By Denny Dyroff, Entertainment Editor, The Times
Delaware Taco Festival
Autumn is always a good time for enjoying hand-held food in an outdoor environment – hamburgers, cheesesteaks, hoagies, gyros or tacos. And don’t forget donuts, hand-scooped ice cream cones and fresh-picked apples.
If you’re looking for a light meal or a quick snack this weekend, steer clear of all those corporate joints that serve “meat” items which aren’t really meat.
Instead, get in festival mode and head to Wilmington for tacos or Media for Greek delicacies. For dessert, you can make a trip to Ronks for donuts.
The annual “A Taste of Greece” festival will run now through September 27 at St. George Greek Orthodox Church (30 East Forge Road, Media, http://www.stgeorgegreekfestival.org).
The free festival focuses on food — tasty Greek main dishes such as moussaka (eggplant dish), shish kabob (meat and vegetables on skewers) and placki (fish) and Greek dessert treats including baklava (phyllo, nuts and honey) and kataifi (shredded wheat and nuts).
Other activities at the free popular annual event are midway rides, vendors with crafts and Greek items, live music by Greek American bands and folk dancing demonstrations.
Hours for “A Taste of Greece 2026” are 11 a.m.-10 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Sunday.
Delaware’s 10th Annual Taco Festival (Tubman Garret Riverfront Park, Rosa Parks Drive, Wilmington) will be held on September 26 and 27 from 2-8 p.m.
At this event, you’ll find over 25 of the area’s best restaurants and food purveyors dishing out a variety of $4 tacos (sold in voucher sheets of 5 for $20).
Taco vouchers can be purchased at voucher stations located throughout the festival grounds and exchanged for all food items. All vendors will offer at least two items on their menu for one voucher ($4) with a very select few offering some high-end fancy pants tacos (Crab, Lobster) and burritos for two vouchers ($8). Additional vendors will be on hand to sell additional options — cotton candy, ice creams, cakes, desserts and more.
Food vendors will not accept cash — only food vouchers.
There will be bars and beverage stations serving margaritas, tequila flights, ice cold beer, water, soda & more. All bars are cash only.
Admission is $4.99.
Donuts at Cherry Crest
Cherry Crest Adventure Farm in Ronks (150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks, 717-687-6843, www.cherrycrestfarm.com) is hosting a “Cider Donut Fall Festival” on September 26.
Whether you’re a kid or just young at heart, the Cider Donut Fall Festival promises a day packed with laughter, adventure, and, most importantly, mouthwatering delights.
Visitors can embrace the crisp autumn air as they enjoy a variety of treats, from our classic cider donuts to innovative donut creations that will tempt taste buds.
Festival highlights include delicious Cider Donut “Specialty Treats,” Cider Donut Eating Contest, Donut games and activities, Special Donut Photo Ops, beverages from Raney Cellars Brewing and live music by Hildebrandt and Mitch Gregory.
The event will run from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. with a fireworks display at 8:30 p.m.
Festival activities are included with farm admission, which starts at $37.95.
And if all the visits to festivals make you thirsty then just make a stop at a winery.
Chaddsford Winery
Chaddsford Winery (632 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, 610-388-6221, http://www.chaddsford.com) is presenting “Live on the Lawn” now through September 27 and “Friday Night Wine Down” now through September 25.
“Live on the Lawn” is a brand-new outdoor music series featuring local talent, great wine, and relaxed vibes every summer weekend afternoon.
“Friday Night Wine Down” offers fun games, drink specials, and extended hours on Friday evenings.
The laid-back, laugh-filled series features Quizzo trivia with fun themes and great prizes; seasonal wine slushies, PA craft beer, fresh mocktails, and the venue’s newest wine releases; and delicious bites from the winery’s new, in-house food menu including specialty weekly pizzas.
Penns Woods Winery (124 Beaver Valley Road, Chadds Ford, http://www.pennswoodswinery.com) is presenting a summer music series.
The winery will open at 11 a.m. each day and have matinee performances of live music.
However, the music schedule has been canceled this weekend because of projected inclement weather.
Fall Festival at Dressage at Devon
Chester County’s annual schedule of equestrian activities is getting near the end – but not quite yet.
The annual Dressage at Devon (Devon Horse Show grounds, Lancaster Avenue, Devon, 484-358-5510, http://dressageatdevon.org), is running now through September 27..
The popular annual event combines world class dressage competition and the world’s largest open breed show. The six-day event attracts hundreds of horses from around the world and thousands of spectators.
The event also includes the Fall Festival at Dressage at Devon, which features a large selection of vendors and an equally large number of specialty boutiques where visitors can shop for arts and crafts, clothing, horse-related items and gourmet food.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children (ages 3-12).
The 2026 Warwick County Park Fall Festival be held on September 26 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
The annual late-summer event, which is free and open to all, will be held at Warwick County Park (382 County Park Road, Pottstown, https://www.chesco.org/390/Events).
The list of activities includes Pony Rides & Animals, Wagon Rides, Pumpkin Patch, Inflatables, Cornhole, Fairy Hair, Face Painting, Photo Booth, Food Vendors and Live Music.
