Tag: Family Fun

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Around Town With HughE Philadelphia 2026

The Franklin Institute’s “Universal” Exhibit Recap

Earlier this month I attended a sneak preview of party for the opening of the Franklin Institute’s Universal Exhibition

Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition, a groundbreaking new exhibit that takes guests inside the immersive and innovative world of Universal Destinations & Experiences’ theme parks, made its world premiere at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia on February 14, 2026, in partnership with Comcast NBCUniversal.

hallway

The Franklin Institute’s new Universal exhibit invites visitors to explore humanity’s place in the cosmos through immersive science, technology, and storytelling. Guests can expect a highly visual experience that blends space exploration, physics, and the search for life beyond Earth, with interactive displays designed for both adults and families.

Large scale projections, hands on stations, and thought provoking installations help explain complex ideas like gravity, light, and the origins of the universe in ways that feel approachable and engaging. (Pel Productions photo)

Casey Satell, Director of Institutional Giving, Kathleen Drummond, Madeleine Brownsey and Larry Dubinski President and CEO of The Franklin Institute

Rather than feeling like a traditional museum gallery, the exhibit moves visitors through a journey that encourages curiosity and reflection, reminding us how small we are in the universe while celebrating human innovation and discovery.

Larry Townsey and Colin Drumond
Kernika Gupta, director of CEO Initiatives at Independence Blue Cross (and with husband Vishal Patel are co hosting the American Heart Association’s 2026 Greater Philadelphia Heart Ball Heart of Philadelphia Friday) and Kate Wilhelm, Vice President of Community Growth & Economic Development at Comcast.
TJ Mannarino, Sandra Bersani and Melissa Gover

The exhibit is equal parts educational and awe inspiring, making it a strong addition to The Franklin Institute’s lineup and a must see for science lovers, students, and anyone looking for something new to experience in Philadelphia.

Audrayah Brunson and Kayleigh DiGacomo

Very cool movie props

The Tuttlemeans
Stefanie Schaffer and Cassandre Cavanaugh
Shira Epstein

Keeping up with the times, the exhibit also features plenty of fun selfie spots, perfect for capturing your visit and sharing it on social media.

Larry Dubinski President and CEO of The Franklin Institute

“Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition is a trailblazing concept that pulls back the curtain on an industry that entertains and thrills millions, revealing the science, innovation, and creativity in some of the most epic experiences in themed entertainment,” said Larry Dubinski, President and CEO, The Franklin Institute. “The exhibition brings beloved moments to life in new and exciting ways, delivering a truly unique and fun experience that we are proud to present as a world premiere in 2026.”

The Franklin Institute proudly presents the world premiere of Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition in the Nicholas and Athena Karabots Pavilion and the Mandell Center from February 14 through September 7, 2026. The exhibit was created in collaboration with the award-winning creative design firm MDSX. Comcast NBCUniversal is the local presenting sponsor, and PECO, the proud corporate partner of The Franklin Institute, is the associate sponsor of the exhibition. The exhibition is slated to tour North America after its Philadelphia run.

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Around Town With HughE

A Celebration – Sebastian Errazuriz: Double Take

Last week at the Philadelphia Art Museum, Collab and the PMA welcomed guests for an evening that honored the boundless imagination of artist and designer Sebastian Errazuriz, this year’s 2025 Collab Design Excellence Award recipient. The celebration marked another milestone for Collab’s nearly 40-year tradition of recognizing trailblazers who expand the possibilities of art, design, and technology.

Honoree Sebastian ErraZuriz, designer and artist and Louis Marchesano, the Marion Boulton “Kippy” Stroud Deputy Director of Curatorial 

Established in 1986, the Collab Design Excellence Award has long been a platform for honoring figures who have reshaped design history. These very galleries have celebrated icons such as George Nakashima, Ingo Maurer, Zaha Hadid, Patricia Urquiola, Dieter Rams, Marcel Wanders, and Gaetano Pesce, each exhibition pushing the boundaries of what museums can present. Many were the first of their kind—ambitious, complex, and visionary—much like the work of this year’s honoree.

Amanda Hinckle-Soviak, Maeve Elliott, Jennifer Pardee,
and Christopher McCloskey
Lisa Roberts and David Seltzer major supporters of design, arts, and culture, particularly at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
David Rosenwasser, Founder, D ROSE MOD, Inc., DesignPhiladelphia’s Program AssistantJake Dombrowski, Zaina Diaoune, and Jelani Abdul-Aziz, DesignPhiladelphia

Guests gathered to toast Errazuriz, whose practice spans furniture, lighting, and everyday objects—though nothing he creates can ever be considered “everyday.” His work thrives on surprise and subversion, often twisting the familiar with humor, appropriation, and a conceptual edge. Beneath the sleek surfaces and sculptural forms lies deeper storytelling: personal memories, political observations, and cultural commentary.

