{"id":14724,"date":"2016-05-13T11:11:45","date_gmt":"2016-05-13T15:11:45","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/chescotimes.com\/?p=14724"},"modified":"2016-05-13T10:29:36","modified_gmt":"2016-05-13T14:29:36","slug":"what-to-do-saddle-up-for-willowdale","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chescotimes.com\/?p=14724","title":{"rendered":"What To Do: Saddle Up For Willowdale"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2 class=\"p1\"><em>Also: 74th annual Dogwood Festival in Phoenixville<\/em><\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><strong>By Denny Dyroff<\/strong>,\u00a0<\/span><em><span class=\"s1\">Staff Writer, The Times<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_455\" style=\"width: 310px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-455\" class=\"wp-image-455 size-medium\" src=\"http:\/\/chescotimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/willowdale-steeplechase-300x236.jpg\" alt=\"willowdale-steeplechase\" width=\"300\" height=\"236\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-455\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The 24th annual Willowdale Steeplechase is Sunday, races, tailgating competition and, of course, those hats.<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Brandywine Valley is horse country and the 2016 equestrian season is already underway.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The 24th Annual Willowdale Steeplechase (Steeplechase grounds, routes 82 and 926, Unionville, 610-444-1582, <a href=\"http:\/\/willowdalesteeplechase.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/willowdalesteeplechase.org<\/span><\/a>) will be held on May 15 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.<\/span><!--more--><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The \u201cTailgate Competition\u201d and the \u201cAntique and Unique Car Display\u201d are both slated to run all day. The initial competition will be the \u201cJack Russell Races\u201d\u00a0at 11a.m. followed by the \u201cSmall Pony Race\u201d\u00a0at 12:15 p.m. and the \u201cLarge Pony Race\u201d\u00a0at 12:30 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The first of seven steeplechase races will begin at 1:30 p.m. and the racing is scheduled to end between 4:30 and 5 p.m. Gates will close at 6 p.m. The Willowdale Steeplechase is a first-class steeplechase course that features an uphill approach to the fences. This encourages less speed and more jumping and, as a result, causes less wear and tear on the horses.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">This year\u2019s Willowdale Steeplechase has several beneficiaries \u2014 Quest Therapeutic Riding Services, Inc., The Stroud Water Research Center and The University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine at New Bolton Center. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the gate.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_456\" style=\"width: 310px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-456\" class=\"wp-image-456 size-medium\" src=\"http:\/\/chescotimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/star-party-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"star party\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-456\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Chesmont Astronomical Society will host a \u201cStar Party\u201d at Marsh Creek State Park, Saturday.<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">On May 14, the Chesmont Astronomical Society will host a \u201cStar Party\u201d at Marsh Creek State Park (Park Road, Eagle, 610-469-8646, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.chesmontastro.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/www.chesmontastro.org<\/span><\/a>). The public is welcome and the event, which offers activities for the entire family, is free.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Participants will meet in the park\u2019s lower parking lot and the party will get underway at noon. This star party is accompanied by a solar observing event at noon. Visitors are invited to come see the sun through specialized telescopes in a way they may never have experienced.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">There will also be parties at the same site on June 11, August 13, and October 8. The Marsh Creek parties are held near the first lunar quarter and focus on observing the moon, the planets and bright deep sky objects.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Chesmont Astronomical Society will also have similar \u201cStar Party\u201d events at French Creek State Park in Elverson on May 28, July 23, and September 24. Marsh Creek Star Parties end at 11 p.m. while French Creek Star Parties end after midnight.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_457\" style=\"width: 310px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-457\" class=\"wp-image-457 size-medium\" src=\"http:\/\/chescotimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Phoenixville-Dogwood-Festival-4-300x170.jpg\" alt=\"Phoenixville Dogwood Festival 4\" width=\"300\" height=\"170\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-457\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The 73rd annual Phoenixville Dogwood festival kicks off Monday.<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Phoenixville\u2019s annual Dogwood Festival began gets underway on May 16 and will run through May 21. The 73rd annual staging of the springtime fair will take place at the historic Reeves Park Bandshell (Main Street between third and Fourth avenues, Phoenixville, 484-928-0052, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.phoenixvillejaycees.