When autumn arrives, “Pumpkinland” returns to Linvilla Orchards (137 West Knowlton Road, Media, 610-876-7116, www.linvilla.com). “Pumpkinland,” which runs through November 7, features fairy tale characters from nursery rhymes along with a huge scarecrow and a really tall storybook.
Other activities include train rides, a straw bale maze, hayrides, pick-your-own apples and pony rides.
There will also be “Harvest Hayrides” and “Autumn Moon Hayrides” starting later in September along with “Straw Bale Maze,” “Train Rides,” “Corn Maze” and “Pony Rides.”
Pumpkinland is open from mid-September through early November and takes center stage at Linvilla Orchards. Larger than life figures and scarecrows illustrate the legends and lore of the harvest season, featuring local history and some of the many stories of pumpkins and apples.
There will be piles of pumpkins in all colors, shapes and sizes – more than 100 tons on display.
This weekend, it’s time once again for “Scarecrows in the Village” at Peddler’s Village (Routes 202 and 263, Lahaska, 215-794-4000, www.peddlersvillage.com).
The event, which has been an annual family destination for decades, is running now through October 26.
An autumn tradition continues — for six fun-filled weeks.
More than 100 scarecrows line the brick pathways of the autumn-tinted Village.
Some are inspired by famous characters, some are humorous, some are scary — but all of them are carefully handmade by Philadelphia area residents and organizations.
The display is free and on view every day through October 26. Creators of the winning scarecrows in each category win prizes.
It is the perfect time to visit and take in the bright, brilliant hues of fall and admire the spectacular scarecrows on display.
These larger-than-life, colorful, creative scarecrows will take up residence along line the red brick paths throughout the village’s 42 picturesque acres.
Peddler’s Village’s Scarecrow Making Workshops on the Street Road Green have been a family favorite for decades. The workshops will be held on +September 26 at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
The workshop fee of $40 (maximum group of 4 people) includes step-by-step instructions and building materials.
Participants can choose from a variety of clothing decorations and use plenty of straw to construct their very own life-size scarecrow to take home.
The 2026 Delaware River Festival will be held on September 26
at Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia and Wiggins Park, Camden. It promises to be a full day of fun on the waterfront — and everything is completely free.
Festival highlights include: Rides on the RiverLink Ferry; Independence Seaport Museum Admission (building only); Live Bird Shows; and Views of sailboats racing in the Philadelphia Cup Regatta.
Activities will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Gay Street Open-Air Market in West Chester (www.downtownwestchester.com/openairmarket) gives residents and visitors more space to shop, eat, and explore the town.
Four blocks of Gay Street from Matlack Street to Darlington Street are closed to vehicles every weekend, so everyone can partake in al fresco dining and shopping.
The streets are closed from roughly Friday at 8 a.m. to Monday at 8 a.m.
This event, which is rain or shine, will run through September 27.
“52 Weeks of Firsts” (www.visitphilly.com/52-weeks-of-firsts) is a yearlong, citywide celebration honoring Philadelphia’s legacy of innovation produced by the Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee.
Not only was Philadelphia the birthplace of the country, but it was also the backdrop for many other marvels.
To honor these groundbreaking inventions and firsts, the Philadelphia Historic District is holding a year’s worth of free events to celebrate the country’s 250th birthday.
52 Weeks of Firsts shines a light on different Philly-born Firsts each week through a series of free public events called Saturday Firstivals — held every Saturday in 2026 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in more than a dozen neighborhoods.
Firstival: September 26 will present “Firstival: First Ronald McDonald House: 1974” from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
A first that warms the heart. The very first Ronald McDonald House opened in Philadelphia, giving families care, comfort, and community while their children heal. It offered home, hope and history under one roof.
The piece by Alana Sxmone was created in a pop art, ’70s-inspired comic style to capture warmth and optimism. The founders, Dr. Audrey Evans and Jimmy Murray, are shown surrounded by children and families to represent the comfort, care and hope they brought to the community.
Sxmone’s work is guided by storytelling and shaped by the influence of modern media and pop culture. She creates using digital art and acrylic paint, two mediums that allow her to move between sharp contemporary visuals and expressive, hand-painted texture.
The event on Saturday will take place at Flagmaker’s Hall near the Betsy Ross House, which is located at 111 North 3rd Street, Philadelphia.
The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center (100 Station Avenue, Oaks, http://www.phillyexpocenter.com) is hosting two attractive events this weekend – the Philadelphia Sportscard & Memorabilia Show and the International Gem and Jewelry Show.
The Philadelphia Sportscard & Memorabilia Show is running now through September 27 at the Greater Expo Center.
Some of the featured guests are Julius Erving (“Dr. J”), Tony Dorsett, Harold Carmichael, Roger Clemens, Vince Papale, Mitch Williams and Allen Iverson.
The show will feature dealers from all over the country who will be selling a wide array of sports-related items such as game-used equipment, autographed balls, posters, magazine, game programs and autographed pictures – and plenty of Philadelphia sports memorabilia. Visitors can also find a huge selection of collectors’ supplies including protective sheets, binders, ball protectors and display cases.
Another major focus of the show will be trading cards — especially baseball cards. All sports will be represented, including football, soccer, ice hockey, basketball, wrestling, Olympics and UFC.
Show hours are 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Saturday and 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sunday.
Admission to the show at the door is $20 on Saturday and $15 on Sunday. Children (10-and-under) are admitted free with a paying adult.
