10 Things to do in Philly This Weekend (May 4 to May 6)

May 4 to 6 is a busy weekend in any part of the country. If I were at home in Little Rock (rather than working) I would be going to a wedding, and a party, and possibly a concert, too. Alas, I won’t be there. For those of you looking for something to do in Philadelphia, you’re in luck. The regions official tourism website has posted information on 10 Things to Do in Philly This Weekend. How exciting.

1. Philadelphia International Children’s Festival: The Philadelphia International Children’s Festival is the oldest festival of its kind in the United States. Each spring, more than 16,000 people come together to celebrate diversity and enjoy the performing arts. The event is held at the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. (215) 898-6701.

2. The Art of African Women: This exhibition is on display at the African American Museum in Philadelphia. It is comprised of photos by Margaret Courtney-Clarke and pays tribute to the African artistic traditions that have been passed down by women. (215) 574-0380,

3. Daniel Garber Exhibit: Romantic realist paintings and works on paper by one of the most important Pennsylvania Impressionist painters of all time. The paintings are on view at the James A. Michener Art Museum. (215) 340-9800.

4. Equality Forum 2007: The Equality Forum is a week-long symposium celebrating the cultural and political legacy and future of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community. It includes more than 50 events and programs by 65 regional, national and international organizations. (215) 732-3378.

5. Thomas Chimes Exhibit: Adventures in ‘Pataphysics is a 50-year retrospective exhibition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and presents approximately 75 paintings and works on paper created throughout the artist’s life. (215) 763-8100.

6. Black Lily Film & Music Festival: 30 musicians and 30 films will perform at the first annual Black Lily Film & Music Festival, held at various locations throughout the city. Musicians include Jill Scott, The Roots, Nouveau Rich, Slanty Eyed Mama and more. In addition to the music, attendees can check out the works of numerous innovative female filmmakers such as Michelle Parkerson, Su Friedrich and Kimi Takesue. (215) 925-9914.

7. Kids’ Summer FunFest: This festival will be held at the American Helicopter Museum and features crafts and games, excursion ideas, prizes, refreshments and live entertainment. Free admission to the museum means festival goers can also see more than 35 helicopters on display.

8. Longwood Gardens Wine and Jazz Festival: Enjoy the fruits of more 20 regional wineries, delicious food and beautiful scenery at Longwood Gardens’ first-ever Wine & Jazz Festival. (610) 388-1000. I wouldn’t mind going to that one.

9. Strawberry Festival: Festive foods, children’s activities, pie-eating contests and lively family entertainment are highlights of this 38th annual event. The strawberries are served fresh and unadorned, dipped in chocolate, deep-fried in fritters, piled on shortcake, baked in assorted pastries and blended in fruit smoothies. The region’s finest artisans exhibit and sell unique handcrafted works. (215) 794-4000.

10. The 28th Annual Broad Street Run: Spanning 10 miles from Olney to South Philadelphia, the Broad Street Run raises money for the American Cancer Society. (215) 683-3594.

So, there is no excuse for staying in your hotel room all weekend. I would still have to advise you not to take the subway.