Jermaine Jenkins, Collab Co-Chair 2024 | 2025 & Membership & Events and Eileen Tognini, Collab Co-Chair 2024 | 2025 & Design Partnerships

Celine Nassar,Isabella & Seamus Kirby,Augie Hutton, and John Caulfield

Tiffany Lambert, the Lisa Roberts and David Seltzer Curator of Modern and Contemporary Design, leads the vision behind Double Take. The exhibition also reflects the extraordinary support of Lisa Roberts and David Seltzer, two of Philadelphia’s most dedicated champions of design. Their longtime commitment to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and to Collab has strengthened the museum’s modern and contemporary design program, expanded its collection, and helped ensure that boundary-pushing exhibitions like Double Take continue to flourish.

The evening also offered attendees an exclusive first look at Sebastian Errazuriz: Double Take, a mid-career survey spanning 15 years of his multi-hyphenate practice. Curated by Tiffany Lambert, the Lisa Roberts and David Seltzer Curator of Modern and Contemporary Design, the exhibition invites visitors to reconsider the ordinary through a surreal, thought-provoking lens. The show will be on view from November 22, 2025 through August 16, 2026.

Spotted in the audience was artist Sosena Solomon, TV Producer Nancy Glass, Inga Saffron, Design Critic, Rachel Zimmerman, InLiquid Studio,Barbara Eberlein, Jerry Wind, Creative & Marketing Consultant Amira Smith, Melissa Brannon, event producer, and John Caulfield

Guests were reminded of the extraordinary role Collab—founded in 1970—has played in shaping one of the largest and most significant modern and contemporary design collections in any American museum. What began as an industrial arts collection in service of American industry has evolved into a powerhouse assemblage of European, American, and Japanese design.

Artist and designer Lindsay Bedford, Lindsey Scannapieco, managing partner and founder of Scout and Dorit Avganim, University City boutique Manzanita

As the night wrapped, Collab and the Philadelphia Museum of Art shared heartfelt gratitude with the members and supporters whose passion keeps design at the center of the museum’s mission. They closed with well-deserved congratulations for Sebastian Errazuriz, whose boundary-pushing creativity and conceptual daring now join the celebrated lineage of Collab Design Excellence Award honorees.

Thanks Andre Flewellen for shooting this for PCC and Collab.

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Around Town With HughE

Chit Chat Holiday Happenings

Happy Holidays doesn’t officially start until the Philadelphia Holiday Tree is lit, and last night it was. WOW the tree is gorgeous. I’m a simple guy, and I love a tree lit in white lights and a beautiful blue star to top it off. (I did love the other tree as well, but it’s like we’re entering a new phase this year.) The base is brand new, simple with the Philly skyline, and words of encouragement like LOVE. It was bitterly cold last night, but that didn’t stop the crowds from coming out to enjoy the festivities with entertainment by Keyshia and Liamani as well as ride the Ferris wheel. Great job Michael DelBene, President & CEO Welcome America and team. (Look for more photos at Metro Philly and CBSPhilly today)

In the past decade, the west and north aprons have come alive with so much activity especially during the holidays. And don’t forget Christmas Village extends to the Center of City Hall, and across the street at Love Park.

Speaking of tree lighting, Old City had theirs on Wednesday and as always the neighborhood really came out to support their efforts. And Old City put on a show. (Old City – Society Hill Films)

Held at Betsy Ross’ house, this year the tree is adorn with red balls, as well as accented with two giant ones at the base.

In November there was a special night opening party of Winter in Franklin Square with a new song which is played along with the dancing fountain during the holiday light show. by The Philly Specials (@jason.kelce, @jordanmailata, & @lanejohnson65 @aphillyspecialchristmas. ) Connor Barwin and Charlie Hall were in attendance to hear Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by The Philly Specials along with the crowd for the first time.

(Photos Cari Feiler Bender)

Amy Needle, the president and CEO of Historic Philadelphia greeting the crowd. Here’s what’s coming up you might be interested in. Jingle and Mingle with Santa (December 7, 12, 14, and 21, 5-7 pm) and bring pets for Santa Paws (December 14, 5-7 pm). On Thursday, December 12, Santa (aka City Councilmember Mark Squilla) will make a special appearance from 5-6 pm. Keep an eye out for Santa near the Franklin Square Fountain, double-checking his naughty and nice lists and posing for elfie-selfies. FREE.