The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center is also hosting the International Gem and Jewelry Show this weekend.
The show will be open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on September 26 and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on September 27.
Inside the Expo Center, there will be rows and rows of booths where vendors display and sell their quality merchandise.
This competitive atmosphere drives prices down to rock-bottom levels. This is a chance for attendees to shop directly from wholesalers and manufacturers for the largest selection at the lowest prices.
Admission is $8.
Visiting Longwood Gardens (Route 1, Kennett Square, www.longwoodgardens.org) is a real treat at any time during the year but especially sweet during late summer when the grounds are filled with vibrant colors produced by a variety of flowers.
Longwood Gardens is one of the best outdoor attractions in the area, one of the best family attractions in the state and one of the best gardens attractions in the country.
The popular illuminated fountain shows are being held throughout the summer.
There are times when even the very best can get better.
Each of the six districts has a distinct personality.
Chimes Tower District — A stunning hillside of rare, expertly edited plants, a historic bell tower anchored on a 50-foot waterfall, and award-winning trees beckon, all within view of the majestic Main Fountain Garden.
Conservatory District — Considered the centerpiece of Longwood Gardens, stunning 19th-century architecture works in harmony with a perpetual flower show under acres of glass. Explore dazzling displays and rare plant species through a series of breathtaking rooms.
House & Theater District — Developed with the specific purpose of display and performance, experience a vista to the early days of Longwood, taking in views that Pierre and his family enjoyed more than a century ago, including Peirce’s Park and Peirce’s Woods.
Lakes District — Open vistas, rolling green lawns, sparkling water, and splashing fountains recall a European holiday from days gone by, reminding us of the joy of fresh air, a nice walk, and an exquisite view.
Meadow & Forest District — The expansive landscape of the Meadow and Forest District harmonizes the best practices in ecological restoration with garden designs showcasing horticultural excellence and beauty while prioritizing plant and animal communities.
Main Fountain Garden District — The classical gardens and grand theatre of this district have captivated guests for more than 90 years. Inspired by Pierre S. du Pont’s travels to Europe’s great water gardens, World’s Fairs, and expositions, the Main Fountain Garden highlights horticulture, engineering marvels, and the beauty of exceptional design.
Longwood’s summer schedule features Main Fountain Garden Performances through October, Illuminated Fountain Performances Thursdays-Saturdays through October, Festival of Fountains through October, Fireworks & Fountains Shows on select dates through October, Open Air Theatre Fountain Shows daily through November, and Festive Fridays one per month.
Admission to Longwood Gardens is $38 for adults, $38 for seniors and college students, $29 for active military and $22 for youth.
The Brandywine Museum of Art (1 Hoffman Mill Road, Chadds Ford, brandywine.org) will present “Drawing and Painting with Karl J. Kuerner” in September.
Immerse yourself in Kuerner Farm, a source of inspiration for Andrew Wyeth for over 70 years, and a featured property on the National Register of Historic Places, with an art class led by Karl J. Kuerner.
As the grandson of two of Andrew Wyeth’s best-known subjects and a student of Carolyn Wyeth, Kuerner’s personal experiences with the farm provide special insight into the property and its rich history.
Participants will provide art materials of their own choosing and should dress appropriately for working outdoors. Class size is limited to allow for individual instruction, and classes are for adults only.
The event will run from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. with tickets priced at $240 for members and $290 for non–members.
This workshop will be held on:
Tuesdays, September 29-November 3; Wednesdays, September 30-November 4; and Thursdays, October 1-November 5.
The main exhibit at the Museum is “Treasures from the Family: The Gift of Betsy James Wyeth.”
Visitors can discover Betsy James Wyeth’s role as the curator and archivist of the Wyeth family’s rich history and collections in “Treasures from the Family: The Gift of Betsy James Wyeth.”
The exhibition consists of art and archival material from the major bequest she left to the Brandywine Museum of Art upon her death in 2020.
“Treasures” highlights paintings held by the Wyeth family, many of which were on loan to Brandywine for decades.
In addition to these familiar paintings, other works in the bequest showcase moments in N.C. Wyeth’s career development such as a teenage self-portrait and his experiments with impressionist brushwork.
Admission to the Brandywine Museum of Art is $20 for adults,
$18 for seniors (65+) and $8 for children ages 6-18 and students with ID.
$18 for seniors (65+) and $8 for children ages 6-18 and students with ID.
A sweet place to enjoy flowers in bloom is Tyler Arboretum (515 Painter Road, Media, 610-566-9134, www.tylerarboretum.org).
The arboretum’s schedule for this weekend features “Saturday Wildflower Walk” on September 26 from 1-3 p.m.
On Saturday, guests can join wildflower expert Dick Cloud on an informative two-hour hike that takes them through meadows, woods, and occasionally streamside.
Although the focus is on plants, the guide will talk about whatever participants might see while they are out.
Admission to Tyler Arboretum is $18 for adults (ages 18-64), $15 for seniors (65 and older) and $15 for teens (ages 12-17).
Newlin Grist Mill (219 South Cheyney Road, Glen Mills, 610-459-2359, www.newlingristmill.org) is holding its “1704 Mill Tour” on September 26, 27 and 30 and October 1 starting at 11 a.m. each day.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the site’s 1704 water powered mill.
