NW Weekender: Slow-eating ice cream contest, mystery dinner theater and historic home tours

Looking for something to do this weekend in Northwest Philly? Here are our top picks.

Artist Books Cocktail Reception at Allen’s Lane Art Center, 601 W. Allen Lane 

Think a book can only be filled with black and white pages? The newest exhibit, Artist Books: Creative Structures, at Allen’s Lane Art Center could change your mind. These artists create unique books that are colorful and innovative. This Saturday night is the cocktail reception and fundraiser for the exhibit. Many of the artists will be there to meet and ask questions. Tickets are $25. Event begins at 7 p.m. The exhibit runs through Oct. 26. 

Mt. Airy Village Fair, Green St. and Carpenter

It’s time for the 6th Annual Mt. Airy Village Fair. The day is filled with activities for everyone. A really unique activity will be the slow-eating ice cream contest (last person to finish wins). It is apparently the only contest of its kind in the world! There will also be live music, games, a pie-eating contest, a petting zoo, and much more. The fair runs Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Historic Home Tour of Mt. Airy, Germantown, and Chestnut Hill

Philadelphia is a city with so much history and beauty. Take a tour this Sunday and see some of that history and beauty in the Northwest section of the city. The Germantown Historical Society is hosting the tour which will feature historic homes in Mt. Airy, Germantown, and Chestnut Hill. Advance tickets cost $25 and $30 for day of.

Phanatically Wild Party at the Schuylkill Center, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road

Saturday is the Schuylkill Center’s 25th Birthday Party. Yes, as the title suggests, the Phillie Phanatic will be present and hosting the event. There will be many animals to meet, as well as crafts and other activities. The party goes from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Event is free. The Schuylkill Center asks you to bring rags or paper towel as a donation.

Health and Wellness Fair, 8700 Germantown Ave.

A new school year is the perfect time for families to set new healthy habits. Learn tips on how you can be a healthier you. The event is being held at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Chestnut Hill. The fair will be held on Sunday and  runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Participatory Theater at COSACOSA, 4427 Main St.

Friday is the last night to watch, or rather participate, in this Fringe Arts Festival event. It is a dinner theater mystery story. Audience members participate by offering clues. Prizes will be given away for the best audience detectives. Help solve a mystery while eating your dinner! The show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased here.