9 Tips For Attending the Kennett Square Mushroom Festival

So, I'm a big fan of the Kennett Square Mushroom Festival. Yes, mushrooms. An entire festival. Dedicated to fungus. In a small Pennsylvania town.

What you DON'T know (but should) is that it draws tens of THOUSANDS of visitors PER YEAR. That's not a typo. Having PROUDLY lived in Kennett Square for 4 years (in the borough where it takes place, no less), I was a yearly attendee. 

AND LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT.

For those unfamiliar with the festival and/or the area, here are some quick tips to make the most of your visit:

1) IT'S AWESOME.

2) Parking will be rough. Remember, TENS of THOUSANDS of visitors. Needless to say, it WILL be crowded (like wall-to-wall people depending on the time of day). So, aim to park on side streets and be okay to walk 2-4 blocks. I usually get off Rt. 1 onto Union Street and turn right a block or 2 before State Street/downtown. This is a residential neighborhood area - some are permit parking. But if you go down 1-2 blocks, there will be non-permit parking.

3) This festival is SUPER kid friendly. Check out the Children's Stage Schedule on South Union. If your kids are into music, the festival always has great bands booked for the Community Stage.

4) Saturday is prime time. If you go on Sunday it *might* be a little better - and The Philly Zoo will be there as a kid's attraction. So, don't be afraid to wait a day!

5) More fun: a few blocks south, there is an Old Fashioned Carnival near Kennett High School in the Genesis Parking lot. Go. Play games. Ride rides. Eat more mushrooms.

6) The Mushroom Contests and demonstrations are pretty great too. Check the schedule of events for the various happenings in the Special Events Tent.

7) GO! It's fun!

8) If you go later on Saturday and want to stay for dinner, here are my personal dining recommendations: 

• If you are going WITH kids: head to Market at Liberty Place. This is an Open Air/Dining Hall-style food place with something for everyone (including a PARADOCX VINEYARD WINE BAR ::cough cough::). Taste of Puebla is a family-friendly choice for Mexican fare. El Ranchero is another Mexican option on the main street and it's okay - but I feel it's slightly less authentic. And, of course, Victory at Magnolia is ALWAYS a win-win.

• If you are going WITHOUT kids: hit up Portabello's or Byrsa Bistro. The chefs at both of these establishments are top notch - I've eaten there myself and they are simply fantastic. If you are looking for good and adventurous Mexican food, I can't recommend enough La Pena. It's on West Cypress (across from Victory). Their food is nothing short of amazing - but it is VERY spicy. So I don't really give it to the kids.

• With or Without Kids: Half Moon is delicious. Make sure you ask to be seated UPSTAIRS - the view rocks.

9) I lived in Kennett for 4 years within a mile of several mushroom farms. I hate mushrooms. BUT - Pumpkin Mushroom Ice Cream is pretty amazing. So if you pass the Woodside Farm Creamery truck, get in line and get some.

*****

So, there you go. You are now all ready to hit up the Kennett Square Mushroom Festival! If you go, come on back and tell me how you liked it!

5 Ways to Get To Know Your Town #MotivationMonday

"You really make Kennett Square sound like a fun place to live."

I hear this often. And I'm sure if you follow any of my social media networks, you'll see copious #KennettSquare posts sharing upcoming events, pictures along my running routes, and check-in's at the various stores and restaurants around town. There is a lot happening here, so it's easy to get caught up in it all. And I've unintentionally become a bit of a billboard for this town in which I live.

But it wasn't always that way.

When I moved to my current town four years ago, I hated it. Like cry every day kick my feet tantrum I want to move back home hated it. I resented moving. I felt far away from my hometown (even though it was only half an hour away).  I knew nothing about where I lived. It all felt foreign to me and I spent a lot of time frustrated by my surroundings. I'd lived in the same town my entire life until we moved, so it was a jolt to my system.

We weren't able to leave anytime soon, so I realized I ultimately had two choices: 

Spend the next however many years 

hating every minute of my life.

OR

Embrace this place and make it home.

(You can see which path I've chosen.)

