6156 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19145
Open Hours: M – F, 9am-5pm
(Please call the office at 215-247-1300 to ensure we are open/for holiday schedules)
There is ample parking around PFS! Metered street parking on Ridge Avenue is available directly in front of the venue, with free street parking available off of Ridge Avenue.
There are TWO FREE* Municipal Lots located within blocks:
*Free 2 hour parking Monday-Friday 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM/ *Free 3 hour parking Saturday-Sunday 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
*Free 2 hour parking Monday-Friday 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM/ *Free 3 hour parking Saturday-Sunday 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
There are numerous transit options right outside the PFS doors!
SEPTA Route 9- North at Green Lane and Ridge Avenue
SEPTA Route 9- South at Ridge Avenue and Leverington Avenue
SEPTA Route 27- North at Ridge Avenue and Green Lane
SEPTA Route 27- South at Ridge Avenue and Lyceum Avenue
SEPTA Route 32- South at Ridge Avenue and Lyceum Avenue
SEPTA Route 35- North at Roxborough Avenue and Ridge Avenue
SEPTA Route 35- South at Ridge Avenue and Gates Street
The main floor of PFS is accessible to wheelchairs, including the first floor restroom. There is a short step to access the front retail space, but this is not required to enter or move about the venue.
The performance mezzanine, second floor classrooms, and third floor offices are accessible via stairs only and are not wheelchair accessible. The mezzanine stairwell is narrow and twists, and should be used with caution during performances or when dimly lit.
There is limited space to accommodate the temporary storage of scooters and large strollers on the first floor. Stroller parking is always available during Philly Folk School classes. To ensure we can accommodate storage of large mobility aids for a given performance or event, please call the office at 215-247-1300.
To discuss accessibility and/or additional accommodations, please call the office at 215-247-1300.
PFS is a 501c3 non-profit organization committed to increasing access to folk music and related forms of expression as a fundamental component of our mission. Most concerts and events are low or no cost thanks to the generous support of many donors, and all revenue is reinvested into the organization to make the concerts, events, and educational programs happen. PFS is actively developing numerous access programs and scholarships, and welcomes your support in this endeavor to make sure folk music is for all. Check in at PFS.org for updates on new programs.
Our space is a storefront on bustling Ridge Avenue, amid local shops and eateries and easily accessible from both the Greater Philadelphia area and Center City. A cozy and intimate venue, PFS is a listening room and gathering space that feels like home.
The main floor is a welcoming retail storefront and performance venue with flexible seating (~80 seated capacity on 1st floor); fully retractable, floor to ceiling accordion window overlooking the Avenue; restroom with changing table; and plenty of character. The performance space also includes a mezzanine level outfitted with built-in benches for a birds-eye view and casual seating (total performance space seated capacity: 110), as well as an additional restroom. One-of-a-kind stained glass skylights tipping a hat to original owner, Albert Forster and his shoe store, and an intricate chandelier hold immense charm.
PFS has been noted for its warm, enveloping sound and can easily facilitate acoustic performances. A full sound system ensures high quality experiences regardless of the activity, and has received accolades for its special blend and sound.
PFS is a BYOB venue (21+ with ID; $2 fee for PFS events unless otherwise noted; outside events may be subject to limitations and liability insurance requirements), and is conveniently located steps from the Foodery.
The Philly Folk School utilizes the entire facility as needed, but features (2) modest sized classrooms on the second floor outfitted with folding chairs, ukuleles and guitars, and other small instruments. Brightly colored, warm, and inviting, these rooms accommodate small group classes and workshops for all ages.
The classrooms can also be used for green rooms, dressing rooms, breakout rooms, or meeting space.
The PFS venue is available for rental on select dates for private events, fundraisers, community gatherings, and concerts. The flexible and intimate space is a unique spot that offers inherent character and warmth for any occasion. Community groups and other cultural non-profits are especially encouraged to reach out about utilizing the space. For rental inquiries, contact Kati Delaney at kdelaney@pfs.org.
PFS moved into third floor offices at 6156 Ridge Avenue in 2017. The space was in need of renovation and overhaul to transform into a performance venue, and its unique character can be attributed to the thoughtful deference to its original details while facilitating a stage, sound system, and of course a comfortable space for audiences.
PFS is grateful for all the work by many, many hands that have lovingly brought this special place to life.
The first official performance took place on April 20, 2018, with Laura Cortese & the Dance Cards in a Monthly Members Concert, and the venue has continued to evolve, with major upgrades to lighting and sound. Further renovations to the second floor led to the official opening of the Philly Folk School with its first classes held on June 14.
An additional phase is being prepared for the building, and includes sealing the basement and converting current storage space into additional classrooms and a green room with direct backstage access. For more information about supporting PFS’s next phase of growth and to discuss naming opportunities, contact Kati Delaney at kdelaney@pfs.org.
The Philadelphia Folksong Society is available to rent for meetings, events, and gatherings. As a community- and member-based organization, PFS offers rental discounts to residents of Roxborough; current PFS Members; and non-profit organizations.
All proceeds from rentals are invested back into the organization’s music and education programs.
To inquire about rental rates, available dates, and programming partnerships, contact Jennifer Rajotte at jrajotte@pfs.org.
