THE NEW PHILLY POPS SOUTH JERSEY DEBUT AT ROWAN UNIVERSITY
CONDUCTED BY MUSIC DIRECTOR CHRIS DRAGON
The Marie Rader Series is proud to present the South Jersey debut of the new Philly Pops at Rowan University. On Saturday, March 14, at 3 p.m,. the Pops will present “Blockbusters in the Burbs” at Rowan’s Pfleeger Concert Hall, introducing audiences in South Jersey to the orchestra. For concert tickets and more information, visit go.rowan.edu/phillypops.
Conducted by Music Director Christopher Dragon, the orchestra will perform some of the most beloved movie scores, including features by the orchestra’s Matt Gallagher (The Incredibles), Michael Ludwig (Schindler’s List), and Ron Kerber (Catch Me if You Can). The concert will be offered in a ‘Relaxed Performance’ format to provide a sensory-friendly experience for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Pops Bassist Douglass Mapp also serves as Professor of Jazz Studies within Rowan University’s Department of Music. He will be performing with the orchestra on the 14th, putting the active performance side of his career on direct display for his students who may not have the opportunity to see his Philadelphia performances.
Following the performance, Pops’ musicians will welcome the audience in the lobby. And, as with all Marie Rader Series engagements, the Rowan campus community will enjoy artist-led opportunities beyond the stage, with Music Director Chris Dragon hosting a conducting masterclass for students, as well as an invited dress rehearsal in the hall for students and board members
“We are honored to serve an important role with the Philly Pops,” says Marie Rader Series Artistic Director Debbie Shapiro. “Not only will this celebrate the Pops’ and Chris Dragon’s Rowan debut, but we love to emphasize Philadelphia’s world-class arts organizations, inspire our students, and bring audiences from all over the region together in a very accessible way.”
For Matt Koveal, Executive Director of the Pops, this new collaboration expands the reach of their music to New Jersey. “We’re grateful to Rowan University for inviting us to perform in South Jersey,” he says. “A large part of our mission is to bring our brand of popular music into new communities and connect with the South Jersey community. Being on Rowan University’s campus, surrounded by that energy, is a great way to make this pursuit a reality.”
Australian conductor Christopher Dragon is the newly appointed Music Director of the Philly Pops. Before moving to the United States in 2015, Dragon held the inaugural position of Assistant Conductor with the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, where he was mentored by Asher Fisch. Dragon has a versatile portfolio ranging from live-to-picture performances, including Nightmare Before Christmas, Toy Story, and Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, and a wide variety of collaborations with artists such as The Wu-Tang Clan, Cynthia Erivo, and Joshua Bell. He is known for his charisma and high energy, consistently delivering unforgettable performances.
“The masterclass is an opportunity for students to cultivate a deep love and understanding of the unique elements of conducting a pops’ ensemble.” Dragon says. “I look forward to sharing my experiences with the students and performing at Rowan University.”
About the Philly Pops
Founded in 2023, Liberty Bell Pops, dba the Philly Pops, is a versatile ensemble composed of the former musicians of the pre-2023 Philly Pops with a mission to deliver authentic, exceptional musical experiences in the Philadelphia region. Gifted the name Philly Pops by the estate of Music Director Emeritus Peter Nero, the reborn Philly Pops is led by Music Director Christopher Dragon and features world-class soloists. The Pops continues to captivate audiences with its vibrant and diverse repertoire, melding tradition with an innovative approach unbound by musical genre. Liberty Bell Pops, dba The Philly Pops, has no affiliation either legally or artistically with Encore Series, Inc., the former management company of the Philly Pops. Learn more at phillypops.org.
About Marie Rader Series at Rowan University:
Because of the Marie Rader Series, arts lovers throughout New Jersey don’t have to travel to New York or Philadelphia. Focused on artistic integrity and inclusion, the series provides public presentations, community outreach, and coaching for students that reflect the innovation and quality consistent with Rowan University’s overall standards of high achievement and transformation.
Concessions will be available for purchase at all performances. Pfleeger Concert Hall is a wheelchair accessible venue. For assistance contact Rowan University’s College of the Arts Box Office via performingarts@rowan.edu or 856-256-4545.
The series is made possible in part through generous support from the Henry M. Rowan Family Foundation via the Marie Rader Memorial Fund and through funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.
