DNC 2016
The big list: Parties and events at the Democratic National Convention in Philly
Celebrate voting, weed or just being a Democrat at these events throughout the DNC.
Hillary Clinton, presumably heading out for a night on the town in Old City.
Flickr and Photoshop
The Democratic National Convention, in addition to performing the vital function of furthering the peaceful transfer of power in the world’s most powerful democratic republic, has one big side effect: It’s party time.
Parties for the DNC are taking place every day throughout the event, as well as the weekend before. Some organizers are asking for thousands of dollars to support charity to rub elbows with the rich and famous. Others are at dive bars where you can talk with marijuana advocates about the convention. And there’s everything in between.
We’re keeping a running list of the parties and events you can check out for the DNC. Know of one we missed? Email us at contact@billypenn.com and we’ll consider adding it.
The can’t-miss big events
From the week-long PoliticalFest to a benefit concert for veterans at the Trocadero, these are the top events of the week that our among our top picks.
DNC PoliticalFest 2016
A non-partisan project, this multi-day festival is open to everyone, and includes displays and attractions at seven locations. Look for exhibits, live performances, games, competitions and panel discussions.
Where: Various venues at Center City addresses
When: July 22, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. to July 27, 2016 at 6:00 p.m.
How much: $15
Philly Feast, United We Eat
Philly Feast will be a Night Market-style food truck festival that will take place during the day and will kick off Convention Week. The festival will include a diverse lineup of locally-based food trucks, live music, and retail vendors.
Where: Old City at 3rd and Arch Streets
When: July 25, 2016 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
How much: Depends how much food you buy
Billy Penn’s DNC Live Fact Check
We are hosting a Live Fact Check event and all are welcome to attend. Attendees will be able to mingle with people from Philadelphia’s political environment, PolitiFact experts and Billy Penn readers. Food, drinks and a full coffee bar will be available. Most importantly? We'll be putting on a live PolitiFact Fact Check.
Where: Saxby’s Corporate Offices at 23rd & Chestnut
When: July 26, 2016 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
How much: Free!
Veteran’s Benefit Concert at the Troc
The MusiCorps Wounded Warrior Band will perform with a Congressional Jam Session as opening act to support, celebrate, and honor veterans.
Where: The Trocadero at 1003 Arch St
When: July 26, 2016 at 10:00 p.m. to July 27, 2016 at 1:00 a.m.
DNC Watch Party Celebrating the Black Vote
Dinner, dancing and fun as actress Vivica Fox hosts a 2016 Democratic National Convention Watch Party featuring a performance by Howard Hewett. Leaders and organizers from across the nation are #celebratingtheBlackvote at Penn's Landing.
Where: Penns Landing Caterers at 1301 S. Columbus Blvd.
When: July 26, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. to July 27, 2016 at 12:00 a.m.
How much: $65
Emily’s List DNC Party
Emily's List, a Super PAC that aims to elect pro-choice Democratic candidates, is hosting a Democratic National Convention Party here in Philly.
Where: The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts at 300 South Broad Street
When: July 27, 2016 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
How much: Free with an RSVP
Lady Gaga and Lenny Kravitz for the DNC
DNC attendees can get a free concert from Lady Gaga, Lenny Kravitz and DJ Jazzy Jeff to celebrate the last day of the convention, courtesy of NJ party boss George Norcross. They've just got to go to Camden.
Where: BB&T Pavilion at Camden
When: July 28, 2016 at 1:00 p.m.
How much: TBA
DNC watch party at The Piazza at Schmidt’s Commons
BYO chair or blanket and score discounts from Crabby's Cafe, Gunners Run and the Wahlburgers food truck (plus more deals from the spots across the street at Liberties Walk) as you watch on the 400-square-foot high-def outdoor TV.
Where: The Piazza at Schmidt’s Commons at 1001 N 2nd St. 19123
When: July 28, 2016 at 7:00 p.m.
How much: Free
Unity Party feat. Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg is headlining a Democratic Party "unity party" after the last night of the DNC. The event is hosted by Priorities USA, the Senate Majority PAC and the House Majority PAC.
Where: Electric Factory at 421 N. 7th Street
When: July 28, 2016 at 12:00 a.m.
Theme parties
Into rock ‘n’ roll? Shopping? Weed? There is a party for you, and for so many more. These are the themed or focused happenings throughout DNC week.
DNC Rock ‘n’ roll kickoff at Johnny Brenda’s
Dubbed the (Un)Official DNC Rock N' Roll Dance Kick-Off Party feat. RENEGADE w/ Special Guest DJs," Johnny Brenda's presents your final chance to see Renegade in the group's farewell performance.
Where: Johnny Brenda's at 1201 Frankford Ave.
When: July 23, 2016 at 8:00 p.m.
