Philadelphia and its surrounding counties always have something going on. Whether it’s a beer festival, home and garden show, a winter festival, polar bear plunge or a comedy show, this area is full of winter fun every weekend. We’ve found the top (and affordable) choices of what to do this long weekend, Feb. 15 to 18, in Philly and New Jersey.
Feb. 15-18
What: Presidents Day Weekend in Philadelphia
Many of Philadelphia’s museums and attractions will celebrate the holiday with free admission to special exhibits.
Where: Various locations
What: Philly Home + Garden Show
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Where: Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks
When: Friday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: $9 for adults if you buy online, children 12 and under are free
What: Polar Bear Plunge Weekend
The weekend kicks off at 7 p.m. Friday with the crowning of the "Royal Family." The costume contest begins at noon on Saturday and the chilly plunge in the ocean is at 2 p.m. Saturday. A 5K run takes place at noon on Sunday.
Where: LaCosta Lounge, 3000 Landis Ave., Sea Isle City, NJ
When: Friday through Sunday
Cost: $30 for the run
What: The Salty Sirens – Valentine’s Day Weekend
Spend Valentine’s Day with your loves at this cabaret burlesque show that includes cocktails and dinner.
Where: Elaine’s Boutique Hotel and Dinner Theater, 513 Lafayette St., Cape May, NJ
When: Friday and Saturday, from 5 to 11 p.m.
Cost: $50
What: Wildwood, NJ Cheer Movement Competition
Watch theses cheerleaders perform their choreographed routines. Winning teams will be awarded prizes.
Where: Wildwoods Convention Center, 4501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ
When: Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
What: Big Philly Beerfest
Taste craft beer from across the country with unlimited beer samples. Also enjoy live music and food at this event.
Where: Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch Street, Philadelphia
When: Friday and Saturday, from 8 to 11:30 p.m.
Cost: Starts at $50
What: Uncorked Comedy
Enjoy a three-course meal, wine pairing and laughs with three New York City comics at this monthly event.
Where: Willow Creek Farm & Winery, 168 Stevens Street, West Cape May, NJ
When: Saturday, from 6 to 10 p.m.
Cost: $65 per person. Must be 21 years old to attend.
What: Black History in Philadelphia
Major city attractions, including the African American Museum of Philadelphia, the National Constitution Center and the Free Library of Philadelphia, will host events throughout the month.
Where: Various locations
When: All of February
What: Philly Theatre Week
For 10 days the city’s theaters offer affordable opportunities including shows, classes, readings and more.
Where: through Feb. 17
When: Various locations
Cost: Between $15 and $30 per person
What: Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
When the weather gets chilly, head to rink for some ice skating, fire pits, food, drinks, an arcade and more.
Where: Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest, 101 S. Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia
When: through March 3, from 1 to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 1 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Sunday
Cost: Free for general admission, $4 skating admission, $10 skate rentals. Food and drink available for purchase.
What: Winter at Dilworth Park
In the shadow of City Hall, families can enjoy ice skating, the Wintergarden, shopping and plenty of snacks and hot chocolate outside at Dilworth Park.
Where: Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th Street, Philadelphia
When: through Feb. 24
Cost: Free to explore
What: Orchid Extravaganza at Longwood Gardens
Stroll through the indoor gardens and witness the beauty of the rarest of flowers.
Where: Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, Pa.
When: through March 24
Cost: Varies
