out

Spooky Scary Skeletons is how the song goes but not at 3rd and Delancey, where it’s literally out of space. Stopped off at this storied house to see this years theme, which is aliens invade Earth and cart off the humans, lol. Delancey Street from 2nd to 22nd transforms into a haunted runway of Halloween magic. 🎃✨
Grab your friends, your boo, or your little goblins—no matter the age—and take a spine-tingling stroll up Delancey. It’s one of Philly’s most festive walks on Halloween night.

I think the weather is supposed to be frightful that night, but I own an umbrella and I’ll be looking for youse. 👻

Congrats to Vince Stango, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the National Constitution Center and Co-Chair of the Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee and Amy Needle, President and CEO of Historic Philadelphia, Inc. and Co-Chair of the Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee on the successful launch of 52 Weeks of Firsts campaign.

52 Weeks of Firsts

The 52 Weeks of Firsts will kick off during the First First Week, January 3-8, 2026, with the very First Saturday Firstival honoring America’s first hot air balloon. The First Hot Air Balloon Flight Saturday Firstival will take place Saturday, January 3 at the Athenaeum of Philadelphia in the Historic District, near the site where the first balloon took flight.

It’s going to be a blast. Here is the list of 52 things you’ll want to experience in 2026.

A friend sent me this photo of Bradley Cooper in Jeff Lurie’s Eagles Super Box yesterday. I love everything about it.

Kristie and her friends were excited to spot Landon Dickerson and Jordan Mailata at Elephant at 1500 Locust recently.

👀 Something new is brewing at 1414 S Penn Square… @ Ritz Residences Everyone’s favorite waterfront café may have closed earlier this year, but I just spotted work inside and a shiny liquor license application on the door. The name? Palm Vintage Cafe Sushi + Teas 🍣🫖

Speaking of New Food: Already opened Dig Inn is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest location at 901 Old York Road, Jenkintown, PA 19046 last month. This opening marks Dig Inn’s second location in the Philadelphia suburbs, following the debut of its Suburban Square restaurant in summer 2025.  Business is bustling.

Also celebrating a month in business: Congratulations!!! 🎉 To Chivonn Anderson the founder and president Marsha’s South Street 🌈 Philadelphia’s newest safe space made for women, sports, community & pride.

It’s finally slowing down for me and I have a few minutes to catch you up with what’s happening. Look for more galas popping up on these pages in the next few weeks.

Thanks for your patience. Socially yours, xoxo HughE

Barnes Art Ball 2025: Philadelphia’s Most Glamorous Night

One of my absolute favorite events of the year — and a sophisticated must-do right up there with the former Academy Ball, returned last week in spectacular fashion. The Barnes Art Ball is a “who’s who” and “can’t miss social event of the year”. Guests did not disappoint when it came to dressing for the night!!

The black-tie/creative wear soirée was, of course, completely sold out, drawing an extraordinary mix of artists, philanthropists, collectors, connectors, and community partners who filled the Barnes with energy, elegance, and excitement.

The night unfolded across the Barnes campus with multiple bars, abundant food stations, live music, and pop-up performances that kept the crowd buzzing. Glittering gowns, sharp tuxedos, bold accessories, and creative nods to Rousseau’s wild jungles made it a visual feast.

And as always, guests enjoyed access to the museum’s renowned collection, seamlessly blending art appreciation with one of the most vibrant social nights of the year.

The Barnes Art Ball raises critical funds that ensure the future of the foundation’s educational mission, exhibition program, and collection care, and the wide array of community, artistic, and scholarly projects undertaken by the organization.

Greg and Beverly Deavens – Good luck to Greg, who retired recently as the executive director of Independence Blue Cross.

Additional photos appeared on IG, and will appear in the December issue of Philly Style Magazine.

The Mud Ball 2025: A Starry Night of Art, Music & Community at The Clay Studio – The Clay Studio is so much more than just creating art. They have incredible programing connecting the community. Last month I photographed the annual Mud Ball. It’s a great event, with the nicest people who are supportive of the arts community, especially The Clay Studio.

On Saturday, September 20, Philadelphia’s art lovers, collectors, and community champions came together for one of the most anticipated fundraisers of the year — The Mud Ball at The Clay Studio. Known for its playful name and sophisticated vibe, this event is more than a party — it’s a celebration of art, community, and the creative spirit that fuels Philadelphia.

As The Clay Studio’s largest fundraiser of the year, The Mud Ball directly supports the organization’s year-round programming — from keeping Claymobile vans rolling through neighborhoods, to ensuring wheels keep turning in classrooms and kilns stay firing. Every ticket sold, every bid placed, and every raffle entry helps keep this vital creative hub thriving.

The excitement began weeks earlier with the launch of the Silent Auction on August 29. Guests explored a carefully curated collection of stunning artworks donated by generous artists and collectors who believe in The Clay Studio’s mission.

