Main Events

The Philadelphia International Dragon Boat Festival and other must-dos for October.

Dragons Ahoy!

Dragons are typically portrayed as fire-breathing fiends forever jonesin’ for a fight. But the only battles on Oct. 2 will be among the more than 150 distinctively decorated, 40-foot canoes as they paddle toward the finish line at the ninth annual Philadelphia International Dragon Boat Festival. It’s the largest event of its kind in North America, drawing upwards of 4,000 power-paddlers of all ages and abilities from the nation’s Northeast and Canada. Among them will be the NBC 10 “Flying Peacocks” and Main Line Health & Fitness’ “Women Warriors,” along with competitors from Saint Joseph’s and Villanova universities. Dragon boats were first introduced more than 2,000 years ago in China, and the sport has a rich history as one of the most popular racing attractions around the world. Last year’s Philadelphia festival hosted about 25,000 rowers and fans. Bring your own picnic; tailgating is encouraged. 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Philadelphia Schuylkill River Race Course, Kelly Drive, Fairmount Park. Call (610) 642-8881 or visit philadragonboatfestival.com. —Marilyn Odesser-Torpey
 

Easy Shell

The Philadelphia Shell Show washes ashore at the Academy of Natural Sciences Oct. 9-10 (preview party Oct. 8). This year’s “Pearls on Parade” theme gives diamonds a run for their money. Ladies (and their admirers) will find stunning selections in the market, where craftspeople showcase their wares. Shell enthusiasts can also explore competitive displays of exotic treasures. And don’t miss the king of the clams, Clamzilla. The family-friendly event also features a touch tank of marine animals and a giant Pacific octopus named Walter (who is, alas, not alive). 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia. Call (215) 299-1000 or visit ansp.org/shell. —Samantha Bokoski

 

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Molly NecePositive Vibes

Children’s book author and self-help guru Molly Nece is transforming the three Rs. Rejuvenation, reinvention and realization are the names of the game now. Hitting Paoli on Oct. 13, her Molly Sunshine Tour is designed to alter the lives of attendees through goal setting, self-image coaching, and attaining that elusive peace of mind. This empowering workshop features recognizable names and faces—like NBC 10’s Tracy Davidson, restaurateur Dave Magrogan and It’s Your Call host Lynn Doyle. The event also includes lunch, a cappella tunes, and a “Positivity to the Power of Three” game show. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $75-$180. Historic Waynesborough, 2049 Waynesborough Road, Paoli. Call (484) 888-6191 or visit mollysunshinetour.com. —Emily Riley
 

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