10 Must-Attend Events & Festivals Happening in September

The arrival of fall means another month of exhibits, events, and festivals to know about. Here, we curated a list of our favorites to check out around the City of Brotherly Love this September.

The Freedom Principle: Experiments in Art and Music, 1965 to Now
Sept. 14-March 19, 2017

Gavin Ashworth.

The University of Pennsylvania’s Institute of Contemporary Art invites art and music enthusiasts to check out its newest exhibit, The Freedom Principle: Experiments in Art and Music, 1965 to Now. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about jazz in the '60s, and how the music genre continues to influences the industry today. 118 S. 36th St., 215-898-7108

Classical Splendor: Painted Furniture for a Grand Philadelphia House
Sept. 3-Jan. 1

Philadelphia Museum of Art’s latest showcase will feature an array of furniture painted by Benjamin Henry Latrobe, the 18th century neoclassical architect who became famous for designing the city's recently demolished Bank of Pennsylvania. The pieces, which are on display until next year, reflect Latrobe's frequent use of ancient Greek- and Rome-inspired designs. 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., 215-763-8100

Ben Volta: Pattern Process
Sept. 21-Nov. 20

Artist Ben Volta explores how art can inspire changes on an individual and institutional level in Philadelphia Academy of the Fine Arts's latest exhibition. Volta has been developing a collaborative art curriculum for public schools, and his personal devotion to the subject translates to his artwork, which features a seemingly random combination of patterns and colors. Stop by to see how each section of art looks like its own creation, but when viewed altogether, the sections combine to become one cohesive work of art. 118-128 N. Broad St., 215-972-7600

South Pacific
Sept. 6-Oct. 23

Walnut Street Theatre will be hosting Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical, South Pacific. Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, Tales of the South Pacific by James A. Michener, the musical narrates a love story that blossoms during an impending war. Winner of the Tony for Best Original Score, South Pacific is a timeless story you won't want to miss. 825 Walnut St., 215-574-3550

A Million Faces: The Photography of John W. Mosley
Sept. 24-Jan. 16

View of the crowd as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. addresses civil rights demonstrators at 40th Street and Lancaster Avenue, Philadelphia on August 2, 1965. 1965, by John W. Mosley (John W. Mosley Photograph Collection, Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection, Temple University Libraries, Philadelphia).

Twentieth century photojournalist John W. Mosley dedicated his life to capturing daily life in the black communities of Philadelphia. As one of the most influential photojournalists of our time, Mosley didn't want to use lengthy captions to explain his photos. Instead, he hoped viewers would see the stories of the subjects he photographed just by looking into their faces, which all took place from World War II and through to the Civil Rights Movement. 9201 Germantown Ave., 215-247-0476

Center City District Restaurant Week
Sept. 11-16 & 18-23

Diners and culinary aficionados can enjoy pre-fixed menus from dozens of the city’s finest restaurants during this season's restaurant week. Book reservations for Philly standbys like The Dandelion, Garces Trading Company, and Amada, which will offer three-course meals for $35. Visit centercityphila.org for the complete list

Philly Fashion Week
Sept. 19-24

The City of Brotherly Love's fashionable set will flock for this year's fashion week, which will showcase collections from local designers like Todd Anthony and Bishme Cromartie. We also heard that the Philadelphia 76ers will present streetwear lines exclusively at the event. Philly Fashion Week will take place at multiple locations, including North Shore Beach Club, SugarHouse Casino, Macy's Center City, and more. Check out the full schedule here

Autumn’s Colors
Sept. 10-Nov. 20

There's no better way to celebrate the start of fall than with a trip to Longwood Gardens to experience all the colors of autumn. Witness for yourself as summer transitions into fall, and as leaves turn into beautiful gradients of red, orange, and yellow. Be sure to stay after the sun sets to experience the garden's rave-worthy Nightscape exhibition, a must-do light and sound experience. 1001 Longwood Road, 610-388-1000

The Fringe Festival
Sept. 9-24

This annual event helps celebrate the burgeoning creativity in Philadelphia during an impressive span of 17 days. Each performance is produced solely by each performer, which only adds to its authenticity and originality. Don't miss out on art exhibitions, shows, live performances, digital work, and more. Plus, this year's Festival Hub, which is located on the Delaware River waterfront will offer food, drinks, and undeniable fun. 140 N. Columbus Blvd., 215-413-9006

Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show
Sept. 16-18

As one of the oldest outdoor fine art shows in the country, look forward to this bi-annual event, which will showcase the works of artists from Philadelphia and beyond. Spend the afternoon perusing all the artwork on display, chat with the artists themselves, and experience the hustle and bustle of the Square. 610-299-1343