Playwicki’s ‘2nd Fridays’ series continues June 8 with Food Truck Rally hosted by Mommy’s Lil’ Black Book
By Samantha Bambino
The Times
We’ve all heard of “1st Fridays,” the ever-growing popular tradition to celebrate the beginning of a new month. Whether it’s browsing art along the streets of Old City Philadelphia, or enjoying outdoor entertainment at the Wharf in Bristol Borough, there’s no shortage of free activities when our calendars turn another page.
So when Rose McMenamin, president of the Playwicki Farm Foundation, began brainstorming new events to be held at the spacious Feasterville location, a brilliant thought occurred to her. Rather than compete with dozens of other “1st Fridays,” why not go against the grain and host a series of “2nd Fridays?”
It’s safe to say there was a method behind McMenamin’s madness. The kickoff event on May 11, which featured a performance by the band KIRKO, welcomed more than 800 guests of all ages.
“It was over-the-top wonderful,” she said.
For some time, McMenamin has wanted to expand Playwicki’s offerings beyond its annual farmers, artisan and flea markets to bring not only new faces, but new vendors, to the historic 110-acre farm. 2nd Fridays are filled with everything from live music to local art displays, all free to the public.
The series continues on June 8 with a special Food Truck Rally hosted by Jen Flannery of Mommy’s Lil’ Black Book, an online forum where parents can learn about community events throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania. With Flannery boasting more than 25,000 social media followers, McMenamin is sure her local clout will draw an even larger turnout than the May date. So far, 6,300 people have selected “going” or “interested” on the event’s Facebook page.
Currently, 15 to 20 food trucks are slated to attend and, according to McMenamin, no two menus will be alike.
“Anything you want to eat will be at this food truck rally,” she said.
Participating trucks include A Taste of Philly, Authentik Byrek, Bread and Butter, Brilliant Beverages, Chef Johnny Bravo’s Surf & Turf, DeLorenzo’s the Burg, DonutNV, Goodnoe’s, Have a Ball, It’s a Wrap, Naked Brewing Company, Nick’s Roast Beef, The Tot Cart, The Little Sicilian and Tim’s Barbecue.
In addition to a DJ, the June 8 event will include a free child safety seat inspection and installation clinic hosted by the Lower Southampton Township Police Department. Officers from the Tri-Hampton Rescue Squad and volunteers from Safe Kids Bucks County will be available to offer hands-on assistance with the proper use of child restraint systems and safety belts. Appointments are strongly encouraged and can be made by contacting Cpl. Christopher Koehnlein at [email protected].
On July 13, live music will be provided by The Beatles tribute group, The Hearts Club Band, and the David Christopher Orchestra will take the stage on Aug. 10. McMenamin explained her goal was to feature various genres and talents to suit all interests.
At each 2nd Friday event, guests can enjoy a display of art available for purchase inside the farm, a reasonably priced beer and wine garden, and a variety of local vendors including: Action Karate, Agnes & Dora, Bounce With Us, Color Street, Damsel in Defense, Homemade & Blessed, Honey Bee’s Bath Bombs, Inspire, Jumping Jubilee, Lularoe, Magical Mouse Travel, Mary Kay, One in a Minion, Origami Owl, Paisley Rae, Rad Bows, Scentsy, Sing Along Princess Parties and Sweet Ladybug Baked Goods.
Admission to 2nd Fridays is free, though attendees are welcome to purchase as much or as little as they wish from the vendors. Proceeds will benefit vendors as well as Playwicki Farm’s current project of constructing a 40×60 pavilion on its premises.
To assist Playwicki in its efforts, American Heritage Credit Union agreed to be the exclusive sponsor for the series, donating $2,000 to the foundation.
“To have them give us $2,000 for something brand new, I’m elated,” McMenamin said. ••
If you go…
2nd Fridays at Playwicki Farm will take place June 8, July 13 and Aug. 10 from 5 to 8 p.m. at 2350 Bridgetown Pike in Feasterville.
For more information on the series and vendor opportunities, visit playwickifarm.org, call 215–373–7300, ext. 326 or email [email protected].
Samantha Bambino can be reached at [email protected]
