Here are the 10 best things to do around Philly this week
Do some good on MLK Day, cheers to Edgar Allen Poe, and check out restaurant week in Center City.
You can always find our favorite activities of the week at inquirer.com/things-to-do.
The Ways of White Folks
(Theater) The well known 1934 play by Langston Hughes portrays a powerful snapshot of race relations in America. At this world-premiere staging at Glen Foerd Mansion, you’ll experience the play like never before as you’re invited into each character’s room for a tour of the mansion and their intimate, private lives. (Jan. 11-22, 5001 Grant Ave., egopo.org)
The Addams Family
(Community) What better way to honor one of our favorite spooky families than with a burlesque and drag tribute? This show does just that, featuring iconic local queens Isa Aridente, Maria Topcatt, Ginger Leigh and more. They’ll be hitting the stage with burlesque and cabaret in honor of all things Addams Family. (Jan. 13, 7p.m., 1320 Chancellor St., eventbrite.com)
WinTOUR Scavenger Hunt
(Community) Get outdoors and explore Fairmount Park at this epic, all ages scavenger hunt. It’s free to all, with weekly themes helping you focus on a different geographic area of the park. Compete in special missions each week for the chance to win some great prizes along the way. (Jan. 14- Feb. 22, myphillypark.org)
Night at the Museum
(Community) Spend the night among lions, tigers and ancient dinosaurs. Yes, you read that right! This night at the museum gives you the chance to experience the Academy of Natural Sciences after dark. You’ll get to snack, hang out with fellow explorers, and spend an evening with these iconic ancient creatures. (Jan. 14-15, 7-9p.m., 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., ansp.org)
Singing Freedom
(Music) Presented in collaboration with Cornell University, this concert explores the perspectives of enslaved people in North America who risked it all to seek freedom. In this kickoff to the concert series, you’ll hear from three powerful vocalists accompanied by talented, award-winning musicians. (Jan. 15, 3p.m., 300 S. Broad St., kimmelculturalcampus.org/)
MLK Day of Service
(Community) Celebrate the life, legacy and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by giving back at community events across the city. From clothing drives to neighborhood clean ups, there’s no shortage of ways to get involved. (Jan. 16, various times and locations, mlkdayofservice.org/)
Center City Restaurant Week
(Community) The tastiest week of the year is back. Close to 90 restaurants are participating to showcase some of their best pre-fixe three course menus, including lunch and dinner options, at unmissable prices. Grab a friend or two and try out some of Center Cities best eateries. (Jan. 15-28, various locations, centercityphila.org)
Drag Brunch with Bev and Queen
(Community) Queen of Comedy Bev hosts this epic brunch alongside four other accomplished drag queens. In addition to a delicious brunch, you’ll be thoroughly entertained with dance performances, hilarious comedy and all of your favorite songs. (Jan. 15, 11a.m. - 2p.m., 1776 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., eventbrite.com)
Renewel x The Deacon
(Community) It’s never too late to ground your new year in zen and peace. Come get centered and restored with an evening of moment, meditation and sound. You’ll enjoy juice from REAP Wellness, a yoga flow led by Alexandra Gallo, and a sound meditation led by Luna Maye. ($44, Jan. 18, 6-8:30p.m., 1600 Christian St., eventbrite.com)
Poe After Hours
(Community) Cheers to the 214th birthday of Edgar Allen Poe. Start the night at Yards Brewing Company and then enjoy an after-hours tour of Edgar Allen Poe’s home. Your ticket includes a drink ticket to the Yards Taproom and your tour. ($10, Jan. 19, 6p.m., 500 Spring Garden St., support.inht.org)