Fall 2023 Events in University City

Fall is a beautiful time of year in University City, and there are plenty of local events to help get you in the autumnal spirit! Whether you're seeking spooky thrills or other seasonal fun, there are plenty of local events popping up through the neighborhood to enjoy! As always, visit our Community Calendar for a more comprehensive list of local events, and check back regularly as more events are added. If you have events you'd like to send us, feel free to drop us a line. 

cinéSPEAK x Batikh Batikh present Chess of the Wind/The Cut as part of Halaloween Philly: SWANA Horror Cinema: Monday, October 30th at 6:30 PM 

On Monday, October 30th, for one night, cinéSPEAK’s Halloweekend and Batikh Batikh’s Halaloween Philly: SWANA Horror Cinema team up to present an evening of horror cinema from the South West Asian North African (SWANA) region. This screening at The Rotunda (4014 Walnut Street) will feature Chess of The Wind, a 1979 Iranian murder mystery film, preceded by the short film The Cut, a 2022 Moroccan film about the Muslim tradition of animal sacrifice. 

Spruce Hill Tot Parade: Tuesday, October 31st Beginning at 4 PM

Save the date for Tuesday, October 31st when the Annual Little Tot Halloween Parade and Party returns to Spruce Hill! The event is organized in a joint effort between the Spruce Hill Community Association and the neighbors on the 4200 block of Osage Avenue. Each year, tots 6 and under and their parents/guardians are invited to gather at 45th and Larchwood on October 31 at 4 p.m., and then march to the 4200 block of Osage Avenue to enjoy cider, baked goods, and other treats. Hosted by The Spruce Hill Community Association, this is a great annual tradition in this West Philly neighborhood.

51st and Catharine Haunted Alley: Tuesday, October 31st Beginning at 2 PM

Come check out the new and improved third year of Shady Tim’s Haunted Alley at 51st and Catharine Streets. Working together with neighbors, they’ve created a FREE haunted house-style experience for the children and adults in the community who love Halloween. The alley opens at 2:00 PM with daylight hours for younger children and for those who don’t want to be too scared. At dusk, they step up the spooky factor with animated props, jump scares, fog machines, and much more. Candy treats will be available for children until supplies run out, plus tricks for any mischievous ghouls.

Note: This is a FREE, self-funded event. If you would like to contribute to the costs, you may do so via Venmo or CashApp. Venmo: Timothy-Reimer. CashApp: $TimReimer

16 Police District Truck or Treat: Tuesday, October 31st from 5 PM to 7 PM

Join representatives from the 16th Police District for a Trunk or Treat event at 3900 Spring Garden Street! Bring your kiddos to receive candy and treats from community relations officer Jesse Woodhouse and crime prevention officer Natalie Biondo, along with free entertainment. 

Historic Homes of Spruce Hill House Tour: Saturday, November 4th from 10 AM to 2 PM

The 2023 Spruce Hill House Tour will feature a variety of homes that contribute to the proposed Spruce Hill Historic District. This self-guided tour will showcase the diversity of architectural styles that comprise the incredible fabric of this neighborhood, both beautifully restored and creatively adapted. Proceeds will support the ongoing historic district efforts of the Spruce Hill Community Association.

Read more.

Thanksgiving with CO-OP | CO-OP Restaurant & Bar in Philadelphia, PA (coopphilly.com) 

Order deadline: November 17 

• Pick-up Options 

• Wednesday, November 22nd from noon to 6pm 

Let CO-OP (20 S. 33rd Street)take care of Thanksgiving so you can spend more time with loved ones. Our family-style Thanksgiving meal includes: Roasted turkey, pomme puree, chives, gravy, cornbread stuffing, cranberry sauce, clover roll, maple rosemary butter, candied yams, pecans, and a choice of peach cobbler or a slice of apple pie.  

Takeout pricing: 

• $80 for 2 people 

• $150 for 4 people 

• $210 for 6 people  

• For the dine-in option, view the menu HERE 

• Dine-in option is $50 per person