How much: $10 cover charge
DNC Unplugged: Latino Style Party of the Year
AL DÍA is pleased to celebrate Philadelphia's political convention history both past and present as we commemorate the 2016 DNC in style, at the Philadelphia History Museum at the Atwater Kent. Come and enjoy unlimited food and open bar at this exciting and historical event celebration. A portion of each ticket sale will go to the AL DÍA Foundation to promote advancements in Journalism in Latino & Multicultural communities.
Where: Philadelphia History Museum at 15 South 7th Street
When: July 23, 2016 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
How much: $250
Women Making History Awards Ceremony and Celebration
For the first time in history, a woman is being nominated for President of The United States at the upcoming Democratic National Convention. So the Walnut Club is hosting an event centered around this historic election that both welcomes the DNC while also honoring women.
Where: Water Works at 640 WaterWorks Drive
When: July 24, 2016 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
How much: $150 for early bird tickets
Marijuana Policy Project Fundraising Reception at the Union League
Join the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP) and its many allies for a fundraising reception in the Lincoln Room at the Union League in Philadelphia. MPP’s Rob Kampia will give an overview of legalization efforts along with information addressing the implementation of Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana law. Guests include Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR). and state Sen. Daylin Leach (D-PA.)
Where: Union League at 140 S. Broad St.
When: July 24, 2016 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
How much: $250
Boys and Girls on the Bus: A conversation with national journalists
In 1972, political journalist Timothy Crouse’s book Boys on the Bus captured the unique experience of journalists covering the Presidential campaign. But the boys on the 1972 bus would not recognize the experience of their counterparts today, the young people (boys AND girls) covering the 2016 presidential election. Chris Satullo, former Philadelphia Inquirer columnist and Director of News and Civic Engagement at WHYY, leads a conversation with four journalists covering the 2016 race: Scott Detrow (NPR), Caitlin Huey-Burns (Real Clear Politics), Jenna Johnson (Washington Post), Dan Merica (CNN) and Zeke J. Miller (Time Magazine). Be sure to register online.
Where: Pipeline at The Graham Building at 30. S. 15th St.
When: July 24, 2016 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
How much: $35.00 (Students $15.00)
How Tech and Data are Changing Politics
Join Organizer Inc. in discussing how progressive tech and data will shape the upcoming election. You’ll be hearing from leaders in the intersection of tech and politics on topics like what a truly integrated and responsive campaign looks like.
Where: McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks at 1 South Broad Street
When: July 24, 2016 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
How much: Free to attend, but register ASAP due to limited seating
DNC LGBT Welcome Happy Hour
LibertyPA, EqualityPA and the Liberty City LGBT Democratic Club have teamed up to welcome LGBT Delegates from around the nation as they arrive in Philadelphia for the DNC. Everyone is welcome. Drink specials and food trucks will be set up on 13th Street outside of the bar.
Where: Woody's Bar at 202 S. 13th St.
When: July 24, 2016 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
How much: Free to attend
The official DNC marijuana welcome party
Check out Connies Ric Rac for a night of music, comedy and speeches from cannabis advocates. Performers and speakers to be announced. Hosted by Philly NORML.
Where: Connie's Ric Rac at 1132 S 9th St
When: July 25, 2016 at 7:30 p.m.
How much: Free to attend
Genevieve Society DNC Reception
Please join members of the Genevieve Society, delegates, women elected officials, and invited guests for a Democratic National Convention event honoring women in government.
Where: The Oar Pub at Park Towne Place Museum District Residences at 2200 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
When: July 25, 2016 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
How much: Free
American Experiments Showcase
Come see and hear the best ideas from America's civic tech and political reform communities that will help reinvigorate democracy in the US. Vote for the idea you think has the most promise.
Where: Microsoft Innovation Center at the University City Science Center at 3711 Market Street
When: July 25, 2016 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
How much: Free, but reservations are required
Talk pot at a DNC welcome reception
The American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp + Drug Policy Action is hosting a DNC welcome party at BOP Restaurant. State Sen. Daylin Leach and other elected officials are expected to be in attendance.
Where: BOP Restaurant at 220 S. Broad St.
When: July 25, 2016 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
How much: $250
Politico Hub opening featuring Alicia Keys
Led by POLITICO's team of reporters and editors, programming at the Politico Hub will include newsmaker interviews, a live convening of the Politico Caucus, policy luncheons and Nightly Lounges to take in the news of the day and watch streaming speeches from the DNC.
Where: Politico Hub at the DNC at 2001 Market Street, 2 Commerce Square
When: July 25, 2016 at 5:30 p.m.
How much: Free to attend
Embracing Diversity Breakfast
Dr. Dilsad Dayani is an International Speaker, broadcast journalist and best-selling author of the book "Confrontation 9." Other speakers include: State Rep. Vanessa Brown, Filmmaker Fiona Dawson and Immigration Attorney David Kaplan.
Where: Hilton Garden Inn at 1100 Arch Street
When: July 26, 2016 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
How much: Free
DNC Dine Dance Shop and Sip
The Philly small business community is throwing a party for the DNC. Come shop til you drop, all in one place. There will be food, drink and dancing to accompany you while shopping.