Ben Armstrong, Vice President of Communications & Marketing, PECO.

Winter in Franklin Square, featuring the Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO, celebrates traditions old and new at this beloved public space. Through February 23, 2025, Winter in Franklin Square. The centerpiece of the festivities is the nightly free Electrical Spectacle Light Show. Guests can cozy up around fire pits with hot beverages, including spiked options for adults, and enjoy Street Curling and Chilly Philly Mini Golf, adorned with lights and seasonal decorations. Visitors can indulge in hand-crafted cocktails and seasonal treats in the pop-up winter bar, Ben On the Rocks. The Square will also host various family holiday events, such as Jingle and Mingle with Santa, Santa Paws, and Brunch with Santa.

Had dinner with PR Santa Kory Aversa at his new client’s the other night – MAMAJUANA CAFE PHILLY, it was delicious, and spicy which hit the spot on a chilly night. I especially loved the Rice Pudding Pops, with this cute little tree, which I learned wasn’t a souvenir but did make a good Instagramable photo.

Philly Social Club’s Helping Hand Charity Cocktail Reception

Thanks to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, in partnership with the nonprofit Kelly’s Kidz (Bob Kelly, Fox29 seen above giving his wish list to Santa), donated hundreds of toys to St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, which will be distributed to patients and families of patients being treated at the hospital this holiday season. Check out photos at Metro Philly and CBSPhilly.

Congratulations to Ray Smeriglio whose longtime partner, fiance, Miguel Martinez-Valle who popped the question to HIM on Wednesday night in front of friends. Traditionally Miguel’s emcees the lighting of the East Passyunk Tree, and they host a party for friends and family, as they did this year, with a surprise proposal to Ray. Earlier this year Ray popped the question to Miguel. NBC10 has the story. Hi to

Shout out to Mark Brown (and his wife), longtime ChitChat reader, and IG follower (msaxbrown). I promised him I would write more on the blog in 2025….Thanks everyone for bearing with me this year. Coverage here was a bit spotty. Mark entertained us at Miguel & Ray’s party on Wednesday night.

So much more happening in the City, follow along on my Instagram account where I update you a few times a day.

Thanks!! Socially yours, xoxo HughE

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Around Town With HughE

Night of Lights in Chestnut Hill Thru 10/9

The Chestnut Hill Conservancy held a VIP Preview party for Night of Lights last night. An innovative streetscape exhibition which officially kicks off tonight with the “Flip The Switch” at 8139 Germantown Avenue at 6:45pm.

Night of Lights will transform Chestnut Hill’s main street, Germantown Avenue, into a vibrant nightly streetscape exhibition of local histories and illuminated architecture, projecting archival images from the Conservancy’s and other
archives through seven storefront windows. Colorful lights will highlight often overlooked architectural features of neighboring historic buildings.

Storytellers will be stationed by each slideshow (one per projection site) during opening night to enhance the journey through Chestnut Hill’s rich narrative.

Last night’s VIP Reception was held at the Chestnut Hill Conservancy 8708 Germantown Ave. Friends, and supporters mingled with Conservancy staff and board members while enjoying light sips and bites to celebrate Night of Lights.

Founded in 1967 as the Chestnut Hill Historical Society, the Chestnut Hill Conservancy is an educational
center and advocate organization for the architecture, open space, and social history of Chestnut Hill and
surrounding communities.

Chrissy Clawson and Ashley Maass

I love Chestnut Hill, not only for it’s quaint atmosphere, but it’s shopping. Make sure you stop by Serendipity!!

Ellen Javers, Bill Webster and Deborah P.
Rep Tarik Khan and Lori Salganicoff, Executive Director Chestnut Hill Conservancy. It’s her last year and they are looking for a director now if you’d like to apply.
I ran into the Watkin’s family shopping at Weaver Way. Mr Watkin’s is a long time ChitChatter. – Thanks

TONIGHT: Everything kicks off with a “Flip the Switch” ceremony on opening night that will see representatives of the Chestnut Hill Conservancy and the other local
community leaders turn on the lights of the streetscape exhibition.

Christa Hackenberge and Joseph C. Kotarski Jr.

Following the opening ceremony, kickoff festivities will include storytellers at each of the seven
themed projection windows, music from various acts, including local jazz group Limited Time Only (LTO), MilkBoy co-founder Tommy Joyner’s Pep Rally, as well as entertainment from Maplewood Music Studios (including the Rich Rudin Trio and Ralph Salerno). An Ask the Archivists table provides more family-
friendly interactive activities — all concluding at 9 pm

As I mentioned Lori is leaving and they are conducting an executive director search. CLICK here for Info!!