While the Mill is not currently operational, visitors on guided tours will get a rare opportunity to see the process of building a new waterwheel and waterbox.
Visitors must be on a guided tour to go inside the Grist Mill.
Cost is $10 for adults and $6 for seniors and children 12 and under.
Hope Lodge (553 South Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington, 215-343-0965, http://www.historichopelodge.org.) will be presenting a “Guided Mansion Tours” on September 27.
Hope Lodge was built between 1743 and 1748 by Samuel Morris, a prosperous Quaker entrepreneur. Morris acted as a farmer, shipowner, miller, iron master, shop owner, and owner of the mill now known as Mather Mill. Hope Lodge is an excellent example of early Georgian architecture, and it is possible that Edmund Woolley, architect of Independence Hall, offered advice in building. Samuel Morris owned the estate until his death in 1770.
The site opens at 12:30 p.m. with self-guided tours starting at 1 and 2:30 p.m. The event closes at 4 p.m.
Tour admission is $8 for adults, $5 for seniors (age 65+) and for youth ages 6-17, and free for children under 5.
Laurel Hill Cemetery (3822 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, laurelhillphl.com) was scheduled to host “Market of the Macabre” on September 26 from noon-5 p.m.
However, the Cemetery has opted to postpone the event because of projected inclement weather.
The Cemetery posted this on its website – “A new date will be announced next week. Thank you for your patience!”
The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire (Mount Hope Estate and Winery grounds, Route 72, Cornwall, www.parenfaire.com).
This year’s 47th annual staging of the event, which bills itself as “the most wondrous event in all the Knowne World,” is running now through October 25.
The festive annual event features authentic Elizabethan food and drink, traditional crafts from the guildsmen of yore and old-time games of skill — and a cast of hundreds of colorfully costumed re-enactors.
Each week, there are themed weekends.
On September 26 and 27, the theme at the Faire will be “Oktoberfest Weekend.”
Raise a Stein, tie on your dirndl, and buckle your lederhosen as the Shire of Mount Hope celebrates Oktoberfest.
Swashbuckler Beers are the star of this weekend, as well as traditional Oktoberfest games, dancing, and music for all to enjoy.
Featured events are “Topfschlagen,” “Legs in Lederhosen” and “Bar Olympics.”
Mount Hope has gotten even more magical.
Are you visiting from the forgotten realms or maybe just need to refresh your stock of alchemical supplies? The gates of the shire are open to you.
Every summer, the Faire, which takes place at Mount Hope Estate and Winery’s authentic 35-acre recreation of a 16th-century village in Olde England, features a new story from a different year of England’s past.
The year is 1567 and Queen Elizabeth is becoming ever more beloved by her people as each year passes. Having heard her father, Henry VIII, spin many tales about Mount Hope with all its joys and perils, she wishes to experience it for herself and has decided to make a visit to the Shire. With her, she brings along her favored Ladies, Sir Walter Raleigh, and her most favorite, Lord Leicester, Robert Dudley.
Mount Hope is wild with excitement to welcome Elizabeth and her Court and feeling that since the Shire is the place that ranked foremost in royal hearts for generations, who better to relieve the Queen of a burden that surely weighs on her heart and mind, namely, who shall be her consort?
As a woman, of course she must marry, and word on the Shire is that Dudley is vying for her hand, but not everyone is keen on that idea.
As far as Mount Hope is concerned, there could be no finer choice than for her to marry a good stout Englishman from the best Shire in the land.
And so, in true Mount Hope fashion, candidates are put forward, choices are made, sides are taken, conflicts, resolutions, and hijinks ensue.
More than 70 shows are scheduled throughout each day on the Faire’s numerous stages.
Without a doubt, the most popular attraction is the Jousting Arena. Visitors to the Faire flock to Bosworth Field whenever it’s time for the Ultimate Joust. Peasants lead cheers for their favorite knights while musicians pound out a heart-thumping beat. The Master of the List announces the combatants and soon an encounter of royal proportions ensues.
The Faire offers a wide variety of activities for visitors, including listening to bagpipe music, checking out handsome Lords in their colorful silks, watching a jester’s acrobatics, learning how to juggle, being the recipient of a gypsy woman’s flirtations and watching the march of Beefeater Guards.
Guildsmen’s Way is the area that features a large variety of merchants and artisans, including jewelers, candle makers, potters, herbalists, leather smiths, clothiers, and pewter makers — all offering for sale and demonstrating their ancient wares.
And there are more than 20 Royal Kitchens located around the faire with menus featuring a wide variety of food and beverages.
Single-day tickets are available at the gate for $35.95. For children (age 5-11) single-day tickets are available at the gate and online for $18.95.
Renningers “Antiques & Collectors Extravaganza” (740 Noble Street, Kutztown, 570-385-0104,www.renningers.net) is slated for September 25 and 26.
The Extravaganza features hundreds of antiques dealers from up and down the East Coast. Since 1975, Renningers Antiques & Collectors Extravaganzas have been a meeting place for dealers and collectors from a variety of locales. The dealers buy and sell among themselves and offer vintage items for sale to the general public.
Many exhibitors set up their shops outdoors — under tents and in the two large pavilions (each of which cover more than 2,000 square feet). Also open will be the Indoor Antiques Market and the Indoor Farmers Market.
