Philadelphia Folksong SocietyPhiladelphia Folksong SocietyPhiladelphia Folksong SocietyPhiladelphia Folksong Society
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  • Philadelphia
    Folk School
    • Early Childhood Music Education
    • Youth Instrument Classes
    • Adult Instrument Classes
    • Voice Classes
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  • Concerts &
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    • 2/19 – Talisk
    • 1/14 – Wallis Bird
    • Open Mic at PFS
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    Music Co-op
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    • Learn More / Apply
  • Philadelphia
    Folk Festival
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    • 61st Annual Philadelphia Folk Festival Performer Application
    • 60th Annual Lineup
    • 60th Annual Schedule
    • Volunteer Code of Conduct
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Philadelphia Folksong Society: Your home for folk in Philly! Concerts Community Events Parties Private Events Meetings

The Philadelphia Folksong Society is thrilled to invite you

into our new venue and hub for all things folk in Philadelphia!

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)

Visiting PFS

Parking

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:

Dupont Shopper’s Parking Lot at 514 Dupont Street

*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

Leverington Shopper’s Parking Lot at 465 Leverington Street

*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

Public Transportation

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

Accessibility & Access

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.

Facilities

PFS Venue

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.

Philly Folk School

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.

Rent Our 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.

The History & Future of PFS on Ridge

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. 

Rent PFS!

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.

Fish Harmonics at PFS

Philadelphia Folksong Society | 6156 Ridge Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19128   (215) 247-1300    © 2017 All Rights Reserved          
  • Our
    Organization
    • PFS History, Mission & Vision
    • PFS Team
    • Our Organization
    • PFS Online Store
    • PFS Coloring Pages
    • Financial Statements
    • Employment Opportunities
    • About our Home
    • Venue Rentals
    • Contact PFS
  • Philadelphia
    Folk School
    • Early Childhood Music Education
    • Youth Instrument Classes
    • Adult Instrument Classes
    • Voice Classes
    • Folk Dance
    • Professional Development Workshops
  • Concerts &
    Events
    • 2/19 – Talisk
    • 1/14 – Wallis Bird
    • Open Mic at PFS
  • Odyssey of
    American Music
    • Odyssey Program Request
  • Philadelphia
    Music Co-op
    • Co-op Artists
    • Book Co-op Artists
    • Co-op Guidelines
    • Learn More / Apply
  • Philadelphia
    Folk Festival
    • FAQs
    • 61st Annual Philadelphia Folk Festival Performer Application
    • 60th Annual Lineup
    • 60th Annual Schedule
    • Volunteer Code of Conduct
    • Philadelphia Folk Festival Book
    • Contact Philadelphia Folk Festival
  • Music
    Getaways
    • Spring Thing
    • Fall Fling
  • Join
    PFS
    • Become A Member!
    • PFS Member Music Club
    • Member
      Area
Philadelphia Folksong Society