See you tonight, or this weekend or anytime through October 9th. The weather is going to be fantastic.

Socially Yours, HughE

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Around Town With HughE

Mister John’s Music Halloween Party

Award winning Mister John’s Music, Music education for all, cut the ribbon on his new South Philly home at 761 S. 8th Street on Sunday, October 29th .

The building is still under construction, but the ribbon cutting, Halloween themed block party gave folks a sneak preview to what would come, another location for Mister John’s Music which offers an ever-expanding, wide variety of musical instruction for the whole family.

It was a fun day, where families dressed for Halloween, ate sweets, played games, music and sang along with Mr. John, Miss Angie, Miss Ashley, Mr Ben and other teachers at the music school.

Hey scarecrows

Many of the parents told me they love the atmosphere at Mister Johns, it’s very diverse, open and inclusive. A great social community for their kids, as well as developing their talent.

Shazam or is it SuperHero.io

I saw this couple Thursday night at Broad Street Ministry “Be Our Guest”

Vrommmm

The Shoap family

Little princess

Councilman Mark Squilla and Max Tuttleman

Mr John makes house calls: “Mr. John came to our house for a birthday party and my son said the best part of his day was, “Mr. John!” Mr. John played his favorite song and was so amazing and engaging with the children. He brought lots of instruments for the children to play along with. Would definitely hire him again!” client

A Message from Mr John:

Thank you everyone who was able to join us yesterday for our Halloween Party and Open House! 🎃🥳 It was so exciting to share what we’ve been working on for the past year.We’ve tried to create a space that is magical and beautiful for children of all ages. A space that will serve Philly families and musicians for generations to come.If you have the means, if MJM has created a space of creative expression, belonging and joy for you/your child/children, we’d love for you to consider putting your name on our donor wall on a custom brass plaque. You can purchase yours at the link in bio!

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Kids Gym Indoor Playground Opens

Owners of We Rock the Spectrum Kelly McAllister has a degree in business and marketing that she earned from Penn State University. Her husband, Sean, was born and raised in the neighborhood and most of their extended family still resides here as well. Kelly and Sean are extremely passionate about family and have three sons of their own: Logan (4), Jackson aka Jack-Jack (2), and Cameron. We Rock The Spectrum is exactly the kind of place they’d want their kids to enjoy, if they weren’t the owners.

Our Gym Includes:
Suspended equipment with swings – for balance and vestibular treatment
Crash mats and crash pillows – for fun, motor planning, and strength
Zip line – for stress release and joint and body relaxation
Trampoline – for building leg and core strength
Indoor play structure – for climbing and increasing playground skills
Sensory-based toys – for improved auditory processing and fine motor skills
Fine Motor and Arts and Crafts Area – for improved hand-eye coordination
We Rock the Spectrum is a growing kids gym franchise of sensory-safe indoor playgrounds, classes, and birthday parties for ALL kids!

Thanks to PhillyChitChat Team Member Andre Flewellen for shooting this event. Check out more photos and story in Metro Philly today.

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Flower Show Brings all The Fashion to the Park

I know having an outdoor flower show was an idea planted in the minds at PHS Flower Show for years, and 2021 was the year it blossomed. The space is vast, but it’s an enjoyable walk, a planned park with lots of ideas on how you can plant your little park, or container garden. It was great to get outdoors, even in 90F temperatures at the opening party last night. Get there by car, train or pedal as it’s conveniently located near all transportation, but definitely, absolutely wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. I love attending the flower show for the fashion, and last night didn’t disappoint. (It’s been awhile since I’ve photographed an event so let me remind you: Note some of these photos may appear in other publications, but I also held back photos to appear in other publications exclusively as is in my agreements with them. PS I can’t send any of the photos to you as the are for media only or PHS, as per my agreements. Photo columns Philly Mag [Sept Issue], Mainline Media News, Philadelphia Tribune, Mainline Today, Philly Metro; CBSPhilly; PhillyStyleMag) Subscribe To PhillyChitChat Blog on the upper left of the page. THANKS – The Flower Show is at FDR Park in South Philly Through June 13th.