Philadelphia, PA – This Valentine’s season, romance takes a darker, more seductive turn at Cupid’s Nest, an exclusive pop-up experience inside Newsroom Philly. Hidden behind a discreet 7-up soda machine entrance on Germantown Avenue, this Valentine and Galentine themed speakeasy is fully reimagined as a sultry, rose-soaked hideout built for date nights, Galentine’s celebrations and spontaneous late nights. Running Wednesday through Sunday throughout the Valentine’s season, Cupid’s Nest blends moody lighting, immersive design and playful adult Valentine’s energy – where classic romance collides with modern nightlife. Look for hundreds of roses, red and pink hearts, twinkling red and white lights, photo stations and the giant glowing heart aerial hoop custom built for dazzling aerial circus entertainment on select nights. Tables are covered in formal red linens and themed cocktails are pouring at the bar, with some new elevated options from the kitchen, perfect for sharing.
Continue reading “Cupid’s Nest Transforms Newsroom Philly in Northern Liberties into a Valentine’s Speakeasy Escape”
Photo Credit PNDA Creative.jpg
The Garden State Wine Growers Association – a coalition of 60+ wineries and vineyards across New Jersey – invites you to indulge the state’s flourishing wine country through unique events and experiences happening every week this winter!
There’s no doubt that New Jersey’s award-winning wineries and vineyards offer something truly special for everyone to enjoy. In the new year, we invite you to sip, savor, and explore weekends among the vines. Discover new wineries you’ve never visited before, or unwind with a glass of your favorites. You never know, your next favorite bottle might be just a tasting away.
Coming Soon: As Valentine’s Day approaches, mark your calendar for the Wine & Chocolate Trial Weekend February 13-15! Participating New Jersey wineries will offer wine tastings, artisanal chocolates, live music, and more. Be on the lookout for additional details to come, and contact your local wineries to learn more about reservations.
February 6, 2026:
February 7, 2026:
February 11, 2026:
View the full calendar of winery events to find out what’s happening at New Jersey wineries near you, and plan your next escape today!
Here are some quick links and resources to help plan your week in the vines:
Cheers to New Jersey wine!
Valentine’s Day is a perfect time to explore all that Center City has to offer. A world-class dining scene, arts & culture, the oldest diamond district in the country… What’s not to love? Check out our top picks for a date night done right for couples, friends, and families!
Window Shop in Jewelers’ Row | Diamond engagement rings, solid gold necklaces, watches, gemstones, and pearls — luxury pieces are a stone’s throw away in the country’s oldest diamond district. | Walnut to Market streets and 7th to 9th streets
Relax with a Galentine’s Spa Day | Spend Galentine’s Day with your closest friends being pampered with facials and pedicures at Rescue Spa in Rittenhouse Square. This flagship location spans 9,700 square feet, which includes 15 treatment rooms, a nail lounge, hair salon, brow room, and a makeup boutique. | 1811 Walnut St.
Expand Your Palette at The Elephant Restaurant & Bar | Take your loved ones and your taste buds on a flavorful adventure while enjoying a martini or mocktail along with tasty bites at this larger-than-life Valentine’s Day themed pop-up. | Through February 16 | 1500 Locust St.
4-Course Valentine’s Day Dinner at Aqimero | Treat your special someone to an unforgettable dining experience at Aqimero on Valentine’s Day. Chef’s exquisite four-course dinner will sweep you off your feet with fresh oysters and decadent molten lava cake, it’s a culinary journey you won’t want to miss! | 10 Avenue of the Arts
| Bally Bet Sportsbook– Big screens, pizza and wings buffet, cash bar. Reserve seats in advance. Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa – Multiple viewing areas, food & drink specials at BetMGM Sportsbook & Bar. Backstage Café @ Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – High-definition TVs, game day drink & food specials. Place sports bets at the sportsbook or via the Hard Rock Bet mobile app. Ocean Casino Resort– Multiple viewing areas, food & drink specials at Villain & Saint, Nola’s Bar & Lounge, Balcony Bar, and The Gallery Bar, Book & Games. Place bets at Fanatics Sportsbook. Resorts Casino Hotel – Multiple viewing areas, food & drink specials at DraftKings Sportsbook, Margaritaville, and Dougherty’s Raw Bar. Golden Nugget Atlantic City – Watch the game on 50 TVs and 5 video walls and place your bets at self-service betting kiosks in the The Sportsbook Golden Nugget. Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino– Multiple options for game day viewing, including private fan caves inside Caesars Sportsbook at The West as well as larger rooms with high-def TVs. Reserve your spots online. Caesars Sportsbook at Harrah’s Resort – High-definition TVs, plush stadium seating, plus plenty of game day drinks and food service. Caesars Sportsbook at Tropicana– One of the largest sportsbooks in Atlantic City with massive panoramic screens to catch all the sports betting action. Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall — Food & drink specials plus a special halftime happy hour. Tennessee Avenue Tobacco Company—Watch the Big Game + All you can eat. All you can drink. All you can smoke. More Sportsbook Action – Get more details about where you can cheer on your team! Local Watch Spots– Discover a few of the local bars around town where you can hang out and watch the big game. |