Whether seasoned collectors or first-time bidders, attendees found inspiring pieces to take home — while supporting future artists and community programs.

The Mud Ball isn’t just an event — it’s a joyful reminder of what happens when art and community come together. This year’s celebration was a testament to The Clay Studio’s enduring impact on artists, students, and neighborhoods across the city.

Feast Your Eyes Catering set the tone with fabulous cuisine, offering guests delicious bites throughout the evening.

After the cocktail party, and program on the first floor, guests headed up to the rooftop deck where music filled the air thanks to Deejay Howard, who kept the crowd dancing under the stars with an unprecedented view of the Philly skyline!!

Philadelphia’s beloved Clay Studio continues to push the boundaries of how art can shape our lives and communities. From October 9 to December 31, the Clay Studio Center for Innovation in Ceramic Art (1425 N. American Street) unveils a groundbreaking interdisciplinary exhibition — Clay as Care — that explores how art, rest, and creative practice can nurture healing and wellbeing.

This Weekend at The Clay Studio: Clay as Care Symposium

As part of its Clay as Care exhibition, The Clay Studio will host the Clay as Care Symposium on Saturday, October 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by a public reception. The event brings together artists, thinkers, and the community to explore how clay and creativity support healing, rest, and wellness. Registration is free and available online.

📍 The Clay Studio, 1425 N. American Street, Philadelphia, PA

Bitburger Kicks Off the Season with the Bit Ball at Baller’s Social Sports

Last month, Bitburger brought the energy of Germany’s beloved beer culture to Philadelphia with its lively Bit Ball celebration at the brand-new Baller’s Social Sports

Chris Lorenc, James Zeleniak, Punch Media PR and Rachel Ortega

The event featured ice-cold pours of Bitburger Premium Pils and Bitburger 0.0 (their crisp, non-alcoholic option), while attendees rotated through activities like soccer, pickleball, padel, and golf. It was a high-energy, laid-back night where sports enthusiasts, beer lovers, and influencers came together to raise a glass to good times.

Founded in 1817, Bitburger Brewery is one of Germany’s most respected breweries, famous for its clean, balanced pilsner that’s poured in pubs around the world. Known for its slogan “Bitte ein Bit!” (“A Bit, please!”), the brand has long been associated with sports, celebration, and hospitality. Its growing U.S. presence has made it a favorite among those who love authentic European pilsners with a modern twist.

Ballers Founder Amanda Potter and David Gutstadt

A New Playground for Social Sports in Philly

The night also highlighted Baller’s Social Sports, a fresh new venue blending athletic play with nightlife. With multiple courts and games available under one roof, it’s quickly becoming one of the city’s most buzzed-about spots to play and hang out with friends.

Thanks to Talya Hailey for photographing this for PCC

Gala season is officially in full swing, and here at PhillyChitChat we’re doing our best to keep pace with the flurry of elegant evenings lighting up the city. Most of the action hits my social media first, followed by coverage in media outlets and, of course, right here on the blog. One of the standout events that truly sets the tone for Philadelphia’s arts and cultural calendar is the Philadelphia Orchestra Opening Night Gala. The evening unfolded with a sophisticated pre-concert VIP cocktail reception, followed by a breathtaking performance in Marian Anderson Hall, and concluded with a beautifully staged dinner in Commonwealth Plaza. A special thank you to Andre Flewellen for capturing the cocktail hour while I was covering the MANNA Gala across town that same night.

The Philadelphia Orchestra opened its 125th anniversary season in grand style on September 25, 2025, with a dazzling Opening Night Gala at Marian Anderson Hall. Under the baton of Yannick Nézet-Séguin, the celebrated ensemble delivered a vibrant program that paired tradition with modern flair, featuring Márquez’s Danzón No. 2, Julia Wolfe’s Pretty, and Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G Major, performed by the incomparable Yuja Wang (she is an alumna of the Curtis Institute).

The black-tie gala brought together Philadelphia’s cultural leaders, patrons, and music lovers for an unforgettable evening of artistry and celebration. More than a concert, it was a statement of legacy and vision—honoring 125 years of extraordinary music while looking boldly toward the future.

The orchestra’s long tradition of innovation is one of the themes of this celebratory season.

“We have a long history of firsts,” says Ryan Fleur, CEO of the Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts. “We were the first orchestra on the radio. We were the first orchestra on television. We were also the first orchestra in the movies.”

Anne Callahan and Charles Croce

Sandy and David Marshall

✨ Upcoming Event: A Bewitching Morning with The Philadelphia Orchestra TOMORROW ✨

Get ready to dust off those witches’ hats and grab your brooms — The Philadelphia Orchestra is conjuring up a spellbinding Halloween celebration! This family-friendly concert will take audiences on a magical musical journey, featuring the playful mischief of The Sorcerer’s Apprentice and the wonder of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.

🎃 A perfect way to kick off Halloween weekend with the whole family! There are a few tickets still left HERE

Check out the entire family series here