I’ll be spending a week in Philadelphia starting this Friday.
I’d like to try to take in a couple of sessions. Probably Fergie’s Pub on Saturday. On Sunday I see two: The Bard and Plough & Stars. They overlap.
Anyone familiar with these?
Thanks!
No replies, but no problem. Fergie’s and Plough & Stars are both active, warm and welcoming. Great time was had by me. Thanks, all!
CT, maybe you can briefly document the sessions - times, days, locations, etc. - for us here when you get home and/or have time.
Sure, MT. Both of these are good, straight traditional sessions, and are right in the middle of Philly’s fascinating historic district.
Fergie’s Pub, 1214 Sansom Street. Session runs from about 4:00 to 6:00 (or so) on Saturdays. Last week was smallish — about six of us. Three were very strong players, one was a beginner, and two of us held down the middle ground. Great atmosphere and people, but tight quarters here.
Plough & Stars, 123 Chestnut, (near 2nd Street). This runs from about 5:00 to 9:00 on Sunday. This is a bigger place, and a bigger session. There were maybe ten players this week, but it’s often bigger. This session included some singing, and was a bit more “performance-like” than the Fergie’s session, (but still very relaxed and non-intimidating). This pub is also a full-fledged restaurant with a great dinner menu.
There was some overlap of players, and all were warm, friendly and encouraging — much like the folks at my wonderful weekly session at Tir Na Nog Pub, here in Raleigh, NC. 
Good stuff, CT. Thank you, sir!
Just a small correction in case anyone does a search for this location. I noticed the misspelling as I used to work in Philly 
Fergie’s Pub
1214 Sansom Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 928-8118
Cheers!
Russ
[ Spelling corrected. Thanks, Russ. - Moderator ]
Memories… It has been too long since I have been to Philadelphia. Is the session at Fergie’s held upstairs?
No, downstairs, back right corner. Intimate and comfy.