It's been an eye-opening experience to me, immersing myself in a town. Because I'd always lived in my hometown of West Chester. And yes, WC was comfortable and familiar and home to me (and always will be). But there is a distinct difference between simply living in your town and being invested in your town. Throwing yourself into being truly involved is a completely different experience. Something happens to you and the community: you become aware and excited and proud and appreciative in new ways. 

It changes you and it changes your definition of home.

Have you ever really gotten to know your town?

I thought I'd share a few ideas on how one can get better acquainted with where they live. A lot of these would have never crossed my mind before. But they are now part of how I live. And I think these are great tips for everyone: whether you've lived in the same town your whole life or you've moved to an entirely new place.

So here they are, in no particular order….

Get to Know the Hyper-Local

And by "hyper-local" I mean the essential websites that are the resident experts of your specific locale. Start with your township/borough page, a downtown pages like Historic Kennett/Downtown West Chester or the local tourism website. They most likely have a calendar of events as well as links to other helpful local sites.

Next, search for your town, township, county on Google (i.e.: "Kennett Square, PA" or "Your Town, State").  For where I live, websites like TheTownDish.com and ChesterCountyMoms.com are solid examples of hyper-local websites that have a great pulse on the community.

You can also search hashtags (i.e.: #KennettSquare or #YourTown) on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You'll find not only other people living in the community, but local business as well.  

Chat It Up…With the Small Businesses

Small business merchants are the heart of a town. These businesses are what attracts guests to visit, and I've found many store owners live where they work. In Kennett Square, the Kennett area merchants and restaurant owners have the scoop on what's happening in town and often are one of the governing forces behind some of the big events that take place in the community. 

How to make it happen: reach out in person and online. Frequent the store and start a conversation. If the store is on Facebook and Twitter, make the connection by tweeting them or leaving a post. These kind of interactions build relationships and mean the world to merchants!

Drive - Bike - Run - Walk

It's amazing how much one misses by just driving in a car. I remember thinking this clearly when I was in college and decided one day to take a bike ride around town. Roads that I'd driven on my entire life suddenly had new life. The houses that were a blur during a drive suddenly had flowers in the front yard and a cute Spring wreath on the front door. I found streets I never knew existed, shops I'd never entered. The slower pace of biking meant I took in more of my surroundings.

And so it is in your town. Yes, spend time driving around to become familiar. But take a bike ride and see what new things you can find. Instead of running on the treadmill at the gym, go for a run around town. Take the family for a post-dinner walk around the downtown. You'll be surprised at the new things you'll notice.

Eat

If merchants are the heart of the town, food is the soul! Food is one of the biggest attractions for a town, which is why we are seeing trends of food-related (and drink-related) festivals, as well as restaurant weeks in big and small towns alike. Restaurants are where visitors come to refuel and locals come to unwind. This is when food-centric hyperlocal websites like TheTownDish.com becomes very helpful!

Make getting to know the food of your town a fun challenge or game. Maybe, if your budget allows, you can try a new eatery each week. If that doesn't work, commit to finding the best pizza place by checking every option out of the course of 3 months. Become the resident food expert (and never hesitate to show a restaurant your media love by checking-in on Facebook when you arrive, posting pics of your yummy dishes on Instagram or tweeting them a compliment on Twitter!).

Get Involved

Immerse yourself.  When I finally decided I didn't want to hate every minute of my life living in Kennett, I knew the only way I'd start to love it was to throw myself into it. There are so many ways to immerse yourself in the culture and community of your town:

Volunteer at the local food cupboard. Join a MOMS or MOPS group. Check out the churches. Attend school board and borough council meetings. Attend First Friday events, parades and festivals (or volunteer to work them!). Take on a few shifts a week at your local YMCA. Get on the parks and recreation board. Submit articles to the town newspaper (or hyper-local websites). Be a regular at the Farmer's Market.