Renninger’s Antiques Market in Adamstown is the final shopping mecca for antiques during the Famous Extravaganza weekends. Many dealers save special merchandise which they display during these special weekends.
Also, many dealers make a special trip to set up in the special outdoor market only three times a year. The outdoor market opens at 5 a.m. The indoor market opens at 7:30 a.m.
Admission is free.
For “Count’s Halloween Spooktacular at Sesame Place” (100 Sesame Place, Langhorne, 215-752-7070, www.sesameplace.com), which runs now through November 1, the popular amusement park has been converted into a Halloween-themed safe venue for kids with trick or treating, pumpkin decorating, hayrides and a hay maze.
Guests will enjoy trick-or-treating around the park, Halloween-themed shows, participating in our interactive Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt, and unique photo opportunities with everyone’s favorite furry friends dressed up in costume on their Halloween-themed floats!
Featured attractions, which will continue until November 6, are “Neighborhood Street Party Halloween Parade,” “Halloween Light Show,” and “The Not-Too-Spooky Howl-O-ween Radio Show.”
Admission to the park starts at $44.99.
This weekend, it will be time for a special – and very popular – event at the Please Touch Museum (4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, www.pleasetouchmuseum.org).
“Gabby’s Dollhouse Meet & Greet” will be held on September 26 and 27. The event will start at 9 a.m. and run until 4:30 p.m.
Pounce into Meowseum!
Reserve your spot to meet costumed Gabby (advance sign-up required) and enjoy themed activities throughout the day.
Get ready for a meow-gical experience!
Inspired by the hit Netflix series Gabby’s Dollhouse, MEOWseum Discovery Days feature crafts, storytimes, science experiments, and more for all Museum guests.
Kids can start the day with a “Gabby’s Dollhouse Scavenger Hunt” at 9 a.m. and bring it to a close at the “End of Day Parade” at 4:15 p.m.
A limited number of guests who register in advance can also enjoy a special meet-and-greet with costumed Gabby.
General admission to the Please Touch Museum is $24.
There will be several “Self-Guided Museum Tours of Rockwood” this weekend at Rockwood Park & Museum (4651 Washington Street Extension, Wilmington, DE, www.newcastlede.gov/431/Rockwood-Park-Museum).
Visitors can explore the grandeur, history and beauty of the Rockwood Mansion, home of the Shipley, Bringhurst and Hargraves families for 120 years.
These tours will be held on September 26 and 27.
Rockwood Park & Museum is taking its history outside.
While the Museum’s interior galleries are closed for important construction and preservation projects, visitors can still discover the history, beauty and stories of the Rockwood estate through a new lineup of outdoor experiences.
Rockwood staff will welcome visitors from the Conservatory at the east end of the mansion during our temporary operating hours — 11 a.m.-3 p.m. each day.
Construction is expected to continue through Fall 2027. During this time, Rockwood will offer outdoor tours, programs, special events and new ways to explore the estate.
The 2026 season is winding down at Nemours Estate (1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington, Delaware, nemoursestate.org). The entrance is located on the campus of Nemours Children’s Health, follow signs for Nemours Estate.
Originally constructed in 1910, Nemours Estate is one of Delaware’s grandest buildings and includes the largest formal French garden in North America.
Nemours Estate comprises an exquisite, 77-room mansion, the largest formal French gardens in North America, a Chauffeur’s Garage housing a collection of vintage automobiles, and 200 acres of scenic woodlands, meadows and lawns.
The Gardens are one of the estate’s prime attractions. The 157 jets at the center of the one-acre pool shoot water 12 feet into the air; when they are turned off, the entire “Long Walk” is reflected in the pool.
Admission to Nemours is $23 for adults, $21 for seniors and $10 for children.
Historic Odessa (Main Street, Odessa, Delaware, 302-378-4119, www.historicodessa.org) is both a scenic and an historic site in Delaware.
Odessa is one of Delaware’s most historic sites.
Known in the 18th-century as Cantwell’s Bridge, Odessa played a vital role in commercial life along the Delaware River as a busy grain shipping port.
Today, visitors can stroll along tree-lined streets and admire examples of 18th- and 19th-century architecture in one of the best-preserved towns in Delaware. They can also tour a remarkable collection of antiques and Americana preserved in period room settings and quaint exhibits.
Historic Odessa is open to the public from March through December, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.4:30 p.m. and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. The site is also open on Monday by reservation. General Admission: Adults, $10; Groups, Seniors, Students, $8; and Children under six are free.
Hagley Museum and Library (Buck Road East entrance via Route 100, Wilmington, Delaware, 302-658-2400, www.hagley.org) is hosting a “Science Saturday” event on September 26 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The theme will be “Color Craze.”
Find out how rainbows are revealed in the world around us in this colorful program.
Visitors of all ages are invited to discover solutions to science and engineering challenges.
This is a drop-in activity, feel free to join the fun at any time. Activities are included in admission and free for Hagley members.
More weather cancellations are happening.
Hagley posted this message on its website – “Because of the weather forecast for Saturday, Fishing on the Brandywine is canceled. Stay Dry!”
Hagley Museum and Library is the site of the gunpowder works founded by E. I. du Pont in 1802. This example of early American industry includes restored mills, a workers’ community, and the ancestral home and gardens of the du Pont family.
