Northwest Weekender: Barbecues, summer concerts and slow pitch softball

Looking for something to do in Northwest Philadelphia this weekend?  Here’s a list of our top picks. 

Finally Friday in Mt. Airy

This month’s Finally Friday has a French theme. “La Rentree”, which is the return to normal life after the summer holidays, is the inspiration for the night. Many restaurants, bakeries, and shops will be having French-inspired items. Food For All will be selling gluten-free baguettes accompanied by several musicians performing in front of the store, including Singsation, Prepa-Red and Daryl Lewis. Walk a Crooked Mile is taking 20-percent off all French-titled and back-to-school books. The bookstore will also be featuring jazz musician Kenny Sykes. Weaver’s Way is hosting a beer and wine tasting and food truck night. Wander the streets and galleries as the Parisians do before the summer comes to a close.

“Garden and Grill Days” at Awbury Arboretum, 1 Awbury Road

Get your hands dirty and get rewarded with an early start to the BBQ-ing. Every Friday throughout the summer, The Awbury Arboretum has hosted “Garden and Grill Days.” This event invites volunteers to work in the gardens for several hours. The session is topped off with an open grill for all the volunteers. Two separate sessions will take place: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

‘Unearthed and Revealed’ at White Stone Gallery, 4219 Main Street

Saturday is the opening of the Phyllis Thomas exhibition “Unearthed at Revealed.”
White Stone Gallery is open this weekend on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Artist Phyllis Thomas was inspired by the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit at the Franklin Institute. She spent time researching literature about the artifacts that were found. This information led her to create her newest work. The Gallery is open this weekend on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The exhibition runs through Sept. 1 through Sept. 30.

Farmers’ Markets

Fresh grilled veggies are always a good addition to any BBQ. Support local farmers and in return devour the plump tomatoes, corn on the cob, and squashes of late August. Enjoy some lasts tastes of the summer vegetables before the season wanes down.
Gorgas Park Farmer’s Market, Ridge Avenue and Gates Street, Friday 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
East Falls Farmer’s Market, 4100 Ridge Ave. Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Slow-pitch at Penn Charter, 3000 West School House Lane

How about a game of slow-pitch softball? If you are looking for a nice outdoor activity this Sunday, head to this friendly game at Penn Charter School. The game starts at 10:15 a.m.

Saturday Summer Concert Series at Canal View Park, Main and Connaroe Streets

If you’re looking for some good music this weekend, head to the park! The free concert series continues this Saturday at Canal View Park. This week’s line-up includes Poor Fred Noonan, Laura Cheadle Band, and Deb Callahan. The tunes start at noon and go until 5 p.m. The event is free.