Whatever it is, be a part of what's happening!

~~~~

And soon, you'll find that you have a pulse on what's happening your town. You won't be able to help promoting the next fun event on Facebook or the great meal from the local restaurant. You'll want people to visit and be as excited about what's happening in town as you are. When you walk into a shop, you'll greet the owner by name. During lunch, the waitress already knows what you'll be ordering. 

And then find you are somehow on next year's Halloween parade committee.  

Suddenly, your town is an entirely new and exciting world that you are an essential part of. And it's hard to not be proud and passionate about a community you are so tightly connected with.

Create your community.

Be your community.

Where do YOU live?

What are the go-to

 resources, merchants, events for your town?

~~~~

Take Time to Have Fun During the Holidays #MotivationMonday

Holidays should be all about fun and festivities, right?

But as I shared last week, we've become a culture who is more interested in wracking the most debt, buying the best gifts and generally giving ourselves an ulcer before New Years Day. I encouraged everyone last week to take time to reflect during the holidays.

This week?

This week I want you to have FUN during the holidays!

Yes, I know, that in general holidays are fun. They are full of food and gifts and people we love. But just as the chaos steals away from our joy, it also hinders our ability to enjoy. The holidays are stressful. Fun, but stressful. I always have this great ideal in my mind of what the holidays will be. With two kids, they should be majestic and magical. 

Yet, it never is.

November flies by and it's all we can do to hold on to our hats before it's Christmas morning. We gripe about getting our gift lists together, then brave the crowds to go shopping, which only makes us cranky. The baking with kids always seems like it should be memorable, but I usually end up frustrated that flour gets everywhere and neither girl listens well to instructions. We enjoy the line up of so many parties, but stress over babysitting and fitting it all in.

Friends?

This holiday season, let's let it all go.

This holiday season, I want to embrace the flour on the counters. I want to smile amidst the crowds of shoppers. I want to revel in the perfect gifts for loved ones. And I want to party like it's 1999 at every holiday gathering.

This holiday season, I want to treasure making memories with my family.

So a few days ago, Hubby and I sat down and made a list of all the fun things we wanted to do with the girls. This doesn't include the fun things we can enjoy without the kids, like grown-up parties, dinners out, and buying and wrapping gifts. Activities and attractions we want to experience as a family, no matter what melt-downs or missed naps or messes will most likely ensue. 

Experiences that will no doubt make memories.

Here is our running list (to be added to as inspiration arises):

Macy's Light Show in #Philly

I first heard about this light show from my friend Jen. They go into the city every year with their kids, enjoying an overnight that includes a visit to the Wanamaker building to see this fabulous show. I'm a sissy when it comes to having my kids get off schedule or miss naps, but I finally succumbed last year and took the girls. IT WAS PHENOMENAL. The show lasts about 10 minutes or so, and it's all lights and songs and magic. Chica and Bug were mesmerized. And I want to make it a yearly holiday pilgrimage! We might consider strolling a few blocks down afterwards to catch the Comcast Holiday Spectacular, which I hear is awesome as well.

Longwood Gardens Christmas light display

I know, I know. I live 5 minutes down the road. But I am in no way biased: A Longwood Christmas is an attraction not to be missed. I'd even say if you live within a 2 hour drive, it is worth the trip. Over a million lights show off the beautifully decorated gardens. Catch a holiday-themed illuminated fountain show, or meander through the exquisite Conservatory where they have literally, decked the halls. All visitors need a timed ticket, so make plans in advance. 

Also, consider making a day of it: head into Historic Kennett Square to visit all the fantastic Kennett Square Merchants to do Christmas shopping and grab a tasty bite to eat. 

Also also? If you do this, call me. I'll seriously come meet you for a cuppa coffee.

Movie night watching The Polar Express with hot cocoa

The book, The Polar Express , is one I enjoyed as a child. So why not snuggle up under some blankets with hot cocoa and watch the book come alive in a movie? Some have mentioned the movie can be intense for younger kids. If that's the case, I may have an alternative holiday movie handy to enjoy. I will also vow to just laugh if any hot cocoa is spilled.

http://blissfullydomestic.com

Making handmade ornaments for family

The handmade gifts I've been given over the years are some of my most cherished ornaments on our tree. I love that they remind me of people and places I love, and I appreciate that time and energy went into creating them. Last year, the girls and I whipped up a batch of Reindeer Fingerprint Ornaments. I may make the fingerprint ornaments a tradition, or I may try something new this year. I've pinned a bunch of ideas onto my Christmas Ideas board on Pinterest. I'll take a vote from the girls and let you know what we come up with.