High on the banks of the Brandywine River overlooking the original powder mills, E. I. du Pont, founder of the DuPont Company, built his home. For almost a century the Georgian-style home and surrounding complex of buildings and gardens served as the center of family and business life.
Admission is $22 for Adults, $18 for Seniors (62+) and Students, and $12 for Children 6-14.
Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden (1829 East County Line Road, Villanova, stoneleighgarden.org/garden/home/) will present a “Home and Garden Tour” on September 26 at 10:30 a.m.
Formerly a Main Line country estate, Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden opened to the public in 2018.
Dazzling displays of native plants, ancient trees, landscape designs by the Olmsted Brothers, and myriad habitats are highlighted on this guided exploration of Stoneleigh.
This tour will highlight the transition from beloved family home to public garden through a guided exploration of breathtaking historical landscapes, majestic trees, and the more than 2,000 varieties of native plants.
Guests can learn how the staff created gardens that are beautiful, biodiverse, and beneficial to wildlife.
Tickets for the tour are $15.
Chanticleer (786 Church Street, Wayne, www.chanticleergarden.org) is reaching the end of its summer celebration.
The Chanticleer estate dates from the early 20th-century, when land along the Main Line of the Pennsylvania Railroad was developed for summer homes to escape the heat of Philadelphia.
Adolph Rosengarten, Sr., and his wife Christine chose the Wayne-St. Davids area to build their country retreat. The family’s pharmaceutical firm would become part of Merck & Company in the 1920s.
The Rosengartens hired architect and former classmate Charles L. Borie to design the house, which was completed in 1913. Landscape architect Thomas Sears designed the terraces as extensions of the house. A 1924 addition converted the summer home into a year-round residence and the family moved here permanently.
Admission to Chanticleer is $15 for adults and free for pre-teen children (12 years and under).
Andalusia Historic House, Gardens and Arboretum (1237 State Road, Andalusia, www.andalusiapa.org) is located on a wooded promontory overlooking the Delaware River.
It has been a stately presence on this stretch of water, just north of Philadelphia, for more than 200 years.
The ancestral home of the Biddle family, Andalusia is also a natural paradise of native woodlands and spectacular gardens that have evolved over time.
Placed on the National Register of Historic Landmarks in 1966, the Big House — one of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in the United States — provides an unparalleled look into our nation’s past, while also offering a glimpse into the life of a family that helped to shape its future.
Its surrounding gardens delight the senses all through the year, from the tumbling, brightly colored leaves of fall to the floral extravaganza of spring and the abundance and scent of summer.
Self-Guided Garden Tours will be available Mondays through Wednesdays through November 4 (excluding holidays) at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m.
This weekend, the Strasburg Railroad (Route 741, Strasburg, 717-687-7522, www.strasburgrailroad.com) is running its “Wine & Cheese Train” on September 26 and 27 — 6 p.m. on Saturday and 4 p.m. on Sunday.
Passengers can enjoy the luxurious, climate-controlled first-class accommodation and a tasting of select wine, cheese, and crackers as they travel in style down the tracks from Strasburg to Paradise and back. The total trip time is 45 minutes.
“Wine & Cheese Train” boarding is 30 minutes before the scheduled departure. Riders must be 21 or older and have their photo ID ready when they board.
Featured wines are carefully selected from Waltz Vineyards, and cheeses are paired accordingly. Beer and select non-alcoholic beverages are also available for purchase upon request. Riders can purchase a souvenir wine glass on board the train if desired. Glasses are $7 each.
In accordance with Pennsylvania law, alcohol is only served during the train ride. The rail line is not permitted to serve alcoholic beverages while the train is berthed in the station.
This popular train is available on select Friday and Saturday evenings throughout the season. Tickets are $70.
The West Chester Railroad (www.wcrailroad.com) is running its “Summer Picnic Specials” every Sunday now through September 27.
There will be one excursion each day at noon.
Passengers can enjoy a 90-minute round trip train ride from West Chester to Glen Mills and return on a warm summer afternoon. Riders are invited to pack a lunch to enjoy during excursion’s stop at the Glen Mills train station picnic grove.
Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for children (2-12) and free for children (under two).
The New Hope Railroad (32 Bridge Street, New Hope, www.newhoperailroad.com) is running its “Grapevine Express,” which features “Wine & Cheese Tasting” on September 26 at 5 p.m.
Riders are invited to take part in a romantic “Wine and Cheese Excursion” and enjoy fine gourmet cheese, artisan crackers, meats, fruit, and our featured local wines. Additional Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic beverages are also available onboard.
Wine and cheese will be served to passengers as they travel along the same railroad line passengers did when it was built in 1891 connecting New Hope with Philadelphia. The journey travels through the beautiful hills and valleys of Bucks County, along once vital waterways and streams and across numerous trestle bridges.
The excursions will take place aboard one of the railroad’s lavishly appointed first-class parlor cars.
Tickets are $99 (Ages 21 and older only).
The Northern Central Railway (2 West Main Street, New Freedom, www.northerncentralrailway.com) is running its “Pumpkin Patch Express” train excursion on September 26 at 10 a.m.