* Dance and party in a welcoming and unique atmosphere, while downstairs childcare services are offered for the little ones leaving the upstairs for grown-up 21+ fun only *
Philadelphia, PA – Tuxedos, sequins and just a hint of awkward teenage nostalgia will take center stage when the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts (PSCA) hosts its first-ever Adult Circus Prom on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 7:30pm to 10:00pm, at Circus Campus. Designed for adults who never had a prom – or simply want a redo – Adult Circus Prom brings back the magic, nerves and ridiculous joy of high school prom, this time with confidence, self-assurance, circus performances and a cash bar. Hosted inside PSCA’s atmospheric campus, an old church that once served as a school, the night playfully blurs past and present, with aerial apparatuses hanging overhead, circus artists moving through the space and moments of spectacle unfolding between dances. The result is a familiar setting transformed into a celebration of who we were, who we are and how much more fun it is now. Look for two spaces for Adult Circus Prom – the main event for grown-ups 21+ under the cathedral style ceilings and circus apparatuses upstairs, and a separate supervised babysitting space for parents and caregivers to drop off their children (5 and up) in the downstairs circus space. Tickets for the Adult Circus Prom are $35 per adult or $60 per couple. Childcare services are $30, or save $5 when enrolling siblings. Tickets are on sale now at phillycircus.com/upcoming-shows-events/
Continue reading “New Adult Circus Prom Coming to Philadelphia Circus Campus on Valentine’s Day”
* Philadelphia Zoo launches new experiences and gifts to make this February at the Zoo unforgettable *
Philadelphia, PA – Philadelphia Zoo (3400 W. Girard) invites couples, families and friends to the Zoo this February to celebrate the season of love and friendship with a brand-new lineup of limited-time experiences and special offers all month long. The Zoo has the perfect way for animal lovers to say “I love you” to those most dear to them. Bring your sweetheart (or bestie) to the Zoo Valentine’s Day weekend (Saturday and Sunday) for the new Valentine’s Day Weekend Date Package with two admission tickets, two adult drinks plus a meet-and-greet with an ambassador animal and a takeaway gift created by one of them. On Saturday and Sunday of Valentine’s Weekend, enjoy special Valentine’s Day Animal Enrichment Around the Zoo. Sweeten your Valentine’s Day with Valentine’s Day itself with Cupcake Decorating with one large cupcake with icing, and a variety of toppings to choose from. Every weekend of February, take a romantic ride on the Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel, a new 110 feet tall ride with breathtaking scenes of the Zoo, city skyline, Schuylkill River, Philadelphia Art Museum and beyond. Enjoy 20% off all February Behind-the-Scenes Experiences for those wanting a truly once-in-a-lifetime memory together with your favorite animals. Plus, give the gift that makes an impact and will be remembered all year with adopting an animal, with packages that include a Valentine’s Plushy and adoption certificate. All packages, events and tickets are now on the Zoo website at philadelphiazoo.org/news/valentines-day-deals/
Continue reading “Philadelphia Zoo Announces New Valentine’s Events, Date Experiences and Behind Scenes Tours”
Whiskey & Bourbon Tasting | February 7 | 1–5 p.m.
The Big Game Celebration | February 1–8
Valentine’s Day Cocktail Class | February 13 | 6-8 p.m.
Lunar New Year Celebration Presented by Temple University | February 16-21
Happy Hour | Monday–Thursday | 5–7 p.m.
Trivia Night | Thursdays | 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Merchantville Historical Society
The Merchantville Historical Society invites the public to an evening with Alan DeValerio, former White House butler, on Tuesday, February10th, at 6:30 PM at the Merchantville Community Center. DeValerio will share firsthand stories from his service during three presidential administrations, offering a rare look inside White House functions, family quarters, and daily life behind the scenes. A display of White House artifacts from his personal collection will be featured, and his book will be available for purchase and signing following the program. This special event promises an engaging and memorable night of history. To learn more, Click Here.