9th Annual Fairmount Fling
Thurs., Nov. 17, 6-9 p.m.
Girard College Founder's Hall (2101 South College Ave., Philadelphia)
$40 ($50 at the door) for adults, $5 for children, $35 apiece for adult groups of 10 or more
Most annual gala fundraisers include three- or four-figure ticket prices and black ties. Not this one. Your ticket includes complimentary beer and wine, music, raffle prizes and a Taste of Fairmount, which provides samples from more than 20 area restaurants. Proceeds benefit neighborhood improvement projects, small business support and greening initiatives. Get your tickets here. Preview auction items here.

The Food52 Cookbook Party
Thursday, Nov. 17, 6:30 p.m.
Delicatessen (703 Chestnut St., Philadelphia)
$25
Warm up for Thanksgiving at this foodie gathering for The Food52 Cookbook and authors Amanda Hesser and Merrill Stubbs, which features the best recipes from talented home cooks across the country, including Deli's own Ali Waks. Snacks based on her recipes, plus beverages from yards and a signed copy of the book make this an appetizing evening. Tickets on sale here.

Sacred Journeys African Dance
Saturday (7 p.m.) and Sunday (4 p.m.), Nov. 26-27
Painted Bride Art Center (230 Vine St., Philadelphia)
$20 GA ($25 at door), $12 children 12 and under ($15 at door)
Philadelphia's premiere African dance troupe, Kule Mele African Dance and Drum Ensemble makes its return to the Painted Bride for two inspiring Thanksgiving weekend shows, including selections from the group's impressive repertoire of Afro-Cuban and West African sacred dance. Sacred Journeys celebrates faith and the human spirit. Get your tickets here. Interested in sponsoring? Go here.