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.phoenixvillejaycees.org<\/span><\/a>) with live entertainment each night.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">On May 16 and 18, there will be performances by Gene Galligan &amp; Friends. Dog Bite Money will perform on May 16 followed by the Hytha Family Band on May 17, the Audubon Symphony Orchestra on May 18, and Kendall Phillips and Ray Owens Music on May 19.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Flower Power Band will be the headline act on May 20. On May 21, live entertainment will be provided by John Valerio, Dave Sullivan and Rougarou.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The main day for activities at the free festival will be May 21 with a parade and other festivities running from noon-3 p.m. and live entertainment starting at 4 p.m. The parade, which is one of the festival\u2019s showcase events, is slated to get underway at 11 a.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_458\" style=\"width: 310px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-458\" class=\"wp-image-458 size-medium\" src=\"http:\/\/chescotimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/brandtwine-ballet-wizard-of-oz-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"brandtwine ballet wizard of oz\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-458\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Brandywine Ballet brings The Wizard of Oz to West Chester University this weekend.<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">From May 13-15, the Brandywine Ballet will bring its annual spring performance to West Chester University\u2019 Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall (South High Street, West Chester, 610-696-2711, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.brandywineballet.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.brandywineballet.org<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">This weekend, the Brandywine Ballet is proud to present a reprise of \u201cThe Wonderful Wizard of Oz,\u201d which premiered in 2011. Resident Choreographer, Nancy Page, brought the story to life with her imaginative choreography.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Using a blend of Brandywine Ballet Company professionals and young dancers, Page sends the audience on a magical journey with Dorothy and her fellow travelers. \u201cThe Wonderful Wizard of Oz\u201d is a tale of the enduring powers of friendship, self-confidence and love.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">There are three levels of ticket prices &#8212; \u201cPremium\u201d Section A, $40; \u201cSelect\u201d Section B, $30, and \u201cChoice\u201d Section C, $25.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Chester County Choral Society (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.chestercountychoralsociety.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/www.chestercountychoralsociety.org<\/span><\/a>) will present special program titled \u201cThe Three B\u2019s\u201d on May 15 at Bayard Rustin High School (1100 Shiloh Road, West Chester).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The concert, which is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m., will feature Johannes Brahms\u2019 \u201cSchicksalslied (Song of Fate)\u201d and \u201cLiebeslieder Waltzen,\u201d Ludwig van Beethoven\u2019s \u201cChoral Fantasy\u201d and a selection of short works by Johann Sebastian Bach &#8212; \u201cJesu, Joy of Man&#8217;s Desiring,\u201d \u201cMotet Lobet den Herrn,\u201d and \u201cDona Nobis Pacem.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The concert will feature Dr. Donna Beech on piano along with members of the Newark Symphony Orchestra.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Advance tickets are $18 for adults, $12 for seniors (60 and above) and $5 for students. Day of show prices are $20, $15 and $10.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-459\" src=\"http:\/\/chescotimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Art_of_the_Bark_FINAL_400_218-300x164.jpg\" alt=\"Art_of_the_Bark_FINAL_400_218\" width=\"300\" height=\"164\" \/>On May 14, Canine Partners for Life (<a href=\"http:\/\/k94life.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/k94life.org<\/span><\/a>) will present a chic canine celebration called \u201cThe Art of the Bark\u201d at the Brandywine River Museum (Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, 610-388-2700,\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.brandywinemuseum.org\/\"><span class=\"s3\">www.brandywinemuseum.org<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Service dogs-in-training will greet visitors at the puppy kissing booth upon their arrival. Participants will be able to sample farm-to-table cuisine from MacGregor Mann\u2019s catering company, Blanch and Shock, and enjoy while overlooking the beautiful Brandywine Creek.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Docents will guide guests through the museum\u2019s six galleries of distinguished\u00a019<\/span><span class=\"s4\"><sup>th<\/sup><\/span><span class=\"s1\">-century and 20<\/span><span class=\"s4\"><sup>th<\/sup><\/span><span class=\"s1\">-century American art. Participants also will have the opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind experiences and sensational silent auction items.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Most importantly, guests can meet Canine Partners for Life recipients and discover how service dogs change lives. The annual event is held to raise funds for CPL\u2019s mission to raise and train service dogs for individuals with disabilities.