Friday, September 12, 2014

Checklist for GO WEST! Craft Fest

We are getting so excited for this Saturday's Go West Craft Fest at the Woodlands! Over 120 local vendors will be there to show their creative work, plus great food and music in one of Philadelphia's most naturally beautiful and historic sites. The weather for Saturday look ok so far but we will update here Saturday morning if we must use our rain date for Sunday.

Here are some tips to make the most of your visit...
  • SEPTA tokens. The Fest is right across from the 40th Street trolley portal, served by the 12, 13, 34 and 36 trolleys. Hop on any westbound "Green Line" subway/surface car from Center City (EXCEPT the 10) and arrive in minutes. There will be once again NO visitor parking inside The Woodlands however plenty of parking on the street and surrounding neighborhood. This makes for an enjoyable family friendly atmosphere for all.
  • Comfortable shoes. While the Fest is conveniently close to the entrance, visitors may choose to explore farther into the 54-acre grounds. Featuring the Hamilton Mansion, a grand example of 18th century neoclassical architecture.William Hamilton, an avid botanist, collected and planted dozens of various trees on the estate, many of which are now some of our nation's oldest and largest specimens, thriving among the monuments for over 30 thousand eternal Philadelphians. Stroll the winding paths and see for yourself. There will be tours of the landscape, check in with The Woodlands table at the front entrance.
  • Your Gift List. Our talented vendors make a huge variety of products, like jewelry, clothing, accessories, fine art, cards, toys, candles, teas and more. Keep in mind your loved ones' birthdays, weddings, and of course it's never too early to start Holiday Shopping. Your unique GO WEST! gift will be fondly remembered because it was made with love and care by a local artisan.
  • A Tote Bag, to carry all of your new-found treasures. If you forget, several vendors offer unique eco-friendly shopping bags, like these
  • Cash. Although some of our vendors do accept credit cards, not all do and there is a good chance that the irresistible treasure you discovered may not be seen again (even at VIX).  Also did you know when you pay by credit card to a small business they’re losing valuable dollars per transaction to a huge credit card company? We’re happy to take  your cards, but we like cash much better. The closest ATM is at Mill Creek Tavern, 4200 Chester Avenue.
  • A Blanket for a Picnic Lunch . The Woodlands is a perfect place for a picnic, Black Orchid will have vegan sandwiches and mac & cheese for the kids, Taco Angeleno will have all manner of Mexican style tacos, Aksum will feature middle eastern goodies & The Satellite CafĂ© will be there for all of your coffee needs.  
  • Your Sweet Tooth, with gourmet popsicles from the Lil Pop Shop and Weckerleys Ice Cream it will be hard not to resist something, not to mention vegan treats from The Satellite Cafe!
  • Children, who will have tons of fun singing and playing music with  Ann from the Green Tambourine. They'll be mesmerized by fancy juggling tricks and hula hoopers and do free arts and crafts courtesy of the UC Arts League & The Philly Free School
  • Sunscreen & a Jacket. Weather forecasts are looking promising but a little uncertain, so be ready for anything the springtime might bring. If the morning is clear, the show will go on!
  • A Spooky or Fall Themed Book, for the All Hallow's Read book drive, you'll get a different one back if come to the book hunt on October 26th.
  • Your senses of curiosity, creativity and wonder, and enough time to experience the day. Here's the musical line up:                                                                                                                      
12 pm: The Green Tambourine - children's musical instruction 
1 pm: Julian Root & friends - traditional roots/bluegrass/Americana 
2 pm: Silverton - uncompromisingly positive folk rock 
3 pm: All Around This World - international children's music with Jay Sand 
4 pm: Shakey Lyman - blues legend
With a little luck regarding the weather, Saturday promises to be a great day to GO WEST. We hope to see you there!

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