Travel to “Railroad, PA” and back on a former Pennsylvania Railroad mainline that has been in operation since 1838. Your ride follows the route of the original Northern Central Railroad through the scenic Heritage Rail Trail County Park.
Learn about the history of the towns and villages you pass along the way. As we head south, the train will stop at Railroad Borough Park where you can disembark the train to the fall festivities of picking a pumpkin and a free fall craft for kids.
Pumpkins are donated by Smyser’s Farm in York.
Tickets are $28.99 for adults and $19.99 for children (ages 2-12).
The Reading Blue Mountain and Northern Railroad (Reading Outer Station, Reading, www.rbmnrr-passenger.com) is running “All Day Train Excursions” every Saturday and Sunday in September.
Passengers can take a train excursion through Pennsylvania’s beautiful landscape to Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. They can board the train at the Reading Outer Station, Port Clinton Station, or Tamaqua Station.
During the trip, riders will see rolling farmland, beautiful mountains, glistening lakes, and small towns along the railroad’s mainline. The train will also travel through tunnels and over bridges — a highlight being the Hometown High Bridge.
Once the excursion arrives in Jim Thorpe, riders have more than 3.5 hours to explore the many shops, restaurants, and attractions before boarding the train for your return trip.
While in Jim Thorpe, they can also ride one of the rail line’s 70-minute Lehigh Gorge trains at a discounted rate.
If you like to look at model railroad layouts in addition to experiencing live trains, then you should definitely check out the Garden Railway Display at the Morris Arboretum & Garden (100 Northwestern Avenue, Chestnut Hill, www.morrisarboretum.org).
The ultra-popular Garden Railway Display has become a major summer attraction at The Gardens at Morris Arboretum. The 26th annual edition of the display will remain open until September 30.
This summer, Morris Arboretum unveiled a brand-new exhibition in its popular Garden Railway – “Garden Railway: Dinos!”
With more than 15 different rail lines running along a third of a mile of track, visitors will enjoy a spectacular display of dinosaurs including Triceratops, and Velociraptor, as well as other Mesozoic creatures—all made out of natural materials such as bark, leaves, and twigs.
As one of the largest outdoor miniature train displays in the United States, the Garden Railway will delight and amaze visitors of all ages.
The railway has a quarter mile of track featuring seven loops and tunnels with 15 different rail lines and two cable cars, nine bridges (including a trestle bridge you can walk under) and bustling model trains.
The buildings and the display are all made of natural materials – bark, leaves, twigs, hollow logs, mosses, acorns, dried flowers, seeds and stones – to form a perfectly proportioned miniature landscape complete with miniature rivers.
Philadelphia-area landmarks are all meticulously decorated for the holidays with lights that twinkle. There is even a masterpiece replica of Independence Hall are made using pinecone seeds for shingles, acorns as finials and twigs as downspouts.
Visitors will be able to see miniature replicas of iconic structures at some of America’s most famous public gardens including the Climatron at Missouri Botanical Garden, Torii Gate and Pavilion at Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Science Pyramid at Denver Botanic Gardens, and so much more.
Admission is $20 for adults; $18 for seniors (65 and older); $10 for students (ages 13-17 or with ID), active military and retired military; and free for children (under 3).
Treetop Quest Philly (51 Chamounix Drive, Philadelphia, www.treetopquest.com) is an aerial adventure park that will challenge you physically and mentally as you maneuver from tree to tree through obstacles and zip-lines. Once you’re equipped, they will teach you how to operate your equipment and you’ll be able to swing through each course as many times as you want for 2.5 hours.
Each participant is outfitted with a harness and gloves. Each course has a continuous belay system — a lifeline that is impossible to detach without a staff member. The activity is self-guided, and the staff is ready to assist when needed.
Gloves are required for our activity. During this time, we encourage participants to bring their own gloves to use while up in the trees, gardening gloves are perfect for this activity.
Ticket prices start at $47.
“TreeTrails Adventures Trevose” (301 West Bristol Pike, Trevose, treetrails.com/trevose-pa) is an adventure park full of fun challenges for outdoor adventurers of all ages.
Participants can experience the rush of TreeTrails Adventures as they swing through the trees of the new adventure park. They will be able to discover the excitement of climbing and zip lining above the forest floor with family, friends, co-workers, or teammates.
The park, which is based at Phoenix Sport Club in Bucks County, offers two ways to experience climbing – TreeTrails Adventure Park and KidTrails Park. Young explorers can enjoy miniaturized courses in the adjacent KidTrails Park.
General Park Admission price is $69.
On September 26 and 27, SRUTI (www.sruti.org) will present two special shows that feature both music and dance from India.
The events will be held at Upper Merion Middle School, which is located at 450 Keebler Road in King of Prussia.
Sruti-40 Fest (Day 1) will get underway at 8:45 a.m. on September 26.
There will be a Violin Duet Concert by Vid. RK Shriramkumar and Vid. VVS Murari at 10 a.m. followed by a Vocal Concert by Vid. Kruthi Bhat at 1 p.m.
The matinee/evening show will close with a Vocal Concert by Vid. Sandeep Narayan at 5:30 p.m.
There will also be a Lamp Lighting and Invocation at 9:30 a.m. and the “SRUTI-40 Legacy Play” at 3:30 p.m.
Shriramkumar was trained in violin playing and vocal music by his grandfather Shri R K Venkatarama Shastri.