Where: First District Plaza at 3801 Market Street #301
When: July 26, 2016 from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
How much: $15
Mighty Writers to set student writing record during DNC
Mighty Writers, the Philadelphia-based nonprofit that teaches students ages seven to 17 to think clearly and write with clarity, plans to set a new Guinness World Record for greatest number of kids writing at the same place and time. The record-setting attempt will take place the week of the DNC on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Some 3,000 students are expected to participate.
Where: Philadelphia Museum of Art at 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
When: July 26, 2016 at 10:00 a.m.
How much: Free to attend
Dim sum luncheon for AAPI delegates
Join the Philadelphia Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community at a special dim sum luncheon for AAPI delegates, elected officials, dignitaries and friends.
Where: Ocean City Restaurant at 234 N 9th Street
When: July 26, 2016 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
How much: Various
Celebrating Investments in Global Health
Join Global Citizen and Pfizer for a moderated panel and luncheon event. Editor of Forbes Randall Lane will moderate a panel that includes reps. from Pfizer and Global Citizen as well as Sen. Chris Coons and Peter Yeo of the United Nations Foundation.
Where: Union Trust at 717 Chestnut St.
When: July 27, 2016 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
How much: Email annika.reno@globalcitizen.org to RSVP.
StorySlam: Inside the Political Machine
Come out to hear and tell stories about the inside world of politics, with special guests like former mayor John Street and recent internet sensation R. Eric Thomas. Philadelphia journalists, candidates, officials and citizens are welcome to tell all.
Where: Johnny Brenda's at 1201 Frankford Ave
When: July 27, 2016 at 6:00 p.m.
How much: $18
Electing Women Alliance Breakfast Reception
Please join the Electing Women Alliance and Represent PAC for a special Democratic National Convention event featuring current and former Democratic U.S. Senators, Governors, and 2016 candidates and special guests including Gov. Kate Brown (OR), Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (NY), Hon. Wendy Davis (TX), and Sen. Kay Hagan (NC).
Where: R2L Restaurant at 50 South 16th Street 37th Floor
When: July 27, 2016 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
How much: $100 – $250
Celebration Honoring Philadelphia’s Diversity on East Passyunk
On Wednesday afternoon, the Democratic National Committee & the National Democratic Ethnic Coordinating Council is turning the 1800 block of East Passyunk Avenue between Mifflin and Moore Streets into a mini trip around the world with the first-ever DNC Heritage Festival. Fare from around the globe will be available for $3 - $5.
Where: 1800 block of East Passyunk Avenue
When: July 27, 2016 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
How much: Admission is free
New Deal for a New Urban America
Rev. Jesse Jackson, Maryland State Sen. Catherine Pugh and Philadelphia State Sen. Vincent Hughes are speaking at the event and leading discussion on jobs, wages and economic opportunity in revitalizing urban America.
Where: Mayor's reception room, City Hall at 15th and Market Streets
When: July 28, 2016 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
How much: Free
DNC Passyunk Passeggiata Street Festival
East Passyunk Avenue will be closed from Broad Street to the Singing Fountain at Tasker Street, and filled with street food, outdoor bars, al fresco dining, vendors, and live music, as well as the weekly Farmers’ Market. Select shops and restaurants will be staying open until 1 a.m. to accommodate DNC visiting delegates, with special bar menus, drink specials, and shopping promotions. Most specials will be available during the entire convention.
Where: Various
When: July 27, 2016 at 5:00 p.m. to July 28, 2016 at 1:00 a.m.
How much: Varies
American Muslim Democratic Caucus delegate luncheon
Join the American Muslim Democratic Caucus at a special luncheon for Muslim Delegates, Elected Officials, Dignitaries and Friends of the Caucus.
Where: Pennsylvania Convention Center - Room 204C at 1101 Arch Street
When: July 28, 2016 from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
How much: $125
The ultra-exclusive
These parties are either sold out, difficult to get into or a little pricey. But they’re worth knowing about! Just in case you want to hang with some celebrities and have $7,500 to sling to get the Creative Coalition’s bash.
DNC Yacht Party
Join Philly Rep. Jordan Harris and Councilman Kenyatta Johnson for a party on a three-story yacht. All proceeds are going to support Autism Speaks.
Where: On a boat at Docks at 401 North Columbus Boulevard, Pier 24
When: July 23, 2016 at 10:30 p.m. to July 24, 2016 at 1:00 a.m.
How much: $100
Watch a taping of the Daily Show
Watching a live taping of The Daily Show with Trevor Noah could be as simple as making your way to Penn. So long as you already got a ticket.
Where: Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts at 3680 Walnut St.
When: July 26, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. to July 29, 2016 at 12:00 a.m.
How much: Sold out
Creative Coalition Benefit Gala
This charity gala event – which brings together leaders from entertainment, policy and the business communities – features Fergie. This place will be celebrity central.
Where: TBA
When: July 27, 2016 at 10:00 p.m.
How much: $7,500 for two tickets (no, really)