Baking Christmas Cookies

This is a necessity, right? As an Italian, it's practically religion. So far on my list are childhood favorites, Pizzelles and Chocolate Chips Cookies. I am also considering Ricotta Cheese Cookies (or the even more awesome Nutella version), Sugar Cookies and Gingerbread Cookies. 

Any others I should add to my list?  

Visit to Christmas in Hershey

This is actually only a possibility, as we may not be able to make it happen this year. I've wanted to take the girls to Hershey at Christmas since they were born. It has a special significance to me, as my family used to go every Winter Break for 3 days, leaving the day after Christmas. As a kid, Hershey Park is magical. During the holidays? It's nothing short of epic. Rides, food, decorations, lights. And since we stayed overnight, the Hershey Lodge had many special activities planned for guests, including chocolate bingo! 

I want my girls to experience this fun holiday place too. So we may go up for the day if we can find the time in our schedule. If not, we'll make plans for our own overnight mini-vacay next December!

~~~~~

There are so many things that steal joy and squash the Christmas Spirit this time of year. How will you be reclaiming the holidays?

What is on YOUR "Holiday Bucket List?"

Make sure to check out last week's post: Take Time to REFLECT During the Holidays!

~~~~~

A Longwood Christmas 2012: How to Make the Most of Your Visit

It's no secret that I love where I live.  I believe my cozy little suburb outside of Philadelphia is pretty much the bees knees and everyone should move here. 2 hours from the beach, 2 hours from the mountains, less than an hour from the city, less than an hour from the country. We have so many fantastic events, venues and attractions, it's a wonder we ever leave!

Recently, I was delighted to be invited with a group of bloggers to get a holiday behind-the-scenes look at one of my favorite local attractions: 

Longwood Gardens

Whether you are local or not, Longwood Gardens is renowned near and far, drawing visitors from other countries all year round. One of the best exhibits to see at Longwood, though, is hands-down their Christmas Display, A Longwood Christmas. In the span of 45 days, Longwood receives over 300,000 visitors who flock to see the lights, the seasonal flower displays, and the heart of the Christmas season.

Bloggers got an inside look at what it takes for the Longwood Gardens team to put together A Longwood Christmas (a lot of hands in the amazing time of only 3 days). We learned that the Christmas exhibit is a throw back to the extravagant Christmas dinners that Pierre S. duPont would host for family, friends and employees. In 1957, Longwood Gardens made their Christmas display public, with each year outshining the last.

This year's Christmas display is no different. A decked out table (a nod to Mr. duPont) with seating for over 40 people is the centerpiece of the Conservatory. And this year's theme, stars, can be seen throughout the gardens.  Take a look:

Photo Credit: Longwood Gardens

Photo Credit: Longwood Gardens

Photo Credit: Longwood Gardens

Photo Credit: Longwood Gardens

I've been coming to Longwood Garden's for years now. With 300,000 people clamoring to make visits during the holidays, one might imagine Longwood can become crowded. This can be a damper, especially if you are bringing kids. 

Here are some of my tips on how to make your trip a success:

Go Non-Peak 

Weekends may be more convenient, but if you have the goal of bringing your family to Longwood during the holidays, coming during the week is your best bet. Weekends are the busiest time for visitors, as you might imagine. Coming on a weeknight (Monday-Thurday) you'll see less crowds. If you are willing to forego the lights, come during the day with your kids!  They can run around outside, enjoy the conservatory, and still see all the amazing holiday decorations that Longwood has to offer.

