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Despite our apparent shift from rainy/cold to downright hot, we are still fully enjoying the not-yet-summer weather that's been gracing us over the past few days. Before we launch full-force into 85+ temps, be sure to dive into our spring checklist to enjoy those warm weather staples that always seem a little more fun earlier in the season.


Dine (and Drink) Al Fresco

  Once summer hits, it becomes increasingly difficult to sit outside and actually enjoy eating a meal that's not entirely composed of liquid and teeming with your own sweat. Right now is the perfect time to check out those spots that afford you the luxury of people-watching while actually dining comfortably. Some of our favorites include Mixto, Continental, City Tap, Tria, Sidecar and Parc. For best results, top it off with a chilled drink (mojitos at Mixto, Bordeaux Blanc at Parc, frothy brews at City Tap).


Join The Weekend Festivities

  This city loves to host festivals--especially the kind that make traveling through Center City virtually impossible on a spring Saturday. But we're not complaining. There's always a slew of outdoor spring events--whether it's 2011 World Dance Day in Philadelphia (4/29, Piazza at Schmidt's) crafts and food (this weekend's East Passyunk Flavors on the Avenue), PIFA's Street Fair (also this Saturday) or the old standbys such as Rittenhouse Row Spring Fest (5/21) or the International Cycling Championship that overtakes Manayunk on June 5..


Watch a Game That isn't Indoors

  We've loved watching the Flyers and Sixers over the past few months, but we've sure missed the open-air feel of catching a game outside (unless it's raining--like the Union vs. Sounders game a few weeks back). Spend the day tailgating in the lots while taking up people's parking spots with your grill at Citizens Bank or make the trek down to PPL Park to catch the Union. We promise, even if you're not into soccer, the draft selection (uh, Boddington's?!) and the food vendors (vegetarian cheesesteaks) are enough to keep you sated for the full 90 minutes.


Eat Frozen Treats

  It's a time-honored tradition for locals to eat copious amounts of Rita's Water Ice throughout the warmer months. While we're big fans of the Marshallow Peeps flavor, we won't push that on you--try their brand new Chocolate-Peanut Butter twist on the classic, it's way less guilt-inducing than a sundae. For homemade ice cream that's worth the extra calories, try Franklin Fountain's amazingly fresh creations. Or, if you're so inclined, one of their famous Egg Creams.


Actually Go to First Friday

  We always love First Friday, regardless of the weather, but our two most loved editions are coming up on May 6th and June 3rd. As long as it doesn't rain (which it may, now that we've jinxed it) the temps will usually strike that ideal balance between hot and cool, giving way to the hordes of people who suddenly discover that leaving their apartment is okay again.



Find a Body of Water

  You'll probably want to stay away from the Schulykill or even the Delaware for that matter. But, if you're really trying to splash about you can take a Duck Boat ride-that is, if last year's debacle hasn't turned you off. Your best bet is to probably head north and go tubing down the Delaware up in Bucks County.




about the author
Heyphilly.com Staff
The Heyphilly.com staff possesses insider knowledge of the best bars and restaurants in the city and prides themselves on bringing you the best beer and food specials in town. Think we deserve some lovin' for our no-holds-barred view on the city? How about some thinly-veiled hate mail? Drop us a line here: editorial@aycmedia.com. Either way, we love attention.
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