Marcia DeWitt, Helen Horstmann, Henry DeWitt and Laura Gregg

Sneakers and flats are a good choice

  • Tanya Smith and Keith Cripper

Couples who coordinate

My husband always finds the best spot to observe
Megan Smith, Browstone PR, Kristyn Aldrich, ASAP Michelle Histand and Angela Val both of Ready Set Philly!!
  • Jackie Lacey and Valerie McLaughlin
Jeff Leatham’s “Habitat” presented by Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at the 2021 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show (I was so excited to meet Jeff and chat with him about this installation.)
Check out what these guys wore during the day as Alex Holley saw them, and I saw them at night. Every year they bring it!!
Michael Newmuis,, Kevin Lessard and Mike Toub
Councilwoman Katherine Richardson Gilmore who just presented City Council with a bill on instituting conflict resolution training for kids in school, in hopes to end violence. Kids today don’t know how to resolve issues, conflicts.
George van Sciver and Nancy Bass Anderson (who I went to 8th grade with in Cherry Hill)
Councilwoman Katherine Richardson Gilmore, again this time with Malini Doddamani, ‎Chief Marketing Officer ‎The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society

The Flower Show is at FDR Park Through Sunday June 13. INFO HERE> Head to CBSPhilly for more photos. Remember to subscribe to PhillyChitChat Hire Us TO Shoot Your Event.

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The Spectacle of Snow Geese Migration Not too Far From Philly

I never really noticed or heard about the Snow geese who pass through Pennsylvania during their spring and fall migrations to and from the arctic breeding grounds until I started getting serious about bird watching last year. Now I follow a lot of birders, and photographers like 6ABC’s Bruce Neumann who pique my interest in so many subjects. Bruce photographed spots in and around Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area in Lancaster so I headed out there with Marilyn Russell on Sunday, and we had a lot of company.

Wear a hat
Even the Amish make the trip from nearby Lancaster County

The Snow Geese migration continues into the begining of March, so if you have a chance take a drive out to Middle Creed Wildlife Management Area there’s plenty of parking, and the ride from the turnpike to the pike is quite beautiful.

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John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge is A Nearby Treat

At least three times a month I like to walk the trails at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge which is close by, basically near the PHL airport and perfect for my new hobby – bird watching ie photographing. They have a visitor center where you can see exhibits to introduce yourself and kids to nature, and what you might expect to see in the wildlife refuge, and it’s free.

America’s First Urban Refuge was established in 1972 for the purpose of preserving, restoring, and developing the natural area known as Tinicum Marsh and promoting environmental education. They have a calendar of events for activities, talks and nature walks. (Website) Fishing with a permit is also permitted.

There are two parking lots, one off of Lindbergh Blvd, which is paved and plentiful, and another off of Rt. 420 which is gravel and limited. Sunday I went to Rt. 420, which has great bike riding trails as well as rustic trails, and has several fishing spots. I suggest a family, or for self discovery to go to the 8601 Lindbergh Blvd., Phila entrance that is where the Visitor Center is located and is easiest to walk. There’s more people on that side.

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Philadelphia

South Street Celebrates The Holidays

South Street Lights Up Headhouse Sq For the Holidays with a Train Display

What a whirlwind of tree lightings and holiday happenings in and around Philly this weekend. One of my favorites is the South Street Headhouse Square celebration, with it’s mini parade down the famed street with Santa riding on top of a firetruck to 2nd & Lombard where they lit the tree.

The Boy Scouts led the parade, which kicked off at 430pm at 6th and South Streets


Santa made his way down South Street on Ladder 11

This girl wins the week. After Santa waved at her she jumped up and down so much her hat and “beard” flew off


Santa brought his elf, who happens to be his niece. It was the first time she rode with him. She did a great job.
Bridget Hoy walked the parade as Rudolph.


NIIC the Singing Dog The Music Dog of Philly , although I thought he was a cat or fox, thoughts?


I support the Salvation Army, and when I saw this bucket was dedicated to helping Puerto Rico & the US Virgin Islands I was really happy
We need to keep Puerto Rico and the Islands in our prayers, and help them anyway we can. I can’t imagine what it is like to live without everyday creature comforts.
Hey readers, thanks for your support

The line for Santa was seriously long, and everyone waited patiently.
Santa and Mike Harris, Executive Director South Street


Bex from CBS3 and Today’s 96.5 emceed the event. She solved a mystery and told the crowd Bex was a nickname for Rebecca.
For last night only local train enthusiasts brought their hobby to the Headhouse to the delight of everyone.


Merry Christmas and head down to South Street’s Headhouse and check out their beautiful Christmas Tree. It’s a great historic photo opp as well, especially in the snow. Perhaps next Saturday as some are predicting a snow storm coming up the coast.