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_460\" style=\"width: 310px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-460\" class=\"wp-image-460 size-medium\" src=\"http:\/\/chescotimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/wilm-grand-prix-300x214.jpg\" alt=\"wilm grand prix\" width=\"300\" height=\"214\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-460\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Wilmington Grand Prix is now one of the top cycling events in the country.<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">In a relatively short time span, the Wilmington Grand Prix (various locations around downtown Wilmington, 302- 655-6483, <a href=\"http:\/\/wilmgrandprix.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/wilmgrandprix.com<\/span><\/a>) has grown from a regional bicycle race to one of the premier cycling events in the country. The Men\u2019s and Women\u2019s Professional Criterium Races will be official stop on USA Cycling\u2019s National Criterium Calendar.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The action starts May 13 with the Monkey Hill Time Trial, a 3.2-mile race against the clock through Wilmington\u2019s Brandywine Park. On May 14, there will be a series of races beginning at 9 a.m. and culminating with the Women\u2019s Pro and Men\u2019s Pro races in the afternoon.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The racing on Saturday will be held in downtown Wilmington on a figure-eight criterium over a one-mile course. The start line and finish line, which are the same, are located in front of the Grand Opera House in the 800 block of Market Street.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">On May 15, it will be time for the Sixth Annual Governor\u2019s Ride and the Fifth Annual Delaware Gran Fondo. Last year\u2019s Gran Fondo attracted cyclists from 20 states, including Maine, Florida and Colorado, by offering them a scenic tour through the Brandywine Valley.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Wilmington Grand Prix\u2019s Street Festival will take place on May 14 beginning with parade that starts at noon. The Street Festival features a Family Fun Zone, a Bike Expo,\u00a0 a \u201cRock Wall,\u201d sidewalk sales, a VIP Hospitality Tent, a Moon Bounce, and an array of family games and activities.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_461\" style=\"width: 310px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-461\" class=\"wp-image-461 size-medium\" src=\"http:\/\/chescotimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/cruise-night-herrs-300x197.png\" alt=\"cruise night herr's\" width=\"300\" height=\"197\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-461\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Herr&#8217;s is hosting its 17th annual Cruise Night, May 19.<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">A different breed of automobile will be featured on May 19 during \u201cCruise Night\u201d at Herr\u2019s Snack Foods, (20 Herr Drive, Routes 272 and 1, Nottingham, 610-932-9330, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.herrs.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.herrs.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">This year, Herr\u2019s Snack Foods is hosting its 17th Annual Cruise Night. Visitors to the event will find that \u201ccruising\u201d is welcomed rather than frowned upon in so many of the area\u2019s municipalities. The popular annual event, which features free admission and free parking, will get underway at 5 p.m. and continue until dusk.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">More than 300 classic cars and hot rods will be on display. Car owners are encouraged to register in the people\u2019s choice contest for first, second and third place \u201cBest of Show\u201d trophies. Spectators will be able to vote for their favorite classic car between 5-7 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The free event will also feature factory tours, food booths with festival fare, children\u2019s games, music by a disc jockey and a variety of door prizes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Linvilla Orchards &amp; the Historical Car Club of Pennsylvania will present an outstanding display of spectacularly restored cars this weekend at their annual Antique Car Show &amp; Flea Market at Linvilla Orchards (137 W. Knowlton Road, Media, 610- 876-7116, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.linvilla.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.linvilla.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">On May 15, the orchard\/market\/tourist attraction in Media will host the interesting annual springtime event from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The free show, which grows in popularity every year, will be held rain or shine.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Linvilla Orchards has partnered with The Historical Car Club of Pennsylvania (HCCP) for over three decades to present their annual Spring Meet. More than 250 spectacularly restored and maintained antique, classic, and muscle cars will take over one of Linvilla\u2019s big fields.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Visitors to Linvilla Orchards\u2019 car show will be able to get an up-close and personal look at a large selection of antique vehicles &#8212; all of which have been maintained in pristine form. There will be cars dating from as far back as the early 1900s. The wide representation of vintage vehicles will include cars all the way up until the 1970s.