This spring and early summer, Friends of the Wissahickon (FOW) is hosting two major events to mark its 100 years of stewardship of Wissahickon Valley Park. These events not only celebrate the anniversary but also aim to engage the community in the park’s vibrant history and future.

First up is the “Backyard Bash 100th Anniversary Community Celebration” on May 10. Held from 6-9 p.m. at the historic Valley Green Inn, the only surviving roadhouse of its era in Wissahickon Valley Park, this event promises an evening of enjoyment for all ages. Attendees can look forward to live music, family-friendly activities, and unique offerings like a caricature artist and a photo gallery by Photography Without Borders. A special edition FOW beer crafted by Chestnut Hill Brewing Company will be featured alongside roadhouse classic dishes such as catfish n’ waffles. This celebration is supported by Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and Green Mountain Energy.

Less than a month later, on June 1, the park will host the 15th annual Wissahickon Trail Classic. Coinciding with National Trails Day, this premier 10K trail race and 1-mile family-friendly nature walk highlight the park’s reputation as one of the top trail-running destinations on the East Coast. Last year, the race attracted 450 participants, and this year’s event is once again expected to draw a large crowd of health and fitness enthusiasts. The race will start and finish on W. Northwestern Ave. at Forbidden Drive, with an 8:15 a.m. pre-race stretch followed by the race at 8:30 a.m.

Ruffian Tittmann, FOW’s executive director, expressed excitement about the trail race: “Every runner's stride helps pave the way for FOW’s next century of stewardship.” Proceeds from the race will support the ongoing care of the park’s trails and watershed.

Both events reflect FOW’s commitment to the community and the conservation of Wissahickon Valley Park. They offer a blend of fun, competition, and the opportunity to contribute to the park’s enduring legacy. Early sponsors for the Trail Classic include Green Mountain Energy, the Pennsylvania Game Commission, Aqua, an Essential Utilities Company, and Chestnut Hill College.

People who are interested in the Trail Classic can register online, and those looking to support through sponsorship can reach out for more details. These events not only celebrate a milestone anniversary but also foster community involvement in one of Philadelphia’s most cherished green spaces.

For more information or to register for either event, visit FOW’s official website or contact Laura Feragen at feragen@fow.org.