Philly Forever: Homecoming Dance at Bok Will Feature Food & Wine Pairings by Local Black Chefs, a Live DJ Set, a Homecoming Court, & More
The culture takes center stage this fall as wine educator and entrepreneur Tahiirah Habibi brings the Philly Forever: Homecoming Dance to the Bok Gymnasium (1901 S 9th St.) on Monday, October 20, from 6 PM to 10 PM. Part celebration and part community gathering, this one-night event reimagines the classic high school dance for adults — trading gym floors for city views, and cafeteria food for chef-driven dishes and curated wines.
The evening will feature elevated dishes from some of Philly’s most talented Black chefs, paired with a wine experience curated by Habibi. Guests can expect plates that honor the city’s diverse culinary traditions while pushing flavor forward. Although the full menu has not yet been announced, chef Chaz Brown has confirmed his participation, with other chefs to be revealed closer to the date.
Alongside the food, Habibi has crafted a wine program designed to complement the dishes and foster conversation. As she notes, the event is about more than pairing food and drink — it’s about “creating the kind of joyful, unforgettable night we all deserve.”
Menu items will include:
Chef Ja’mir Cole
Music will be central to the evening, with Philadelphia Advisory Club Board DJs spinning throughout the night. Guests can expect a mix of sounds that balance nostalgia and contemporary energy. The event will also crown a Philly Homecoming Court, honoring local leaders who embody the spirit of community, creativity, and culture.
For Habibi, who was born and raised in Philly, the event is both a personal and cultural homecoming. “It’s about honoring where I come from, celebrating our city’s culture, and creating the kind of joyful, unforgettable night we all deserve,” she said. Adding to the significance: the event coincides with her birthday.
The Philly Forever: Homecoming Dance is ticketed, with passes available online. Tickets include access to chef-prepared dishes, curated wine tastings, music, and programming throughout the evening.
Tickets can be purchased at events.wineandculturefest.com/e/tahiirah-habibi-homecoming-dance