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Previous highlights have included a 1913 Ford Model T, a 1938 Ford Woody Wagon, a 1958 Chevy Impala and a 1962 Chevy Corvette. Awards will be presented for the best-maintained cars in a variety of classes, such as Best Brass and best restored pre-1918 cars.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">As an added attraction, there will be hayrides around the orchard\u2019s grounds and train rides on Linvilla Orchards Playland Express. Other kid-oriented attractions include a playground, a barnyard and face-painting.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The 20th Annual Ambler Auto Show (Butler Avenue, Ambler) will be held May 14 from 3-8 p.m. in the center of Ambler.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Billed as \u201cThe Best Little Car Show Around,\u201d promoters claim that the 20<\/span><span class=\"s4\"><sup>th<\/sup><\/span><span class=\"s1\"> anniversary show will be the best yet. Butler Avenue will close for the event from Lindenwold Avenue to Main Street so that more than 200 classic cars and their owners can compete for a litany of prizes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Ambler Auto Show is designed to be a fun, low-pressure event for auto and truck enthusiasts. Held each year at the beginning of the regional auto show season, Ambler gives the exhibitor a great opportunity to \u201ctune-up\u201d for upcoming shows. Vehicles are positioned along Butler Avenue covering the major shopping area of Ambler.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Visitors to the show have the opportunity to stop and chat with owners to learn more about each vehicle. Vehicles compete for awards in three categories &#8212; The Top 50, Major Sponsor Trophy and the Al Whitcomb Best-in-Show Award. Additionally, all entrants receive a commemorative dash plaque marking their participation in the show.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Visitors can stroll throughout the day along Butler Avenue, go to the restaurants and shops or grab a bite from one of the local food trucks which will be parked along Ridge Avenue for this special celebration.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><i>Rain<\/i> <i>date<\/i> is <i>May 15<\/i> from 3-8 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-462 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/chescotimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/pnscs-64th-show-slide-flat-300x125.jpg\" alt=\"pnscs-64th-show-slide-flat\" width=\"300\" height=\"125\" \/>Card collecting is a hobby that has been around for more than 100 years. It is a pastime that has been handed down from generation to generation. There are two primary categories of trading cards \u2014 sports cards and non-sports cards.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Everybody is familiar with sports cards such as baseball cards and football cards. However, there are actually many more non-sports sets issued each year. Not surprisingly, non-sports cards have attracted a large number of collectors around the world.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Two times a year, collectors and dealers from all around North America come together in the Delaware Valley for a very special event \u2014 the Philly Non-Sports Card Show.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Now in its 33rd year, the show is the oldest show of its kind in the country. This weekend\u2019s event, which will be held May 14 and 15 at the Merchants Square Mall (1901 South 12th Street, Allentown, 717-238-1936, <a href=\"http:\/\/phillynon-sportscardshow.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/phillynon-sportscardshow.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">At this weekend\u2019s 64th Philly Non-Sports Card Show, many of the hobby\u2019s top manufacturers will have exhibit booths at the show and will be distributing free promo cards. There will be a huge array of non-sport cards, sets, singles, wrappers, chase cards, promos, and related memorabilia.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Whether you\u2019re looking for brand new items such as \u201cDecision 2016,\u201d which looks at all the politicians involved in this year\u2019s Presidential election, or the latest \u201cGarbage Pail Kids\u201d issue\u00a0or vintage items such as Davy Crockett or Mars Attack, you\u2019ll be able to find them at this weekend\u2019s huge show.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">There will be a number of special autograph guests including highly-respected card artists including Danielle Ellison, Samantha Johnson, Sean Pence, Rhiannon Owens, Elaine Perna and Tony Perna.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Show hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on May 14 and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on May 15. Tickets are $8 daily or $14 for a two-day pass.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">On May 15, the Bethel Township Preservation Society (610-459-4183, <a href=\"http:\/\/betheltownshippreservationsociety.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/betheltownshippreservationsociety.com<\/span><\/a>) will present its \u201c10th Annual Log House Tour\u201d at a restored historic log house that is located at 1645 Bethel Road in Garnet Valley.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The event, which is free and open to the public, will feature colonial demonstrations &#8212; quilt making, weaving and spinning, butter making, and basket making.