VVS Murari is a distinguished Carnatic violinist and violist, internationally acclaimed cultural ambassador, educator, mentor, and philanthropist.
An innovator, he came up with a novel concept of Carnatic Philharmonic Orchestra blending Carnatic music and Western classical music.
The music ensemble includes Manoj Siva on mridangam and Anirudh Athreya on kanjira.
The 1 p.m. concert will feature Kruthi Bhat on vocals, Vittal Rangan on violin, R. Sankaranarayanan on mridangam and Samyuktha Sriram on ghatam.
Vidushi Kruthi Bhat, a young prodigy vocalist in the field of Indian classical music, hails from a family of musicians. She is the youngest recipient of the title “Kala Ratna” by Cleveland Thyaragaraja Aradhana Committee.
A computer science graduate from University of Houston, Kruthi is also an exponent of Carnatic and Western Violin, Bharathanatyam and Pastel/Acrylic Painting.
The 5:30 p.m. show will feature Sandeep Narayan on vocals. He will be accompanied by Vittal Rangan on violin, R. Sankaranarayanan on mridangam and Anirudh Athreya on kanjira.
Sandeep Narayan is a celebrated musician and vocalist of the South Indian classical tradition known as Carnatic Music.
He is known for his melodious voice, his mastery over intricate musical renditions, and his deeply emotive performances.
Sruti-40 Fest (Day 2) will be held at the same location and begin at 8:45 a.m. on September 27.
The morning program will include “Triveni – A Confluence of Indian Classical Dances” at 10:15 a.m. followed by a panel discussion at 11 a.m.
At 1 p.m., there will be a concert – “Gajaana – A Laya Ensemble lead by Vid. Patri Satish Kumar.”
Patri Satish Kumar was born into a family of musicians. He was initiated into the art of percussion by his mother Padmavathy, a renowned violinist and had his debut at the age of seven.
A fine performer, composer and with a deep interest to innovate and explore the art form, his specialization is his precise fingering technique and the fine balance of sounds between the treble and base heads of the Mridangam.
Satish Kumar will be accompanied by Kamalakiran Vinjamuri (Violin), Samyuktha Sriram (Ghatam) and S. Sunil Kumar (Kanjira).
The final musical presentation will be a Carnatic Vocal Concert by Sriranjani Tapasya Santhanagopalan at 5 p.m.
Santhanagopalan will be accompanied by Kamalakiran Vinjamuri (Violin), Patri Satish Kumar (Mridangam) and S. Sunil Kumar (Kanjira).
Santhanagopalan is one of the most sought-after exponents in Carnatic music today. She is celebrated for her remarkable versatility and depth across both traditional and contemporary formats.
She is the founder of Tapasya School of Music, mentoring 70-plus students worldwide with a focus on manodharma (creative interpretation) and values-based training.
As a curator, she leads innovative digital and live initiatives such as Tapasya Chamber Concerts and “A Musical Navratri.”
Navratri festivals capture the excitement of a premier dance/music event for the Indian community – and also for Western fans. Navratri is a time of joy, devotion, and cultural celebration.
Garba is a vibrant Indian folk dance from Gujarat, performed in circular patterns to celebrate life, devotion, and community, especially during the Navratri festival.
Whether you’re a Garba aficionado or new to the dance, a Navrati Garba is your chance to immerse yourself in the festive spirit of this beloved tradition.
Locally, there is a Navratri celebration that has been scheduled for three Saturday nights at Bensalem High School (4319 Hulmeville Road, Bensalem, icapusa.org).
Navratri is a nine-night Hindu festival honoring the Divine Mother, celebrated in the U.S. by Indian diaspora communities through a rich mix of traditions.
For Gujaratis, the focus is on Garba and Dandiya Raas — devotional dances performed in colorful circles around symbols of the goddess — while many South Indian groups create Golu displays and hold Saraswati Puja.
These gatherings fill temples, halls, and arenas with music, ritual, and community, offering both a spiritual connection and a vibrant cultural showcase.
The festival’s U.S. presence began with small diaspora gatherings in the late 20th century, growing into large-scale events that preserve regional customs while adapting to American rhythms like weekend celebrations.
There is a Navratri celebration which will be held on three Saturday nights at Bensalem High School (4319 Hulmeville Road, Bensalem, icapusa.org).
“Bensalem Navratri Mahatsov 2026,” which is produced by ICAP (Indian Cultural Association of Pennsylvania), started with a showcase event on September 19 — a Garba celebration with Geeta Rabari.
Fans experienced the best of Garba in Philadelphia with a mesmerizing performance by the renowned Geeta Rabari, a top-level star in both America and India.
The remaining “Bensalem Navratri Mahatsov 2026” concerts feature Kavya Limaye on September 26 and Jigardan Gadhavi on October 3.
Kavya Limaye is an Indian playback singer and performer, best known for her participation in” Indian Idol Season 13” and her earlier success as the second runner-up of “The Voice India Kids Season 1.”
She is currently pursuing a degree in Hindustani Classical Vocal from a college in Mumbai.
Video link for Kavya Limaye — https://youtu.be/INDKL6aOOrA .
The shows in Bensalem will start at 7:30 p.m. and conclude at 2 a.m.
Tickets are $30.
