Garden Jams: Outdoor Concerts Return on Wednesday Evenings at the Penn Museum, Starting July 10

PHILADELPHIA, June 25, 2024—Garden Jams, the Penn Museum’s weekly summertime outdoor concert series, returns July 10, with a live performance from the West Philadelphia Orchestra.

In July, Wednesday evenings at the Penn Museum feature live music and happy hour with cocktails and food trucks in historic Stoner Courtyard, along with after-hours access to the Museum’s galleries and exhibitions, including Ancient Food & Flavor, until 8:00 pm.

Founded in 2006, the West Philadelphia Orchestra (WPO) plays original tunes written by its own band members. Percussionist and WPO Founder Gregg Mervine says the band was inspired by the “fanfares” of Eastern Europe and many other sources.

“Balkan brass bands are the most prominent influence, and we always mix in a few classic tunes from that repertoire,” Mervine explains. “We've had a lot of fun in the past—weaving in and out of the gardens and fountains, parading around with kids, and creating a wide-open, free- flowing environment” at Garden Jams.

Other performers in this year’s Garden Jams line-up include:

• Zydeco-a-Go-Go on Wednesday, July 17 from 5:00 pm-8:00 pm
  A spicy mix of Louisiana Cajun two-steps, old-school Zydeco, vintage New Orleans rock and roll jukebox hits, and bayou country blues, Zydeco-a-Go-Go delivers favorites such as Fats Domino’s Blueberry Hill and Bobby Charles’ See You Later, Alligator.
• Glenn Bryan and Friends on Wednesday, July 24 from 5:00 pm-8:00 pm
  Offering an unforgettable dynamic sound of diverse influences spanning jazz, classical, R&B, and Latin vibes, Glenn Bryan and Friends delivers an original musical journey that blends rich textures and classical training on piano, organ, and keyboards.
• Guachinangos on Wednesday, July 31 from 5:00 pm-8:00 pm
  A Latin fusion like no other, Guachinangos offers electrifying stage energy and irresistible rhythms that blend Mexican and Colombian influences. This event is sponsored by the Mexican Cultural Center.

Private tables and add-on experiences, such as pre-paid drinks and private guided tours through the Penn Museum offer team building opportunities and make great group getaways in the city. Available with advance purchase.

$15 general admission; $5 PennCard holders; FREE for Penn Museum members. Penn Museum admission until 8:00 pm is included with each Garden Jams ticket.

In case of inclement weather, concerts will move indoors. There is no concert on July 3.