\u00a0 There will be crafts and a children\u2019s colonial toy display as well as \u201cpunched tin\u201d and \u201cbird walk\u201d activities for kids.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The house was built in the late 1600s in the William Penn style that was the prototype for the row houses in Philadelphia. The log house was continuously occupied until the early 1940s and remained in the \u201cabandoned\u201d category for quite awhile. A few years ago, the structure was dismantled log by log and moved to its current home on Bethel Road.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen offers a number of craft fairs throughout the state each year. One of the most popular fairs is scheduled for this weekend. Now through May 15, the Guild will present the Fine Craft Fair (Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, 717-431-8706, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.pacrafts.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.pacrafts.org<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Through a partnership with the\u00a0Friends of Rittenhouse Square\u00a0and in conjunction with the Philadelphia Parks &amp; Recreation, the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen will bring its signature premier Fine Craft Fair to the scenic park in Center City Philadelphia.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Founded in 1944 at the recommendation of Eleanor Roosevelt, the Pennsylvania Guild is one of the nation\u2019s largest and most recognized craft guilds, specializing in the advocacy and support of more than 1,400 members whose handwork is known for its unparalleled skill and artistry.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Fine craft is often defined as the hand and mind transformation of raw materials into inspired works of art.\u00a0The finished products may be either traditional or contemporary in style and design. This weekend\u2019s event will feature more than 145 of the Guild\u2019s finest craft artists.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Fine Craft Fair, which is free and open to the public, will focus on hand-crafted jewelry, contemporary furniture, functional and decorative pottery, designer clothing, fine porcelain, blown glass, limited edition photography, sculpture, paintings, watercolors, oils, graphite and pastels.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">There will be 150 white tent canopies lining the sidewalks of Rittenhouse Square\u2019s park when the Guild returns to Philadelphia with its sixth\u00a0juried Fine Craft Market. This year will also include<b>\u00a0<\/b>an \u201cEmerging Artist\u201d section and a hands-on activity free for all ages, sponsored by the Guild workshop program.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">According to Brandi Clark, executive director of the Guild, \u201cFine craft is a window to other places, other times, to the way the craftsmen see the world. There\u2019s a story behind each creator and why they make what they do, why they make certain color or design choices. When you buy from them in person, you find out a wealth of detail that changes the way you look at the world.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Fair hours are 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free. Street and garage parking is readily available.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Love On the Streets 2016 presented by Wahoo\u2019s (Paine\u2019s Park (North 24th Street and Martin Luther King Drive, Philadelphia, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1570532649936369\"><span class=\"s2\">https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/events\/1570532649936369<\/span><\/a>) returns for its second year on May 14. The free day-long celebration of skateboarding, music, art, and street culture brings new additions to last year\u2019s widely successful event.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The second annual staging of the event features a skate competition, where regional skateboarders compete for $2,000 in cash prizes. The Mad Dragon Stage will feature a full day of live music with Lithuania, Steady Hands, JANK, The Obsessives, Mumblr, Vicky Speedboat, Endless Taile, Plainview, and RFA.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Electric Factory resident visual artist, Getup, and renowned street artist, Distoart, will create live art. The flea market makes its return with local businesses and has expanded its selection of high quality food trucks. This year, patrons can also enjoy a cold brew inside the beer garden while taking in the atmosphere.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-463\" src=\"http:\/\/chescotimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/germantown-second-saturday-300x171.jpg\" alt=\"germantown second saturday\" width=\"300\" height=\"171\" \/>The Germantown Second Saturday Festival (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.freedomsbackyard.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/www.freedomsbackyard.com<\/span><\/a>) will be held on May 14 from noon-5 p.m. at Historic Market Square Park (Germantown Avenue and School House Lane, Germantown)<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Historic Germantown and Germantown United CDC is kicking off the 2016 Second Saturday series, when all 16 Historic Germantown sites are open monthly (May thru October). The event highlights the many thriving cultural, civic and business activities that make Germantown an exciting place to visit.