Make a Day of It

Get more bang for your buck! IF you are making the trip to Longwood Gardens, don't head home after an hour or two. Make a day of it, as the area has much more to offer! . A trip of less than 5 minutes takes you from Longwood into the idyllic downtown of Historic Kennett Square. One of the things I love about Kennett is that there is something for everyone: clothing boutiques for fashionistas, gift shops and children's boutiques for families, fantastic restaurants for foodies, eco and vintage shops for those who enjoy green living and more. I'll be doing a Shop Kennett Square post in the near future - check back for a more in-depth look at all Kennett has to offer. In the meantime see Kennett Area Merchants and Historic Kennett Square to plan your visit!

Know what's best for Kids

I take my kids all year long to Longwood (it helps that we live literally 5 minutes down the road). So I've come to learn which spots they love best during each season, and I make a beeline for those places (which are sometimes slightly less crowded). If you are bringing kids, a must-see is the Indoor Children’s Garden (located in the conservatory). It is decorated for the holidays, and a small "safe" place for kids inside the otherwise overwhelming conservatory. Another great Kids Spot is the Garden Railway. If your children love trains, this is the perfect exhibit. A miniature mountainside is created, with several tracks and trains running through bridges and tunnels.

Garden Railway: A kids dream!
Photo Credit: LongwoodGardens

Know the Schedule

Don't get caught off guard!  Poke around the Longwood Gardens website for the timing of things such as fountain shows, fireworks and special events. Remember - to come to Longwood this time of year you need Timed Tickets. You can also purchase Timed Tickets in advance.

Become a Member

I can't begin to share that a membership to Longwood Gardens is truly the gift that keeps on giving. If you take a family of 4 even two or three times per year, the membership pays for itself. Members get special discounts and other benefits (such as members-only hours and events). But the best part? During the holiday season, there are Member-Only Mondays, which opens the Christmas Display only to members. Less chaos, less crowds, more fun!

If you are going to Longwood and are twitter-savvy, tweet your visit using @longwoodgardens and hashtag #StarsAtLongwood. If you happen to head into Kennett Square, use the hashtag #ShopKennett (many of the stores are on twitter)!

Have you been to Longwood Gardens?  I want to hear about it!

Leave a comment and share your Longwood holiday experiences and travel tips!

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. In exchange for posting, I was given a membership by Longwood Gardens. As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Kennett Square Fermentation Festival

Kennett Square is known for many things: Mushrooms, a fun downtown, Longwood Gardens and great places to eat. One thing Kennett Square does well is FESTIVALS. From The Mushroom Festival to The Kennett Brewfest, there are so many fun events to look forward to. I love that KSQ pulls out all the stops and makes itself a hot spot to worth traveling to!

This Saturday is the annual Brewfest, a large gathering of craft brewers with samples of their wares. Hubby goes EVERY. YEAR. Unfortunately, if you don't have a ticket, you will not be able to attend. This event sells out FAST, and tickets are limited (but oh, so worth it).

LUCKILY,  I have good news: there is a fun event the day prior to the Brewfest absolutely worth making the drive for. In keeping with the theme of brewing, Kennett Square hosts the Fermentation Festival. 

Fermentation, if you aren't aware, is a key part of the brewing process. But it goes far beyond beer! Fermented foods and beverages (such as beer, wine, yogurt, olives, breads, cheese, saurkraut, kefir, and kombucha, to name a few) helps improve digestion, restores proper bacteria to the gut, and improves the ability to absorb nutrients. For the food, fermentation increases flavor and preserves food longer. 

So, it's awesome.

The Fermentation Festival will happen in conjunction with the Farmer's Market from 2pm-6pm on Friday, September 28th in the Genesis Alleyway (101 East State Street).  There will be samples of food, how-to demonstrations, live music, children's activities, and more. SO fun!

Our region is rich in great fermented food. Have you ever wondered who produces it?  Well you can if you attend the Meet the Makers Happy Hour from 4:30pm - 8pm in Sycamore Alley (next to La Verona, 114 East State Street). Tickets are $10. The Happy Hour will feature artisanal cheeses, wine, spirits, craft beer and hard cider.

Make a night of it! 

 For more information, go to: 

www.historickennettsquare.com