The sounds, scents and aura of autumn seem to make their appearance earlier every year—with morning flocks of geese honking overhead, a scattering of leaves flying randomly through the air and sunsets showing up a few minutes sooner each evening. In downtown Ardmore, that’s a good thing, as the event schedule begins to heat up while the temperature starts to cool down.
Christine Vilardo, executive director of Ardmore Initiative, conveys, “Fall is always such a fun and busy time here in Ardmore. The crisp, fresh air makes it a wonderful time to be outdoors, and we have events to please every interest. Oktoberfest returns this year with the same brews, food and music that fans have come to love and expect from this traditional German festival—and this year we’re adding more activities to engage the whole family! Also, don’t miss the Ardmore Vintage & Antiques Market as it returns for a second year, promising great finds for the treasure seekers among us.”
Long known as a destination for lively music and festivals, abundant shops and markets and casual and fine dining, Ardmore promises to make this autumn one to remember. Recently listed in “17 Small Towns Near Philly You Need to Visit Right Now” on PhillyCurbed.com, Ardmore remains a vibrant, walkable town with a ton of convenient parking options. Check it out and see what’s going on!
Ardmore Antiques & Vintage Market (Sept. 17)
On Saturday, September 17, from 8 a.m.–4 p.m., the Ardmore Antiques & Vintage Market in conjunction with Ardmore Initiative will host over 30 vendors of collectables at Schauffele Plaza. Find yourself enamoured while perusing well-stocked booths of baubles, trinkets, furniture and clothing. Seasoned relic-hunters and amateurs alike need to put this event on their must-attend list. Rain date Sunday, September 18.
Oktoberfest (Sept. 24)
Ardmore’s annual Oktoberfest is back on Saturday, September 24, from 2–8 p.m. While the adults sample a variety of German brews from Tired Hands Brewing Company in McCloskey’s Tavern Beer Garden, the children can enjoy the moon bounce and carnival-style games lining Cricket Avenue. Plenty of German-inspired grub is on hand as well, including traditional pierogies, bratwurst and sauerkraut from John Henry’s Pub. Enjoy live music from the talented James D. Oompah Band and classic rock music by Ardmore favorite The O’Fenders.
Ardmore Open House (Oct. 8)
On Saturday October 8, from 11 a.m.–4 p.m., town takes on a festive atmosphere during Ardmore Open House, an event hosted by the Ardmore Business Association. Boutique shops, local businesses and a plethora of restaurants bring the community alive with workshops, sidewalk sales, outdoor dining, kids’ activities and so much more.
Taste of Ardmore (Oct. 20)
Finally, be sure to mark your calendar for the highly anticipated Taste of Ardmore, which will be making its annual appearance on Thursday, October 20. During the event, the area’s best and brightest culinary stars will be offering up perfect tastes and menu specials. Whether it’s a quick grab-and-go salad, an international buffet or a sit-down, take-out-all-the-stops prix fixe dinner, Ardmore’s restaurant community will have you covered. Stay tuned to the Taste of Ardmore website for up to the minute details on this tasty event for 2016!
- Restaurant photo (Firinji): Ed Williams
- Remaining photos: Ardmore Initiative