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Special attractions at Saturday\u2019s event will be a special dance performance by BalletX, Philadelphia&#8217;s premier contemporary ballet; live music; an arts and crafts marketplace; historic re-enactors, family-friendly programs and free bus tours to Historic Germantown sites.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Chestnut Hill Home and Garden Festival (<a href=\"http:\/\/chestnuthillpa.com\/events\/home-garden-festival-2\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/chestnuthillpa.com\/events\/home-garden-festival-2<\/span><\/a>) was originally scheduled for the first Sunday in May but Mother Nature had other plans for the outdoor festival &#8212; a wipe-out because of foul weather.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">After being postponed because of rain earlier this month, Chestnut Hill will host the 20th anniversary of the Chestnut Hill Home and Garden Festival on May 15 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The festival turns Germantown Avenue from Rex to Willow Grove Avenues in Chestnut Hill into an outdoor garden marketplace. The free event draws nearly 30,000 attendees and more than 150 home and garden vendors, artists and craftsmen displaying their wares.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Some of this year\u2019s featured attractions are secret gardens tucked into little areas along the festival footprint, landscape and garden displays, vendor demonstrations including candle making, bee activities and aquaponics and a \u201cMaypole Dance.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The list of kids\u2019 attraction includes amusement rides, face painting, a photo booth, basketball clinic, arts and craft activities, music, a petting zoo and a free train ride. Live music will be performed by the City Rhythm Orchestra, The Classic Rockers,\u00a0The Dukes of Destiny, and Midnight Shift.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Bucks County Wine Trail hosts several seasonal events each year &#8212; including a pair of \u201cSpring Winery Tours.\u201d The Fifth Annual Spring Winery Tour is scheduled for May 15 and 22. The two-part self-guided tour will highlight nine unique family-owned wineries along the Bucks County Wine Trail.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The Southern Tour will be held from noon to 5 p.m. on May 15. Cost is $35. The Northern Tour will be held from noon to 5 p.m. on May 22. Cost is $30. Tickets for both tours cost $50.\u00a0\u00a0Tickets are available at any of the wineries. Quantities are limited.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The South Tour on May 22 will visit Buckingham Valley Vineyards (1521 Durham Road, Buckingham, 215-794-7188, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.pawine.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.pawine.com<\/span><\/a>), Crossing Vineyards &amp; Winery (1853 Wrightstown Road, Washington Crossing, 215-493-6500, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.crossingvineyards.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.crossingvineyards.com<\/span><\/a>), Rose Bank Winery (258 Durham Road, Newtown, 215-860-5899, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.rosebankwinery.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.rosebankwinery.com<\/span><\/a>), Rushland Ridge Vineyards (2665 Rushland Road, Rushland, 215-598-0251, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.rushlandridge.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.rushlandridge.com<\/span><\/a>) and Wycombe Vineyards (1391 Forest Grove Road, Furlong, 215-598-9463, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wycombevineyards.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.wycombevineyards.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The North Tour will include New Hope Winery (123 Route 202, New Hope, 215- 794-2331, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.newhopewinery.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.newhopewinery.com<\/span><\/a>), Peace Valley Winery (300 Old Limekiln Road, Chalfont, 215-249-9058, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.peacevalleywinery.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.peacevalleywinery.com<\/span><\/a>), Sand Castle Winery (755 River Road, Erwinna, 800-722-9463, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.sandcastlewinery.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.sandcastlewinery.com<\/span><\/a>) and Unami Ridge Winery (2144 Kumry Road, Quakertown, 215- 804-5445, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.unamiridge.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.unamiridge.com<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">For years, the Strasburg Railroad (Route 741 East, Strasburg, 717- 687-7522, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.strasburgrailroad.com\/\"><span class=\"s2\">http:\/\/www.strasburgrailroad.com<\/span><\/a>) has been taking visitors on rides back through time &#8212; visits to an era when rail travel was appreciated and steam-powered locomotives provided the power to take the trains from one location to another.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">On May 14, visitors to the excursion rail line in Lancaster County will be able to take a ride back in time with an added attraction &#8212; an opportunity to watch a game of vintage baseball.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The special steam-powered trains will depart hourly from the East Strasburg station and travel through scenic Pennsylvania Dutch country to Paradise. On the return trip, there will be an exclusive stop at Verdant View Farm.