A Diamond in the North Philly Rough
Words: Marly Pierre-Louis • Mar 3rd, 2008 • Category: SPOTS.
Bar action (photo: C. Carpenter)The Arts Garage breathes energy into 15th and Parrish
Bar action (photo: C. Carpenter)
The truth is I’m getting old. I just can’t tolerate the madness that occurs in the run of the mill, downtown, city clubs. If I’m going to spend time at a night spot, it better be something special. It’s has to have tons of character. It’s has to have soul. It’s basically The Arts Garage.
Located on 15th and Parrish Streets in North Philly, The Arts Garage is smack dab in the middle of the ‘hood. This is definitely NOT Old City. No need to fear though, I’ve been going to the Saturday night Duplex party for a while now and I’ve never had a problem. The location gives the spot a real local vibe. Bunmi Samuel, the man behind the building’s programming explains, “The Duplex was a vision to have a two floor party space resembling a loft and comfy lounge with the music of your most memorable party. Get some of the best DJ’s a chance to rock in Philadelphia and spin what they want without limits.” With two floors, the space is huge. Even when it’s full, it never has that gross, claustrophobic, fire hazard feel that’s common at most clubs. Folks mostly hang out and mingle on the quiet first floor, where they arecurrently building a second bar. There are a couple of tables and stools for chatting and of course, the restrooms. During the summer months, they set up chairs and tables on the front patio where they spark up the grill and serve BBQ all night! Once upstairs, there are big comfy sofas so you feel like you’re in your homies’ living room. There’s also a performance stage where the BBoys love to jump on and do their thing. There is the main bar and a few tables with stools and a dance floor. The Arts Garage is also one of the few late night spots in Philly that stays open till 4am.
Arts Garage's stage (photo: C. Carpenter)
The Arts Garage is not just a party space. They host a wide range of events like the Pre-Mothers Day Gift Bazaar & Pamper Day and The Language of Love, a monthly evening of poetry and song. The space can also accommodate film screenings, art exhibits and private parties. Bottom line is: The Arts Garage is the truth. If you’re ever looking for something to do on a Saturday night, hit me up, chances are, I’ll be on the dance floor!
The Arts Garage (Website)
1516 Parrish St
Philadelphia, PA 19130
Tel: 215.765.2702
Get There: 15 bus to 15th and Parrish
Marly Pierre-Louis is a passionate promoter for social justice and equality worldwide. Weaned in Brooklyn, raised in Boston and now residing in Philadelphia, it’s no wonder Marly considers herself a vagabond. The funky fresh budget socialite spends most of her days beating the streets of Illadel. A passion for words, beats and laughter is why she joined the collective.
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Square Roots, I am glad that you are in the neighborhood, when I have some time, I need to come by and pay you a visit.
Reginald Cintron
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[...] Every Saturday Phillee Blunt (photo courtesy of: Phillee Blunt)night from then on, I showed up at The Arts Garage, ready and willing to let the DJ and his pounding beats exorcise the heavy demons of the work week. [...]