Held annually since 2005, DesignPhiladelphia celebrates the city’s creative community, highlighting design, technology and businesses with a collaborative backbone. Taking place October 8-16, this year’s art event is centered on the theme of “Shift Everything” and will feature over 130 public programs, including exhibit openings and hands-on workshops. 

Before you do anything, you will want to attend the Festival Kickoff Party and Benefit ($125) at The Liao Collection. With food, whiskey tastings and special guests, the bash will give you a peak at the anticipated Pearl Street Passage art piece. Created by 10 different teams of artists, designers and architects, Pearl Street Passage is a huge art installation that encompasses the 1100 block of Pearl Street. And make sure you stick around for the After Party at The Trestle Inn.

If you fancy yourself a designer, check out the unique A Mile in Her Shoes event where you will be able to analyze a pair of shoes from the Textile and Costume Collection at The Design Center at Philadelphia University. After checking the shoes out, you then get to design a new product using unconventional materials. 

Though most of the events are free and open to anyone interested, there are a couple you will need to grab tickets for so register before they fill up.