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Passengers may disembark at Verdant View Farm and walk across the farmland to watch a vintage base ball tournament featuring three teams &#8212; Mohican Base Ball Club of Kennett Square, Keystone Base Ball Club of Harrisburg and Rising Sun Base Ball Club.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The tournament will be played by the rules of the game as they were in the 19th century. During this era of baseball, players in the field caught the ball with bare hands instead of gloves. And, the game was known as \u201cbase ball\u201d instead of \u201cbaseball.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Access to Vintage Base Ball Day games is exclusively by train and does require a walk across farmed ground, similar to what fans of the game would have experienced over a century ago.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">For the convenience of attendees, restroom facilities and food vendors will be on-site. Limited bench seating will be available for the afternoon. Guests are invited to bring blankets and compact lawn chairs. Small coolers or picnic baskets are also permitted. The games will be played rain or shine.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">The tournament begins at noon with games running throughout the afternoon. To catch the first pitch, ride the 11 a.m. train to Verdant View Field. Trains operate throughout the afternoon so you can return to the Strasburg station at your leisure.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Coach ticket prices are $15 for adults (12 and over) and $9 for children (ages 2-11). Tickets for the \u201cOpen Air\u201d cars are $17 and $11.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">One of the more interesting traditional springtime events in Pennsylvania Dutch country is the Rough and Tumble Engineers Historical Association\u2019s annual \u201cSpring Stream Up\u201d (Rough and Tumble, 4977 Lincoln Highway East, Kinzers, 717-442-4249, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.roughandtumble.org\/\"><span class=\"s2\">www.roughandtumble.org<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">\u201cSpring Steam-Up\u201d is scheduled for May 13 and 14 from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. each day. One of the highlights will be sessions of \u201cPlowing with Steam and Gas Tractors.\u201d This activity will be held only if weather is favorable to plow.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">There will be a variety of displays featuring steam engines, gas engines, steam tractors, gas tractors and antique cars. Also featured will be a model shop, a saw mill, two steam trains and blacksmithing demonstrations at the museum\u2019s blacksmith shop.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">\u201cTractor Games\u201d are scheduled for Friday at 4 p.m. A \u201cParade of Power\u201d will be presented on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. followed by a \u201cGarden Tractor Pull\u201d immediately after the parade. A \u201cChildren\u2019s Pedal Tractor Pull (35 lb &#8211; 80 lb)\u201d will be held on Saturday at 1 p.m.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">\u201cSpring Steam-Up\u201d is looked at as special event each year at Rough and Tumble &#8212; a time to get the steam engines out of hibernation and fire them up. It is also a time for the plowing to begin.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">Tickets for \u201cSpring Stream Up\u201d are $5 for adults and $2 for children (ages 6-12).<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Also: 74th annual Dogwood Festival in Phoenixville By Denny Dyroff,\u00a0Staff Writer, The Times The Brandywine Valley is horse country and the 2016 equestrian season is already underway. The 24th Annual Willowdale Steeplechase (Steeplechase grounds, routes 82 and 926, Unionville, 610-444-1582, http:\/\/willowdalesteeplechase.org) will be held on May 15 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. &nbsp;&nbsp; Send article as [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":14727,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5,7],"tags":[4288,7368,3676,3011,7369,7367],"class_list":["post-14724","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-community","category-featured","tag-star-party","tag-art-of-the-bark","tag-dogwood-festival","tag-willowdale-steeplechase","tag-wilmington-grand-prix","tag-wizard-of-oz"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chescotimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14724","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chescotimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chescotimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chescotimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chescotimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=14724"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/chescotimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14724\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14725,"href":"https:\/\/chescotimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14724\/revisions\/14725"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chescotimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/14727"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chescotimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=14724"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chescotimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=14724"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chescotimes.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=14724"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}