It’s finally here folks – “Make it Happen” is happening in a few short days!  A couple highlights to get you started on your weekend of pure art education bliss.

• Click HERE for a draft of the conference schedule.  Start planning your days to get the most out of your time!

• Miss the deadline for online registration?  Registration opens in the Moore lobby on Thursday from 4:00 – 8:00 PM.

• Coming to town early on Thursday?  If you’re all settled in your hotel and have a late dinner reservation, pop into Fox Commons beforehand for a “Makey Make Mini Event” from 6:00 – 8:00 PM with award-winning Philadelphia educator Christopher Sweeney, this year’s recipient of PAEA’s Outstanding Secondary Educator of 2016.  I hear there’s a free beer or wine ticket that comes with this free event too.  Score!

• You MUST check out this map designed by Sunny Mowery highlighting all of the galleries, museums, and other fantastic places to visit in Philadelphia during First Friday, some of which are holding some special events (highlighted in yellow).  Because you only have a few short hours to really explore First Friday, and a whole city to take in, I really suggest studying this map and doing your research!  There are many of your fellow art educators who live and work in Philly (myself included) who would love to guide you if you are looking for suggestions and food recommendations as well!

• Available on the conference website are some parking tips so that you can park your car and forget about it for the weekend.  Use these tips to find an inexpensive parking garage or lot.  Once you’re parked, Philadelphia has simple public transportation through Septa, as well as inexpensive and convenient ride-sharing options through Uber and Lyft, AND taxis that circulate throughout the city.  They are relatively easy to hail down, too 🙂

That’s all for now, so start researching, highlighting, and planning your fabulous weekend at “Make it Happen”!  It’s going to be an extraordinary time!